about the program

The WestEd Center for Prevention & Early Intervention (CPEI) provides program development, training and technical assistance, and evaluation services designed to support capacity building and improve state and local systems of support. The ultimate goal? Improved outcomes for children and youth with developmental delays or disabilities, from birth through postsecondary graduation, and their families.

CPEI was awarded a major contract to continue multifaceted components in design and delivery of comprehensive training and technical support to health and education agencies and the multidisciplinary professionals who administer or serve the unique needs of children, birth to 3, with developmental delays or disabilities. This project — Early Start Comprehensive System of Personnel Development — delivers evidence-based practices and resources to agencies and professionals working with families to prepare the children for lifelong learning and healthy development.

CPEI received commendations from the federal Office of Special Education Programs for this Early Start project, funded by the California Department of Developmental Services, the Governor-designated lead agency to implement Part C of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act in California.

In addition to developing expert technical training, CPEI has expertise in system support, program and resource development, and systemic change, including:

• Convening and facilitating state-level think tanks and commissions
• Developing policy recommendations
• Creating and producing award-winning publications