Located in:
- Program-Specific Requirements for Vocational Rehabilitation (Blind)
The Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Services Portion of the Unified or Combined State Plan [13] must include the following descriptions and estimates, as required by section 101(a) of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended by title IV of WIOA:
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[13] Sec. 102(b)(2)(D)(iii) of WIOA
- i. Comprehensive System of Personnel Development; Data System on Personnel and Personnel Development
Describe the designated State agency's procedures and activities to establish and maintain a comprehensive system of personnel development designed to ensure an adequate supply of qualified State rehabilitation professional and paraprofessional personnel for the designated State unit, including the following:
- i. Comprehensive System of Personnel Development; Data System on Personnel and Personnel Development
i. 2. Plan for Recruitment, Preparation and Retention of Qualified Personnel
Describe the development and implementation of a plan to address the current and projected needs for qualified personnel including, the coordination and facilitation of efforts between the designated State unit and institutions of higher education and professional associations to recruit, prepare, and retain personnel who are qualified, including personnel from minority backgrounds and personnel who are individuals with disabilities.
Current Narrative:
This Designated State Unit partners with educational institutions in our state to address current and projected needs for qualified personnel by providing practicum experiences and internships. Individuals on staff also serve on boards and interview committees for rehabilitator professional programs admission. The agency regularly reviews seniority reports indicating who is eligible for retirement within 1 and 5 years This information allows the agency to plan and prepare for vacancies that are possible in all personnel categories. The agency actively evaluates the talent to determine opportunities for upward mobility. Lead counselors are identified and supported by a civil service classification where core competencies of leadership must be demonstrated to receive the classification. Rehabilitation professionals are encouraged to participate in special projects, policy writing, and professional relevant trainings. This provides an opportunity for staff to demonstrate leadership and for management to coach and mentor emerging best practices. Identifying and promoting leadership opportunities enhances the ability for staff to improve their capacity for performance, promote retention and provide possibilities for advancement.