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Paul V. Sherlock Center on Disabilities, 600 Mount Pleasant Avenue, Rhode Island College, Providence, RI 02908, 401-456-8072
Frequently Asked Questions

Below are frequently asked questions organized by topic. For all other questions or for general questions about the SME Series, contact Vicki Ferrara at vferrara@ric.edu or call 401-456-8092.
Attendance
  • What is the attendance requirement to earn an ACRE and/or Mini-Series certificate?

    100% attendance is required to earn an ACRE and/or Mini-Series certificate. A list of the modules required for each certificate are available on the SME Training Series page.

  • I've missed one or more modules what can I do?

    If you missed a module, you can register for a make-up class as space permits. It is recommended that you completed missed modules within 6 months. View the SME Training Schedule (577 kb PDF) for upcoming classes and register using the Online Registration Form.

    For assistance or questions regarding the schedule or registration, contact Elaine Sollecito at (401) 456-2764 or esollecito@ric.edu.

  • Can I earn an ACRE certificate is if I complete the three mini-certificates?

    Yes, if you earn each of the three mini-certificates within a 24-month period you can apply for a ACRE certificate.
Fieldwork Requirements
  • What are the fieldwork requirements to earn an ACRE certificate?

    An ACRE certificate requires three satisfactorily completed fieldwork assignments. One in each of the following skill areas: Vocational Assessment and Employment Planning, Job Development, and Job Retention and Coaching.

  • What are the fieldwork requirements to earn a Mini-Series certificate?

    Each mini-series requires one satisfactorily completed fieldwork assignment related to the specific skill area: Vocational Assessment and Employment Planning, Job Development, or Job Retention and Coaching.

  • When completing a fieldwork assignment, should I get a release of information from the individual/guardian?

    A release of information is encouraged. Follow your agency's release of information policy. When completing the fieldwork be sure to use only first name and city where the person lives. DO NOT include social security or case numbers or other personally identifying information.

  • Do all of my fieldwork assignments need to be completed on the same person receiving services?

    Completing each fieldwork assignment on the same person may provide the best learning experience. However, each fieldwork assignment stands alone and can be completed on the same or different persons. Note: Complete all components of a specific skill area (i.e., Vocational Assessment and Employment Planning, Job Development, Job Retention and Coaching on the same person.

  • I have questions or need additional help to complete a fieldwork assignment, who can I contact?

    SME Fieldwork office hours are Tuesday 2-5pm. For questions or help to complete an assignment, contact Colleen Graziano at 401-456-1998, ext. 7629 or cgraziano@ric.edu. You can also attend an individual or group fieldwork support session. View the current schedule and related resources on the Fieldwork Assignments page.
Fieldwork Deadlines

  • What is the deadline for submitting fieldwork assignments?

    Fieldwork assignments are due within 6 months of completing the ACRE course or a specific Mini-Series. For extenuating circumstance an extension of up to 6 months may be provided upon request.

  • When should I start working on my fieldwork assignment?

    It is recommended that you start a fieldwork assignment related to a specific skill (i.e., Vocational Assessment and Employment Planning, Job Development, Job Retention and Coaching) as soon as you complete the related modules. Submission of satisfactory fieldwork assignments are required before a certificate will be issued. Below are recommended guidelines for scheduling your time:

    • ACRE Series: Plan to submit the assignments related to Vocational Assessment and Employment Planning and Job Development by module 12 and ALL assignments within 6-8 weeks of completing the course.
    • Mini-Series: Plan to submit the assignment related to the specific skill area/s within 4-6 weeks of completing each series.

    NOTE: SME data indicates that participates who follow the above guidelines are more likely to earn their chosen certificates.

  • How can supervisors help participants to be successful?

    It is recommended that supervisors and participants work together to determine intended submission dates. Accountability typically supports program completion.

  • Can a fieldwork assignment be handed in before the 6-month deadline?

    Yes, you are encouraged to submit an assignment when it is completed and no later than the 6-month deadline.

  • Can a fieldwork assignment be handed in after the 6-month deadline?

    Fieldwork assignments are due within 6 months of completing the ACRE course or a Mini-Series. For extenuating circumstance an extension of up to 6 months may be provided upon request.

Fieldwork Submissions

  • Can I submit a handwritten fieldwork assignment?

    Handwritten assignments are accepted if legible. However, typed summary reflection sheets are preferred, not required. WORD files of each assignment are available from the Fieldwork Assignments page.

  • How do I submit my fieldwork assignment online?

    You can submit your fieldwork assignments using the Fieldwork Submission Form.

    You can also access the form from the Fieldwork Assignments page.

    • Prior to uploading your document, name the file using the following details: lastname, first initial, and assignment name, for example "smithj_vacareerprofile".
    • You can upload the assignment as a single PDF file or as multiple files.

  • Can I submit my fieldwork by mail or in-person?

    You can deliver your fieldwork assignment in-person to the Sherlock Center or mail to: SME Fieldwork, Sherlock Center on Disabilities, RI College, 600 Mount Pleasant Ave., Providence 02908.
Requesting Certificates

  • How do I request a SME Certificate of Completion?


    • It is the responsibility of the SME participant to request a certificate of completion once all attendance and fieldwork requirements are satisfactorily completed.
    • All certificates are requested using the online Certificate Request Form.
    • If you have questions or need assistance, contact Elaine Sollecito at (401) 456-2764 or esollecito@ric.edu.

  • I have questions about the status of my attendance or fieldwork assignments, who do I contact?


    • For questions about the status of your attendance, fieldwork assignments or a requested certificate, contact Elaine Sollecito at (401) 456-2764 or esollecito@ric.edu.
      Note: Certificates are not automatically provided. Participants are responsible for requesting a certificate once you have completed requirements.
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