The document outlines updated common instructions for applicants to the Department of Education’s discretionary grant programs, aiming to reduce barriers to application. It emphasizes necessary steps like obtaining a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN), alongside being registered in the System for Award Management (SAM.gov) to facilitate electronic submissions via Grants.gov. Key submission guidelines include strict adherence to deadlines, the requirement of a read-only flattened PDF format for attachments, and caution against using special characters in file names. Additionally, it outlines the procedure for obtaining assistance during application submission and the protocol for addressing technical issues experienced within the Grants.gov system. The notice serves to streamline applicants' processes and ensure consistent requirements to foster effective participation in grant applications. Overall, the document strengthens the structure and clarity of federal discretionary grants application processes, ensuring fair access for potential applicants.
The Department of Education is establishing a National Technical Assistance Center aimed at enhancing states' abilities to collect, report, analyze, and utilize accurate data under Part B of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). This initiative, mandated to commence on August 8, 2024, will provide tailored technical assistance (TA) to ensure states meet required data collection standards. The total annual funding may reach $25 million, focused on improving data quality and compliance with IDEA.
The center's objectives include enhancing state data infrastructures, timely data submission, effective training for personnel, and evaluating the education outcomes for children with disabilities. The center is also responsible for aiding states in developing effective data governance strategies to better utilize their IDEA-related data for educational improvements.
The decision follows public feedback and is designed to address ongoing concerns regarding data validity aggravated by staff turnover. Additionally, the center will collaborate with existing TA investments to prevent operational overlap while integrating emerging technologies, like AI, into its practices. These measures reflect the federal government’s commitment to enhancing educational support systems for children with disabilities while promoting equitable and effective educational practices across states.
The U.S. Department of Education is inviting applications for new awards for the Technical Assistance on State Data Collection program, aimed at enhancing state capacities to collect, report, analyze, and utilize accurate data under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). The initiative seeks to support State Educational Agencies (SEAs) and Local Educational Agencies (LEAs) in meeting their data collection and reporting obligations efficiently.
Key objectives include providing technical assistance to improve data quality, facilitating collaboration among state entities, and ensuring compliance with privacy regulations. The program anticipates awarding up to $25 million annually and offers a cooperative agreement for a maximum funding period of five years.
Eligible applicants encompass SEAs, public agencies, nonprofit organizations, and for-profit entities, with applications due by August 8, 2024. Furthermore, the announcement emphasizes a commitment to promoting equity and diversity in grant activities while enhancing the existing data infrastructure across states. An emphasis is placed on producing measurable outcomes and utilizing innovative strategies to ensure the effective implementation of technical assistance initiatives.