FOCUS on Student Achievement

The FOCUS program targets schools where student achievement is close to meeting annual measurable objectives as set by their state's achievement test and where additional resources could facilitate achievement of Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) as req

Grants to tribal organization for the purpose of targeting schools where student achievement is close to meeting annual measurable objectives as set by their state's achievement test and where additional resources could facilitate achievement of Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) as required by Public Law 107-110, the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001

Federally Recognized Indian Tribal Governments and tribal organizations authorized by Indian tribal governments on reservations with Bureau-funded schools may apply to administer the program.

Children between the ages of 5 and 21 who are members of or are at least a one-fourth degree Indian blood descendant of a member of an Indian tribe which is eligible for the special programs and services provided by the United States through the Bureau of Indian Affairs to Indians because of their status as Indians.

FOCUS funds may be used for staff development and to implement proven instructional strategies designed to achieve annual growth for all students and "catch-up" growth for students performing below grade level expectations in reading and math.

Awards are made on an annual basis based on satisfactory performance, and the funds remain available until expended by the contractor or grantee.

Federally recognized Indian tribal organizations with BIE‑funded K-12 schools may receive grant funding targeted to schools where student achievement is approaching state‑defined annual measurable objectives and where additional resources could help support progress toward Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP)

Proposals are selected based on school performance as measured by their state's achievement test and the review of the team appointed by the Coordinator.

The BIE conducts a thorough review of all BIE schools' AYP status and data. The BIE then funds schools that are at the cusp of nearly meeting AYP status.

June 01, 2021 applications should be submitted no later than June 1 of the year in which the applicant wishes to begin the program.

Applications by Tribal governments to administer the program will be processed within 90 days; and or after AYP determination is made by BIE.

Awards are made on an annual basis and the funds remain available until expended by the contractor/grantee. Funds are added to the recipient school's Public Law 100-297 Grant or Public Law 93-638 Contract on July 1. Awards to Tribal Governments to administer the program may be renewed every year based upon satisfactory performance. A notice of intent to participate should be submitted yearly.

Tribal Governments wishing to appeal should write to the Director, Bureau of Indian Education. Appeals beyond this level are covered by 25 CFR Part 2.