FR Doc 05-14557

[Federal Register: July 25, 2005 (Volume 70, Number 141)]
[Notices]
[Page 42562-42571]
From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID:fr25jy05-52]

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DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES

Administration for Children and Families

Grants and Cooperative Agreements; Availability, etc.: Child
Development Associate Credentialing Program

Program Office: Administration on Children, Youth and Families Head
Start Bureau.
Funding Opportunity Title: Child Development Associate (CDA)
National Credentialing Program.
Announcement Type: Cooperative Agreement.
Funding Opportunity Number: HHS-2005-ACF-ACYF-YD-0064.
CFDA Number: 93.600.
Due Date for Applications: September 23, 2005.
Executive Summary: The Administration for Children and Families
(ACF), Administration on Children, Youth and Families (ACYF) announces
the availability of $1,000,000 annually for each of five years to
support staff development for all individuals employed in local Head
Start, Early Head Start, and other child care programs to increase the
understanding and skills necessary to carry out their jobs, as well as
professional development leading to credentials and degrees. A
cooperative agreement is a form of Federal financial assistance that
allows substantial Federal involvement in the activities for which
funds are awarded.

I. Funding Opportunity Description

Head Start is a national program that provides comprehensive
developmental services for preschool children, ages three through five,
and under the Early Head Start program for infants, toddlers, and
pregnant women. Since the inception of Head Start in 1965, over 22
million children and their families have been served. In 2004, nearly
900,000 Head Start and Early Head Start children and their families and
6,227 pregnant women received services based on the requirements of The
Head Start Program Performance Standards and Other Regulations.
The Head Start Act as amended in 1998, Sec. 648(e) (42 U.S.C.
9843), Technical Assistance and Training, requires that the Secretary
shall provide, either directly or through grants or other arrangements,
funds from programs authorized under this subchapter to support an
organization to administer a centralized child development and national
assessment program leading to recognized credentials for personnel
working in early childhood development and child care programs.
In 2004, 47,000 classrooms were staffed with more than 56,208
infant, toddler, and preschool teachers, and

[[Page 42563]]

52,541 assistant teachers. Also, 5,293 home visitors worked with
individual parents to support their role as their ``child's first
teacher.'' In addition, 1,810 family child care providers delivered
comprehensive child development services. Programs are located
nationwide, including in settings that serve American Indians, Alaska
Natives, Migrant and Seasonal Workers.

Development and Implementation of the CDA National Credentialing
Program in the 1970s

In 1970, the Head Start Bureau announced its commitment to improve
the quality of child care by focusing on staff competence. In 1971, the
Bureau convened a task force of leaders in the fields of child
development and early childhood education to elicit their suggestions
and their support in establishing professional recognition for
competent child development personnel. The task force envisioned a
nationally supported effort to:

--Identify basic competencies (skills) needed by staff to provide
competent care;
--Provide training for caregivers in these competencies; and
--Evaluate the work of caregivers on the basis of these national
standards and recognize them with a national credential or award.

Based on the recommendations of the task force, competencies were
identified and standardized assessment procedures, by which to assess
candidates, were developed. In 1975, the first credential was awarded
by The Child Development Associate (CDA) National Credentialing
Program.
In the 1980s, CDA training standards were developed and a process
was established for approving training institutions to provide early
childhood training and to prepare the candidate for successful CDA
assessment: The CDA Professional Preparation Program (CDA P3). To
support postsecondary institutions offering the CDA P3, a training
curriculum was developed entitled ``Essentials for Child Development
Associates.'' This curriculum serves as the core content of the CDA P3
training.

Credentialed to Date

The number of candidates credentialed each year has steadily grown
from approximately 2,000 to more than 13,000. As of March 2005, 183,567
CDA credentials had been awarded to home visitors, family child care
providers, teachers of infants and toddlers, and teachers of preschool
age children. This included staff working in a variety of settings--
Head Start, Early Head Start, Even Start, State Pre-K, Title 1, faith-
based preschools, and in the various military sectors. The initial CDA
credential is valid for three years and may be renewed for the same
setting and age-level endorsement for five-year periods thereafter,
based on evidence of professional growth.
The candidate's cost of the CDA application and assessment process
is maintained at $325, because many of the candidates have limited
income and a large number of them are former or current Head Start
parents. The actual cost of the CDA credentialing process exceeds the
candidate's cost of $325 and is covered by Federal funds awarded to the
agency or organization selected to administer the Head Start CDA
National Credentialing Program. In 1992, both the House and Senate
Appropriations Committees directed the Department of Health and Human
Services to continue to allocate Head Start funds to administer the CDA
National Credentialing Program and to maintain the cost of the
credential at $325.

Recognition and Continued Need for the CDA National Credentialing
Program

The CDA credential is widely recognized and respected. Forty-eight
states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico recognize the CDA
credential within their licensing regulations for child care centers.
This enables staff to move from state-to-state with recognition of
their CDA credential and qualifications.
Another indication of the CDA's credibility is that the credential
is earned by thousands of persons each year who are employed under a
variety of auspices beyond Head Start and Early Head Start. This
includes military-sponsored programs, church-based, private-for-profit,
State funded preschools, and programs funded by the Department of
Education.
In addition, since 1998, Sec. 648A of the Head Start Act has
required that not later than September 30, 2003, at least 50 percent of
all Head Start teachers nationwide in center-based programs have an
associate, baccalaureate, or advanced degree in early childhood
education; or an associate, baccalaureate, or advanced degree in a
field related to early childhood education, with experience in teaching
preschool children. Alternatively, for each Head Start classroom in
center-based programs that do not have a teacher with these
qualifications, the Act states that one way of meeting this national
degree requirement is to assign a teacher in each such classroom who
has a CDA credential appropriate to the age of children being served in
center-based programs. The two remaining credentialing alternatives are
either a State-awarded certificate for preschool teachers that meets or
exceeds the requirements for a child development associate credential,
or a degree in a field related to early childhood education with
experience in teaching preschool children and a State-awarded
certificate to teach in a preschool program.
As of September 2005, 65 percent [36,477] of Head Start and Early
Head Start teachers hold a qualifying degree as compared to 37 percent
in 1998. In addition, 26 percent [14,681] hold a CDA or equivalent
State-issued certificate. Of this number, 46.5 percent [6,837] are
enrolled in early childhood education degree programs. Also, 1,585
teachers who do not have a CDA are enrolled in degree programs.
Although good overall progress has been made, there still are a number
of individual programs without qualified teachers.
Other factors that impact the necessity for credentialed infant,
toddler, and preschool teachers include welfare reform and military
deployment of parents. Welfare reform requires low-income mothers to
engage in work-training and employment. This necessitates that they
locate safe child care services for their young children. In military
families, a more recent demand is due to one or both parents being
deployed on active military duty.
Program Purpose
The CDA National Credentialing Program created through this
announcement will credential qualified caregivers who work with
children, birth to age five, in a variety of public and private agency
settings, and in a variety of roles, including as center-based teachers
of infants and toddlers or preschool age children; as home visitors; or
as family child care providers.
The CDA National Credentialing Program will work closely with Head
Start grantees and delegate agencies to support the provision of
qualified staff as local programs work to provide high quality and
effective services to children and families; address the emerging
priorities of assessing and fostering progress towards specific child
outcomes; and working with increasing numbers of English language
learners. To serve Head Start agencies effectively, the CDA National
Credentialing Program will establish ongoing communication and
cooperation with various community colleges and universities, including
the Historically Black Colleges and Universities,

[[Page 42564]]

Hispanic Service Institutions, Tribally Controlled Land Grant Colleges
and Universities, the Head Start State Collaboration Offices, the Head
Start Quality Research Centers, and the Head Start Technical Assistance
Network including the Electronic Learning Center.
The need for qualified, credentialed staff is an urgent matter.
Although steady progress has been made to ensure that Early Head Start
and Head Start children have qualified teachers, the challenge
continues. Grantees and delegate agencies are serving nearly one
million children, families, and pregnant women, annually, while
experiencing an annual turnover of nearly 15 percent among teachers;
and 10 percent among assistant teachers, home visitors, and family
child care providers. A unique challenge is to assess and credential
qualified candidates within a 30-day period for Migrant and Seasonal,
and American Indian and Native Alaskan programs due primarily to
shortened seasons for the Migrant programs and to the geographic
isolation of American Indian communities. The Head Start program
continues to maintain a commitment to preserving opportunities for Head
Start and Early Head Start parents and community members to gain
employment in entry level positions, to develop professionally, and to
advance up the career ladder, including to jobs as teachers. Supporting
teacher assistants (52,541 in year 2004) to earn the CDA not only opens
a pathway to their professional development, it also ensures that
children and families have a more knowledgeable and skilled classroom
team. Many of the 7,000 Head Start and Early Head Start home visitors
and family day care providers are likely to be candidates for the CDA.
The Head Start Act (as amended October 27, 1998) is in the process
of being reauthorized by Congress. It is expected that the need and
support for the CDA National Credentialing Program will be maintained
within the reauthorized Act. The Head Start Bureau's estimate of the
number of candidates to be credentialed annually includes staff from
the various sectors of child care that are also likely to apply for CDA
assessment and credentialing.
Definitions
Assessment System--The process by which competence is evaluated by
the CDA National Credentialing Program. The CDA Assessment System
includes application, information collection, validation, and
credential award.
Bilingual Specialization--An applicant for CDA assessment may be
assessed for a bilingual specialization. The applicant must be able to
speak, read, and write two languages well enough to understand and be
understood by others, and work in a program where the two languages and
cultures are used consistently with adults and children. A bilingual
specialization candidate is assessed on the basis of competence in all
13 of the required functional areas and in their ability to promote
children's bilingual development.
CDA--An individual who has successfully completed a Child
Development Associate assessment and has been awarded the CDA
credential and is able to meet the specific needs of children and who,
with parents and other adults, works to nurture children's physical,
social, emotional, and intellectual growth in a child development
framework. The CDA behaves in an ethical manner. The CDA demonstrates
competence in the CDA competency goals through work in center-based,
home-based, or family child care.
CDA Professional Preparation Program (CDA P3)--A one-year, college
training program that offers candidates child development coursework
and field experiences in child care settings to enable them to build
the necessary skills to become a CDA.
Competence--Skill or ability to do something well.
Competency Goals--General statements of competence that a caregiver
should work towards. There are six CDA competency goals: I. To
establish and maintain a safe, healthy learning environment; II. To
advance physical and intellectual competence; III. To support social
and emotional development and provide positive guidance; IV. To
establish positive and productive relationships with families; V. To
ensure a well-run, purposeful program responsive to participants needs;
and VI. To maintain a commitment to professionalism.
Competency Standards--Criteria that define the goals and skills
that a competent child care provider, home visitor, or family child
care provider should demonstrate in working with young children. The
Competency Standards consist of six goals, 13 functional areas, and
examples of competent behavior. They were developed and validated by
the early childhood profession and the CDA National Credentialing
Program.
Credential--A written document from an authorizing body showing
that a person has met certain standards. The CDA Credential is awarded
to those who have demonstrated competence in the CDA Competency
Standards during the CDA assessment process.
Dual Credential--A CDA credential earned in more than one
endorsement area.
Essentials--``Essentials for Child Development Associates Working
with Young Children,'' a college training curriculum.
Functional Area--A category of responsibility that defines a
caregiver's competency in relation to children. The six CDA competency
goals are divided into functional areas.

Priority Area

To Administer the Child Development Associate (CDA) National
Credentialing Program.

1. Description

The CDA National Credentialing Program created through this
announcement will credential qualified caregivers who work with
children from birth to age five, in a variety of public and private
agency settings, and in a variety of roles, including as center-based
teachers of infants and toddlers or preschool age children, as home
visitors, or as family child care providers.
Requirements of This Cooperative Agreement: The CDA National
Credentialing Program Roles And Responsibilities
--Maintain a national credentialing program for the assessment of
competencies of teachers of infants and toddlers, teachers of preschool
age children, home visitors, and family child care providers, including
with a bilingual specialization in Spanish; and the award of the CDA
credential.
--Ensure that CDAs will be credentialed in numbers sufficient to meet
the staffing needs of Early Head Start and Head Start grantee and
delegate agencies; and staff from the various sectors of child care.
This is estimated at 12,000 candidates for each of five years,
beginning in fiscal year (FY) 2005.
--Promote and support CDA credentialing among qualified candidates
nationally. This includes rural, urban, American Indian reservations,
Alaskan villages, the Outer Pacific, and in Migrant settings, taking
into consideration that each community has varying levels of
educational and training resources.
--Maintain a sufficient number of geographically distributed Field
Advisors to monitor the candidates' progress and provide guidance for
the application of the principles in

[[Page 42565]]

Essentials; and maintain a sufficient number of qualified and trained
CDA Representatives to assess candidates.
--Maintain a process for the renewal of the CDA credential. The initial
CDA credential is valid for three years and may be renewed for the same
setting and age-level endorsement for five-year periods thereafter
based on evidence of continuous professional growth. Maintain the fee
for renewal at $50.
--Provide a process to assess credentialed CDAs seeking a dual
credential endorsement at a fee lower than the initial credentialing
fee.
--Maintain a process to ensure the assessment and credentialing of
qualified Migrant and Seasonal Program staff within a 30-day period.
-- Maintain two approaches to candidate assessment and credentialing:
The direct assessment route, and the CDA Professional Preparation
Program--the CDA P3.
--Identify where candidates may enroll in the CDA P3 through on-line
enrollment.
--In conjunction with the ACYF maintain the CDA credentialing fee at
$325.
--Convene annually a representative group of approximately 10 people
from Head Start and Early Head Start programs, colleges and
universities, parents, State licensing agencies, Head Start TA Network,
Head Start State Collaboration Offices to facilitate access of Head
Start and Early Head Start staff to degree-awarding programs with
credit-recognition for the CDA.
--Maintain regular communication with Head Start and Child Care
Technical Assistance Networks to provide candidate assessment and
credentialing information, and to engender their assistance in
recruiting Advisors for the CDA Direct Assessment process.
--Participate in national meetings of the Head Start Technical
Assistance Network as convened by ACYF.
--Join ACYF in conducting open forums at selected events identified by
the Head Start Bureau. The purpose of the forums will be to solicit and
encourage comment and input by the early childhood education and child
care fields as to the best ways in which the objectives of the CDA
program may be achieved and to provide information regarding CDA
credentialing.
--Promote interest in, and understanding of, the CDA Credential through
a variety of methods such as, the publication and dissemination of a
newsletter to provide information to potential candidates to highlight
the experiences and successes of individuals who earn the CDA
Credential, to provide information regarding times and places of
available training for candidates, and to illustrate the connections
between qualified staff and quality outcomes for children and their
families.
--On a case-by-case basis, consider assessment requests from CDA
Candidates in bilingual programs using language combinations other than
Spanish/English.
--Collect data about CDAs credentialed under the direct assessment
system and the CDA Professional Preparation Program (P3) in order to
determine if changes might be needed in either/both of the systems to
make it/them more efficient and more supportive of candidates.
--Update, publish, and disseminate the ``National Directory of Early
Childhood Teacher Preparation Institutions,'' which lists institutions
that offer Early Childhood training and the credits, degrees, and
certificates awarded.
--Maintain a strong network of cooperating postsecondary education
institutions for the CDA P3 by securing new, as well as, ongoing
institutional recommitment.
--Communicate directly with Head Start grantee and delegate agencies,
and the Head Start Technical Assistance Network to support them in
negotiating and securing the cooperation of local colleges in the
delivery of various types of CDA training for Head Start and child care
staff.
--Assist the Head Start Bureau and Regional Office CDA Liaisons to stay
current regarding assessment and credentialing, including joining Head
Start Bureau staff in periodic conference calls with the Regional
Offices.
--Respond to requests from grantee and delegate agencies for: Materials
and information regarding assessment and credentialing; arranging
candidate assessments; arranging enrollments in the CDA P3 program and
coordinating with the candidate, his or her agency, and the institution
of higher learning; handling candidate fees and award certificates; and
responding to requests for local workshop presentations, as feasible.
--Conduct at least one CDA information workshop during a statewide or
regional conference in each region or combined region, annually. The
fourth quarterly report will include the summary of these activities.
--Assist the Head Start Bureau in strengthening linkages with the child
care community by including child care networks, agencies, and
organizations on the mailing list; disseminating information regarding
CDA to the child care community, including individual providers, as
possible; and promoting the availability of the CDA for Family Child
Care Providers.
--Assist ACYF to conceptualize and support the roles of mentors among
staff, including family child care providers, home visitors, infant and
toddler teachers, preschool teachers, and possibly other members of the
Head Start and child care team in keeping with the Head Start Program
Performance Standards, which integrate comprehensive services for
children, birth to age five, and services for pregnant women.
--Establish and maintain a process to identify and determine State-by-
State, if State-awarded certificate(s) for preschool teachers and
infant and toddler teachers are equivalent to the CDA credential, and
if they are ``State-awarded'', thus meeting the Head Start Teacher
Qualifications Mandate of 1998. Review findings of the State's
credential with Head Start Bureau staff. The Associate Commissioner of
the Head Start Bureau will determine if a State's certification meets
the Teacher Qualification Mandate. The Associate Commissioner will
notify the State and Regional Office, accordingly.
--Develop, and keep current for the Head Start Bureau, a printout of
the various State credentials reviewed and the findings.
--Provide quarterly reports that include an overview of the number and
type of credentials awarded during the past quarter, year-to-date, and
1971-to-date according to each State, and also by Migrant and Seasonal
Programs, and American Indian and Native Alaskan Programs.
--Meet with the ACYF bi-monthly, or as requested, to assess progress
regarding the scope of work of the cooperative agreement.

II. Award Information

Funding Instrument Type: Cooperative Agreement.
Substantial Involvement With Cooperative Agreement: Federal
involvement in the CDA National Credentialing Program will include
substantial roles for the Head Start Bureau, which includes the
American Indian and Native Alaskan Programs Branch, the Migrant and
Seasonal Programs Branch, and the ACF Regional

[[Page 42566]]

Offices each of which provide a CDA Liaison to serve as the primary
point of contact for grantee and delegate agencies in their regions
regarding staff qualification requirements as mandated by Section 648A
of the Head Start Act and by the Head Start Program Performance
Standards and Other Regulations. The Head Start Bureau will also ensure
that the programs of the ACF Child Care Bureau will be supported
through the CDA National Credentialing Program.
Supporting the CDA National Credentialing Program through a
cooperative agreement will ensure cooperation and coordination in the
provision of credential awards to qualified candidates nationally. The
close involvement of the Head Start Bureau in the implementation of
this cooperative agreement will also help the CDA Program to be
sensitive and responsive to the challenges meeting candidates working
in a variety of program settings located in communities with varying
levels of educational and training resources.
--Provide the time and expertise of the Federal Project Officer (FPO)
to help the CDA National Credentialing Program ensure that CDAs will be
credentialed in numbers sufficient to meet the staffing needs of Early
Head Start and Head Start grantee and delegate agencies. This is
estimated at 8,000 candidates annually for the five-year period
beginning in FY 2005.
--The FPO will participate in national meetings of the Head Start
Technical Assistance Network as convened by ACYF, as a means of
supporting and assisting the CDA National Credentialing Program in
their collaboration with this important group of technical assistance
providers.
--The FPO will attend the annual meeting of a representative group of
approximately 10 people to facilitate access of Head Start and Early
Head Start staff to degree-awarding programs with credit-recognition
for the CDA.
--The FPO will facilitate and support the CDA National Credentialing
Program's communications and coordination with the Federal Regional
Offices (I-X), the Migrant and Seasonal Programs Branch, and the
American Indian and Native Alaskan Programs Branch.
--The FPO will join the CDA National Credentialing Program in
conducting forums at selected events identified by ACYF.
--The FPO will assure that ACYF considers and responds promptly to the
CDA National Credentialing Program's recommendations regarding
individual States that award credentials meeting the Head Start Teacher
Qualifications Mandate of 1998.
--The FPO will meet with the CDA National Credentialing Program staff
bi-monthly to assess progress regarding the scope of work of the
cooperative agreement, and to provide guidance and direction, and
information regarding possible changes in national Head Start policy or
initiatives.
--Early Head Start and Head Start grantee and delegate agencies will
direct all inquiries regarding assessment and credentialing directly to
the CDA National Credentialing Program. Grantee and delegate agencies
and/or individual candidates will also arrange directly with the CDA
National Credentialing Program the dates and places of candidates'
assessments; enrollments in the CDA P3 Program; handling and submission
of fees; requests for workshops by staff of the CDA National
Credentialing Program; and other similar matters.
Anticipated Total Priority Area Funding: $1,000,000.
Anticipated Number of Awards: 1.
Ceiling on Amount of Individual Awards: $1,000,000 per budget
period.
Floor on Amount of Individual Awards: $1,000,000 per budget period.
Average Projected Award Amount: $1,000,000 per budget period.
Length of Project Periods: 60-month project with five 12-month
budget periods.

III. Eligibility Information

1. Eligible Applicants

State controlled institutions of higher education.
Non-profits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other
than institutions of higher education.
Non-profits that do not have a 501(c)(3) status with the
IRS, other than institutions of higher education.
Private institutions of higher education.
For-profit organization other than small businesses.
Small businesses.
Others (See Additional Information on Eligibility below.)
Additional Information on Eligibility: Eligible applicants are
agencies or organizations with expertise in training early childhood
personnel. These include colleges and universities, private or public
non-profit or for-profit organizations, or associations in the field of
early childhood education or the related fields of child development,
child care, and family studies. Only incorporated agencies and
organizations are eligible to apply. Faith-based and community-based
organizations are eligible to apply. Individuals are not eligible to
apply under this announcement.
On applications developed jointly by more than one agency or
organization, the application must identify only one organization as
the lead organization and the official applicant.
Please see Section IV for required documentation supporting
eligibility or funding restrictions if any are applicable.

2. Cost Sharing/Matching

None.

3. Other

All applicants must have a Dun & Bradstreet number. On June 27,
2003 the Office of Management and Budget published in the Federal
Register a new Federal policy applicable to all Federal grant
applicants. The policy requires Federal grant applicants to provide a
Dun & Bradstreet Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) number when
applying for Federal grants or cooperative agreements on or after
October 1, 2003. The DUNS number will be required whether an applicant
is submitting a paper application or using the government-wide
electronic portal (http://www.Grants.gov). A DUNS number will be

required for every application for a new award or renewal/continuation
of an award, including applications or plans under formula, entitlement
and block grant programs, submitted on or after October 1, 2003.
Please ensure that your organization has a DUNS number. You may
acquire a DUNS number at no cost by calling the dedicated toll-free
DUNS number request line on 1-866-705-5711 or you may request a number
on-line at http://www.dnb.com.

Non-profit organizations applying for funding are required to
submit proof of their non-profit status. Proof of non-profit status is
any one of the following:
A reference to the applicant organization's listing in the
Internal Revenue Service's (IRS) most recent list of tax-exempt
organizations described in the IRS Code.
A copy of a currently valid IRS tax exemption certificate.
A statement from a State taxing body, State attorney
general, or other appropriate State official certifying that the
applicant organization has a non-profit status and that none of the net
earning accrue to any private shareholders or individuals.

[[Page 42567]]

A certified copy of the organization's certificate of
incorporation or similar document that clearly establishes non-profit
status.
Any of the items in the subparagraphs immediately above
for a State or national parent organization and a statement signed by
the parent organization that the applicant organization is a local non-
profit affiliate.
When applying electronically we strongly suggest you attach your
proof of non-profit status with your electronic application.
Private, non-profit organizations are encouraged to submit with
their applications the survey located under ``Grant Related Documents
and Forms,'' ``Survey for Private, Non-Profit Grant Applicants,''
titled, ``Survey on Ensuring Equal Opportunity for Applicants,'' at:
http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms.htm.

Disqualification Factors: Applications that exceed the ceiling
amount will be considered non-responsive and will not be considered for
funding under this announcement.
Any application that fails to satisfy the deadline requirements
referenced in Section IV.3 will be considered non-responsive and will
not be considered for funding under this announcement.

IV. Application and Submission Information

1. Address To Request Application Package

The Child Development Associate National Credentialing Program, The
Dixon Group, ACYF Operations Center, 118 Q Street, NE., Washington, DC
20002, Phone: 1-800-351-2293, e-mail: HSB@Dixongroup.com.

2. Content and Form of Application Submission

Standard instructions for application content can be found in
Section V.1. Applicants are advised to follow the format outlined in
Section V.1. in order to address Head Start specific requirements of
this expansion announcement. Additional application submission
requirements are provided below.
You may submit your application to us in either electronic or paper
format.
To submit an application electronically, please use the http://www.Grants.gov/Apply
site. If you use Grants.gov, you will be able to

download a copy of the application package, complete it off-line, and
then upload and submit the application via the Grants.gov site. ACF
will not accept grant applications via e-mail or facsimile
transmission.
Please note the following if you plan to submit your application
electronically via Grants.gov:
Electronic submission is voluntary, but strongly
encouraged.
When you enter the Grants.gov site, you will find
information about submitting an application electronically through the
site, as well as the hours of operation. We strongly recommend that you
do not wait until the application deadline date to begin the
application process through Grants.gov.
We recommend you visit Grants.gov at least 30 days prior
to filing your application to fully understand the process and
requirements. We encourage applicants who submit electronically to
submit well before the closing date and time so that if difficulties
are encountered an applicant can still send in a hard copy overnight.
If you encounter difficulties, please contact the Grants.gov Help Desk
at 1-800-518-4726 to report the problem and obtain assistance with the
system.
To use Grants.gov, you, as the applicant, must have a DUNS
Number and register in the Central Contractor Registry (CCR). You
should allow a minimum of five days to complete the CCR registration.
You will not receive additional point value because you
submit a grant application in electronic format, nor will we penalize
you if you submit an application in paper format.
You may submit all documents electronically, including all
information typically included on the SF 424 and all necessary
assurances and certifications.
Your application must comply with any page limitation
requirements described in this program announcement.
After you electronically submit your application, you will
receive an automatic acknowledgement from Grants.gov that contains a
Grants.gov tracking number. The Administration for Children and
Families will retrieve your application from Grants.gov.
We may request that you provide original signatures on
forms at a later date.
You may access the electronic application for this program
on http://www.Grants.gov
You must search for the downloadable application package

by the CFDA number.
Applicants that are submitting their application in paper format
should submit an original and two copies of the complete application.
The original and each of the two copies must include all required
forms, certifications, assurances, and appendices, be signed by an
authorized representative, have original signatures, and be submitted
unbound.
Private, non-profit organizations are encouraged to submit with
their applications the survey located under ``Grant Related Documents
and Forms,'' ``Survey for Private, Non-Profit Grant Applicants,''
titled, ``Survey on Ensuring Equal Opportunity for Applicants,'' at:
http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms.htm.

Standard Forms and Certifications
The project description should include all the information
requirements described in the specific evaluation criteria outlined in
the program announcement under Section V Application Review
Information. In addition to the project description, the applicant
needs to complete all the standard forms required for making
applications for awards under this announcement.
Applicants seeking financial assistance under this announcement
must file the Standard Form (SF) 424, Application for Federal
Assistance; SF-424A, Budget Information--Non-Construction Programs; SF-
424B, Assurances--Non-Construction Programs. The forms may be
reproduced for use in submitting applications. Applicants must sign and
return the standard forms with their application.
Applicants must furnish prior to award an executed copy of the
Standard Form LLL, Certification Regarding Lobbying, when applying for
an award in excess of $100,000. Applicants who have used non-Federal
funds for lobbying activities in connection with receiving assistance
under this announcement shall complete a disclosure form, if
applicable, with their applications (approved by the Office of
Management and Budget under control number 0348-0046). Applicants must
sign and return the certification with their application.
Applicants must also understand they will be held accountable for
the smoking prohibition included within Pub. L. 103-227, Title XII
Environmental Tobacco Smoke (also known as the PRO-KIDS Act of 1994). A
copy of the Federal Register notice which implements the smoking
prohibition is included with this form. By signing and submitting the
application, applicants are providing the certification and need not
mail back the certification with the application.
Applicants must make the appropriate certification of their
compliance with all Federal statutes relating to nondiscrimination. By
signing and submitting the applications, applicants are providing the
certification and need

[[Page 42568]]

not mail back the certification form. Complete the standard forms and
the associated certifications and assurances based on the instructions
on the forms. The forms and certifications may be found at: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms.htm
.

Those organizations required to provide proof of non-profit status,
please refer to Section III.3.
Please see Section V.1 for instructions on preparing the full
project description.
3. Submission Dates and Times
Due Date for Applications: September 23, 2005.
Explanation of Due Dates
The closing time and date for receipt of applications is referenced
above. Applications received after 4:30 p.m. eastern time on the
closing date will be classified as late.
Deadline: Applications shall be considered as meeting an announced
deadline if they are received on or before the deadline time and date
referenced in Section IV.6. Applicants are responsible for ensuring
applications are mailed or submitted electronically well in advance of
the application due date.
Applications hand carried by applicants, applicant couriers, other
representatives of the applicant, or by overnight/express mail couriers
shall be considered as meeting an announced deadline if they are
received on or before the deadline date, between the hours of 8 a.m.
and 4:30 p.m., eastern time, at the address referenced in Section
IV.6., between Monday and Friday (excluding Federal holidays).
ACF cannot accommodate transmission of applications by facsimile.
Therefore, applications transmitted to ACF by fax will not be accepted
regardless of date or time of submission and time of receipt.
Late Applications: Applications that do not meet the criteria above
are considered late applications. ACF shall notify each late applicant
that its application will not be considered in the current competition.
Any application received after 4:30 p.m. eastern time on the
deadline date will not be considered for competition.
Applicants using express/overnight mail services should allow two
working days prior to the deadline date for receipt of applications.
Applicants are cautioned that express/overnight mail services do not
always deliver as agreed.
Extension of deadlines: ACF may extend application deadlines when
circumstances such as acts of God (floods, hurricanes, etc.) occur, or
when there are widespread disruptions of mail service, or in other rare
cases. A determination to extend or waive deadline requirements rests
with the Chief Grants Management Officer.
Receipt acknowledgement for application packages will be provided
to applicants who submit their package via mail, courier services, or
by hand delivery. Applicants will receive an electronic acknowledgement
for applications that are submitted via http://www.Grants.gov.

Checklist

You may use the checklist below as a guide when preparing your
application package.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
What to submit Required content Required form or format When to submit
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Project Abstract................. See Sections IV.2 Found in Sections IV.2 and V...... By application due
and V. date.
Project Description.............. See Sections IV.2 Found in Sections IV.2 and V...... By application due
and V. date.
Budget Narrative/Justification... See Sections IV.2 Found in Sections IV.2 and V...... By application due
and V. date.
SF424............................ See Section IV.2.... See http://www.acf.hhs.gov/ By application due

programs/ofs/forms.htm. date.
SF-LLL Certification Regarding See Section IV.2.... See http://www.acf.hhs.gov/ By date of award.

Lobbying. programs/ofs/forms.htm.
Certification Regarding See Section IV.2.... See http://www.acf.hhs.gov/ By date of award.

Environmental Tobacco Smoke. programs/ofs/forms.htm.
Assurances....................... See Section IV.2.... See http://www.acf.hhs.gov/ By date of award.

programs/ofs/forms.htm.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Additional Forms
Private, non-profit organizations are encouraged to submit with
their applications the survey located under ``Grant Related Documents
and Forms,'' ``Survey for Private, Non-Profit Grant Applicants,''
titled, ``Survey on Ensuring Equal Opportunity for Applicants,'' at:
http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms.htm.

Grant Applicants. programs/ofs/forms.htm. date.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

4. Intergovernmental Review

State Single Point of Contact (SPOC)
This program is covered under Executive Order 12372,
``Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs,'' and 45 CFR part 100,
``Intergovernmental Review of Department of Health and Human Services
Programs and Activities.'' Under the Order, States may design their own
processes for reviewing and commenting on proposed Federal assistance
under covered programs.
As of October 1, 2004, the following jurisdictions have elected to
participate in the Executive Order process: Arkansas, California,
Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa,
Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Nevada, New
Hampshire, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Rhode Island, South
Carolina, Texas, Utah, West Virginia, Wisconsin, American Samoa, Guam,
North Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and Virgin Islands. As these
jurisdictions have elected to participate in the Executive Order
process, they have established SPOCs. Applicants from participating
jurisdictions should contact their SPOC, as soon as possible, to alert
them of prospective applications

[[Page 42569]]

and receive instructions. Applicants must submit all required
materials, if any, to the SPOC and indicate the date of this submittal
(or the date of contact if no submittal is required) on the Standard
Form 424, item 16a.
Under 45 CFR 100.8(a)(2), a SPOC has 60 days from the application
deadline to comment on proposed new or competing continuation awards.
SPOCs are encouraged to eliminate the submission of routine
endorsements as official recommendations. Additionally, SPOCs are
requested to clearly differentiate between mere advisory comments and
those official State process recommendations which may trigger the
``accommodate or explain'' rule.
When comments are submitted directly to ACF, they should be
addressed to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services,
Administration for Children and Families, Office of Grants Management,
Division of Discretionary Grants, 370 L'Enfant Promenade, SW., 4th
floor, Washington, DC 20447.
Although the remaining jurisdictions have chosen not to participate
in the process, entities that meet the eligibility requirements of the
program are still eligible to apply for a grant even if a State,
Territory, Commonwealth, etc. does not have a SPOC. Therefore,
applicants from these jurisdictions, or for projects administered by
federally-recognized Indian tribes, need take no action in regard to
E.O. 12372.
The official list, including addresses, of the jurisdictions that
have elected to participate in E.O. 12372 can be found on the following
URL: http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/grants/spoc.html.

5. Funding Restrictions

Grant awards will not allow reimbursement of pre-award costs.
Construction and the purchase of real property are not allowable
activities or expenditures under this grant award.

6. Other Submission Requirements

Submission by Mail: An applicant must provide an original
application with all attachments, signed by an authorized
representative and two copies. Please see Section IV.3 for an
explanation of due dates. Applications should be mailed to: ACYF
Operations Center, CDA National Credentialing Program, 118 Q Street,
NE., Washington, DC 20002.
Hand Delivery: An applicant must provide an original application
with all attachments signed by an authorized representative and two
copies. The application must be received at the address below by 4:30
p.m. eastern time on or before the closing date. Applications that are
hand delivered will be accepted between the hours of 8 a.m. to 4:30
p.m. eastern time, Monday through Friday. Applications should be
delivered to: ACYF Operations Center, CDA National Credentialing
Program, 118 Q Street, NE., Washington, DC 20002.
Electronic Submission: Please see Section IV.2 for guidelines and
requirements when submitting applications electronically via http://www.Grants.gov
.

V. Application Review Information

The Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (P.L. 104-13)

Public reporting burden for this collection of information is
estimated to average 40 hours per response, including the time for
reviewing instructions, gathering and maintaining the data needed and
reviewing the collection information.
The project description is approved under OMB control number 0970-
0139 which expires 4/30/2007.
An agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required
to respond to, a collection of information unless it displays a
currently valid OMB control number.

1. Criteria

The following are instructions and guidelines on how to prepare the
``project summary/abstract'' and ``full project description'' sections
of the application. Under the evaluation criteria section, note that
each criterion is preceded by the generic evaluation requirement under
the ACF Uniform Project Description (UPD).
Part I The Project Description Overview
Purpose
The project description provides a major means by which an
application is evaluated and ranked to compete with other applications
for available assistance. The project description should be concise and
complete and should address the activity for which Federal funds are
being requested. Supporting documents should be included where they can
present information clearly and succinctly. In preparing your project
description, information responsive to each of the requested evaluation
criteria must be provided. Awarding offices use this and other
information in making their funding recommendations. It is important,
therefore, that this information be included in the application in a
manner that is clear and complete.
General Instructions
ACF is particularly interested in specific project descriptions
that focus on outcomes and convey strategies for achieving intended
performance. Project descriptions are evaluated on the basis of
substance and measurable outcomes, not length. Extensive exhibits are
not required. Cross-referencing should be used rather than repetition.
Supporting information concerning activities that will not be directly
funded by the grant or information that does not directly pertain to an
integral part of the grant funded activity should be placed in an
appendix.
Pages should be numbered and a table of contents should be included
for easy reference.
Introduction
Applicants required to submit a full project description shall
prepare the project description statement in accordance with the
following instructions while being aware of the specified evaluation
criteria. The text options give a broad overview of what your project
description should include while the evaluation criteria identifies the
measures that will be used to evaluate applications.
Project Summry/Abstract
Provide a summary of the project description (a page or less) with
reference to the funding request.
Objectives and Need for Assistance
Clearly identify the physical, economic, social, financial,
institutional, and/or other problem(s) requiring a solution. The need
for assistance must be demonstrated and the principal and subordinate
objectives of the project must be clearly stated; supporting
documentation, such as letters of support and testimonials from
concerned interests other than the applicant, may be included. Any
relevant data based on planning studies should be included or referred
to in the endnotes/footnotes. Incorporate demographic data and
participant/beneficiary information, as needed. In developing the
project description, the applicant may volunteer or be requested to
provide information on the total range of projects currently being
conducted and supported (or to be initiated), some of which may be
outside the scope of the program announcement.

[[Page 42570]]

Results or Benefits Expected
Identify the results and benefits to be derived.
For example, describe the extent to which the applicant's
recommendations and possible strategies for enhancing the current CDA
National Credentialing Program system, the number of CDA candidates to
be credentialed annually and the extent to which the assessment and
credentialing fee is affordable to potential candidates.
Approach
Outline a plan of action that describes the scope and detail of how
the proposed work will be accomplished. Account for all functions or
activities identified in the application. Cite factors that might
accelerate or decelerate the work and state your reason for taking the
proposed approach rather than others. Describe any unusual features of
the project such as design or technological innovations, reductions in
cost or time, or extraordinary social and community involvement.
Provide quantitative monthly or quarterly projections of the
accomplishments to be achieved for each function or activity in such
terms as the number of people to be served and the number of activities
accomplished.
When accomplishments cannot be quantified by activity or function,
list them in chronological order to show the schedule of
accomplishments and their target dates.
If any data is to be collected, maintained, and/or disseminated,
clearance may be required from the U.S. Office of Management and Budget
(OMB). This clearance pertains to any ``collection of information that
is conducted or sponsored by ACF.''
List organizations, cooperating entities, consultants, or other key
individuals who will work on the project along with a short description
of the nature of their effort or contribution.
Geographic Location
Describe the precise location of the project and boundaries of the
area to be served by the proposed project. Maps or other graphic aids
may be attached.
Budget and Budget Justification
Provide a budget with line item detail and detailed calculations
for each budget object class identified on the Budget Information form.
Detailed calculations must include estimation methods, quantities, unit
costs, and other similar quantitative detail sufficient for the
calculation to be duplicated. Also include a breakout by the funding
sources identified in Block 15 of the SF-424.
Provide a narrative budget justification that describes how the
categorical costs are derived. Discuss the necessity, reasonableness,
and allocability of the proposed costs.

Evaluation Criteria

The following evaluation criteria appear in weighted descending
order. The corresponding score values indicate the relative importance
that ACF places on each evaluation criterion; however, applicants need
not develop their applications precisely according to the order
presented. Application components may be organized such that a reviewer
will be able to follow a seamless and logical flow of information
(i.e., from a broad overview of the project to more detailed
information about how it will be conducted).
In considering how applicants will carry out the responsibilities
addressed under this announcement, competing applications for financial
assistance will be reviewed and evaluated against the following
criteria:
Approach--50 points
The extent to which the applicant identifies qualified staff with
the necessary educational and experiential backgrounds. The extent to
which the application documents the background of the proposed project
director and other proposed project staff (i.e., names, training, most
relevant educational background and other qualifying experiences along
with resumes and short descriptions of their proposed responsibilities
or contributions to the applicant's work plan). The extent to which the
experience of the applicant in administering a project like the one
proposed and the applicant's ability to effectively and efficiently
administer this project may be demonstrated by:
Documentation that the applicant organization is capable
of implementing and maintaining a centralized, National Child
Development Associate Credentialing Program for: (1) Teachers of
preschool-age children, (2) teachers of infants and toddlers in center-
based programs, (3) home visitors, and (4) family child care providers.
Description of how the applicant will work with ACYF in
implementing the cooperative agreement to carry out the legislative
requirements for qualified staff.
Description of how the applicant will work with ACYF to
maintain the candidate cost for the assessment and credential award at
$325; $15 for the applicant package and $50 for credential renewal.
Description of how the applicant will identify staff and
activities to establish and maintain a working relationship with State
Licensing Offices, Head Start State Collaboration Offices, Head Start
Technical Assistance Network, and colleges and universities to increase
the recognition of the CDA Credential.
Description of how the applicant will structure and
utilize a nationally representative group, which will meet annually,
and lists the types of professional and paraprofessional representation
they would seek in order to be most knowledgeable about relevant Head
Start, Early Head Start, other public and private, for-profit and non-
profit agencies whose staff seek CDA credentialing.
Description of how the applicant will develop, establish,
and maintain a process to identify each State-awarded certificate(s)
for preschool teachers and infant and toddler teachers; and a
description of how the applicant will determine if it is equivalent to
the CDA credential and thus meets the Head Start Teacher Qualifications
Mandate of 1998.
Objectives and Need for Assistance--20 points
The extent to which the application clearly identifies the
physical, economic, social, financial, institutional, and/or other
problem(s) requiring a solution. The extent to which the need for
assistance is demonstrated; and the principal and subordinate
objectives of the project are clearly stated. (Note: Supporting
documentation, such as letters of support and testimonials from
concerned interests other than the applicant, may be included.) The
extent to which any relevant data based on planning studies is included
or referred to in the endnotes/footnotes. The extent to which the
application incorporates demographic data and participant/beneficiary
information, as needed. In developing the project description, the
extent to which the applicant volunteers or responds to requests to
provide information on the total range of projects currently being
conducted and supported (or to be initiated) of which some may be
outside the scope of the program announcement.
Budget and Budget Justification--15 points
The extent to which the application provides a line-item detail and
detailed calculations for each budget object class identified on the
Budget Information form. Detailed calculations must include estimation
methods, quantities, unit costs, and other similar quantitative

[[Page 42571]]

detail sufficient for the calculation to be duplicated.
The extent to which the application provides a narrative budget
justification that describes how the categorical costs are derived and
discusses the necessity, reasonableness, and allocation of the proposed
costs.
Results or Benefits Expected--15 points
The extent to which the application identifies the results and
benefits to be derived. For example, the extent to which the
application describes recommendations and possible strategies for
enhancing the current CDA National Credentialing Program system, the
number of CDA candidates to be credentialed annually, and a description
of procedures to ensure that candidates from American Indian and
Migrant programs will receive accelerated processing of their
applications, candidate assessment, and credential award, if
successful. The extent to which the assessment and credentialing fee is
affordable to potential candidates.

2. Review and Selection Process

No grant award will be made under this announcement on the basis of
an incomplete application.
A panel of four non-federal reviewers will be convened in
Washington, DC, to read and score each application based on the
published criteria. The panel's scores and recommendations will be
forwarded to the ACYF Commissioner who will make the ultimate
selection.
Since ACF will be using non-federal reviewers in the process,
applicants have the option of omitting from the application copies (not
the original) specific salary rates or amounts for individuals
specified in the application budget and Social Security Numbers, if
otherwise required for individuals. The copies may include summary
salary information.

Approved but Unfunded Applications

Applications that are approved but unfunded may be held over for
funding in the next funding cycle, pending the availability of funds,
for a period not to exceed one year.

VI. Award Administration Information

1. Award Notices

The successful applicants will be notified through the issuance of
a Financial Assistance Award document which sets forth the amount of
funds granted, the terms and conditions of the grant, the effective
date of the grant, the budget period for which initial support will be
given, the non-federal share to be provided (if applicable), and the
total project period for which support is contemplated. The Financial
Assistance Award will be signed by the Grants Officer and transmitted
via postal mail.
Organizations whose applications will not be funded will be
notified in writing.

2. Administrative and National Policy Requirements

Grantees are subject to the requirements in 45 CFR part 74 (non-
governmental) or 45 CFR part 92 (governmental).
Direct Federal grants, sub-award funds, or contracts under this ACF
program shall not be used to support inherently religious activities
such as religious instruction, worship, or proselytization. Therefore,
organizations must take steps to separate, in time or location, their
inherently religious activities from the services funded under this
Program. Regulations pertaining to the Equal Treatment For Faith-Based
Organizations, which includes the prohibition against Federal funding
of inherently religious activities, can be found at either 45 CFR 87.1
or the HHS Web site at: http://www.os.dhhs.gov/fbci/waisgate21.pdf.

3. Reporting Requirements

Grantees will be required to submit program progress and financial
reports (SF-269) found at http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms.htm
) throughout the project period. Program progress and

financial reports are due 30 days after the reporting period. Final
programmatic and financial reports are due 90 days after the close of
the project period.
Program Progress Reports: Quarterly .
Financial Reports: Quarterly.

VII. Agency Contacts

Program Office Contact:

Jean Simpson, Administration on Children, Youth and Families, Head
Start Bureau, 330 C Street, SW., Washington, DC 20447, Phone: (202)
205-8418, e-mail: Jsimpson@acf.hhs.gov.

Grants Management Office Contact:

Delores Dickerson, Grants Officer, Administration on Children and
Families, 330 C Street, SW., Room 2218, Washington, DC 20447, Phone:
(202) 260-7622, e-mail: dedickenson@acf.hhs.gov.

VIII. Other Information

Notice: Beginning with FY 2006, the Administration for Children and
Families (ACF) will no longer publish grant announcements in the
Federal Register. Beginning October 1, 2005, applicants will be able to
find a synopsis of all ACF grant opportunities and apply electronically
for opportunities via: http://www.Grants.gov. Applicants will also be

able to find the complete text of all ACF grant announcements on the
ACF Web site located at: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/index.html.

Please reference Section IV.3 for details about acknowledgement of
received applications.

Dated: July 18, 2005.
Joan E. Ohl,
Commissioner, Administration on Children, Youth and Families.
[FR Doc. 05-14557 Filed 7-22-05; 8:45 am]

BILLING CODE 4184-01-P