Personnel

Families and their children with special developmental needs should receive effective and appropriate services and supports provided by adequate numbers of qualified personnel. However, shortages of qualified personnel to provide early intervention, early childhood special education and related services exist in many areas of the country. Availability of qualified personnel that are culturally competent and representative of the increasing diversity of children and families they will serve is an issue as well.

In an effort to address the need for adequate numbers of qualified personnel in early intervention, early childhood special education and special education, IDEA contains specific requirements and specially funded grants to support the availability and capabilities of personnel in the states and territories.