[Federal Register Volume 70, Number 74 (Tuesday, April 19, 2005)]
[Notices]
[Pages 20377-20386]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 05-7794]
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DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Administration for Children and Families
Administration on Children, Youth and Families, Head Start
Bureau; Head Start Hispanic Service; Institution Partnerships
Announcement Type: Initial.
Funding Opportunity Number: HHS-2005-ACF-ACYF-YP-0011.
CFDA Number: 93.600.
Due Date for Letter of Intent or Preapplications: Letters of intent
are due May 19, 2005.
Due Date for Applications: Application is due June 20, 2005.
Executive Summary: The Head Start Bureau is announcing the
availability of funds and request for applications for professional
development and training grants for institutions of higher education
with experience and capability in educating and preparing professionals
to work effectively with Hispanic young children and families, in
partnership with Head Start, Migrant Head Start and Early Head Start
programs. The Head Start--Higher Education Hispanic Service Institution
Partnership (HS-HEHSIPs) program is funded to improve the quality and
long-term effectiveness of program services to Hispanic children and
their families by developing academic and other training models and
forming partnerships between institutions of higher education and Head
Start, Migrant Head Start, and Early Head Start programs.
Through this announcement, the Administration on Children, Youth
and Families (ACYF) is making available up to $1,500,000 annually for
each of five years to support Head Start--Higher Education Hispanic
Service Institution Partnerships (HS-HEHSIPs). These partnerships are
designed to improve the quality and long-term effectiveness of Head
Start, Migrant Head Start and Early Head Start grantees by developing
academic and other training models to increase the number of Head Start
teachers with degrees in early childhood education.
I. Funding Opportunity Description
The overall goal of Head Start is to ensure that children of low-
income families acquire the skills and knowledge necessary to allow
them to enter school ready for success. Programs funded under the Head
Start Act provide comprehensive services to these children and their
families. Head Start enhances children's physical, cognitive, social,
and emotional development. It supports parents in their efforts to
fulfill their parental roles as their child's primary educator, helps
support them while they work towards employment and self-sufficiency,
and provides for
[[Page 20378]]
their involvement in administering the Head Start program.
In an attempt to ensure that highly qualified and well trained
staff provides high quality services to enrolled children and their
families, Head Start has supported many demonstration projects. For
example, Head Start supported the creation of the Child Development
Associate (CDA) credential designed for early childhood development
teaching staff, implemented the Head Start Teaching Centers, and
developed other innovative projects. The Head Start Bureau also
implemented partnerships with Historically Black Colleges and
Universities (HBCUs) and Tribally-Controlled Land Grant Colleges and
Universities (TCUs) in addition to other innovative training and staff
development projects.
The 1998 reauthorization of the Head Start Act contains provisions
to improve Head Start program quality and accountability. These include
new education performance standards and measures, the expansion of
program monitoring to incorporate evidence of progress on outcomes-
based measures, funding to upgrade program quality and staff
compensation, and higher education standards for Head Start teachers.
In January 2001, the President signed into law the No Child Left Behind
Act to make the education of every child in America one of the
country's top priorities. The Act seeks to ensure that public schools
teach children what they need to know to be successful in life and that
they also set high education standards in the classroom. In his 2002
State of the Union address, the President indicated the need to prepare
our children to read and succeed in school, including the improvement
of Head Start and early childhood development programs. In response to
these goals, the White House has developed an early childhood
initiative, which is built on, among other things, raising the bar for
Head Start education methods to create a better learning environment
and improved outcomes for children. In his announcement of the Good
Start, Grow Smart Early Childhood Initiative in April 2002, the
President identified children's early literacy as a key focus for Head
Start program improvement. In this initiative, the President presented
three areas of focus for Head Start: (1) Strengthening Head Start
programs; (2) partnering with states to improve early childhood
education; and (3) providing information to teachers, caregivers, and
parents.
The Head Start Act, as amended 42 U.S.C. Sec. 9831 et seq., is the
authorizing legislation for the HS-HEHSIPS program. The key purpose in
funding the program is to increase the number of Head Start classroom
teaching staff with BA degrees in early childhood education. To assure
that selected colleges and universities will be able to fulfill this
task it is important that HS-HEHSIPs applying for funds under this
announcement clearly demonstrate that they have established
relationships with the Head Start programs in their community and that
these Head Start programs have indicated that they are willing to work
collaboratively with the institution.
Priority Area
Head Start Hispanic Service Institution Partnerships
1. Description: The Head Start Bureau is announcing the
availability of funds and request for applications for professional
development and training grants for institutions of higher education
with experience and capability in educating and preparing professionals
to work effectively with Hispanic young children and families, in
partnership with Head Start, Migrant Head Start and Early Head Start
programs. The Head Start--Higher Education Hispanic Service Institution
Partnership (HS-HEHSIPs) program is funded to improve the quality and
long-term effectiveness of program services to Hispanic children and
their families by developing academic and other training models and
forming partnerships between institutions of higher education and Head
Start, Migrant Head Start, and Early Head Start programs.
Through this announcement, the Administration on Children, Youth
and Families (ACYF) is making available up to $1,500,000 annually for
each of five years to support Head Start--Higher Education Hispanic
Service Institution Partnerships (HS-HEHSIPs). These partnerships are
designed to improve the quality and long-term effectiveness of Head
Start, Migrant Head Start and Early Head Start grantees by developing
academic and other training models to increase the number of Head Start
teachers with degrees in early childhood education.
II. Award Information
Funding Instrument Type: Grant.
Anticipated Total Priority Area Funding: $1,500,000 per budget
period.
Anticipated Number of Awards: 6 to 10.
Ceiling on Amount of Individual Awards per Budget Period: $150,000
per budget period.
Floor on Amount of Individual Awards Per Budget Period: None.
Average Projected Award Amount: $150,000 per budget period.
Length of Project Periods: 60-month project with five 12-month
budget periods.
Project Periods for Awards: Up to 60 months with 12-month budget
periods.
Awards will be made on a competitive basis and will be for a one-
year budget period. The total project period will not exceed 60 months.
Applications for continuation grants funded under these awards beyond
the first 12-month budget period (but within the project period) will
be considered on a noncompetitive basis subject to the availability of
funds, satisfactory progress of the grantee, and a determination that
continued funding is in the best interest of the Government.
III. Eligibility Information
1. Eligible Applicants: State controlled institutions of higher
education. Private institutions of higher education.
Additional Information on Eligibility: This announcement is limited
to institutions of higher education with experience and capability in
educating and preparing professionals to work effectively with Hispanic
young children and families. All institutions planning to compete under
this announcement, including faith-based institutions of higher
education, must meet the same eligibility requirements.
Institutions of higher education that are not accredited for the
degree program they propose are not eligible to apply under this
announcement. The applicant must submit documentation of accreditation
for the degree program included as part of the method of meeting the
objective of this announcement (i.e., increasing the number of teaching
staff in the classroom with BA degrees).
HEHSIPs must provide a Head Start program participation agreement
as specified in Section V of this announcement.
HEHSIPs that are currently funded under the Head Start Partnership
with HEHSIPs and whose funding will end after October 1, 2005 are not
eligible to apply under this announcement.
2. Cost Sharing/Matching: None.
3. Other: No grants award will be made under this announcement on
the basis of an incomplete application.
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
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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.
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:
s.gov/programs/ofs/forms.htm.
Disqualification Factors. Applications that exceed the ceiling
amount will be considered non-responsive and will not be eligible 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: ACYF Operations Center,
c/o The Dixon Group, Inc., Higher Education Hispanic Service
Institutions Partnerships (HS-HEHSIPs), 118 Q Street, NE., Washington,
DC 20002, Phone: (866) 796-1591, e-mail: [email protected].
2. Content and Form of Application Submission: Submission of
Letters of Intent. Prior to submittal of the application, applicants
must submit a post card or call the ACYF Operations Center c/o The
Dixon Group with the following information: the name, address,
telephone and fax numbers, and e-mail address of the college/university
intending to apply to receive Head Start Higher Education Hispanic
Service Institutions Partnerships funds. Please see Section IV.1. for
ACYF Operations Center address and telephone contact information.
Letter of Intent information will be used to determine the number of
reviewers necessary to complete the panel review process. Failure to
submit a Letter of Intent will not impact eligibility to submit an
application and will not disqualify an application from competitive
review based on non-responsiveness.
Proof of Accreditation Status. Applicants must submit proof of
accreditation by an accreditation agency recognized by the Secretary of
the Department of Education.
Head Start Program Participation Agreement. Applicants must submit
a letter of agreement with their applications from a Head Start Program
Director verifying that the applicant has an established relationship
with the program and that the Head Start program is willing to work
with the applicant institution of higher education.
Application Requirements. The project description of the
application should be double-spaced and single-sided on 8\1/
2\ x 11\1/2\ plain white paper, with 1
margins on all sides. Use only a standard size font no smaller than 12
pitch throughout the application. Packages should be assembled so the
SF-424 and SF-424A are the first pages of the application package,
immediately followed by the project abstract then the table of
contents. All narrative sections of the application (including
appendices, resumes, charts, references/footnotes, tables, maps and
exhibits) must be sequentially numbered, beginning on the first page
after the table of contents. The length of the application, including
the project description, appendices and resumes must not exceed 75
pages. Anything over 75 pages will be removed and not considered by the
reviewers. The abstract should not be counted in the 75 pages and not
exceed one page.
Applicants are requested NOT to send pamphlets, brochures, or other
printed material along with their applications. These materials, if
submitted, will not be included in the review process. In addition,
applicants must NOT submit any additional letters of endorsement beyond
any that are stated as required in this announcement.
Project Narrative. Specific factual information and statements of
measurable goals in quantitative terms must be included in the project
description. Extensive exhibits are not required. 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.
Please see Section V for further information regarding the Project
Description.
Table of Contents. All pages must be numbered and a table of
contents should be included for easy reference.
Standard Forms and Certifications. Information on required Standard
Forms and Certifications follows this section.
You may submit your application to us in either electronic or paper
format. To submit an application electronically, please use the
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 email 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
[[Page 20380]]
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 1-800-518-4276 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.
An original and two copies of the complete application are
required. 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:
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 forms. 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 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: www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms.htm.
Please see Section V.1. Criteria, for instructions on preparing the
full project description.
3. Submission Dates and Times: Due Dates: Letters of intent are due
May 19, 2005. Applications are due June 20, 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).
Receipt acknowledgement for application packages will not be
provided to applicants who submit their package via mail, courier
services, or by hand delivery. However, applicants will receive an
electronic acknowledgement for applications that are submitted via
Grants.gov.
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.
Checklist: You may use the checklist below as a guide when
preparing your application package.
[[Page 20381]]
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Required form or
What to submit Required content format When to submit
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Letter of Intent................ See Section III.... Described in 30 days prior to application due
Section III. date.
---------------------------------
Table of Contents............... See Section IV..... Described in By application due date.
Section IV.
---------------------------------
Project Abstract................ See Sections IV and Described in By application due date.
V. Sections IV and V.
---------------------------------
Project Narrative............... See Sections IV and Described in By application due date.
V. Sections IV and V.
---------------------------------
SF 424.......................... See Section IV..... May be found at: By application due date.
www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms.htm.
---------------------------------
SF 424A......................... See Section IV..... May be found at: By application due date.
www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms.htm.
---------------------------------
Assurances and Certifications... See Section IV..... May be found at: By time of award.
www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms.htm.
---------------------------------
Support Letters................. See Section V...... Described in By application due date.
Section V.
---------------------------------
Proof of Accreditation.......... See Sections III Described in By application due date.
and IV. Sections III and
IV.
---------------------------------
Head Start Program(s) See Sections III Described in By application due date.
Participation Agreement. and IV. Sections III and
IV.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
What to submit Required content Location When to submit
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Survey for Private, Non-Profit See form........... May be found on By application due date.
Applicants. www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms.htm.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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 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
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.
An application that exceeds the upper value of the dollar range
specified will be considered non-responsive.
HEHSIPs that are currently funded under the Head Start Partnership
with HEHSIPs and whose funding will end after October 31, 2004 are not
eligible to apply under this announcement.
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. The application must be
received at the address below by 4:30 p.m. eastern time on or before
the closing date.
[[Page 20382]]
Applications should be mailed to: c/o The Dixon Group, Inc., Higher
Education Hispanic Service Institutions Partnerships, 118 Q Street,
NE., Washington, DC 20002, Attention: ACYF Operations Center.
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: c/o The Dixon Group, Inc., Higher Education Hispanic
Service Institutions Partnerships, 118 Q Street, NE., Washington, DC
20002, Attention: ACYF Operations Center.
Electronic Submission: http://www.grants.gov/. Please see section
IV.2 Content and Form of Application Submission, for guidelines and
requirements when submitting applications electronically.
V. Application Review Information
The Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (Pub. L. 104-13)
Public reporting burden for this collection of information is
estimated to average 35 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
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 Summary/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.
Results or Benefits Expected
Identify the results and benefits to be derived. Specifically,
describe how the college or university's conduct of a program to
provide educational opportunities to staff of Head Start grantees,
including faith-based and community organizations, will further the
goals of the Head Start program.
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.
Evaluation
Provide a narrative addressing how the conduct of the project and
the results of the project will be evaluated. In addressing the
evaluation of results, state how you will determine the extent to which
the project has achieved its stated objectives and the extent to which
the accomplishment of objectives can be attributed to the project.
Discuss the criteria to be used to evaluate results, and explain the
methodology that will be used to determine if the needs identified and
discussed are being met and if the project results and benefits are
being achieved. With respect to the conduct of the project, define the
procedures to be employed to determine whether the project is being
[[Page 20383]]
conducted in a manner consistent with the work plan presented and
discuss the impact of the project's various activities on the project's
effectiveness.
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.
Additional Information
Following are requests for additional information that need to be
included in the application:
Staff and Position Data
Provide a biographical sketch and job description for each key
person appointed. Job descriptions for each vacant key position should
be included as well. As new key staff is appointed, biographical
sketches will also be required.
Plan for Project Continuance Beyond Grant Support
Provide a plan for securing resources and continuing project
activities after Federal assistance has ended.
Organizational Profiles
Provide information on the applicant organization(s) and
cooperating partners, such as organizational charts, financial
statements, audit reports or statements from CPAs/Licensed Public
Accountants, Employer Identification Numbers, names of bond carriers,
contact persons and telephone numbers, child care licenses and other
documentation of professional accreditation, information on compliance
with Federal/State/local government standards, documentation of
experience in the program area, and other pertinent information. If the
applicant is a non-profit organization, submit proof of non-profit
status in its application.
The non-profit agency can accomplish this by providing: (a) 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; (b) a copy of a currently valid IRS tax
exemption certificate, (c) 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 earnings accrue to any private shareholders or individuals; (d) a
certified copy of the organization's certificate of incorporation or
similar document that clearly establishes non-profit status, (e) any of
the items 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.
Letters of Support
Provide statements from community, public and commercial leaders
that support the project proposed for funding. All submissions should
be included in the application OR by application deadline.
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.
General
Use the following guidelines for preparing the budget and budget
justification. Both Federal and non-Federal resources shall be detailed
and justified in the budget and narrative justification. ``Federal
resources'' refers only to the ACF grant for which you are applying.
``Non-Federal resources'' are all other Federal and non-Federal
resources. It is suggested that budget amounts and computations be
presented in a columnar format: First column, object class categories;
second column, Federal budget; next column(s), non-Federal budget(s),
and last column, total budget. The budget justification should be a
narrative.
Personnel
Description: Costs of employee salaries and wages.
Justification: Identify the project director or principal
investigator, if known. For each staff person, provide the title, time
commitment to the project (in months), time commitment to the project
(as a percentage or full-time equivalent), annual salary, grant salary,
wage rates, etc. Do not include the costs of consultants or personnel
costs of delegate agencies or of specific project(s) or businesses to
be financed by the applicant.
Fringe Benefits
Description: Costs of employee fringe benefits unless treated as
part of an approved indirect cost rate.
Justification: Provide a breakdown of the amounts and percentages
that comprise fringe benefit costs such as health insurance, FICA,
retirement insurance, taxes, etc.
Travel
Description: Costs of project-related travel by employees of the
applicant organization (does not include costs of consultant travel).
Justification: For each trip, show the total number of traveler(s),
travel destination, duration of trip, per diem, mileage allowances, if
privately owned vehicles will be used, and other transportation costs
and subsistence allowances. Travel costs for key staff to attend ACF-
sponsored workshops should be detailed in the budget.
Equipment
Description: ``Equipment'' means an article of nonexpendable,
tangible personal property having a useful life of more than one year
and an acquisition cost which equals or exceeds the lesser of (a) the
capitalization level established by the organization for the financial
statement purposes, or (b) $5,000. (Note: Acquisition cost means the
net invoice unit price of an item of equipment, including the cost of
any modifications, attachments, accessories, or auxiliary apparatus
necessary to make it usable for the purpose for which it is acquired.
Ancillary charges, such as taxes, duty, protective in-transit
insurance, freight, and installation shall be included in or excluded
from acquisition cost in accordance with the organization's regular
written accounting practices.)
Justification: For each type of equipment requested, provide a
description of the equipment, the cost per unit, the number of units,
the total cost, and a plan for use on the project, as well as use or
disposal of the equipment after the project ends. An applicant
organization that uses its own definition for equipment should provide
a copy of its policy or section of its policy which includes the
equipment definition.
Supplies
Description: Costs of all tangible personal property other than
that included under the Equipment category.
Justification: Specify general categories of supplies and their
costs. Show computations and provide other information which supports
the amount requested.
[[Page 20384]]
Contractual
Description: Costs of all contracts for services and goods except
for those that belong under other categories such as equipment,
supplies, construction, etc. Include third party evaluation contracts
(if applicable) and contracts with secondary recipient organizations,
including delegate agencies and specific project(s) or businesses to be
financed by the applicant.
Justification: Demonstrate that all procurement transactions will
be conducted in a manner to provide, to the maximum extent practical,
open and free competition. Recipients and subrecipients, other than
States that are required to use Part 92 procedures, must justify any
anticipated procurement action that is expected to be awarded without
competition and exceed the simplified acquisition threshold fixed at 41
U.S.C. 403(11) (currently set at $100,000).
Recipients might be required to make available to ACF pre-award
review and procurement documents, such as request for proposals or
invitations for bids, independent cost estimates, etc.
Note: Whenever the applicant intends to delegate part of the
project to another agency, the applicant must provide a detailed
budget and budget narrative for each delegate agency, by agency
title, along with the required supporting information referred to in
these instructions.
Other
Enter the total of all other costs. Such costs, where applicable
and appropriate, may include but are not limited to insurance, food,
medical and dental costs (noncontractual), professional services costs,
space and equipment rentals, printing and publication, computer use,
training costs, such as tuition and stipends, staff development costs,
and administrative costs.
Justification: Provide computations, a narrative description and a
justification for each cost under this category.
Indirect Charges
Description: Total amount of indirect costs. This category should
be used only when the applicant currently has an indirect cost rate
approved by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) or
another cognizant Federal agency.
Justification: An applicant that will charge indirect costs to the
grant must enclose a copy of the current rate agreement. If the
applicant organization is in the process of initially developing or
renegotiating a rate, upon notification that an award will be made, it
should immediately develop a tentative indirect cost rate proposal
based on its most recently completed fiscal year, in accordance with
the cognizant agency's guidelines for establishing indirect cost rates,
and submit it to the cognizant agency. Applicants awaiting approval of
their indirect cost proposals may also request indirect costs. When an
indirect cost rate is requested, those costs included in the indirect
cost pool should not also be charged as direct costs to the grant.
Also, if the applicant is requesting a rate which is less than what is
allowed under the program, the authorized representative of the
applicant organization must submit a signed acknowledgement that the
applicant is accepting a lower rate than allowed.
Program Income
Description: The estimated amount of income, if any, expected to be
generated from this project.
Justification: Describe the nature, source and anticipated use of
program income in the budget or refer to the pages in the application
which contain this information.
Non-Federal Resources
Description: Amounts of non-Federal resources that will be used to
support the project as identified in Block 15 of the SF-424.
Justification: The firm commitment of these resources must be
documented and submitted with the application so the applicant is given
credit in the review process. A detailed budget must be prepared for
each funding source.
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 (e.g. 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:
Results or Benefits Expected (20 Points)
The results and benefits to be derived. The anticipated
contribution to policy, practice, theory and research. Specific
benefits for both the applicant and the Head Start/Migrant Head Start/
Early Head Start community.
Based on the stated program objectives, the results and benefits to
be derived. The specific results or benefits that could be expected for
the Head Start/Migrant Head Start/Early Head Start grantees and the
institution.
The qualitative and quantitative data the program will collect to
measure progress towards the stated results or benefits. How the
program will determine the extent to which it has achieved its stated
objectives.
The extent to which the applicant provides an accurate projection
of the estimated number of Head Start/Migrant Head Start/Early Head
Start teachers that will earn degrees over the duration of the project
based on an analysis of the current levels of credits/courses earned by
participants and a proposed sequence of courses to be offered through
this project.
The extent to which the applicant proposes new teaching methods for
Head Start/Migrant Head Start/Early Head Start teachers and staff for
teaching early literacy in the classrooms and enhancing parental skills
to encourage children to read and succeed in school. The extent to
which the applicant proposes to design and submit a replicable model
incorporating strength based perspective and reflective practices as
well as their relationship to Head Start competency goals, indicators,
priorities and the program performance standards.
Objectives and Need for Assistance (20 Points)
Relevant physical, economic, social, financial, institutional or
other problems requiring intervention. The need for this project in the
proposed community(ies). The principal and subordinate objectives of
the project. The supporting documentation provided or other testimonies
from concerned interests other than the applicant.
The objectives for the program. How these objectives are based on
an assessment of partner and community needs and how they relate to
Head Start goals. The extent to which the applicant proposes a detailed
process that will be used to assess the need for the proposed program
including the total number of staff needing training, including
preschool and infant/toddler teachers.
Specifically identified population to be served. The extent to
which the applicant describes proposed Head Start, Migrant Head Start,
and Early Head Start grantees as participating partners. The extent to
which the applicant provides the numbers and
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types of staff to be enrolled in the project, the proposed courses in
relationship to courses completed by partner staff before entering the
project, and degrees to be awarded.
The consultative process related to the development of the proposed
initiative. The extent to which the applicant describes detailed
efforts to frame the proposed initiative within broader state or
community efforts to enhance professional and career development for
staff in all forms of early childhood and child care programs. The
extent to which the applicant provides letters of support that document
consultation and support from the proposed grantee or delegate agency
partners, the Head Start State Collaboration Office, and any existing
state level early childhood career development initiative.
Approach (20 Points)
The extent to which the application describes a detailed plan of
action pertaining to the scope of the project including details on how
the proposed work will be accomplished, such as detailed timelines and
lists of each organization as well as consultant and key individuals
who will work on the project. The extent to which the applicant
describes a brief yet clear description of the nature of the effort and
contribution each organization, consultant, or key individual will make
to the project. The extent to which the applicant demonstrates adequate
time key staff will devote to the project and that this staff is
qualified and knowledgeable of Head Start and Early Head Start. The
extent to which the applicant describes an approach and methodology for
implementing the project, including a clear description that delineates
the relationship of each task to the accomplishment of the proposed
objectives. The extent to which the applicant provides evidence that
the planned approach reflects sufficient input from and partnership
with Head Start, Migrant and Seasonal Head Start and Early Head Start
grantees.
The extent to which the applicant demonstrates effective planning
for activities developed during the start-up period in preparation of
implementation of the program including assurance that no more than 6
months will be devoted to planning activities.
The extent to which the applicant demonstrates effective methods
for recruiting Head Start center-based teaching staff and an effective
selection process for participation in the program.
The extent to which the applicant demonstrates how training and
coursework will be contextually and culturally relevant to the Head
Start, Migrant Head Start, and Early Head Start environment and how it
will contribute to enhancing the effectiveness of teachers, program
quality, and outcomes for Head Start children and families.
The extent to which the application describes efforts the applicant
and Head Start partners will make to ensure that training and
coursework are accessible to teaching staff and how the applicant will
support their successful completion of courses and degrees. The extent
to which the applicant provides discussion of relevant issues such as
timing, scheduling, and location of classes, support to enhance the
literacy and study skills of participants, and approaches to integrate
training in the working environment of the participants in the program.
The extent to which the applicant describes costs (if any) associated
with courses and degree requirements for participants.
The extent to which the applicant describes credit courses offered
particularly in the area of Early Childhood Development/Education.
The extent to which the applicant describes how CDA training and
certification of Head Start, Migrant and Seasonal Head Start and Early
Head Start staff, as appropriate, as well as previous coursework and
credits will be linked to academic credits and course sequences leading
to BA degrees. The extent to which the applicant includes estimates
indicating how many Head Start, Migrant and Seasonal Head Start and
Early Head Start teaching staff members will be included in this
effort.
Plan for Project Continuance Beyond Grant Support (15 Points)
The extent to which the applicant describes appropriate activities
that will continue after the completion of this project that will
ensure that the applicant will continue to participate in providing
educational opportunities for Head Start and Early Head Start classroom
staff.
Non-Federal Resources (5 Points)
The extent to which the applicant describes strong efforts to
complement the Federal funds requested in this proposal with other
sources to maximize the benefits to Head Start, Migrant and Seasonal
Head Start and Early Head Start grantees including efforts or plans to
assist participants in accessing sources of financial assistance or to
make use of other funding for training and career development of early
childhood program staff.
Staff and Position Data (5 Points)
The extent to which the applicant demonstrates that key staff are
qualified and knowledgeable of Head Start, Migrant Head Start, and
Early Head Start. The extent to which the applicant demonstrates the
capacity of its organization, key leaders, managers, and project
personnel to provide: High quality, relevant, and responsive training
to Head Start staff; competent project staff to plan and deliver
appropriate course material to Head Start trainees that is culturally
relevant; implementation of the training grant in an effective and
timely manner; and successful partnerships that involve sharing
resources, staffing, and facilities.
Budget and Budget Justification (5 Points)
How the proposed project costs are reasonable and appropriate in
view of the activities to be carried out and the anticipated outcomes.
The extent to which the applicant identifies and explains the
relationship of the budgetary items listed under ``General Budget
Information,'' in this section, to the objective of this announcement.
The extent to which the applicant describes a thorough line item budget
for the costs associated with key project staff attending two ACF-
sponsored conferences in Washington, DC
Organizational Profiles (5 Points)
The extent to which the applicant presents an organizational
structure that will support the project objectives. The extent to which
the applicant demonstrates how joint planning and assessment with the
Head Start, Migrant Head Start, and Early Head Start grantees will be
effectively implemented with timelines and clear lines of
responsibility. The extent to which the applicant explains how staff
positions will be assigned and describes their major functions and
responsibilities.
Geographic Location (5 Points)
The extent to which the application describes the precise location
of the project and area to be served, including the location of the
Head Start, Migrant Head Start, and Early Head Start grantees the
applicant partners with.
2. Review and Selection Process: No grant award will be made under
this announcement on the basis of an incomplete application.
Responsive applications received by the due date will be reviewed
and scored competitively. Experts in the field, generally persons from
outside the Federal government, will use the evaluation criteria listed
in Section V of
[[Page 20386]]
this announcement as well as the eligibility criteria specified in
Section III to review and score the applications. The results of this
review will be a primary factor in making funding decisions.
Application review panels will assign a score to each application and
identify its strengths and weaknesses. The Head Start Bureau will
conduct an administrative review of the applications and results of the
competitive review panels and make recommendations for funding to the
Commissioner, ACYF. Subject to the recommendation of the Head Start
Bureau Associate Commissioner, the Commissioner, ACYF, will make the
final selection of the applications to be funded. An application may be
funded in whole or in part depending on: (1) The ranked order of
applicants resulting from the competitive review; (2) staff review and
consultations; (3) the combination of projects that best meets the
objectives of the Head Start Bureau; (4) the funds available; (5) the
statutory requirement that reserves funds for Indian Tribes, and Alaska
Native Regional Corporations, and Native Hawaiian entities; and (6)
other relevant considerations. The Commissioner may also elect not to
fund any applicants with known management, fiscal, reporting, program,
or other problems, which make it unlikely that they would be able to
provide effective services. Approved but Unfunded Applications: Should
more applications be approved for funding than ACYF can fund with
available HSI monies, the Grants Officer shall fund applications in
their order of approval until the available funds are expended.
When this occurs, ACYF has the option of carrying-over the approved
applications to the subsequent fiscal year for funding consideration in
that HSI grant competition. These applications need not be reviewed nor
scored again as long as the HSI program's evaluation criteria do not
change from one fiscal year to the next. However, the approved but not
funded applications must be placed in the proper rank order with the
new fiscal year HSI applications.
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
In cases where more applications are approved for funding than ACF
can fund with the money available, the Grants Officer shall fund
applications in their order of approval until funds run out. In this
case, ACF has the option of carrying over the approved applications up
to a year for funding consideration in a later competition of the same
program. These applications need not be reviewed and scored again if
the program's evaluation criteria have not changed. However, they must
then be placed in rank order along with other applications in later
competition.
3. Anticipated Announcement and Award Dates: The anticipated start
date for the new awards is September 30, 2005. Projects may run through
September 29, 2010 for a period of up to 60 months.
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,
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.
The anticipated start date for the new awards is September 30,
2005. Projects may run through September 29, 2010.
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) and 45
CFR part 92 (governmental).
Direct Federal grants, subaward 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 prohibition of Federal funds for
inherently religious activities can be found on the HHS Web site at
http://www.os.dhhs.gov/fbci/waisgate21.pdf.
3. Reporting: Program Progress Reports: Semi-Annually. Financial
Reports: Semi-Annually.
Grantees will be required to submit program progress and financial
reports (SF 269) throughout the project period. Program progress and
financial reports are due 30 days after the reporting period. In
addition, final programmatic and financial reports are due 90 days
after the close of the project period. The standard form (SF-269) can
be found at the following URL: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms.htm.
Final reports are due 90 days after the end of the grant period. A
suggested format for the program report will be sent to all grantees
after the awards are made.
VII. Agency Contacts
Program Office Contact: Rosalind Dailey, U.S. Department of Health
and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families, ACYF--
Head Start Bureau, 330 C Street SW., Switzer 2211, Washington, DC
20447, Phone: (202) 205-8653, e-mail: [email protected].
Grants Management Office Contact: Delores Dickenson, U.S.
Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children
and Families, ACYF--Head Start Bureau, 330 C Street SW., Switzer Room
2220, Washington, DC 20447, Phone: (202) 260-7622, e-mail:
[email protected].
VIII. Other Information
Applicants will not be sent acknowledgements of received
applications.
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: 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.
Dated: April 12, 2005.
Joan E. Ohl,
Commissioner, Administration on Children, Youth and Families.
[FR Doc. 05-7794 Filed 4-18-05; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4184-01-P