The First Steps System for Professional Development, Training, and Technical Assistance (hence forth referred to as ‘Professional Development System’) is a component of Indiana’s Comprehensive System of Personnel Development as required in 34 CFR 303.118. The Professional Development System provides a mechanism for the Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA), Division of Disability, Aging, and Rehabilitative Services (DDARS), Bureau of Child Development Services (BCDS)/First Steps (FS) to coordinate training efforts into a comprehensive system of technical assistance for personnel supporting eligible infants, toddlers, and their families enrolled in the First Steps program. The Professional Development System supports the statewide coordination of training opportunities related to the provision of early intervention to young children and their families and provides greater access to learning opportunities for service providers. The Professional Development System shall enhance the capacity of all First Steps personnel at the local level through access to national and local experts, national technical assistance centers, professional organizations, evidence-based practices, research, and early intervention related resources. The activities, training, and technical assistance provided by the Professional Development System shall support Indiana's State Systemic Improvement Plan (SSIP) and general supervision system.
