1. 1 PTI and Early Intervention in Vermont National OSEP Early Childhood Conference Washington, DC December 8, 2008

2. 2 Collaboration on behalf of families Vermont Family Network – statewide network providing family support and advocacy and promoting family-centered policies and practices. Family, Infant and Toddler Program of VT - family-centered coordinated system of early intervention services for infants and toddlers who have a delay in their development, or a health condition which may lead to a delay in development, and their families.

3. 3 How Vermont Part C works Co-lead agencies – DOE and AHS AHS primary lead 12 host agencies VFN hosts largest program Broad eligibility criteria New Children’s Integrated Services Model

4. 4 Mutual benefit Families have a voice in improving the system (Parent leadership) Advocacy for Part C funding Sharing data on family concerns - APR Shared resources - staff, product development and dissemination, website Improved professional development and technical assistance (statewide transition conference)

5. 5 How families/community benefit Family involvement in in monitoring system Support for families on state ICC Outreach to professionals and community to improve access to services Quick resolution of concerns, complaints joint problem-solving Foundations for Early Learning national trainer of trainers model

6. 6 How families/community benefit Improvement of transition from Part C Workshops for families (Stepping Stones) Transition DVD and training modules (sample slide) On site visits to host agencies to provide technical assistance Transition booklet, included in all packets that go out to families, tool for professionals

7. 7 Collaboration model Early childhood – 0 through 5 Shared staff Funding for PTI involvement Involvement on systems level, ICC Joint activities, outreach to communities Involvement with APR implementation/ improvement plan Share/promote research-based practices

8. 8 Collaboration model: Sustainability Ongoing commitment to providing family- centered services Regular meetings and sharing of information Shared vision between Part C and VFN Ongoing funding for VFN involvement

9. 9 Barriers to collaboration Maintaining dedicated and funded position within VFN Competing demands on time Changes in system for providing early intervention

10. 10 Contact Information Family, Infant and Toddler Program of VT AHS/Department of Children and Families 103 S. Main Street Waterbury, Vermont 05671 802-241-3602 Vermont Family Network 600 Blair Park Rd, Suite 240 Wiliston, Vermont 05495 802-876-5315 lpetrocelli@vtfn.org