Subject: First Steps Training Modules

Source: Bill Connelly, Data Coordination

Intended Audience:  Providers, SPOE Directors, SICC

Date:  February 1, 2008

Important new information related to the First Steps Training Modules

1. A new Transition Module (First Steps Module IV) is now online.  This module is located at http://www.desemoodle.org.  This is a required module and must be completed within the next 6 months for all providers.  Providers who took the original transition module are urged to take this new module as it contains updated information of the transition process between First Steps and the early childhood special education program in the local school district.  There is NO charge for taking this module and for submitting the scores to the Central Finance Office for completion of the required training components.  As of February 1, 2008, all costs associated with the First Steps training modules have been suspended.
2. The weekly ‘test window’ for completion of First Steps module assessments has also changed.  Participants could originally only complete a module assessment between Friday morning and Sunday evening of a given week.  Effective immediately, DESE will open the weekly test period on Monday morning at 8am and close it on Sunday evening at midnight.  This provides a more flexible test window and allows individuals to retake a failed assessment immediately if necessary.