The document outlines revised common instructions for applicants seeking discretionary grants from the Department of Education, aimed at reducing application barriers. It supersedes previous instructions published on December 27, 2021, and provides a centralized resource for grant applications. Key updates include the removal of references to the Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) and the implementation of the Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) as a mandatory requirement. Applicants must have a UEI and be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM.gov) to apply, emphasizing the importance of early registration to avoid issues with submission deadlines. The document stresses the need for electronic submission via Grants.gov, including detailed guidance on application content, deadlines, and the electronic validation process. Additionally, it underscores the importance of accessibility and accommodation for individuals with disabilities during the application process. Overall, these instructions are designed to streamline grant applications, ensure compliance, and enhance accessibility for a diverse range of applicants within the federal funding framework.
The U.S. Department of Education is inviting applications for fiscal year 2024 to create the National Center on Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Tribally Controlled Colleges and Universities, and Other Minority Serving Institutions aimed at diversifying the workforce serving children with disabilities. This initiative seeks to address critical gaps in the special education and early intervention workforce by increasing the number of qualified, racially and ethnically diverse personnel through high-quality degree programs.
Key objectives include enhancing the capacity of these institutions to develop relevant educational programs, increasing awareness and access to federal grants, and fostering collaboration among institutions. Applicants must outline their plans to support multilingual and diverse scholars while ensuring effective, culturally responsive educational practices. The funding announcement encourages partnerships with HBCUs, TCCUs, and MSIs, highlighting the importance of diversity in the teaching workforce to improve outcomes for all children, particularly those with disabilities. Application deadlines are set for May 15, 2024, with a maximum award of $1.5 million. The program emphasizes data-driven practices and encourages a broad representation of perspectives in its governance.
The document outlines a reopening of applications for the National Center on Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Tribally Controlled Colleges and Universities, and other Minority Serving Institutions program, specifically aimed at diversifying the workforce serving children with disabilities. The previous application deadline was extended from May 15, 2024, to August 12, 2024. This measure follows the failure of initial applicants to adequately meet selection criteria. The program is designed to provide technical assistance to ensure these institutions can offer high-quality personnel preparation programs in special education. Applicants are encouraged to resubmit applications if they previously did not meet eligibility standards. Additionally, compliance and reporting requirements for grant recipients, as well as eligibility criteria, are reiterated. The document emphasizes the importance of enhancing the quality and accessibility of applications and authorizes multiple formats for accessibility purposes. The overall goal is to foster effective educational personnel development for high-need local educational authorities, thus ultimately improving services for children with disabilities.