Pda Advanced Candidate Training (Act)

PDA ADVANCED CANDIDATE TRAINING (ACT)

LETTER OF UNDERSTANDING

This Letter of Understanding (LOU) is intended to provide a clear outline for those applying to attend Advanced Candidate Training (ACT) regarding the goals, expectations and design of ACT. You are invited to contact the Joy at with any questions or concerns.

DIRECTIONS: Initial each item to indicate that you read and understand the content. Sign and date the bottom of the LOU to indicate that you understand and agree to uphold these standards. The LOU must be submitted with an application fee of $100 in order to initiate the process of applying to attend ACT.

ACT GOALS:

□ I understand that the intent of ACT is to effectively implement the following:

·  Ensure that Certified Positive Discipline Trainers (CPDTs) meet established standards of competency and professionalism in representing the organization and assuring fidelity to the Positive Discipline model.

·  Explore, improve, and “fine tune” presentation of content and activities, as well as the process of experiential presentation, with a focus on foundational skills.

PREPARATION FOR ACT:

□ Based on these goals, I understand that I am expected to demonstrate:

·  A solid knowledge of the PD core workshop curriculum in the area of specialization (TP, PDC or both). This includes all core activities (TP and PDC) and essential skills (PDC).

·  The ability to facilitate all PD core activities in the area of specialization with confidence, ease and fidelity to the PD experiential model.

·  Competency and consistency in modeling PD principles and values through the process of leadership and communication, both within a training session and in all related professional activities.

·  A basic understanding of the Positive Discipline Association (PDA) structure and resources, as well as a commitment to the well-being of the organization.

·  Respect and responsibility in working with the PDA staff and office, including meeting program requirements and promptly attending to requests.

FEES:

□ I understand the following fee structure:

·  $100 non-refundable application fee. This covers the PDA reviewing my application materials, regardless of approval to attend. (If I defer or am postponed to a later ACT, this fee will be reduced to $50 for each later application.)

·  A non-refundable deposit of $200, or an approved and operational payment plan, is due by the announced deadline. On-time payment required for attendance.

·  The balance of fees, or an approved and operational payment plan, is due by the announced deadline (three weeks prior to ACT).

·  A $50 late fee will be applied if this deadline is not met or alternative arrangements pre-approved. In addition, the individual may not be able to attend ACT.

·  Cancellations in case of an emergency will be handled according to the PDA’s Cancellation Policy and with consideration of specific circumstances.

ORGANIZATION OF ACT:

□ I understand that ACT is designed as follows in order to accomplish stated goals:

·  The agenda is designed as if participants are facilitating a core workshop, training people to become parenting educators or classroom educators.

·  Each participant is required to facilitate at least one (assigned) core activity and one PHPPSS (or THTPSS), and will serve as a participant while other members of the cohort facilitate.

·  Participants are required to facilitate activities in the exact way that they are presented in the most recent Facilitators Manual. (The focus of ACT is to ensure foundational skills vs. ability for creative adaptations or variations.) Discuss any questions or concerns with the ACT facilitators prior to ACT.

·  Each participant is responsible for bringing all props and training items related to my designated activity unless specifically told otherwise.

·  Each participant will receive extensive feedback from both the ACT facilitators and other members of the cohort. The goal is to “fine tune” each participant’s capacity as a PD Trainer.

·  Each participant will participate with other members of the cohort in providing feedback to other participants. This process will also indicate knowledge of the model and capacity to teach and model PD and Adlerian values and leadership skills.

·  ACT facilitators will make every effort to create a training environment that feels safe, encouraging and collaborative and that is designed to foster optimal personal growth.

□ I understand that I should let the PDA Office know right away if I am unable to readily speak or understand English, so appropriate accommodations can be made.

□ I understand that any difficulties or concerns should be handled in a way that reflects our organizational values and model (respectful, solution focused, positive, professional and authentic).

OUTCOMES:

ACT is not designed as a “test” but as an interactive and very personalized growth experience. At the same time, it is critically important in our stewardship of the model that all certified trainers meet basic standards of understanding and competency. Accordingly:

·  Attending ACT does not guarantee that participants will be recommended for certification as a Trainer.

·  If an individual is not recommended for certification, he/she will receive open and constructive feedback on areas where additional growth is needed, as well as recommendations on how best to attain this.

AGREEMENT:

If you have any questions or concerns please contact Joy at prior to signing this agreement. By signing below, I verify that I have read and understand all of the items listed above.

Printed Name: Signature:

Specialization Area(s): □ TP □ PDC □ Both Date:

Received By: Date:

ACT Letter of Understanding BOD March 2013Page 1