AHRC Nassau has officially launched an innovative high school pipeline program to grow the next generation of Direct Support Professionals (DSPs), thanks to an $80,000 work-based learning grant from the Bellmore-Merrick School District, who designated funding through New York State’s Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD).

This is the only high school-to-DSP pipeline curriculum of its kind in New York State, offering students a structured 12-month path with hands-on experience, formal training, and direct mentorship in the field of disability services.

The program was developed over the course of five years by Bridget Cariello, Assistant Director, Project Development, and Laura Franzen, Human Resources Assistant Director for Employee Services. It was created in partnership with the Bellmore-Merrick School District and includes a full DSP curriculum created in collaboration with the National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (NADSP).

Currently, 12 students have begun work-based learning and are already interning across AHRC Nassau programs, including select day programs and residences. Each student will complete 120 hours of work-based learning and an additional 30 hours of mandatory volunteer service. All participating students have already been fingerprinted and cleared through the required background check process.

AHRC Nassau is developing curriculum and hiring a dedicated DSP Pathways Coordinator, who will guide students through onboarding, training, and mentorship as they explore careers in the field.

By partnering directly with NADSP and mapping the curriculum to educational requirements, AHRC Nassau is setting a new statewide standard for workforce development in the disability services sector and other BOCES schools can replicate this program and help create a succession plan for human services.