For years, new disability support service (DSS) providers in higher education have bemoaned the lack of start-up information for those new to the field and to their positions. How do I know what to do, or when? What do I need to know about the applicable laws? What kind of policies and procedures need to be in place? What kind of technology is going to be needed -- and what the heck does it do? For that matter, what am *I* supposed to do???

No one needs this kind of information more than those brave enough to assume the role of disability service provider (along with umpteen other hats they wear!), at small, private institutions. For those intrepid souls, we have put together an intensive orientation to your responsibilities that we think you will find to be just what you need!

You are invited to join Lydia Block and Jane Jarrow (click here for information about “Instructors”) in Columbus, Ohio, on May 13-16, 2008, for four days of rigorous training to help you fulfill your role, and your potential, as the disability service provider for your institution. The basic program will be four days in length -- and will provide 40 hours of training (4 CEU's available through the DAIS Academy).

Throughout your time in Columbus, the emphasis will be on developing a philosophy and a plan of action that is appropriate to your own institution. The size of the class will be purposely limited to assure time for individual consultation with instructors, and will include some group work with other recruits so that you might learn from their experience -- and their questions -- as well.

The Boot Camp has been organized a little like a “Club Med” vacation – although there will be no relaxing while you are with us! A single package price covers ALL expenses – materials, lodging, meals, and all training. Follow-up activities, including assignment of a personal mentor, a private listserv, and online training in additional areas, is also included in the single price.

Hopefully, after browsing through this website, you will be convinced that you NEED to go to Boot Camp in May. Now we need to convince the administrators at your institution that their support of this activity will be time and money well spent. At the top of this page, you will note a link marked, For Administrators; Click on the link, read through the information, then print out that page and hand it over to the powers-that-be when you initiate your request to send you to this critical professional development opportunity.

See you in May!!!