Frontline Supervisors Resources and Information

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This page is dedicated to providing information and resources to those employed as frontline supervisors in the intellectual and developmental disabilities services field. You will find information to assist you in your role as a frontline supervisor, including information regarding the supervision of direct support professionals.  

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RI Direct Support Professional Core Competencies Guide in English

The Rhode Island State Workforce Initiative for Training and Professional Development workgroup has endorsed and adopted the Direct Support Professional Competency Areas published by the National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals. The competencies provide an outline of skills and knowledge needed in the role. These competencies are provided as guidance to help inform and elevate the direct support professional occupation. The Direct Support Professional Core Competencies are useful for frontline supervisors because they provide a foundation that lays out expected knowledge and skills that direct support professionals should be competent in. The Frontline Supervisor can use the Direct Support Professional Core Competencies to inform evaluation of DSPs' performance.

RI Direct Support Professional Core Competencies Guide in Spanish

This is a Spanish version of the Direct Support Professional Competency Areas published by the National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals.

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NADSP Code of Ethics

The Direct Support Professional Code of Ethics was developed by the National Association of Direct Support Professional to serve as an ethical guide. The Code of Ethics intends to guide direct support professionals in resolving ethical dilemmas faced in their profession every day.

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Orientation and Onboarding Checklist in English

This document is a template for employers to consider when developing a training plan for direct support professionals. Items within each section are not in any particular order and align with current (2023) Division of Developmental Disabilities training requirements. Time frames of topics may need to be shifted to later in employment based upon scheduling and employer-specific training programs. This template assumes that an employer has completed the pre-hire process consistent with their hiring and selection practices.

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RISWI Workforce Data Summary Report in English

This report for the period of July 1 to Dec. 31, 2023 provides a comprehensive summary of workforce data for Rhode Island, focusing on direct support professionals (DSPs) and frontline supervisors (FLSs). It evaluates whether statewide efforts are effectively impacting workforce conditions. The report is designed to inform people with disabilities, their families, employers, state partners and policymakers.