Child Development Specialist Authorization

Overview

The Child Develop Specialist (CDS) authorization is available to all districts as an option for elementary schools grades K-8. CDS serve as counseling staff supporting the implementation of comprehensive school counseling services and supports. Districts determine the role and duties of CDS personnel, which typically focuses on academic support, social-emotional learning, family and community outreach, linking students to special services, and collaboration with other counseling staff and school personnel to fulfill the Comprehensive School Counseling Program. CDS hold a minimum of a Bachelor's degree in the area of counseling, social work, education, or child development and have experience working with children to support individual needs.

Program Plan Approval Procedure/Requirements

• Districts are required to annually submit a written plan to ODE describing the CDS Program Plan and its alignment to the district’s Comprehensive School Counseling Program Plan. The CDS Program Plan is submitted with the authorization request form to ODE for approval.
  

Request for Authorization

• Request for Authorization document
• New CDS
  • Initial Application Checklist
  • Application Competency Evaluation
• Renewal CDS
  • Renewal Application Checklist
  • Summary of School Year Activities