ODP Updates Systematic Skill Building Training and Resources for AAW Providers

The Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) has released updated training and resources for the Systematic Skill Building (SSB) component of the Specialized Skills Development (SSD) service in the Adult Autism Waiver (AAW). These updates reflect changes included in the approved AAW renewal effective July 1, 2026.

Key Updates:

• A new required SSB training has been developed for all AAW Skill Building Specialists.
• The training includes updated guidance on Skill Building Plan (SBP) development and SSB ongoing support activities.
• A new SBP template and several revised resources are now available through MyODP.
• Goal Attainment Scaling (GAS) continues to be required as part of SSB services. At least one individual per agency must meet GAS training requirements.

Current Skill Building Specialists:

• Individuals already qualified under the previous SSB training must complete the updated training by April 1, 2027.
• Currently qualified specialists who have previously submitted an approved SBP are only required to complete the new training modules and do not need to submit a new sample SBP.
• Completion of the updated training will be reflected on the MyTranscript report and count toward annual training hours.
• No additional GAS training is required at this time for currently qualified Skill Building Specialists.

Newly Hired Skill Building Specialists:

• Newly hired staff providing SSB services must complete the updated training and submit a sample SBP to BSASP for review and approval before delivering services.
• Staff responsible for developing GAS charts must also complete the separate GAS training available through MyODP.

New SBP Template:

• The new SBP template is available for immediate use.
• Providers must begin using the new template no later than each participant’s next annual ISP Plan Effective Date (PED).

The following updated resources have been revised to align with the updated training on MyODP:

• SSD Service Snapshot
• Goals and Objectives Cheat Sheet
• AAW Responsibilities by Service Category
• SBP Plan Template with Guidance
• SBP Checklist for Plan Developers
• Blank Task Analysis Sample
• Two Data Collect Sheet Samples
• Six Skill Building Plan Examples

These resources may be accessed in the Resource Section of the new SBP training on MyODP. Logging to MyODP is required to view resources. Please download these resources as needed.

Questions regarding this announcement may be directed to the Bureau of Supports for Autism and Special Populations (BSASP) inbox.