Administration on Children, Youth and Families, Head Start Bureau, 19479-19488 [05-7030]

Agencies

• DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
• Administration for Children and Families
• Children and Families Administration

[Federal Register Volume 70, Number 70 (Wednesday, April 13, 2005)]
[Notices]
[Pages 19479-19488]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 05-7030]


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DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES

Administration for Children and Families


Administration on Children, Youth and Families, Head Start Bureau

    Funding Opportunity Title: Head Start Tribally Controlled Land 
Grant College and University Partnerships.
    Announcement Type: Initial--Grant.
    Funding Opportunity Number: HHS-2005-ACF-ACYF-YT-0012.
    CFDA Number: 93.600.
    Due Date For Letter of Intent or Preapplications: Letter of intent 
is due May 13, 2005.
    Due Date for Applications: Application is due June 13, 2005.
    Executive Summary: The Head Start Bureau is announcing the 
availability of funds and requesting applications for professional 
development and training grants for Tribally Controlled Land Grant 
Colleges and Universities (TCUs). These grants are provided in 
partnership with Head Start and Early Head Start programs to improve 
staff training and to thereby enhance services to Head Start and Early 
Head Start children and families.
    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 Tribally Controlled Land Grant Colleges 
and Universities (TCUs) partnerships. These partnerships seek to 
increase the number of Head Start teachers with degrees in early 
childhood education, in order to improve the quality and long-term 
effectiveness of Head Start and Early Head Start grantees.

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. In order to accomplish this 
goal, Head Start provides comprehensive services to these children and 
their families. Head Start enhances children's physical, cognitive, 
social, and emotional development. It aids 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 opportunities for 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 related innovative projects. The Head Start Bureau also 
implemented partnerships with Historically Black Colleges and 
Universities (HBCUs) and Higher Education Hispanic Service Institution 
Partnerships (HS-HEHSIPs) in addition to key 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 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. 9831 et seq., is the 
authorizing legislation for the Head Start TCU program. The key purpose 
in funding the TCU program is to increase the number of Head Start 
staff with college degrees in early childhood education. To ensure that 
selected colleges and universities will be able to fulfill this task it 
is important that TCUs 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 their willingness to work collaboratively with 
the institution.

Priority Area

Head Start Tribally Controlled Land Grant Colleges and Universities 
Partnerships
    1. Description: The Head Start Bureau is announcing the 
availability of funds and request for applications for professional 
development and training grants for Tribally Controlled Land Grant 
Colleges and Universities (TCUs) in partnership with Head Start and 
Early Head Start programs to improve staff training and to thereby 
enhance services to Head Start and Early Head Start children and 
families.
    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 Tribally Controlled Land Grant Colleges 
and Universities (TCUs) partnerships. These partnerships seek to 
increase the number of Head Start classroom teaching staff with BA 
degrees in early childhood education in order to improve the quality 
and long-term effectiveness of Head Start and Early Head Start 
grantees.

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.

[[Page 19480]]

    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 five 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: Native American tribal organizations (other 
than Federally recognized tribal governments).
    Additional Information on Eligibility: This announcement is limited 
to Tribally Controlled Land Grant Colleges and Universities (TCUs) as 
defined in Section 532 of the Equity in Educational Land Grant Status 
Act of 1994 (7 U.S.C. 301 note), any other institution that qualifies 
for funding under the Tribally Controlled Community College Assistance 
Act of 1978, (25 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.), and Navajo Community College, 
Authorized in the Navajo Community College Assistance Act of 1978, 
Public Law 95-471, Title II (25 U.S.C. 640a note). Only those 
institutions that meet these definitions shall be eligible for 
assistance under this announcement.
    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).
    TCUs that are currently funded under the Head Start Partnership 
with TCUs and whose funding will end after October 1, 2005 are not 
eligible to apply under this announcement.
    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 (https://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 https://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: 
https://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 eligible for funding under this 
announcement.
    Any application received after 4:30 p.m., eastern time, on the 
deadline date will not be considered for competition.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., Head Start Tribally Controlled Land Grant 
Colleges and Universities (TCUs), 118 Q Street, NE., Washington, DC 
20002, Phone: 866-796-1591, e-mail: HS@dixongroup.com.
    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 Tribally Controlled Land Grant Colleges 
and Universities 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. With their 
applications, applicants must submit a letter of agreement 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 TCU.
    Application Requirements. The project narrative of the application 
should be double-spaced and single-sided on 8\1/2\'' x 11'' plain white 
paper, with 1'' margins on all sides. Use only a standard size font no 
smaller than 12-point throughout the application. Packages should be 
assembled so the SF-424 and SF-424A are the first pages

[[Page 19481]]

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 should 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 
those 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 https://
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 1-800-518-4276 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 https://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: 
https://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: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms.htm.
    Please see Section V.1. Criteria, for instructions on preparing the 
full project description.

[[Page 19482]]

    3. Submission Dates and Times: Due Dates: Letters of intent are due 
May 13, 2005.
    Applications are due June 13, 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.
    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.
    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.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
           What to submit               Required content       Required form or format        When to submit
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Letter of Intent...................  See Section IV........  Described in Section IV....  4 weeks prior to to
                                                                                           application due date.
Table of Contents..................  See Section IV........  Described in Section IV....  By application due
                                                                                           date.
Project Abstract...................  See Section IV and V..  Described in Section IV and  By application due
                                                              V.                           date.
Project Narrative..................  See Section IV and V..  Described in Section IV and  By application due
                                                              V.                           date.
SF-424.............................  See Section III.......  Found at: https:// By application due
                                                              www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ date.
                                                              ofs/forms.htm.
SF-424A............................  See Section III.......  Found at: https:// By application due
                                                              www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ date.
                                                              ofs.forms.htm.
Assurances and Certifications......  See Section III.......  May be found at: https:// By date of award.
                                                              www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/
ofs/forms.htm.
Support Letters....................  See Section V.........  Described in Section V.....  By application due
                                                                                           date.
Proof of TCU Status................  See Section III.......  Described in Section III...  By application due
                                                                                           date.
Proof of Accreditation.............  See Section III.......  Described in Section III...  By application due
                                                                                           date.
Head Start Program(s) Participation  See Section III and V.  Described in Section III     By application due
 Agreement.                                                   and V.                       date.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    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: https://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 at: https:// By application due
 Grant Applicants.                                            www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ date.
                                                              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

[[Page 19483]]

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: 
https://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.
    TCUs that are currently funded under the Head Start Partnership 
with TCUs and whose funding will end after October 1, 2005 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. Applications should be mailed to: c/o The Dixon 
Group, Inc., Head Start TCU Partnerships, ATTN: Delores Dickenson, 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., Head Start TCU Partnerships, 
ATTN: Delores Dickenson, 118 Q Street, NE., Washington, DC 20002, 
Attention: ACYF Operations Center.
    Electronic Submission: https://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 for 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

[[Page 19484]]

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 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,

[[Page 19485]]

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.
    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

    Description of general results and benefits expected: The extent to 
which the results and benefits will be derived. The extent of the 
anticipated contribution to policy, practice, theory and research. The 
extent of specific benefits for both the applicant and the Head Start/
Early Head Start community.
    Description of expected results and benefits specific to the target 
grantee(s): Based on the stated program objectives, the extent to which 
results and benefits will be derived. The extent to which specific 
results or benefits can be expected for the Head Start/Early Head Start 
grantees and the institution.
    Description of method for assessing achievement of results: The 
extent to which the applicant describes the assessment plan for this 
project. The extent to which the applicant describes the methods by 
which qualitative and quantitative data will be collected by the 
program to measure progress toward the stated results or benefits. The 
extent to which the applicant will determine whether/how the program 
has achieved its stated objectives. The extent to which the applicant 
draws outcome measures directly from the project objectives. The extent 
to which the applicant describes the development and implementation of 
a plan for data collection. The extent to which the description 
outlines the use of statistical methodology to analyze the results to 
be derived, including periodic updates in addition to the final report.
    Description of projected outcomes: The extent to which the 
applicant provides an accurate projection of the estimated number of 
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.
    Description of improvement of teaching methods: The extent to which

[[Page 19486]]

the applicant proposes new teaching methods for 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 a strengths-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

    Description of general objectives and need for assistance: The 
extent to which the applicant describes relevant physical, economic, 
social, financial, institutional or other problems requiring 
intervention, and the need for this project in the proposed 
community(ies). The extent to which the applicant describes principal 
and subordinate objectives of the project along with supporting 
documentation provided or other testimonies from concerned interests 
other than the applicant.
    Defense of project objectives within local community: The extent to 
which the applicant describes 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.
    Defense of project objectives within broader state/community 
objectives: 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 
of 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.
    Defense of need of population: The extent to which the applicant 
describes the needs of the specifically identified population to be 
served.
    Defense of participation of grantees and instructors: The extent to 
which the applicant describes proposed Head Start and Early Head Start 
grantees as participating partners. The extent to which the applicant 
provides the number and 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.
    Defense of 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.

Approach--20 points

    Describing the general scope and plan of the project: 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 and Early Head Start grantees.
    Description of planning activities: 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 six months will be 
devoted to planning activities.
    Description of recruitment and selection processes: 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.
    Description of recruitment and selection processes: The extent to 
which the applicant demonstrates how training and coursework will be 
contextually and culturally relevant to the 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.
    Description of project's cultural competency and contribution to 
Head Start effectiveness: 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 enrolled in the project. The extent to which the applicant 
describes costs (if any) associated with training and courses for Head 
Start staff.
    Description of course offerings available: 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 
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 and Early Head Start 
teaching staff will be included in this effort.
    Description of organization structure to support objectives: 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 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.

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.

[[Page 19487]]

Nonfederal 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 and Early Head Start 
grantees including efforts or plans to assist Head Start/Early Head 
Start staff 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 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

    The extent to which the applicant describes 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 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 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 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.
    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 peri