The Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE), Bureau of Special Education, in collaboration with the Pennsylvania Training and Technical Assistance Network (PaTTAN) and Intermediate Unit (IU) Training and Consultation Staff, is delighted to announce the availability of no-cost professional development, training, and technical assistance opportunities for the upcoming school year. These services, funded through the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), aim to provide evidence-based, customized, and high-quality support to educators in meeting the needs of all students, with a particular focus on those with disabilities.
An archive of the presentation discussing the IDEA-B funded customized supports for the 2023-2024 school year is now available by clicking here. This presentation provides detailed information about the various supports and how districts can benefit from them.
The primary goal is to offer flexible, systemic, and tailored professional development opportunities that cater to the specific needs of each district. For the 2023-2024 school year, the following types of customized training and technical assistance supports are provided across the Commonwealth:
-Systemic Customized Supports: These supports encompass a wide range of training and technical assistance opportunities, including long-term plans that align with your district’s unique goals and objectives. By working collaboratively with you, we identify areas of need and develop a comprehensive training and technical assistance plan. Moreover, grant funding may be available to support coordinated efforts. Time-sensitive applications for systemic supports are due by June 30, 2023.
-Critical Customized Supports: Individualized training and technical assistance is offered to help educators overcome immediate challenges. The aim is to provide targeted support that improves student outcomes and builds capacity within your district. Critical supports will be available starting July 1, 2023.
-Emergent Short-Term Customized Supports: Should unforeseen needs arise, just-in-time training and technical assistance is provided to address them. A flexible approach enables a quick response, tailoring support to your specific requirements. Emergent short-term supports will be available starting July 1, 2023.
-Professional Development Customized Supports: Districts can request specific training or technical assistance that addresses a particular challenge or area of need. Working together, a training plan is designed that meets your unique requirements and aligns with your district’s goals. Professional development supports will be available starting July 1, 2023.
To access and submit applications for all types of customized supports, click here. Districts are encouraged to submit their systemic applications by June 30, 2023, to ensure timely processing and support for the upcoming school year.
PDE, Bureau of Special Education, PaTTAN, and IU Training and Consultation Staff are dedicated to supporting educators in delivering high-quality education to all students. Districts are encouraged to take advantage of these funded supports to ensure the success and inclusion of every student.

For more information, click here. or contact Angela Kirby, Ed.D at mailto:[email protected].