Special Education & Behavioral Health Foundations for Colorado Educators

Fulfilling the Colorado Department of Education (CDE) licensure requirement for special education and behavioral health has never been more meaningful. This professional development course equips Colorado educators with the knowledge they need to meet this requirement while gaining actionable insights, practical strategies, and a deeper understanding of how to support every student. Rooted in key mandates such as IDEA and Child Find and focused on effective Trauma Informed Education and Suicide Prevention, this course emphasizes fostering equity and promoting student well-being.  Learning Outcomes: Understand the foundational principles of IDEA, including FAPE and LRE, and their importance in supporting equitable education for students with disabilities. Identify the purpose and responsibilities of educators under the Child Find mandate to ensure all students with disabilities are identified, evaluated, and supported. Apply trauma-informed practices to create asset-based, inclusive, and trust-centered learning environments that promote resilience and well-being. Explore evidence-based strategies and resources to address adolescent mental health and prevent suicide within the school community. Develop actionable plans to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and connect students, families, and colleagues to mental health and special education resources. Reflect on the role of educators in fostering a culture of equity, inclusion, and support, and identify ongoing opportunities for professional growth in these areas.