Administration on Children, Youth and Families, Head Start Bureau; Head Start Historically Black College and University Partnerships, 20387-20396 [05-7795]

Agencies

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

[Federal Register Volume 70, Number 74 (Tuesday, April 19, 2005)]
[Notices]
[Pages 20387-20396]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 05-7795]



[[Page 20387]]

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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 Historically Black College and University 
Partnerships

    Announcement Type: Initial.
    Funding Opportunity Number: HHS-2005-ACF-ACYF-YH-0004.
    CFDA Number: 93.600.
    Due Date For Letter of Intent or Preapplications: Letter of Intent 
is 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 Historically Black Colleges and 
Universities (HBCUs) 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 Head Start Historically Black Colleges 
and Universities (HBCUs) Partnerships. These partnerships are designed 
to improve the quality and long-term effectiveness of Head Start and 
Early Head Start grantees by developing academic training models to 
increase the number of Head Start/Early Head Start teachers with BA 
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 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 Tribally Controlled Land Grant Colleges 
and Universities (TCUs) and Higher Education Hispanic Service 
Partnerships (HS-HEHSPs) 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 require 
the establishment of 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 HBCU program. The key purpose in 
funding the HBCU 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 HBCUs applying for funds under 
this announcement clearly demonstrate that they have established 
relationships with the Head Start and/or Early Head Start programs in 
their community and that these programs have indicated that they are 
willing to work collaboratively with the institution.

Priority Area

Head Start Historically Black Colleges and Universities
    1. Description: The Head Start Bureau is announcing the 
availability of funds and request for applications for professional 
development and training grants for Historically Black Colleges and 
Universities (HBCUs) 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 Head Start Historically Black Colleges 
and Universities (HBCUs) Partnerships. These partnerships are designed 
to improve the quality and long-term effectiveness of Head Start and 
Early Head Start grantees by developing academic training models to 
increase the number of Head Start/Early Head Start teachers with BA 
degrees in early childhood education.
    The Head Start Act, as amended 42 U.S.C. Sec.  9831 et seq., is the 
authorizing legislation for the HBCU program. The key purpose in 
funding the HBCU 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 HBCUs applying for funds under 
this announcement clearly demonstrate that they have established 
relationships with the Head Start and/or Early Head Start programs in 
their community and that these programs have indicated that they are 
willing to work collaboratively with the institution.

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.

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    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 Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) defined as 
``Part B Institutions'' under section 322(2) of the Higher Education 
Act of 1965, codified at 20 U.S.C. 1061(2). HBCUs are institutions 
established prior to 1964 whose principal mission was, and is, the 
education of Black Americans, and must satisfy section 322 of the 
Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended. Only those institutions that 
meet the definition of ``Part B institution'' in section 322 of the 
Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended, 20 U.S.C. 1061(2), shall be 
eligible for assistance under this announcement. Faith-based 
institutions planning to compete under this announcement must also meet 
the same eligibility criteria as other applicants.
    Applicants must submit proof of accreditation for their institution 
and degree program by an accreditation agency recognized by the 
Secretary of the Department of Education. 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).
    HBCUs that are currently funded under the Head Start Partnership 
with HBCUs and whose funding will end after October 1, 2005 are not 
eligible to apply under this announcement.
    Please see section IV for required documentation supporting 
eligibility or funding restrictions if any are applicable.
    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 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 
earnings 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.

IV. Application and Submission Information

    1. Address to Request Application Package: ACYF Operations Center, 
c/o The Dixon Group, Inc., Historically Black Colleges and Universities 
(HBCUs), 118 Q Street, NE., Washington, DC 20002, Phone: 866-796-1591, 
E-mail: HS@dixongroup.com.
    2. Content and Form of Application Submission: The project 
description 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 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 projection 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 to refrain from sending 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.

[[Page 20389]]

    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.

Submission of Intent

    Prior to submittal of the application, applicants should submit a 
Letter of Intent post card or call the ACYF Operations Center c/o The 
Dixon Group. The Letter of Intent post card must include 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 Historically Black Colleges and Universities Partnerships funds. 
Please see section IV.1. for ACYF Operations Center c/o The Dixon Group 
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.

Table of Contents

    All pages must be numbered and a table of contents should be 
included for easy reference.

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 HBCU.

Proof of Accreditation Status

    Applicants must submit proof of accreditation for their institution 
and degree program by an accreditation agency recognized by the 
Secretary of the Department of Education.

Proof of HBCU Status

    Applicants must submit documentation of their status as a HBCU as 
defined at ``Part B Institutions'' under section 322(2) of the Higher 
Education Act of 1965, codified at 20 U.S.C. 1061(2).
    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 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: 
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

[[Page 20390]]

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).
    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.
    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.
    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.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                         Required form or
         What to submit             Required content          format                   When to submit
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Letter of Intent................  See section IV.....  IV.................  30 days prior to application due
                                                                             date.
Table of Contents...............  See section IV.....  IV.................  By application due date.
Project Abstract................  See section IV and   IV and V...........  By application due date.
                                   V.
Project Narrative...............  See section IV and   IV and V...........  By application due date.
                                   V.
SF-424..........................  See section III....  May be found on      By application due date.
                                                        www.acf.hhs.gov/
programs/ofs/
forms.htm.
SF-424A.........................  See section III....  May be found on      By application due date.
                                                        www.acf.hhs.gov/
programs/ofs/
forms.htm.
Assurances and Certifications...  See section III....  May be found on      By date of award.
                                                        www.acf.hhs.gov/
programs/ofs/
forms.htm.
Support Letters.................  See section V......  V..................  By application due date.
Proof of HBCU Status............  See section III....  III................  By application due date.
Head Start Program(s)             See section III and  III and V..........  By application due date.
 Participation Agreement.          V.
Proof of Accreditation..........  See section III....  III................  By application due 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: 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.
 Grant 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,

[[Page 20391]]

Guam, Northern 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: 
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.
    HBCUs that are currently funded under the Head Start Partnership 
with HBCUs 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., Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), 118 
Q Street, NE., Washington, DC 20002, 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., Historically Black Colleges 
and Universities (HBCUs), 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.
    The following are instructions and guidelines on how to prepare the 
``project summary/abstract'' and ``Full Project Description'' sections 
of the application. Under the evaluation criteria section, note that 
each criterion is preceded by the generic evaluation requirement under 
the ACF Uniform Project Description (UPD).
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/

[[Page 20392]]

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 teaching staff in Head 
Start classrooms, 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 
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.
Dissemination Plan
    Provide a plan for distributing reports and other project outputs 
to colleagues and the public. Applicants must provide a description of 
the kind, volume and timing of distribution.
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

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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.
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.
Nonfederal 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/Early Head Start 
community.

[[Page 20394]]

    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/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/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/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 and Early Head Start 
grantees as participating partners. The extent to which the applicant 
provides the numbers 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.
    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 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 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.
    The extent to which the application describes efforts the applicant 
and Head Start partners will make to ensure that coursework is 
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 
coursework into the working environment of the Head Start program. The 
extent to which the applicant describes costs (if any) associated with 
courses and degree requirements for Head Start staff.
    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 under this project leading to BA degrees 
in early childhood education. The extent to which the applicant 
includes estimates indicating how many Head Start and Early Head Start 
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.
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

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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 meetings 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. 
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. 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.
Non-Federal Reviewers
    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.
    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 
https://www.os.dhhs.gov/fbci/waisgate21.pdf.
    3. Reporting Requirements: 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 SF-269 may be found at the 
following URL: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms.htm.

VII. Agency Contacts

    Program Office Contact: Rosalind Dailey, U.S. Department of Health 
and Human Services--ACF, ACYF--Head Start Bureau, 330 C Street SW., 
Switzer Room 2211, Washington, DC 20447, Phone: 202-205-8653, E-mail: 
rdailey@acf.hhs.gov.
    Grants Management Office Contact: Tim Chappelle, Administration for 
Children and Families, Office of Grants Management, 330 C Street SW., 
Switzer Room 2220, Washington, DC 20447, Phone: 202-401-4855, E-mail: 
tichappelle@acf.hhs.gov.

VIII. Other Information

    Additional information about this program and its purpose can be 
located on t