Regional Collaborative Networks (RCN)

Creating a Sustainable Structure of Support for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders within each Region of Michigan

Regional Collaborative Networks (RCN) are groups of school professionals, parent representatives, and relevant community partners serving students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in a particular region in Michigan.  The RCN are supported through START (Statewide Autism Resources and Training), a Michigan State Department of Education professional development grant project.  One principle of the START model is that information, training, and support need to be locally available (accessibility) and must be embedded in the system in order to continue beyond grant funding (sustainability). By collaborating with stakeholders in their area and linking with the START project, RCN are able to identify and expand effective practices for students with ASD, create local training and coaching opportunities to assure implementation of supports with fidelity, and establish local resource accessibility. Although all RCN share key components, they are individualized to the needs and characteristics of their region and stakeholders.

 Key Components of Regional Collaborative Networks 

Each RCN designs their yearly goals and improvement plan within a list of Key Components which include:

• Shared Mission, Philosophy, and Goals consistent with START
• Teaming Structure and Process
• Connections and Collaborations with Stakeholders
• Implementation and Evaluation of Effective Practices
• Training Model with Local Technical Assistance
• Resource Accessibility
• Link to GVSU Autism Education Center and MDE, OSE/EIS
  

  Key Responsibilities in Regional Collaborative Networks

• Evaluate and update yearly goals based on RCN Key Components and unique needs of the region and its stakeholders
• Ensure membership of relevant school professionals, parents, and community partners is representative of the region and its needs
• Meet monthly to address goals and activities and ensure implementation of planned activities
• Develop action plans at each meeting to support implementation of planned activities
• Develop and coordinate training opportunities in the region
• Develop and coordinate coaching in the region to ensure implementation of effective practices
• Send representatives to the Michigan RCN / EPLI Leadership Meeting twice per year
• Report yearly to START on impact of yearly activities

2009-10 RCN Map