What Is DSP Training?
Direct Support Professional (DSP) training is provided in cooperation with the State of California Department of Developmental Services (DDS) and the Department of Education (CDE), and the Sacramento County Regional Occupational Program (ROP). This two-year, 70-hour standardized statewide competency-based training program is mandatory for all direct support professionals and administrators who work in community care facilities (CCF) caring for people with developmental disabilities. Currently, in the state of California, there are approximately 22,000 children and adults with developmental disabilities residing in 4,400 CCFs.
Why?
The purpose of this program is to ensure that the needs of individuals receiving services and supports are met and that their health and safety are protected.
Who Should Take This Course?
Any employee of a Community Care Facility who provides direct care for people with developmental disabilities is required to take this training and pass a test to verify completion.
Training hours also count towards regional center requirements for continuing education for both CCF administrators and support staff.
How Long is the Training?
The 70-hour training is divided into two equal parts of 35 hours, Year 1 and Year 2, each to be completed in successive years. At the conclusion of each 35 hours of training, the direct support professional will complete a skill check and take a test.
How Much Is the Class?
Sacramento County ROP provides this training at no cost to direct support professionals working in CCFs.
Does Everyone Have to Take the Training?
DSP workers have the opportunity to pass a challenge test for Year 1 and/or Year 2 in lieu of training. There is one opportunity to take each challenge test. If a passing score on the challenge test is not achieved, the student must enroll in the 35-hour training class.
Who Teaches the Course?
Sacramento County Office of Education hires DSP instructors who have had experience in providing services and supports to people with developmental disabilities.
Where and When Are Classes Held?
Classes are scheduled according to the demand of the community and the availability of the instructors. Classes are held in public buildings, public schools, community care facilities, etc. in Sacramento County.
How Do I Enroll?
If you are interested in enrolling in a DSP class or have an employee who needs to enroll in a class, please call the DSP Registrar at (916) 228-2277.
For up-to-date class schedules and test dates please call (916) 228-2277.