The AIM Model is designed to increase both the retention and the instructional skills of early career special educators working with young children with disabilities in inclusive environments. This is accomplished by merging three components: supervisor support, professional development and mentoring support.
Supervisor component: consists of a blueprint and strategies for supporting early career educators and assisting them to improve professional skills. Activities include providing orientation, assessing skills, planning for professional development, providing technical assistance and feedback and supporting the mentoring partnership.
Mentoring component: consists of information and strategies on effective mentoring, tools for planning follow-up and reflective practice, and strategies to assist the early career educator implement newly acquired skills in their natural setting.
Professional development component: The Giving Our Children the Best curriculum combines a foundation of developmentally appropriate practices with best practices in early childhood special education.