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Plan: Maine PYs 2020-2023
Unified Plan U

Section: Vocational Rehabilitation Program (Combined or General)

Narrative: i. 3. B.

Published
Located in:
  • Program-Specific Requirements for Vocational Rehabilitation (Combined or General)

    The Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Services Portion of the Unified or Combined State Plan [13] must include the following descriptions and estimates, as required by section 101(a) of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended by title IV of WIOA:

    __________

    [13] Sec. 102(b)(2)(D)(iii) of WIOA

    • i. Comprehensive System of Personnel Development; Data System on Personnel and Personnel Development

      Describe the designated State agency's procedures and activities to establish and maintain a comprehensive system of personnel development designed to ensure an adequate supply of qualified State rehabilitation professional and paraprofessional personnel for the designated State unit, including the following:

      • 3. Personnel Standards

        Describe the State agency's policies and procedures for the establishment and maintenance of personnel standards consistent with section 101(a)(7)(B) to ensure that designated State unit professional and paraprofessional personnel are adequately trained and prepared, including:

i. 3. B. The establishment and maintenance of education and experience requirements, in accordance with section 101(a)(7)(B)(ii) of the Rehabilitation Act, to ensure that the personnel have a 21st century understanding of the evolving labor force and the needs of individuals with disabilities.

View corresponding narrative from PYs 2018-2019

Current Narrative:

When recruiting or hiring new staff, Maine DVR gives preferences to those with a master’s degree in Rehabilitation Counseling, a closely related master’s degree in Social Work, Psychology, Special Education, or Counseling or having Rehabilitation Counselor Certification (CRC). Through the interview process, DVR assesses the applicant’s ability to demonstrate an understanding of the labor force and needs of individuals with disabilities. Maine DVR supports staff to obtain and practice 21st century skills through opportunities for training through the Technical Assistance Centers and state and local workforce development partners, including Maine DOL’s Center for Workforce Research and Information.

DVR partners with DBVI to ensure active participation and representation on regional workforce boards across the State. Information is shared with DVR staff to provide local county workforce trends, high growth and demand industries, career pathways and future workforce needs. DVR’s presence on these boards allows for increased awareness of hiring individuals with disabilities to local employers.

DVR is co-located with Bureau of Employment Services statewide in CareerCenters. This co-location allows for increased collaboration on information sharing, co-enrollment opportunities, dual employer engagement and training opportunities.