Phone: 616-331-6480
Fax: 616-331-6486
START Project
autismed@gvsu.edu

401 W. Fulton St.
388C DEV
Grand Rapids, MI 49504
START Primary Components

Ensuring that individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder reach their greatest potential requires that school professionals have a clear understanding of evidence based practices and how to effectively implement those practices for each student. 

As there is often a gap between this knowledge base and the practices that are actually used, the START Program's focus is to ensure that professionals working with individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder have the opportunity to acquire the competencies and support needed to provide the most effective educational opportunities. 

 

The START Program at Grand Valley State University encompasses four primary components: 

Training & Coaching

The START model provides year long intensive training and technical assistance to school districts using a team-based approach at both the K-12 and preschool levels.  Additionally, professionals may participate in the Effective Practices Leadership Initiative (EPLI), a program designed to build local capacity by increasing the training and coaching skills of local professionals. 

 

Resources

The START model provides increased access to resources and information through the development of materials and dissemination of this information through the project web site and annual conference. 

 

Collaboration & Networking

Regional Collaborative Networks (RCN) provide the infrastructure for collaboration and coordination across school districts and intermediate school districts, allowing shared training and resources and systemic planning on a broad scale. 

 

Effective Practices

The START model emphasizes effective practices through the use of the Universal Supports Assessment and Planning Tool (USAPT).  This tool was designed from an extensive review of the research on effective practices for students with ASD and is intended to help schools identify building and classroom strengths and weaknesses to prioritize goals and plan for improvement.

 

 
  Last Modified Date: October 7, 2009
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