Project Description:
The nationwide educator shortages and pandemic-exacerbated learning problems, has created a need for strong school building and early intervention program (EIP) administrative leaders who are able to meet learners' needs. Lead IDEA is funded to enhance, coordinate, and sustain support for leaders in state education agencies (SEAs), local education agencies (LEAs), and state lead agencies for Early Intervention (EI) so that policy, practice, and statewide partnerships are strengthened to advance implementation of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), natural and inclusive learning environments are established, and outcomes for students (infants, toddlers, children, or youth) with disabilities and their families (hereafter referred to as SWDs and their families) are improved. The center's collaborative nature encourages networking and partnerships, connecting SEAs, LEAs, and EI leaders with various partners, including educators, parents, community organizations, private organizations, and other TA centers all of whom share the goal of advancing the education of students who receive services and support under IDEA. The center's goal is to build the infrastructure and capacity of leaders to effectively implement IDEA and improve systems serving children with disabilities and their families The UConn UCEDD is a collaborator on this center, and subcontracts for the services of Bruder, ( Co-PI) and 3 other UConn UCEDD early childhood staff to provide expertise in ECI on this center. The Co-Principal Investigator (Co-PI) goals are to: work with the project director and two other Co-PIs to coordinate across the knowledge development and technical assistance teams to ensure aligned and coordinated Part B (619) & C services into all facets of the project; provide strategic and intellectual leadership for the Center's conceptual approach and daily operations; and lastly, to work closely with the project director to ensure the project's ultimate success.
Core Function(s):
Performing Research or Evaluation, Developing & Disseminating Information, Continuing Education/Community Training
Unserved or Under-served Populations:
Racial or Ethnic Minorities, Geographic Areas
