In 2000, the Center for Disease Control estimated that 1 in 1000 children were diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD).  By 2014, those estimates had increased to 1 in 68.  All preK-12 schools in Maine are required to provide educational services to students with an ASD in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE). The primary purpose of this 3-course certificate sequence is to prepare experienced educators, administrators and related service providers to assume a leadership role in the development and implementation of educational programs for students with autism in school settings.

 

Certificate program objectives:

1. Candidates will develop theoretical knowledge and applied skills for understanding the needs of students with ASD and providing evidence-based practices according to individual needs.
2. Candidates will have the necessary theoretical and applied background to provide leadership to their schools and districts in developing a sound model of educational and social/behavioral support and intervention.
3. Candidates will be familiar with and able to access available resources to support their districts’ efforts in providing services for their students with ASD.
4. Candidates will have the knowledge and skills to serve as team leaders and coaches in supporting program implementation in their schools and districts.

 

Field Work, Research and Service

Field work and internships are an important component of all graduate programs in Special Education. Faculty and students are an integral part of the social and educational service community in Maine, and close relationships are maintained with public schools and community agencies. Students also have the opportunity to participate in faculty research and service projects.

 

Maine Autism Institute for Education and Research

On January 1, 2014 the Maine Autism Institute for Education and Research (MAIER) was launched as a partnership between the Maine Department of Education and the University of Maine, College of Education and Human Development (COEHD). Our mission is to build statewide capacity to improve outcomes for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) through leadership, training, professional development, collaboration, and research.

Maine Autism Institute for Education and Research

5766 Shibles Hall, 303

Orono, ME 04469

Phone: 207.581.2352

Fax: 207.581.9510

maineautisminstitute@maine.edu

 

For more information, see http://umaine.edu/autisminstitute/

Contact:

Deborah L. Rooks-Ellis, Ph.D.

College of Education and Human Development

207-581-2352

deborah.l.rooks@maine.edu