The Washington Statement for Option 2 Training is a set of guidelines and standards for the training of professionals in the fields of early childhood education, early intervention, and special education. It was developed by the Council of Chief State School Officers (CC SSO) in partnership with the U.S. Department of Education and several national organizations. The Washington Statement is designed to ensure that all professionals in these fields are prepared to meet the needs of the children and families they serve. The Washington Statement for Option 2 Training consists of three parts: 1. Core Competencies — These are the basic skills and knowledge that all professionals in these fields must possess in order to be competent in their work. These competencies include an understanding of child development, family systems, and special education services, as well as other foundational skills. 2. Professional Standards — These are the specific skills and knowledge that each professional must possess in order to meet the standards established for their profession. These standards include areas such as ethics, professional roles, and content knowledge. 3. Performance Standards — These are the specific performance expectations that each professional must meet in order to be considered competent in their work. These standards include areas such as communication, problem-solving, and professional decision-making. The Washington Statement for Option 2 Training is intended to provide a comprehensive framework for the training of professionals in early childhood education, early intervention, and special education. It is intended to ensure that all professionals in these fields are prepared to meet the needs of the children and families they serve.