The Hawaii Department of Education (HIDOE) has previously partnered with Stetson and Associates to support complex area (CA) leaders across the state in developing expertise through the Step by Step training model. This work emphasized student-centered decision-making when assigning supports and services, ensuring that decisions were grounded in individual student needs and effective inclusive practices.

Building on this foundation, HIDOE is transitioning this work into an Inclusive Practices Training and Certification pathway for Complex Area personnel. This certification will continue to focus on strengthening inclusive systems and practices within schools, while expanding the scope beyond a single training model and aligning more directly with HIDOE’s vision for inclusive education.

Complex Area personnel who pursue Inclusive Practices Certification will support schools in developing and implementing action plans that promote effective, inclusive practices. These action plans will continue to address core areas that have historically guided this work, including:

• Inclusive and Responsive Learning Environments

• Collaboration and Collective Ownership

• Instructional Excellence Across Learner Variability

• Embedded Supports and Co-Teaching Practices

• Meaningful Peer and Family Partnerships

• Effective Use of Personnel

To earn Inclusive Practices Certification, interested Complex Area personnel will engage in a learning and leadership process similar in structure to previous efforts. This may include observing inclusive practices training, participating in multi-day learning experiences focused on inclusive systems and instructional practices, co-facilitating training alongside experienced facilitators, and demonstrating the ability to support schools in implementation.

Upon completion of the certification requirements, Complex Area personnel will be prepared to facilitate Inclusive Practices training and coaching within their complex areas, supporting ongoing scale-up efforts and sustained implementation across schools.

If you are interested in learning more about the Inclusive Practices Training and Certification pathway, please contact Krysta Salon, Educational Specialist, Exceptional Support Branch, at Krysta.Salon@k12.hi.us