The Lanterman Development Disabilities Services Act establishes the obligation of the State of California to provide the current population of approximately 22,000 children and adults with developmental disabilities living in 4,400 licensed Community Care Facilities (CCFs) with quality services and supports effective in meeting their needs. CCFs are licensed by the Department of Social Services (DSS), (http://www.dds.ca.gov) which is responsible for administration and coordination of meeting this requirement. A statewide system of regional centers is authorized to provide additional services as needed.

In an ongoing effort to improve the quality of care and service, DDS entered into an interagency agreement in January 1999, with the California Department of Education (CDE), mandating statewide testing and/ training for DSPs, including supervisors and administrators employed by CCFs. The Regional Occupation Centers and Programs (ROCPs) (http://www.cde.ca.gov/rocp) was the designated as the branch of CDE to administer the testing and training program

The development of the DSP testing and training program is based upon core competencies or skills that are deemed necessary for satisfactory job performance. DSPs, supervisors and administrator have one opportunity to challenge both the Year One and Year Two test. If they do not receive a passing score, they must enroll in the corresponding Year One/ Year Two 35 hour training program. These 35-hour training programs also count towards regional center requirements for continuing education for both CCF administrators and support staff. Answers to questions relating to certification process are posted at the Department of Developmental Services: Community Care Facility – Direct Support Professional Training Program (http://www.dds.ca.gov/dspt/dspt_main.cfm).

Tulare County Organization for Vocational Education (TCOVE) is the local Regional Occupation Program (ROP) offering both the testing and training for Year One and Year Two. Please review the following testing and training dates, times and locations. Note that dates, times and locations are subject to change.