U Oregon Receives $1.6 Million To Operate Support Center for Kids with Disabilities
The University of Oregon has been awarded $1.6 million in federal funds to operate the National Technical Assistance Center on Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports, an organization that supports children with disabilities.
The aim of the center is to improve the "social, emotional, and academic outcomes of students with disabilities" by providing technical assistance to disabled children and their families and research best practices, support strategies, and data-driven decisionmaking. It also provides a framework designed to " improve behavioral and academic outcomes by improving school climate and safety, preventing problem behavior, increasing learning time, promoting positive social skills, and delivering effective behavioral interventions and supports that keep children in school and engaged in learning."
The five-year award, from the United States Department of Education's Office of Special Education Programs, will allow the center to expand its operations and, along with partners, open new hubs across the country for providing technical assistance. The center will also look to increase capacity in especially high-need areas, help create model schools and districts, and provide guidance to state and local agencies on how to deliver high-quality services to disabled students.
In addition to the initial grant, the center may be awarded additional funding through Safe and Drug-Free Schools and Communities program — up to $2.5 million — in years 2 through 5 of the award period.
"This grant will help the University of Oregon create a national network of resources and research to help students with disabilities adapt well and improve academically," said Arne Duncan, secretary of education, in a prepared statement. "It's important that all students have access to the best services to address their individual and collective needs."