PKG00264686-instructions.pdf

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

OFFICE OF SPECIAL EDUCATION AND REHABILITATIVE SERVICES

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20202-2800

2021 APPLICATION KIT FOR NEW GRANTS

UNDER

THE REHABILITATION SERVICES ADMINISTRATION

AMERICAN INDIAN VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION SERVICES

CFDA 84.250N

FORM APPROVED

OMB NO. 1820-0018, EXP. DATE: 06/30/2022

ED FORM 424, OMB APPROVED

DATED MATERIAL—OPEN IMMEDIATELY

CLOSING DATE: APRIL 22, 2021

CONTENTS

SUBJECT SECTION

Dear Applicant Letter ................................................................................................................. A

Notice Inviting Applications for New Awards .............................................................................. B

Selection Criteria for Applications............................................................................................... C

Special Application Requirements .............................................................................................. D

Program Statute (Sec. 102, 103, & 121)..................................................................................... E

Application Transmittal Instructions ............................................................................................ F

Application Abstract Instructions ................................................................................................ G

Application Forms ...................................................................................................................... H

Part I: Federal Assistance Face Page (SF-424) Part II: Budget Information (ED 524) Part III: Application Narrative Part IV: Certifications and Disclosures:

• Certification Regarding Lobbying: Certification for Contracts, Grants, Loans and Cooperative Agreements;

• Disclosure of Lobbying Activities (SF-LLL)

Important Notices/Information ...................................................................................................... I

• Notice to All Applicants, Section 427 of the General Education Provisions Act (GEPA)

• The Government Performance and Results Act (GPRA)

• Electronic Notification Option for Grant Awards

Additional Information ................................................................................................................. J

• Applicant Checklist

• Common Questions and Answers

• Program Application Indirect Cost Instructions

• D-U-N-S Number Instructions

Section A Dear Applicant Letter

December 23, 2020

Dear Applicant, This application package contains the information and the required forms necessary for applying and competing in the FY 2021 American Indian Vocational Rehabilitation Services (AIVRS), CFDA # 84.250N, grant competition authorized by Section 121 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, and implemented by the subsequent program regulations at 34 C.F.R. part 371.

The purpose of this program is to provide vocational rehabilitation (VR) services, including culturally appropriate services, to American Indians who are individuals with disabilities residing on or near Federal or State reservations, consistent with such eligible individual’s strengths, resources, priorities, concerns, abilities, capabilities, interests, and informed choice, so that such individual may prepare for, and engage in, high quality employment that will increase opportunities for economic self-sufficiency.

Applicants are advised to read all materials carefully, especially the Federal Register Notice Inviting Applications (See Section B), which is the official competition announcement. Please take time to review all applicable requirements, definitions, selection criteria, special application requirements, and application instructions thoroughly. Applicants are advised not to wait until the last day to submit an application due to the possibility of technical difficulties or other issues.

If an applicant procures the service of an outside consultant for the preparation of the application, the applicant must involve the current AIVRS project staff, if applicable, and representation of the Tribal Council, to ensure the proposed goals and objectives are realistic and accurately reflect the needs of the reservation. Additionally, the resume of the outside consultant must be included as an attachment to the application.

Please note the following:

▪ Notice Inviting Applications (NIA). The NIA is published in the Federal Register, contained in Section B of this Application Package, and is available to download and review.

▪ Application Submission: Please note Common Instructions for Applicants to Department of Education Discretionary Grant Programs: Applicants are required to follow the Common Instructions for Applicants to Department of Education Discretionary Grant Programs, published in the Federal Register on February 13, 2019, and available at www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2019-02-13/pdf/2019-02206.pdf, which contains requirements and information on how to submit an application.

▪ Grants.gov Application Submission and System for Awards Management (SAM) Registration: All applications for grants under this competition must be submitted electronically in the Grants.gov Apply site (www.Grants.gov). The requirements are briefly described after this letter and include helpful tips for submitting an application electronically using the Grants.gov Apply site. Complete instructions are included in the Federal Register Notice in the section “Other Submission Requirements” (See Section B). When using the Grants.gov Apply site, you are advised to not wait until the last day to submit a grant application. You must follow the Application Procedures as described in the Federal Register notice announcing this grant competition. The “Please Read

First” in Section A of this application package contains information (including dates and times) about how to submit an application electronically. To conduct business with the Department of Education, applicants must have a DUNS number, a TIN number, and be registered in SAM. The complete instructions are included in the Federal Register Notice in section IV. Application and Submission Information (See Section B) and in this application package.

▪ Performance Measures: Under the Government Performance and Results Act of 1993

(GPRA), the Department has established four performance measures for the AIVRS program. The measures are:

1) Of all those exiting the program, the percentage of individuals who leave the program with an employment outcome after receiving services under an individualized plan for employment (IPE);

2) a) The percentage of individuals who leave the program with an employment outcome after receiving VR services under an IPE;

b) The percentage of individuals who leave the program without an employment outcome after receiving services under an IPE;

c) The percentage of individuals who have not left the program and are continuing to receive services under and IPE;

3) The percentage of projects that demonstrate an average annual cost per employment outcome of no more than $35,000; and

4) The percentage of projects that demonstrate an average annual cost per participant of no more than $10,000.

Each grantee is required to submit an annual performance report that contains the data necessary to measure the grantee’s performance on the GPRA measures.

▪ Abstract: Applications must include a one-page abstract as described in Section G of the grant application package. Please follow instructions for an appropriate and complete abstract.

▪ Selection Criteria: The program narrative must address each selection criteria as described in Section C of the grant application package. Failure to do so will put your application at a significant disadvantage. To facilitate the peer review process, the narrative should address the selection criteria in the order that the criteria are listed. An explanation of each selection criteria is provided to describe the type of information you may wish to include.

▪ Special Application Requirements: In addition to the selection criteria, applicants are required to address the Special Application requirements at 34 C.F.R. § 371.21(a)-(k).

The application package includes a Special Application Requirements form in Section D that must be completed. The form has a text box after each of the requirements for applicants to insert an assurance statement. An application is not complete without the assurances inserted into the Special Application Requirements form and will not be considered for review.

▪ Budget Forms: All applicants for multi-year projects are required to provide detailed budget figures and budget narrative for each year of the grant (up to 60 months) on the ED Form 524. The Department will address funding level requests of successful applicants for each year of the grant award and make appropriate funding recommendations in accordance to the availability of funds.

▪ Match: The Federal share is 90 percent of the total cost of the project. Enter the Federal share of the project in Section A of the Budget Summary ED Form 524. The mandatory non-Federal share (Match) is 10 percent of the total cost of the project and contributions may be provided in cash or in-kind. Match is calculated by dividing the requested Federal share by 9 and the result equals the required match (e.g., $500,000 divided by 9 = $55,555.56 or $55,556 if rounded to the nearest dollar, which is the minimum required matching amount). Enter the match on Section B of the Budget Summary ED Form 524 and provide detailed budget figures and a budget narrative to describe the match for each year of the grant.

▪ Bonus Points: Previously funded Tribes are entitled to receive 5 bonus points. To receive the points, the applicant must indicate that the governing body of the Tribe, or the consortia of governing bodies, previously received an award under this program and the dates the Tribe was previously awarded. Indicate the dates in the appendices of the grant application and list it in the Table of Contents so it is easily located.

▪ Appendix Section: You may include an appendix section to your application, in PDF format, that includes, but is not limited to, the following types of documents: Tribal resolutions, map of service area, assurances, certifications, one-page resumes, position descriptions, letters of support, etc. If applicable, in the narrative proposal selection criteria, please provide a reference for the location of these documents.

Program Rules and Regulations

The program regulations that apply to this competition can be found in 34 C.F.R. part 371. Other regulations that apply to this program are: (a) the Education Department General Administrative Regulations (EDGAR) in 34 C.F.R. parts 75, 77, 81, 82, and 84; (b) the Office of Management and Budget Guidelines to Agencies on Government Debarment and Suspension (Nonprocurement) in 2 C.F.R. part 180, as adopted and amended as regulations of the Department in 2 C.F.R. part 3485; and (c) The Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards in 2 C.F.R. part 200, as adopted and amended as regulations of the Department in 2 C.F.R. part 3474.

Review and Selection Process

We remind potential applicants that in reviewing applications in any discretionary grant competition, the Secretary may consider, under 34 C.F.R. § 75.217(d)(3), the past performance of the applicant in carrying out a previous award, such as the applicant’s use of funds, achievement of project objectives, and compliance with grant conditions. The Secretary may also consider whether the applicant failed to submit a timely performance report or submitted a report of unacceptable quality.

Technical Assistance

If you have any questions about the information in this application kit, please contact the RSA Competition Manager, August Martin, at (202) 245-7410 or by email at August.Martin@ed.gov.

If you use a TDD, call the Federal Relay Service, toll free, at 1 (800) 877-8339.

Thank you for your interest in this program.

Sincerely, Mary F. Lovley, Director Training and Service Programs Division

Section B

Notice Inviting Applications For New Awards

4000-01-U

DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

Applications for New Awards; American Indian Vocational

Rehabilitation Services

AGENCY: Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative

Services, Department of Education.

ACTION: Notice.

SUMMARY: The Department of Education (Department) is issuing a notice inviting applications for fiscal year (FY)

2021 for American Indian Vocational Rehabilitation Services

(AIVRS)--Assistance Listing Number 84.250N--to partner with

Indian Tribes in providing eligible American Indians with disabilities with vocational rehabilitation (VR) services.

This notice relates to the approved information collection under OMB control number 1820–0018.

DATES:

Applications Available: December 23, 2020.

Deadline for Transmittal of Applications: April 22, 2021.

ADDRESSES: For the addresses for obtaining and submitting an application, please refer to our Common Instructions for

Applicants to Department of Education Discretionary Grant

Programs, published in the Federal Register on February 13, 2019 (84 FR 3768) and available at www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2019-02-13/pdf/2019-

02206.pdf.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: August Martin, U.S.

Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue, SW, room

5064A, Potomac Center Plaza, Washington, DC 20202-2800.

Telephone: (202) 245-7410. Email: August.Martin@ed.gov.

If you use a telecommunications device for the deaf

(TDD) or a text telephone (TTY), call the Federal Relay

Service (FRS), toll free, at 1-800-877-8339.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Full Text of Announcement

I. Funding Opportunity Description

Purpose of Program: The purpose of this program is to provide VR services, including culturally appropriate services, to American Indians with disabilities who reside on or near Federal or State reservations, consistent with such eligible individual’s strengths, resources, priorities, concerns, abilities, capabilities, interests, and informed choice, so that such individual may prepare for, and engage in, high-quality employment that will increase opportunities for economic self-sufficiency.

Priority: In accordance with 34 CFR 75.105(b)(2)(iv), this priority is from section 121(b)(4) of the Rehabilitation

Act of 1973, as amended (Rehabilitation Act) (29 U.S.C.

741(b)(4)).

Competitive Preference Priority: For FY 2021, and any subsequent year in which we make awards from the list of unfunded applications from this competition, this priority is a competitive preference priority. Under 34 CFR

75.105(c)(2)(i), we award an additional five points to an application that meets this priority.

This priority is:

Continuation of Previously Funded Tribal Programs.

In making new awards under this program, we give priority to applications for the continuation of programs that have been funded under the AIVRS program.

Program Authority: 29 U.S.C. 741.

Note: Projects must be awarded and operated in a manner consistent with the nondiscrimination requirements contained in the U.S. Constitution and the Federal civil rights laws.

Applicable Regulations: (a) The Education Department

General Administrative Regulations in 34 CFR parts 75, 77, 81, 82, and 84. (b) The Office of Management and Budget

Guidelines to Agencies on Governmentwide Debarment and

Suspension (Nonprocurement) in 2 CFR part 180, as adopted and amended as regulations of the Department in 2 CFR part

3485. (c) The Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost

Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards in 2

CFR part 200, as adopted and amended as regulations of the

Department in 2 CFR part 3474. (d) The regulations for this program in 34 CFR part 371.

II. Award Information

Type of Award: Discretionary grants.

Estimated Available Funds: The Administration intends to use approximately $27,086,128 for new awards for this program for FY 2021. The actual level of funding, if any, depends on final congressional action. However, we are inviting applications to allow enough time to complete the grant process if Congress appropriates funds for this program.

Contingent upon the availability of funds and the quality of applications, we may make additional awards in subsequent years from the list of unfunded applications from this competition.

Estimated Range of Awards: $300,000-$630,000.

Estimated Average Size of Awards: $531,100.

Estimated Number of Awards: 51.

Note: The Department is not bound by any estimates in this notice.

Project Period: Up to 60 months.

III. Eligibility Information

1. Eligible Applicants: Applications may be made only by Indian Tribes (and consortia of those Indian

Tribes) located on Federal and State reservations. The definition of “Indian Tribe” in section 7(19)(B) of the

Rehabilitation Act is “any Federal or State Indian tribe, band, rancheria, pueblo, colony, or community, including any Alaskan native village or regional village corporation

(as defined in or established pursuant to the Alaska Native

Claims Settlement Act) and a tribal organization (as defined in section 4(1) of the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act (25 U.S.C. 450b(1)).”

“Reservation” is defined in 34 CFR 371.6 as “a Federal or State Indian reservation, public domain Indian allotment, former Indian reservation in Oklahoma, land held by incorporated Native groups, regional corporations and village corporations under the provisions of the Alaska

Native Claims Settlement Act; or a defined area of land recognized by a State or the Federal Government where there is a concentration of tribal members and on which the tribal government is providing structured activities and services.”

The applicant for an AIVRS grant must be--

(1) The governing body of an Indian Tribe, either on behalf of the Indian Tribe or on behalf of a consortium of

Indian Tribes; or

(2) A Tribal organization that is a separate legal organization from an Indian Tribe.

To receive an AIVRS grant, a Tribal organization that is not a governing body of an Indian Tribe must--

(1) Have as one of its functions the vocational rehabilitation of American Indians with disabilities; and

(2) Have the approval of the Tribe to be served by such organization.

If a grant is made to the governing body of an Indian

Tribe, either on its own behalf or on behalf of a consortium, or to a Tribal organization to perform services benefiting more than one Indian Tribe, the approval of each such Indian Tribe shall be a prerequisite to the making of such a grant.

2. a. Cost Sharing or Matching: Cost sharing is required by section 121(a) of the Rehabilitation Act and 34

CFR 371.40 at 10 percent of the total cost of the project.

b. Indirect Cost Rate Information: This program uses an unrestricted indirect cost rate. Applicants for this program are the governing bodies of Indian Tribes (or consortia of governing bodies) and have negotiated indirect cost rate agreements with a cognizant agency if indirect costs will be charged to the grant. For more information regarding indirect costs, or to obtain a negotiated indirect cost rate, please see www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocfo/intro.html.

c. Administrative Cost Limitation: This program does not include any program-specific limitation on administrative expenses. All administrative expenses must be reasonable and necessary and conform to Cost Principles described in 2 CFR part 200 subpart E of the Uniform

Guidance.

3. Subgrantees: A grantee under this competition may not award subgrants to entities to directly carry out project activities described in its application. While subgrants are not permitted, under 34 CFR 371.42(a), grantees are permitted to provide the VR services by contract or otherwise enter into an agreement with a designated State unit (DSU), a community rehabilitation program, or another agency to assist in the implementation of the Tribal VR program, as long as such contract or agreement is identified in the application.

IV. Application and Submission Information

1. Application Submission Instructions: Applicants are required to follow the Common Instructions for

Applicants to Department of Education Discretionary Grant

Programs, published in the Federal Register on February 13, 2019 (84 FR 3768), and available at www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2019-02-13/pdf/2019-

02206.pdf, which contain requirements and information on how to submit an application.

2. Intergovernmental Review: This competition is not subject to Executive Order 12372 and the regulations in 34

CFR part 79.

3. Funding Restrictions: We reference regulations outlining funding restrictions in the Applicable

Regulations section of this notice.

V. Application Review Information

1. Selection Criteria: The selection criteria for this competition are from 34 CFR 75.210, have a maximum score of 100 points, and are as follows:

(a) Need for Project and Significance (10 Points):

The Secretary considers the need for and significance of the proposed project. In determining the need for and significance of the proposed project, the Secretary considers the following factors:

(1) The magnitude of the need for the services to be provided or the activities to be carried out by the proposed project.

(2) The extent to which specific gaps or weaknesses in services, infrastructure, or opportunities have been identified and will be addressed by the proposed project, including the nature and magnitude of those gaps or weaknesses.

(3) The potential contribution of the proposed project to increased knowledge or understanding of rehabilitation problems, issues, or effective strategies.

(4) The extent to which the proposed project is likely to build local capacity to provide, improve, or expand services that address the needs of the target population.

(b) Quality of the Project Design (20 Points):

The Secretary considers the quality of the design of the proposed project. In determining the quality of the design of the proposed project, the Secretary considers the following factors:

(1) The extent to which the goals, objectives, and outcomes to be achieved by the proposed project are clearly specified and measurable.

(2) The extent to which the design of the proposed project is appropriate to, and will successfully address, the needs of the target population or other identified needs.

(3) The extent to which the proposed project will establish linkages with other appropriate agencies and organizations providing services to the target population.

(c) Quality of Project Services (20 Points):

The Secretary considers the quality of the services to be provided by the proposed project. In determining the quality of the services to be provided by the proposed project, the Secretary considers the quality and sufficiency of strategies for ensuring equal access and treatment for eligible project participants who are members of groups that have traditionally been underrepresented based on race, color, national origin, gender, age, or disability.

In addition, the Secretary considers the following factors:

(1) The extent to which the services to be provided by the proposed project are appropriate to the needs of the intended recipients or beneficiaries of those services.

(2) The likely impact of the services to be provided by the proposed project on the intended recipients of those services.

(3) The extent to which the services to be provided by the proposed project involve the collaboration of appropriate partners for maximizing the effectiveness of project services.

(d) Quality of Project Personnel (15 Points):

In determining the quality of project personnel, the

Secretary considers the extent to which the applicant encourages applications for employment from persons who are members of groups that have traditionally been underrepresented based on race, color, national origin, gender, age, or disability.

In addition, the Secretary considers the qualifications, including relevant training and experience, of key project personnel.

(e) Adequacy of Resources (10 Points):

The Secretary considers the adequacy of resources for the proposed project. In determining the adequacy of resources for the proposed project, the Secretary considers the following factors:

(1) The adequacy of support, including facilities, equipment, supplies, and other resources, from the applicant organization or the lead applicant organization.

(2) The extent to which the costs are reasonable in relation to the objectives, design, and potential significance of the proposed project.

(3) The extent to which the costs are reasonable in relation to the number of persons to be served and to the anticipated results and benefits.

(f) Quality of the Management Plan (15 Points):

The Secretary considers the quality of the management plan for the proposed project. In determining the quality of the management plan for the proposed project, the

Secretary considers the following factors:

(1) The adequacy of the management plan to achieve the objectives of the proposed project on time and within budget, including clearly defined responsibilities, timelines, and milestones for accomplishing project tasks.

(2) The adequacy of procedures for ensuring feedback and continuous improvement in the operation of the proposed project.

(3) The extent to which the time commitments of the project director and principal investigator and other key project personnel are appropriate and adequate to meet the objectives of the proposed project.

(g) Quality of the Project Evaluation (10 Points):

The Secretary considers the quality of the evaluation to be conducted of the proposed project. In determining the quality of the evaluation, the Secretary considers the following factors:

(1) The extent to which the methods of evaluation are thorough, feasible, and appropriate to the goals, objectives, and outcomes of the proposed project.

(2) The extent to which the methods of evaluation include the use of objective performance measures that are clearly related to the intended outcomes of the project and will produce quantitative and qualitative data to the extent possible.

(3) The extent to which the methods of evaluation will provide performance feedback and permit periodic assessment of progress toward achieving intended outcomes.

2. Review and Selection Process: We remind potential applicants that in reviewing applications in any discretionary grant competition, the Secretary may consider, under 34 CFR 75.217(d)(3), the past performance of the applicant in carrying out a previous award, such as the applicant’s use of funds, achievement of project objectives, and compliance with grant conditions. The

Secretary may also consider whether the applicant failed to submit a timely performance report or submitted a report of unacceptable quality.

In addition, in making a competitive grant award, the

Secretary requires various assurances, including those applicable to Federal civil rights laws that prohibit discrimination in programs or activities receiving Federal financial assistance from the Department (34 CFR 100.4, 104.5, 106.4, 108.8, and 110.23).

Applicants for the AIVRS program must provide evidence regarding the following special application requirements in

34 CFR 371.21(a)-(k). The application package includes a

Special Application Requirements form in Section D that must be completed. An application is not complete without the Special Application Requirements form and will not be considered for review without that completed form submitted by the applicant. These requirements are:

(a) Effort will be made to provide a broad scope of vocational rehabilitation services in a manner and at a level of quality at least comparable to those services provided by the designated State unit.

(b) All decisions affecting eligibility for vocational rehabilitation services, the nature and scope of available vocational rehabilitation services and the provision of such services will be made by a representative of the Tribal vocational rehabilitation program funded through this grant and such decisions will not be delegated to another agency or individual.

(c) Priority in the delivery of vocational rehabilitation services will be given to those American

Indians with disabilities who are the most significantly disabled.

(d) An order of selection of individuals with disabilities to be served under the program will be specified if services cannot be provided to all eligible

American Indians with disabilities who apply.

(e) All vocational rehabilitation services will be provided according to an individualized plan for employment which has been developed jointly by the representative of the Tribal vocational rehabilitation program and each

American Indian with disabilities being served.

(f) American Indians with disabilities living on or near Federal or State reservations where Tribal vocational rehabilitation service programs are being carried out under this part will have an opportunity to participate in matters of general policy development and implementation affecting vocational rehabilitation service delivery by the

Tribal vocational rehabilitation program.

(g) Cooperative working arrangements will be developed with the DSU, or DSUs, as appropriate, which are providing vocational rehabilitation services to other individuals with disabilities who reside in the State or

States being served.

(h) Any comparable services and benefits available to

American Indians with disabilities under any other program, which might meet in whole or in part the cost of any vocational rehabilitation service, will be fully considered in the provision of vocational rehabilitation services.

(i) Any American Indian with disabilities who is an applicant or recipient of services, and who is dissatisfied with a determination made by a representative of the Tribal vocational rehabilitation program and files a request for a review, will be afforded a review under procedures developed by the grantee comparable to those under the provisions of section 102(c)(1)-(5) and (7) of the

Rehabilitation Act.

(j) The Tribal vocational rehabilitation program funded under this part must assure that any facility used in connection with the delivery of vocational rehabilitation services meets facility and program accessibility requirements consistent with the requirements, as applicable, of the Architectural Barriers

Act of 1968, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, and the regulations implementing these laws.

(k) The Tribal vocational rehabilitation program funded under this part must ensure that providers of vocational rehabilitation services are able to communicate in the native language of, or by using an appropriate mode of communication with, applicants and eligible individuals who have limited English proficiency, unless it is clearly not feasible to do so.

3. Risk Assessment and Specific Conditions:

Consistent with 2 CFR 200.205, before awarding grants under this competition the Department conducts a review of the risks posed by applicants. Under 2 CFR 3474.10, the

Secretary may impose specific conditions and, in appropriate circumstances, high-risk conditions on a grant if the applicant or grantee is not financially stable; has a history of unsatisfactory performance; has a financial or other management system that does not meet the standards in

2 CFR part 200, subpart D; has not fulfilled the conditions of a prior grant; or is otherwise not responsible.

4. Integrity and Performance System: If you are selected under this competition to receive an award that over the course of the project period may exceed the simplified acquisition threshold (currently $250,000), under 2 CFR 200.205(a)(2) we must make a judgment about your integrity, business ethics, and record of performance under Federal awards--that is, the risk posed by you as an applicant--before we make an award. In doing so, we must consider any information about you that is in the integrity and performance system (currently referred to as the

Federal Awardee Performance and Integrity Information

System (FAPIIS)), accessible through the System for Award

Management. You may review and comment on any information about yourself that a Federal agency previously entered and that is currently in FAPIIS.

Please note that, if the total value of your currently active grants, cooperative agreements, and procurement contracts from the Federal Government exceeds $10,000,000, the reporting requirements in 2 CFR part 200, Appendix XII, require you to report certain integrity information to

FAPIIS semiannually. Please review the requirements in 2

CFR part 200, Appendix XII, if this grant plus all the other Federal funds you receive exceed $10,000,000.

VI. Award Administration Information

1. Award Notices: If your application is successful, we notify your U.S. Representative and U.S. Senators and send you a Grant Award Notification (GAN); or we may send you an email containing a link to access an electronic version of your GAN. We may notify you informally, also.

If your application is not evaluated or not selected for funding, we notify you.

2. Administrative and National Policy Requirements:

We identify administrative and national policy requirements in the application package and reference these and other requirements in the Applicable Regulations section of this notice.

We reference the regulations outlining the terms and conditions of an award in the Applicable Regulations section of this notice and include these and other specific conditions in the GAN. The GAN also incorporates your approved application as part of your binding commitments under the grant.

3. Open Licensing Requirements: Unless an exception applies, if you are awarded a grant under this competition, you will be required to openly license to the public grant deliverables created in whole, or in part, with Department grant funds. When the deliverable consists of modifications to pre-existing works, the license extends only to those modifications that can be separately identified and only to the extent that open licensing is permitted under the terms of any licenses or other legal restrictions on the use of pre-existing works.

Additionally, a grantee or subgrantee that is awarded competitive grant funds must have a plan to disseminate these public grant deliverables. This dissemination plan can be developed and submitted after your application has been reviewed and selected for funding. For additional information on the open licensing requirements please refer to 2 CFR 3474.20.

4. Reporting: (a) If you apply for a grant under this competition, you must ensure that you have in place the necessary processes and systems to comply with the reporting requirements in 2 CFR part 170 should you receive funding under the competition. This does not apply if you have an exception under 2 CFR 170.110(b).

(b) At the end of your project period, you must submit a final performance report, including financial information, as directed by the Secretary. If you receive a multiyear award, you must submit an annual performance report that provides the most current performance and financial expenditure information as directed by the

Secretary under 34 CFR 75.118. The Secretary may also require more frequent performance reports under 34 CFR

75.720(c). For specific requirements on reporting, please go to www.ed.gov/fund/grant/apply/appforms/appforms.html.

5. Performance Measures: For the purposes of the

Government Performance and Results Act of 1993 (GPRA), and reporting under 34 CFR 75.110, the Department has established four performance measures for the AIVRS program. The measures are:

(a) Of all those exiting the program, the percentage of individuals who leave the program with an employment outcome after receiving services under an individualized plan for employment (IPE).

(b)(1) The percentage of individuals who leave the program with an employment outcome after receiving services under an IPE.

(2) The percentage of individuals who leave the program without an employment outcome after receiving services under an IPE.

(3) The percentage of individuals who have not left the program and are continuing to receive services under an

IPE.

(c) The percentage of projects that demonstrate an average annual cost per employment outcome of no more than

$35,000.

(d) The percentage of projects that demonstrate an average annual cost of services per participant of no more than $10,000.

Each grantee must annually report the data needed to measure its performance on the GPRA measures through the

Annual Performance Reporting Form (APR Form) for the AIVRS program.

Note: For purposes of this section, the term “employment outcome” means, with respect to an individual, (a) entering or retaining full-time or, if appropriate, part-time competitive employment in the integrated labor market; (b) satisfying the vocational outcome of supported employment;

or (c) satisfying any other vocational outcome the

Secretary of Education may determine to be appropriate

(including satisfying the vocational outcome of customized employment, self-employment, telecommuting, or business ownership). (Section 7(11) of the Rehabilitation Act (29

U.S.C. 705(11)).

6. Continuation Awards: In making a continuation award under 34 CFR 75.253, the Secretary considers, among other things: whether a grantee has made substantial progress in achieving the goals and objectives of the project; whether the grantee has expended funds in a manner that is consistent with its approved application and budget; and, if the Secretary has established performance measurement requirements, the performance targets in the grantee’s approved application.

In making a continuation award, the Secretary also considers whether the grantee is operating in compliance with the assurances in its approved application, including those applicable to Federal civil rights laws that prohibit discrimination in programs or activities receiving Federal financial assistance from the Department (34 CFR 100.4, 104.5, 106.4, 108.8, and 110.23).

VII. Other Information

Accessible Format: On request to the program contact person listed under FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT, individuals with disabilities can obtain this document and a copy of the application package in an accessible format.

The Department will provide the requestor with an accessible format that may include Rich Text Format (RTF) or text format (txt), a thumb drive, an MP3 file, braille, large print, audiotape, or compact disc, or other accessible format.

Electronic Access to This Document: The official version of this document is the document published in the Federal

Register. You may access the official edition of the

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Dated:

__________<S>______________

Mark Schultz, Delegated the Authority to Perform the Functions and Duties of the

Assistant Secretary for the Office of Special Education and

Rehabilitative Services.

http://www.federalregister.gov/

Section C

Selection Criteria for Applications

SELECTION CRITERIA FOR APPLICATIONS

The Secretary uses the following selection criteria taken from 34 C.F.R. 75.210 to evaluate applications for new grants under this competition. The maximum score for all of these criteria is 100 points. The maximum score for each criterion is indicated in parentheses. Because no points are assigned to the selected factors, the Secretary evaluates each factor within each criterion equally. (Those applicants who are eligible for the competitive preference priority may receive 105 points.)

The criteria are--

(a) NEED AND SIGNIFICANCE FOR PROJECT. (10 points)

In determining the need and significance for the proposed project, the Secretary considers the following factors:

(1) The magnitude of the need for the services to be provided or the activities to be carried out by the proposed project.

(2) The extent to which specific gaps or weaknesses in services, infrastructure, or opportunities have been identified and will be addressed by the proposed project, including the nature and magnitude of those gaps or weaknesses.

(3) The potential contribution of the proposed project to increased knowledge or understanding of rehabilitation problems, issues, or effective strategies.

(4) The extent to which the proposed project is likely to build local capacity to provide, improve, or expand services that address the needs of the target population.

Explanation: Descriptions of need should focus on the purpose for which these projects are funded -- to provide vocational rehabilitation (VR) services that will enable American Indians with disabilities to achieve employment outcomes.

Barriers to the provision of VR services and achievement of employment outcomes can also be described. In describing gaps in service, applicants may provide information that shows the extent to which VR services are provided by State VR agencies to American Indians with disabilities in the geographic area to be served by the project. In addition to reservations, the geographic area to be served can include areas near the reservation, as described by the applicant.

Explanation: Describe the extent to which the proposed project will expand or improve the practice of VR for American Indians with disabilities. Describe how proposed services and strategies, including services traditionally used by Indian Tribes, will improve employment outcomes for American Indians with disabilities to be served by the project.

(b) QUALITY OF THE PROJECT DESIGN. (20 points)

In determining the quality of the design of the proposed project, the Secretary considers the following factors:

(1) The extent to which the goals, objectives, and outcomes to be achieved by the proposed project are clearly specified and measurable.

(2) The extent to which the design of the proposed project is appropriate to, and will successfully address, the needs of the target population or other identified needs.

(3) The extent to which the proposed project will establish linkages with other appropriate agencies and organizations providing services to the target population.

Explanation: Describe the overall plan for the project and how the goals, objectives, outcomes, project design, and methodology are directed toward the provision of VR services for the achievement of employment outcome. The overall project design should be compatible with the assurance statements made in response to the special application requirements at 34 C.F.R. § 371.21.(a)-(k).

Proposals should identify the measurable results expected to be achieved during each year of the project. In order to meet the needs of the target population, proposals need to describe collaborative arrangements with State VR agencies and linkages with other appropriate community, State, and Federal resources.

Commitments of other organizations should be clearly documented, preferably in writing, and submitted with the application.

(c) QUALITY OF PROJECT SERVICES. (20 points)

(1) In determining the quality of the services to be provided by the proposed project, the Secretary considers the quality and sufficiency of strategies for ensuring equal access and treatment for eligible project participants who are members of groups that have traditionally been underrepresented based on race, color, national origin, gender, age, or disability.

(2) In addition, the Secretary considers the following factors:

(a) The extent to which the services to be provided by the proposed project are appropriate to the needs of the intended recipients or beneficiaries of those services.

(b) The likely impact of the services to be provided by the proposed project on the intended recipients of those services.

(c) The extent to which the services to be provided by the proposed project involve the collaboration of appropriate partners for maximizing the effectiveness of project services.

(d) QUALITY OF PROJECT PERSONNEL. (15 points)

(1) In determining the quality of project personnel, the Secretary considers the extent to which the applicant encourages applications for employment from persons who are members of groups that have traditionally been underrepresented based on race, color, national origin, gender, age, or disability.

(2) In addition, the Secretary considers the following factors:

(a) The qualifications, including relevant training and experience, of key project personnel.

Explanation: Job descriptions of each position requested for this project must be included within the application in order to show whether the intended personnel are qualified to occupy the proposed positions.

(e) ADEQUACY OF RESOURCES. (10 points)

In determining the adequacy of resources for the proposed project, the Secretary considers the following factors:

(1) The adequacy of support, including facilities, equipment, supplies, and other resources, from the applicant organization or the lead applicant organization.

(2) The extent to which the costs are reasonable in relation to the objectives, design, and potential significance of the proposed project.

(3) The extent to which the costs are reasonable in relation to the number of persons to be served and to the anticipated results and benefits.

(f) QUALITY OF THE MANAGEMENT PLAN. (15 points)

In determining the quality of the management plan for the proposed project, the Secretary considers the following factors:

(1) The adequacy of the management plan to achieve the objectives of the proposed project on time and within budget, including clearly defined responsibilities, timelines, and milestones for accomplishing project tasks.

(2) The adequacy of procedures for ensuring feedback and continuous improvement in the operation of the proposed project.

(3) The extent to which the time commitments of the project director and principal investigator and other key project personnel are appropriate and adequate to meet the objectives of the proposed project.

(g) QUALITY OF THE PROJECT EVALUATION (10 points)

In determining the quality of the evaluation, the Secretary considers the following factors:

(1) The extent to which the methods of evaluation are thorough, feasible, and appropriate to the goals, objectives, and outcomes of the proposed project.

(2) The extent to which the methods of evaluation include the use of objective performance measures that are clearly related to the intended outcomes of the project and will produce quantitative and qualitative data to the extent possible.

(3) The extent to which the methods of evaluation will provide performance feedback and permit periodic assessment of progress toward achieving intended outcomes.

Review and Selection Process: We remind potential applicants that in reviewing applications in any discretionary grant competition, the Secretary may consider, under 34 C.F.R.

75.217(d)(3), the past performance of the applicant in carrying out a previous award, such as the applicant’s use of funds, achievement of project objectives, and compliance with grant conditions. The Secretary may also consider whether the applicant failed to submit a timely performance report or submitted a report of unacceptable quality. In addition, under 2 C.F.R.

200.207, the Secretary may impose special conditions on a grant if the applicant or grantee is not financially stable; has a history of unsatisfactory performance; has a financial or other management system that does not meet the standards in 2 C.F.R. part 200, Subpart D; has not fulfilled the conditions of a prior grant; or is otherwise not responsible.

Section D Special Application Requirements

SPECIAL APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS FOR AMERICAN INDIAN VOCATIONAL

REHABILITATION SERVICE PROGRAM

Applicants for the American Indian Vocational Rehabilitation Service Program grant must provide evidence that they will meet the special application requirements stated at 34 C.F.R. § 371.21(a)-

(k). Each application will be reviewed by the Department of Education to determine whether the applicant has provided the required assurances.

Listed below are the special application requirements at 34 C.F.R. § 371.21(a)-(k), explanatory notes, and instructions for the content of the required assurance statements. Provide the assurance statements in the text box provided.

371.21(a): Effort will be made to provide a broad scope of vocational rehabilitation services in a manner and at a level of quality at least comparable to those services provided by the designated State unit.

NOTE: "Vocational rehabilitation services" are defined in section 103 of the

Rehabilitation Act of 1998, as amended. (A copy of section 103 is enclosed, see Section E.)

34 C.F.R. § 371.41(a)(2) allows expenditures for vocational rehabilitation (VR) services reflecting the cultural background of the American Indians being served. Applicants should plan to provide those VR services, including culturally appropriate services, needed by the individuals identified in the proposal as part of the evidence of need for the project.

Applicants are not required to provide every service listed. While efforts should be made to provide services that are comparable to those provided by the State VR agency, services provided by Tribal programs are not required to be identical to those provided by a State

VR agency.

ASSURANCE STATEMENT: A description of each of the VR services planned by the applicant, including culturally appropriate services.

Tribe’s Assurance Statement:

371.21(b): All decisions affecting eligibility for vocational rehabilitation services, the nature and scope of available vocational rehabilitation services and the provision of such services, will be made by a representative of the Tribal vocational rehabilitation program funded through this grant and such decisions will not be…