The Down Syndrome Specialist Program addresses the need that many educators feel for more support and information concerning the educational needs of students with Down syndrome or any exceptional learner.

It trains & supports general and special education teachers, administrators, paraprofessionals, therapists and other educational professionals on best practice strategies to help improve the success of students with Down syndrome in the classroom. It provides advanced training on Down syndrome, how it can affect the learning process and academic performance. Importantly, it trains participants on techniques, approaches and materials that have been proven to be successful for exceptional learners.  

This program is a collaborative effort between DSAMT and Middle Tennessee school districts with the main goal of providing support for educators seeking to build a meaningful education for students with Down syndrome. The program began in 2010 and continues to be one of DSAMT’s top priorities. Trained Specialists become valued resources in their respective school districts on teaching students with Down syndrome, particularly in an inclusive setting. Participants receive a certificate of completion and access to additional trainings and resources, which provide additional support on reading, inclusion, transition, behavioral strategies and more at no cost to Middle TN education professionals.

For those outside of the Middle TN counties we serve, there is a $50 fee for this program.