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Credentialing and Apprenticeship
Long term DSPs identify lack of career paths, repetitive
training, and lack of recognition for contributions as reasons they leave
direct support jobs, even if they enjoy the work. New employees complain
about the lack of support in learning new duties and feeling overwhelmed
and isolated. Employers and people receiving services find that length
of employment doesn't necessarily mean employee skills improve over time.
Credentialing and apprenticeship can improve employee skills by offering
new opportunities for recognition and career growth. Apprenticeship offers
a time honored method of helping initiate employees into developing skills
while on the job.
Below are some resources related to credentialing and apprenticeship:
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Department of Labor Apprenticeship Guidelines for Direct Support Professionals - In 2001, the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment & Training Administration's Office of Apprenticeship Training, Employer, and Labor Services issued a set of standards and guidelines to make "Direct Support Professional" an apprenticeable occupation.
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Kansas DSP Apprenticeship & Credentialling Standards - A detailed set of standards developed for the apprenticeship and credentialing of Direct Support Professionals in Kansas
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Ohio PATHS Program - Started in 2001, this demonstration project designed and tested the specifications of a high quality, voluntary credentialing and training program for direct support professionals.
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Credentialing
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The NADSP has developed a national credentialing program for Direct Support professionals working in community human services.
Credentialing Info
News Release
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