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(k) Identifying, approaching and referring students showing signs of psychological distress to appropriate support services pursuant to Section 115b of the Department of Mental Health Establishment Amendment Act of 2001, effective December 18, 2001 (D.C. Law 14-56; D.C. Official Code § 7-1131.17).

139.8 Annual professional development, beyond the health and safety standards, may include:

(a) Developmentally appropriate programming for infants, toddlers, preschool, and/or school-age children, as applicable;

(b) Developmentally appropriate methods of positive behavior intervention and support;

(c) Inclusion of children with special needs, including the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act; and

(d) Communication and collaboration with parents, guardians, and families;

(e) Community health and social services resources for children and families;

(f) Planning developmentally appropriate programs and activities for children and families;

(g) Enhancing self-regulation and self-esteem in children;

(h) Montessori curriculum, pedagogy, classroom management and other topics specific to the Montessori program, if applicable;

(i) Basic or advanced business practices; and

(j) Any other area as determined by OSSE.

139.9 Each staff member may receive the required pre-service training, orientation training, and professional development in a variety of settings, including but not limited to seminars, in person or online courses, workshops, conferences, or association meetings:

(a) Conducted by an OSSE approved trainer or training organization through OSSE’s Trainer Approval Program, or any similar program established by OSSE; or

(b) Conducted by institution accredited by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.