Professional Development
[development:map]
"Creating a synergistic workforce"
The mission of the SPIN Institute For Service Excellence is to create a nationally recognized professional workforce fully committed to growth and development in the pursuit of best practices on behalf of all stakeholders.
SPIN has a fundamental belief that all people have something to offer and can be more tomorrow than they are today. SPIN's commitment to best practices and high quality services is interwoven in all areas of the agency. Innovative and effective professional development programs support SPIN employees to be members of a workforce whose skills and competencies are second to none in our industry. SPIN Institute For Service Excellence provides professional development/training programs designed, with trend setting material, to meet the needs of diverse audiences. SPIN was recognized for significant achievement in workforce development by Training Magazine, an international workforce development publication. SPIN placed #87 in 2002, #37 in 2004, #28 in 2005 out of Top 100. In 2006, SPIN was awarded #44 of the Top 125. SPIN was also distinguished with the 2004 "Editor's Choice" recognition. Target audiences are SPIN employees, agency providers, educators, students and community members. The SPIN Institute For Service Excellence is an interactive, positive, fun and enriching environment for learning.
Professional Development Opportunities
Classroom Experience
SPIN employees are required to complete annual mandated courses and to participate in the in-service training. This classroom experience includes progressive, trend setting material in order to provide the highest quality services to the children and individuals who are supported by SPIN. For a fee, these courses are available to non-SPIN employees as well.
Career Path Opportunities
Currently, SPIN has developed a career path that is linked to an educational path. Exciting initiatives enable employees to identify career paths and see personal and professional development while enhancing skills and competencies. Employees are encouraged and supported to create professional development plans including goals and resources for on-going development. Coaching and mentoring is provided by using a "time with" strategy.
On site College Programs
On-site college programs are offered at SPIN. Yes, that's right, you can go to college right here! Customized programs are provided in comfortable and enriching environments of higher learning. SPIN employees who work 30 hours or more are eligible for tuition assistance for coursework related to their position.
Community College of Philadelphia
Certificate Programs within the Behavioral Health and Human Services Program with a concentration in Developmental Disabilities. The program is designed with levels of achievement progressing from an 18 credit hour Certificate of Recognition, 33 credit hour Academic Certificate, to Associate's and Bachelor's Degrees. Also, an Associate's Degree in Early Childhood Education is offered.
Child Development Associate Certification (CDA)
An on-site program leading to the nationally recognized Child Development Associate certification is available for Children's Services employees.
Arcadia University
Two Master's Degree programs are offered including Educational Leadership and Special Education.
College of Direct Support
The SPIN Institute For Service Excellence boasts a new Computer Learning Center that is a hub for many E-Learning programs throughout the agency. SPIN has presented employees with the exciting opportunity to participate in The College of Direct Support's Web based learning program targeting the skills and competencies of the Direct Support Professional.
Leadership Opportunities Program
SPIN is committed to providing opportunities for "Leadership at all levels and in all directions". Exciting leadership opportunities are available within this program. Qualified non-management employees with one year of experience are paid an hourly enhancement. These opportunities include:
• Ambassadors
• Team Leaders
• Traditions Presenters
• Strength Development Peers
• Human Resources
• Professional Development Instructors
Act 48 Training
SPIN is an approved professional education provider by the Pennsylvania Department of Education to provide continuing education credits in accordance with Act 48. Innovative trainings, workshops and seminars are offered for SPIN certified teachers as well as teachers in the community.
For more information, please contact Debbie Geissel at 215.612.7134, or email dgeissel@spininc.org.
"When a collection of brilliant minds, hearts
and talents come together... expect a masterpiece."
-Anonymous
