Twelve graduating seniors from the Central High School District became the first students in New York State to complete DSP Pathways. Through a partnership with AHRC Nassau and Citizens Options Unlimited, this innovative career education program was designed to address the growing shortage of Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) who support people with developmental disabilities. 

The students were honored on June 2 during a procession, graduation ceremony and brunch hosted by AHRC Nassau in conjunction with the Central High School District at the AHRC Brookville Mansion in Brookville. During the ceremony, students received certificates recognizing their achievement and were invited to interview for part-time employment opportunities. 

Developed through a partnership between Bellmore-Merrick CHSD, AHRC Nassau and Citizens Options Unlimited, the yearlong program combined classroom instruction with hands-on work-based learning experiences at 13 agency sites. Students earned school credit while gaining experience in residential and community-based settings and completed coursework focused on ethics, safety, advocacy, person-centered support and community inclusion. 

The curriculum aligns with the DSP Level 1 E-Badge program established by the National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals and meets standards set by the New York State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities. 

“The students didn’t just show up ready to learn. They showed up ready to make an impact in the lives of people with developmental disabilities,” said Bridget Cariello, assistant director of project development at AHRC Nassau. “Our hope is that by introducing this career path early, we’re developing the next generation of DSPs and creating a replicable model that can be shared across school districts and providers.” 

The program was developed over six years by an AHRC Nassau/Citizens team that  

included Cariello; Laura Franzen, human resources assistant director for employee  

services; and Jim Stock, assistant director of talent, development and engagement. The district also thanks DSP program teacher Alyssa Sieber, who has been instrumental in the program’s success. 

“The program moved from concept to reality with critical support from the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District,” said Laura Franzen, assistant director of employee services for AHRC Nassau. “Bellmore-Merrick educators worked closely with our agencies from start to finish in a way that is accessible to students and responsive to the needs of people with disabilities.” 

District leaders said the initiative provides students with meaningful career opportunities while helping address a critical workforce need. 

“At a time when the labor market is evolving, this initiative puts our students at the center of a growing field and as change-makers for good,” said Katherine Lessig, district chairperson for transition and Section 504. “We immediately saw the value of this partnership and are proud to help bring it to life.” 

As the first district in New York to offer the program, Bellmore-Merrick hopes to serve as a model for other school systems interested in developing similar pathways. 

“As the first school district in New York to offer such a program, the Central High School District looks forward to working with other districts across Long Island and the state interested in developing DSP Pathways,” said Eric Arlin, executive director of alternative education. “We could not have accomplished any of this without our partners at AHRC Nassau and Citizens Options Unlimited, who helped develop the program and provide our students with the work-based learning experiences required to earn the DSP certification.” 

Several students who participated in DSP Pathways have expressed interest in pursuing careers in education, nursing, psychology, social work and other helping professions. Due to strong interest, enrollment in next year's cohort, housed at Calhoun High School, is expected to double. 

“We are proud of our students,” Lessig said. “The class size for the DSP Pathways cohort is about double next year, and we look forward to the impact they will make.” 

 

Photos courtesy of AHRC Nassau