The document primarily addresses revised common instructions for applicants to the Department of Education's discretionary grant programs. Published in the Federal Register on December 7, 2022, it aims to streamline the application process, reducing barriers for potential applicants. Key updates include the elimination of the Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) in favor of the Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and technical modifications to improve application clarity. The document outlines essential steps for application submission, emphasizing the requirement for an active registration in the System for Award Management (SAM) and submission through Grants.gov to ensure compliance with deadlines. It also details guidelines for electronic and, in rare cases, paper submissions, stressing the importance of timely application processing and error correction during submission. People with disabilities are encouraged to seek accommodations, affirming the Department’s commitment to accessibility. Ultimately, this consolidated guidance supports efficiency and accessibility in the federal grants process, enabling applicants to navigate requirements more effectively while adhering to submission standards.

The document outlines new regulations and funding priorities established by the Department of Education aimed at enhancing state capacity to collect, analyze, and utilize data related to early childhood education under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). It specifically highlights the creation of a National Technical Assistance Center to provide support for states to meet their data collection requirements and improve overall data management practices. Key points include: 1. The center will focus on enhancing states' abilities to report and analyze IDEA Part C early intervention and Part B preschool special education data. 2. There will be a significant emphasis on aiding states to share and integrate data across various programs to improve outcomes for children with disabilities. 3. The document stresses the need for equitable access to services and the importance of data leadership, training, and compliance with privacy requirements. 4. It also introduces a Technical Assistance framework addressing state needs, particularly concerning child find data and ensuring effective resource distribution across regions. The implementation of these priorities is set to begin in August 2024 and is framed within a context of ongoing enhancements to federal service provision for early childhood education and disabilities.

The Department of Education is inviting applications for new awards for fiscal year 2024 to establish a National Technical Assistance Center aimed at improving state capacity to collect, report, analyze, and utilize accurate early childhood data under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). The initiative, primarily targeted at state, local, and tribal governments, seeks to enhance the quality of data systems related to early childhood intervention services for children with disabilities. Significant funding is set aside, totaling up to $25 million annually, to support technical assistance activities essential for compliance and program improvement. The program emphasizes collaboration in data management among various educational entities to address systemic barriers in accessing services, particularly for underrepresented groups. The expected outcomes include increased data quality, improved analysis of child find processes, and cohesive integration of early childhood data systems. The proposal outlines detailed application requirements, funding eligibility, and criteria for evaluating project significance, quality, and management. Furthermore, it encourages applicants to incorporate evidence-based practices and ensure the participation of individuals with disabilities in project development and execution, thus reinforcing commitment to equitable service delivery in early childhood education.