Applications for New Awards; Modeling and Simulation Program, 24780-24784 [2023-08586]

Download as PDF 24780 Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 78 / Monday, April 24, 2023 / Notices Dated: April 19, 2023. Stephanie Valentine, PRA Coordinator, Strategic Collections and Clearance, Governance and Strategy Division, Office of Chief Data Officer, Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development. [FR Doc. 2023–08550 Filed 4–21–23; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4000–01–P DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION Applications for New Awards; Modeling and Simulation Program Office of Postsecondary Education, Department of Education. ACTION: Notice. AGENCY: The Department of Education (Department) is issuing a notice inviting applications for new awards for fiscal year (FY) 2023 for the Modeling and Simulation Program (MSP), Assistance Listing Number 84.116S. This notice relates to the approved information collection under OMB control number 1894–0006. DATES: Applications Available: April 24, 2023. Deadline for Transmittal of Applications: June 23, 2023. Deadline for Intergovernmental Review: August 22, 2023. ADDRESSES: For the addresses for obtaining and submitting an application, please refer to our Common Instructions for Applicants to Department of Education Discretionary Grant Programs, published in the Federal Register on December 7, 2022 (87 FR 75045), and available at www.federalregister.gov/d/2022-26554. Please note that these Common Instructions supersede the version published on December 27, 2021. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Robin M. Dabney, U.S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue SW, Room 2B117, Washington, DC 20202– 4260. Telephone: (202) 453–7908. Email: Robin.Dabney@ed.gov. If you are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability and wish to access telecommunications relay services, please dial 7–1–1. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with NOTICES1 SUMMARY: Full Text of Announcement I. Funding Opportunity Description Purpose of Program: The MSP is designed to promote the study of modeling and simulation at institutions of higher education (IHEs) through collaboration with new and existing programs, and specifically to promote VerDate Sep<11>2014 18:50 Apr 21, 2023 Jkt 259001 the use of technology through the creation of accurate models that can simulate processes or recreate real life, by— (a) Establishing a task force at the Department to raise awareness of and define the study of modeling and simulation; (b) Providing grants to IHEs to develop new modeling and simulation degree programs; and (c) Providing grants for IHEs to enhance existing modeling and simulation degree programs. Background: According to House Report 117–403, which accompanied the FY 2023 appropriations bill for the Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and related agencies, ‘‘modeling and simulation technology has numerous applications for Federal and State governments and their partners in the defense, education, gaming, shipbuilding, and workforce training sectors, allowing them to generate data to help make decisions or predictions about their systems.’’ 1 Modeling and simulation programs can develop tools or techniques in numerous industries to support education and training where they otherwise would be high risk or hazardous in a real-world scenario. Programs can also leverage modeling simulation and technology, such as, but not limited to, experiential learning models, economic and predictive modeling, and advanced data science and analytics. This program seeks to fund the development or enhancement of degree programs focused on modeling and simulation technology. Through grant support, we hope to increase the availability and capacity of such programs in today’s world. In FY 2022, the Department provided funding to three IHEs to develop degree programs in this field. Given the additional funding for this program in FY 2023, the Department will fund new projects to expand opportunities for students who are interested in pursuing this type of degree program. In addition, under the MSP, a task force provides input into the development of curriculum and research on the instructional methods and pedagogy needed to further develop modeling and simulation programs. In accordance with section 891(b)(1) of the Higher Education Opportunity Act of 2008, as amended (HEA), the task force will help to define the study of modeling and simulation (including the content of modeling and simulation classes and programs), identify best practices for such study, identify core 1 H. PO 00000 Rept. 117–403 at p. 291 (2023). Frm 00030 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 knowledge and skills that individuals who participate in modeling and simulation programs should acquire, and provide recommendations to the Secretary on these topics and on grants distribution. Grantees under this program will be members of the task force. Priorities: This notice contains two absolute priorities and one invitational priority. Applicants may only apply under one of the two absolute priorities. In accordance with 34 CFR 75.105(b)(2)(iv), the absolute priorities are from section 891 of the HEA, 20 U.S.C. 1161v. Absolute Priorities: For FY 2023 and any subsequent year in which we make awards from the list of unfunded applications from this competition, these priorities are absolute priorities. Under 34 CFR 75.105(c)(3) we consider only applications that meet one of these priorities. Applicants must specify which absolute priority they are responding to in their application abstract and must respond to each element of the selected absolute priority. These priorities are: Absolute Priority 1—Enhancing Modeling and Simulation at Institutions of Higher Education. To be considered for a grant under this absolute priority, an eligible institution must propose to enhance an existing modeling and simulation degree program, including a major, minor, or career-track program, or an existing certificate or concentration program, and must include in its application— (a) A letter from the president or provost of the eligible institution that demonstrates the institution’s commitment to the enhancement of the modeling and simulation program at the institution of higher education; (b) An identification of designated faculty responsible for the enhancement of the institution’s modeling and simulation program; and (c) A detailed plan for how the grant funds will be used to enhance a modeling and simulation program of the institution. Absolute Priority 2—Establishing Modeling and Simulation Programs. To be considered for a grant under this absolute priority, an eligible institution must propose to establish, or work toward the establishment of, a modeling and simulation program, including a major, minor, career-track, certificate, or concentration program, and must include in its application— (a) A letter from the president or provost of the eligible institution that demonstrates the institution’s E:\FR\FM\24APN1.SGM 24APN1 ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with NOTICES1 Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 78 / Monday, April 24, 2023 / Notices commitment to the establishment of a modeling and simulation program at the institution of higher education; (b) A detailed plan for how the grant funds will be used to establish a modeling and simulation program at the institution; and (c) A description of how the modeling and simulation program established under this priority will complement existing programs and fit into the institution’s current program and course offerings. Invitational Priority: For FY 2023 and any subsequent year in which we make awards from the list of unfunded applications from this competition, this priority is an invitational priority. Under 34 CFR 75.105(c)(1), we do not give an application that meets this invitational priority a competitive or absolute preference over other applications. This priority is: Promoting Equity in Student Access to Educational Resources and Opportunities. Under this priority, an application must demonstrate that the project will be implemented by or in partnership with one or more of the following entities: (a) Community colleges (as defined in this notice). (b) Historically Black colleges and universities (as defined in this notice). (c) Tribal Colleges and Universities (as defined in this notice). (d) Minority-serving institutions (as defined in this notice). Definitions: The definition of ‘‘modeling and simulation’’ is from section 891 of the HEA. The definitions of ‘‘demonstrates a rationale,’’ ‘‘logic model,’’ ‘‘project component,’’ and ‘‘relevant outcome’’ are from 34 CFR 77.1. Community college means ‘‘junior or community college’’ as defined in section 312(f) of the HEA, as amended. Demonstrates a rationale means a key project component included in the project’s logic model is informed by research or evaluation findings that suggest the project component is likely to improve relevant outcomes. Historically Black colleges and universities means colleges and universities that meet the criteria set out in 34 CFR 608.2. Logic model (also referred to as a theory of action) means a framework that identifies key project components of the proposed project (i.e., the active ‘‘ingredients’’ that are hypothesized to be critical to achieving the relevant outcomes) and describes the theoretical and operational relationships among the VerDate Sep<11>2014 18:50 Apr 21, 2023 Jkt 259001 key project components and relevant outcomes. Note: In developing logic models, applicants may want to use resources such as the Regional Educational Laboratory Program’s (REL Pacific) Education Logic Model Application, available at https://ies.ed.gov/ncee/ edlabs/regions/pacific/elm.asp. Other sources include: https://ies.ed.gov/ncee/ edlabs/regions/pacific/pdf/REL_ 2014025.pdf, https://ies.ed.gov/ncee/ edlabs/regions/pacific/pdf/REL_ 2014007.pdf, and https://ies.ed.gov/ ncee/edlabs/regions/northeast/pdf/REL_ 2015057.pdf. Minority-serving institution means an institution that is eligible to receive assistance under sections 316 through 320 of part A of title III, under part B of title III, or under title V of the HEA. Modeling and simulation means a field of study related to the application of computer science and mathematics to develop a level of understanding of the interaction of the parts of a system and of a system as a whole. Project component means an activity, strategy, intervention, process, product, practice, or policy included in a project. Evidence may pertain to an individual project component or to a combination of project components (e.g., training teachers on instructional practices for English learners and follow-on coaching for these teachers). Relevant outcome means the student outcome(s) or other outcome(s) the key project component is designed to improve, consistent with the specific goals of the program. Tribal College or University has the meaning ascribed it in section 316(b)(3) of the HEA. Program Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1161v; 20 U.S.C. 1138–1138d; and the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023 (Pub. L. 117–328). Note: Projects will be awarded and must be operated in a manner consistent with the nondiscrimination requirements contained in Federal civil rights laws. Applicable Regulations: (a) The Education Department General Administrative Regulations in 34 CFR parts 75, 77, 79, 82, 84, 86, 97, 98, and 99. (b) The Office of Management and Budget Guidelines to Agencies on Governmentwide Debarment and Suspension (Nonprocurement) in 2 CFR part 180, as adopted and amended as regulations of the Department in 2 CFR part 3485. (c) The Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards in 2 CFR part 200, as adopted and amended as regulations of the Department in 2 CFR part 3474. PO 00000 Frm 00031 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 24781 II. Award Information Type of Award: Discretionary grant. Estimated Available Funds: $7,920,000. Approximately 50 percent of available funds will be used to fund awards under Absolute Priority 1, and approximately 50 percent of available funds will be used to fund awards under Absolute Priority 2. Contingent upon the availability of funds and the quality of applications, we may make additional awards in subsequent years from the list of unfunded applications from this competition. Estimated Range of Awards: $750,000 to $1,155,000. Estimated Average Size of Awards: $990,000. Maximum Award: We will not make an award exceeding $1,155,000 for the entire budget period of 36 months. Estimated Number of Awards: 8. Note: The Department is not bound by any estimates in this notice. Note: Applicants must set aside sufficient funds to carry out activities related to task force participation. A listing of line-item costs associated with task force activities must include travel for at least two or three grantee representatives for two or three annual meetings to be held in Washington, DC, and/or site visits to organizations using modeling and simulation technologies to help expand awareness, and costs associated with a white paper outlining lessons learned from the enhanced or established modeling and simulation program. Project Period: Up to 36 months. III. Eligibility Information 1. Eligible Applicants: A public or private nonprofit institution of higher education as defined in section 101(a) of the HEA. Applicants must be eligible to apply under either Absolute Priority 1 or Absolute Priority 2 as outlined in the Absolute Priorities section. Applicants applying under Absolute Priority 1 must also be an institution of higher education that has— (a) An established modeling and simulation degree program, including a major, minor, or career-track program; or (b) An established modeling and simulation certificate or concentration program. 2. a. Cost Sharing or Matching: In accordance with the requirements in section 891(c)(1)(D) and (d)(1)(D) of the HEA, each eligible institution receiving a grant under this program must provide, from non-Federal sources, in cash or in-kind, an amount equal to 25 E:\FR\FM\24APN1.SGM 24APN1 24782 Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 78 / Monday, April 24, 2023 / Notices percent of the amount of the grant to carry out the activities supported by the grant. b. Indirect Cost Rate Information: This program uses an unrestricted indirect cost rate. For more information regarding indirect costs, or to obtain a negotiated indirect cost rate, please see www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocfo/ intro.html. c. Administrative Cost Limitation: This program does not include any program-specific limitation on administrative expenses. All administrative expenses must be reasonable and necessary and conform to Cost Principles described in 2 CFR part 200 subpart E of the Uniform Guidance. 3. Subgrantees: A grantee under this competition may not award subgrants to entities to directly carry out project activities described in its application. ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with NOTICES1 IV. Application and Submission Information 1. Application Submission Instructions: Applicants are required to follow the Common Instructions for Applicants to Department of Education Discretionary Grant Programs, published in the Federal Register on December 7, 2022 (87 FR 75045) and available at www.federalregister.gov/d/ 2022-26554, which contain requirements and information on how to submit an application. Please note that these Common Instructions supersede the version published on December 27, 2021. 2. Submission of Proprietary Information: Given the types of projects that may be proposed in applications for the MSP, your application may include business information that you consider proprietary. In 34 CFR 5.11 we define ‘‘business information’’ and describe the process we use in determining whether any of that information is proprietary and, thus, protected from disclosure under Exemption 4 of the Freedom of Information Act (5 U.S.C. 552, as amended). Because we plan to post on our website the application narrative sections of all MSP applications, you may wish to request confidentiality of business information. Consistent with Executive Order 12600, please designate in your application any information that you believe is exempt from disclosure under Exemption 4. In the appropriate Appendix section of your application under ‘‘Other Attachments Form,’’ please list the page number or numbers on which we can find this information. For additional information please see 34 CFR 5.11(c). VerDate Sep<11>2014 18:50 Apr 21, 2023 Jkt 259001 3. Intergovernmental Review: This competition is subject to Executive Order 12372 and the regulations in 34 CFR part 79. Information about Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs under Executive Order 12372 is in the application package for this competition. 4. Funding Restrictions: In accordance with section 891(c)(4) of the HEA, a grant awarded under Absolute Priority 1, Enhancing Modeling and Simulation at Institutions of Higher Education, must be used by an eligible institution to carry out a plan to enhance the modeling and simulation program of the institution, which may include— (a) Introducing activities to assist in the establishment of a major, minor, or career-track modeling and simulation program at the eligible institution; (b) Expanding the multidisciplinary nature of the institution’s modeling and simulation programs; (c) Recruiting students into the field of modeling and simulation through the provision of fellowships or assistantships; (d) Creating new courses to complement existing courses and reflect emerging developments in the modeling and simulation field; (e) Conducting research to support new methodologies and techniques in modeling and simulation; and (f) Purchasing equipment necessary for modeling and simulation programs. In accordance with section 891(d)(3) of the HEA, a grant awarded under Absolute Priority 2, Establishing Modeling and Simulation Programs, may be used by an eligible institution to— (a) Establish, or work toward the establishment of, a modeling and simulation program, including a major, minor, career-track, certificate, or concentration program at the eligible institution; (b) Provide adequate staffing to ensure the successful establishment of the modeling and simulation program, which may include the assignment of full-time dedicated or supportive faculty; and (c) Purchase equipment necessary for modeling and simulation program. We reference additional regulations outlining funding restrictions in the Applicable Regulations section of this notice. 5. Recommended Page Limit: The application narrative is where you, the applicant, address the selection criteria that reviewers use to evaluate your application. We recommend that you (1) limit the application narrative to no more than 50 pages and (2) use the following standards: PO 00000 Frm 00032 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 • A ‘‘page’’ is 8.5″ x 11″, on one side only, with 1″ margins at the top, bottom, and both sides. • Double-space (no more than three lines per vertical inch) all text in the application narrative, including titles, headings, footnotes, quotations, references, and captions, as well as all text in charts, tables, figures, and graphs. • Use a font that is either 12 point or larger, and no smaller than 10 pitch (characters per inch). • Use one of the following fonts: Times New Roman, Courier, Courier New, or Arial. The recommended page limit does not apply to the cover sheet; the budget section, including the narrative budget justification; the assurances and certifications; or the one-page abstract, the resumes, the bibliography, or the letters of support. However, the recommended page limit does apply to all of the application narrative. V. Application Review Information 1. Selection Criteria: The selection criteria for this competition are from 34 CFR 75.210. The points assigned to each criterion are indicated in parentheses next to the criterion. An application may earn up to a total of 100 points based on the selection criteria. All applications will be evaluated based on the selection criteria as follows: (a) Significance. (Maximum 25 points) (1) The Secretary considers the significance of the proposed project. (2) In determining the significance of the proposed project, the Secretary considers the following factors: (i) The extent to which the proposed project is likely to yield findings that may be utilized by other appropriate agencies and organizations. (up to 5 points) (ii) The extent to which the proposed project involves the development or demonstration of promising new strategies that build on, or are alternatives to, existing strategies. (up to 10 points) (iii) The extent to which the results of the proposed project are to be disseminated in ways that will enable others to use the information or strategies. (up to 10 points) (b) Quality of the project design. (Maximum 50 points) (1) The Secretary considers the quality of the design of the proposed project. (2) In determining the quality of the design of the proposed project, the Secretary considers the following factors: (i) The extent to which there is a conceptual framework underlying the E:\FR\FM\24APN1.SGM 24APN1 ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with NOTICES1 Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 78 / Monday, April 24, 2023 / Notices proposed research or demonstration activities and the quality of that framework. (up to 10 points) (ii) The extent to which the proposed activities constitute a coherent, sustained program of training in the field. (up to 10 points) (iii) The extent to which the proposed project is designed to build capacity and yield results that will extend beyond the period of Federal financial assistance. (up to 10 points) (iv) The extent to which the proposed project represents an exceptional approach to the priority or priorities established for the competition. (up to 10 points) (v) The extent to which the proposed project demonstrates a rationale (as defined in this notice). (up to 10 points) (c) Quality of project personnel. (Maximum 5 points) (1) The Secretary considers the quality of the personnel who will carry out the proposed project. (2) In determining the quality of project personnel, the Secretary considers the extent to which the applicant encourages applications for employment from persons who are members of groups that have traditionally been underrepresented based on race, color, national origin, gender, age, or disability. (up to 2 points) (3) In addition, the Secretary considers the qualifications, including relevant training and experience, of the project director or principal investigator. (up to 3 points) (d) Adequacy of resources. (Maximum 5 points) (1) The Secretary considers the adequacy of the resources for the proposed project. (2) In determining the adequacy of resources for the proposed project, the Secretary considers the adequacy of support, including facilities, equipment, supplies, and other resources, from the applicant organization or the lead applicant organization. (e) Quality of the management plan. (Maximum 5 points) (1) The Secretary considers the quality of the management plan for the proposed project. (2) In determining the quality of the management plan for the proposed project, the Secretary considers the extent to which the time commitments of the project director and principal investigator and other key project personnel are appropriate and adequate to meet the objectives of the proposed project. (f) Quality of the project evaluation. (Maximum 10 points) VerDate Sep<11>2014 18:50 Apr 21, 2023 Jkt 259001 (1) The Secretary considers the quality of the evaluation to be conducted of the proposed project. (2) In determining the quality of the evaluation, the Secretary considers the following factors: (i) The extent to which the methods of evaluation are thorough, feasible, and appropriate to the goals, objectives, and outcomes of the proposed project. (up to 5 points) (ii) The extent to which the methods of evaluation will provide performance feedback and permit periodic assessment of progress toward achieving intended outcomes. (up to 5 points) 2. Review and Selection Process: We remind potential applicants that in reviewing applications in any discretionary grant competition, the Secretary may consider, under 34 CFR 75.217(d)(3), the past performance of the applicant in carrying out a previous award, such as the applicant’s use of funds, achievement of project objectives, and compliance with grant conditions. The Secretary may also consider whether the applicant failed to submit a timely performance report or submitted a report of unacceptable quality. In addition, in making a competitive grant award, the Secretary requires various assurances, including those applicable to Federal civil rights laws that prohibit discrimination in programs or activities receiving Federal financial assistance from the Department (34 CFR 100.4, 104.5, 106.4, 108.8, and 110.23). For this competition, a panel of external reviewers will read, prepare a written evaluation of, and score all eligible applications using the selection criteria provided in this notice. The individual scores of the reviewers will be added and the sum divided by the number of reviewers to determine the peer review score. The Department may use more than one tier of reviews in evaluating grantees. The Department will prepare a rank order of applications based solely on the evaluation of their quality according to the selection criteria. In the event there are two or more applications with the same final score in the rank order listing, and there are insufficient funds to fully support each of these applications, the Department will apply the following procedure to determine which application or applications will receive an award: First Tiebreaker: The first tiebreaker will be the highest average score for the selection criterion ‘‘Quality of the Project Design.’’ If a tie remains, the second tiebreaker will be utilized. Second Tiebreaker: The second tiebreaker will be the highest average PO 00000 Frm 00033 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 24783 score for the selection criterion ‘‘Significance.’’ If a tie remains, the third tiebreaker will be utilized. Third Tiebreaker: The third tiebreaker will be the highest average score for the selection criterion ‘‘Quality of the Project Evaluation.’’ If a tie remains, the fourth tiebreaker will be utilized. Fourth Tiebreaker: The fourth tiebreaker will be the highest average score for the selection criterion ‘‘Adequacy of Resources.’’ If a tie remains, the fifth tiebreaker will be utilized. Fifth Tiebreaker: The fifth tiebreaker will be the application that proposes to provide the highest non-Federal share percentage, or the highest total dollar match if non-Federal share percentages are determined to be equal. 3. Risk Assessment and Specific Conditions: Consistent with 2 CFR 200.206, before awarding grants under this competition, the Department conducts a review of the risks posed by applicants. Under 2 CFR 200.208, the Secretary may impose specific conditions and, under 2 CFR 3474.10, in appropriate circumstances, high-risk conditions on a grant if the applicant or grantee is not financially stable; has a history of unsatisfactory performance; has a financial or other management system that does not meet the standards in 2 CFR part 200, subpart D; has not fulfilled the conditions of a prior grant; or is otherwise not responsible. 4. Integrity and Performance System: If you are selected under this competition to receive an award that over the course of the project period may exceed the simplified acquisition threshold (currently $250,000), under 2 CFR 200.206(a)(2) we must make a judgment about your integrity, business ethics, and record of performance under Federal awards—that is, the risk posed by you as an applicant—before we make an award. In doing so, we must consider any information about you that is in the integrity and performance system (currently referred to as the Federal Awardee Performance and Integrity Information System (FAPIIS)), accessible through the System for Award Management. You may review and comment on any information about yourself that a Federal agency previously entered and that is currently in FAPIIS. Please note that, if the total value of your currently active grants, cooperative agreements, and procurement contracts from the Federal Government exceeds $10,000,000, the reporting requirements in 2 CFR part 200, Appendix XII, require you to report certain integrity information to FAPIIS semiannually. Please review the requirements in 2 CFR E:\FR\FM\24APN1.SGM 24APN1 24784 Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 78 / Monday, April 24, 2023 / Notices ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with NOTICES1 part 200, Appendix XII, if this grant plus all the other Federal funds you receive exceed $10,000,000. 5. In General: In accordance with the Office of Management and Budget’s guidance located at 2 CFR part 200, all applicable Federal laws, and relevant Executive guidance, the Department will review and consider applications for funding pursuant to this notice inviting applications in accordance with: (a) Selecting recipients most likely to be successful in delivering results based on the program objectives through an objective process of evaluating Federal award applications (2 CFR 200.205); (b) Prohibiting the purchase of certain telecommunication and video surveillance services or equipment in alignment with section 889 of the National Defense Authorization Act of 2019 (Pub. L. 115—232) (2 CFR 200.216); (c) Providing a preference, to the extent permitted by law, to maximize use of goods, products, and materials produced in the United States (2 CFR 200.322); and (d) Terminating agreements in whole or in part to the greatest extent authorized by law if an award no longer effectuates the program goals or agency priorities (2 CFR 200.340). VI. Award Administration Information 1. Award Notices: If your application is successful, we notify your U.S. Representative and U.S. Senators and send you a Grant Award Notification (GAN); or we may send you an email containing a link to access an electronic version of your GAN. We may notify you informally, also. If your application is not evaluated or not selected for funding, we notify you. 2. Administrative and National Policy Requirements: We identify administrative and national policy requirements in the application package and reference these and other requirements in the Applicable Regulations section of this notice. We reference the regulations outlining the terms and conditions of an award in the Applicable Regulations section of this notice and include these and other specific conditions in the GAN. The GAN also incorporates your approved application as part of your binding commitments under the grant. 3. Open Licensing Requirements: Unless an exception applies, if you are awarded a grant under this competition, you will be required to openly license to the public grant deliverables created in whole, or in part, with Department grant funds. When the deliverable consists of modifications to pre-existing VerDate Sep<11>2014 18:50 Apr 21, 2023 Jkt 259001 works, the license extends only to those modifications that can be separately identified and only to the extent that open licensing is permitted under the terms of any licenses or other legal restrictions on the use of pre-existing works. Additionally, a grantee or subgrantee that is awarded competitive grant funds must have a plan to disseminate these public grant deliverables. This dissemination plan can be developed and submitted after your application has been reviewed and selected for funding. For additional information on the open licensing requirements please refer to 2 CFR 3474.20. 4. Reporting: (a) If you apply for a grant under this competition, you must ensure that you have in place the necessary processes and systems to comply with the reporting requirements in 2 CFR part 170 should you receive funding under the competition. This does not apply if you have an exception under 2 CFR 170.110(b). (b) At the end of your project period, you must submit a final performance report, including financial information, as directed by the Secretary. If you receive a multiyear award, you must submit an annual performance report that provides the most current performance and financial expenditure information as directed by the Secretary under 34 CFR 75.118. The Secretary may also require more frequent performance reports under 34 CFR 75.720(c). For specific requirements on reporting, please go to www.ed.gov/ fund/grant/apply/appforms/ appforms.html. 5. Performance Measures: For the purposes of the Department reporting under 34 CFR 75.110, the Department will use the following performance measures to evaluate the success of the MSP: (a) The number of students enrolled in the established and enhanced modeling and simulation programs, including major, minor, career-track, certificate, and concentration programs. (b) The number of new modeling and simulation courses in established and enhanced programs developed under the MSP that reflect emerging developments in the modeling and simulation field. 6. Continuation Awards: In making a continuation award under 34 CFR 75.253, the Secretary considers, among other things: whether a grantee has made substantial progress in achieving the goals and objectives of the project; whether the grantee has expended funds in a manner that is consistent with its approved application and budget; and, if the Secretary has established PO 00000 Frm 00034 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 9990 performance measurement requirements, whether the grantee has made substantial progress in achieving the performance targets in the grantee’s approved application. In making a continuation award, the Secretary also considers whether the grantee is operating in compliance with the assurances in its approved application, including those applicable to Federal civil rights laws that prohibit discrimination in programs or activities receiving Federal financial assistance from the Department (34 CFR 100.4, 104.5, 106.4, 108.8, and 110.23). VII. Other Information Accessible Format: On request to the program contact person listed under FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT, individuals with disabilities can obtain this document and a copy of the application package in an accessible format. The Department will provide the requestor with an accessible format that may include Rich Text Format (RTF) or text format (txt), a thumb drive, an MP3 file, braille, large print, audiotape, or compact disc, or other accessible format. Electronic Access to This Document: The official version of this document is the document published in the Federal Register. You may access the official edition of the Federal Register and the Code of Federal Regulations at www.govinfo.gov. At this site you can view this document, as well as all other documents of this Department published in the Federal Register, in text or Portable Document Format (PDF). To use PDF you must have Adobe Acrobat Reader, which is available free at the site. You may also access documents of the Department published in the Federal Register by using the article search feature at www.federalregister.gov. Specifically, through the advanced search feature at this site, you can limit your search to documents published by the Department. Nasser H. Paydar, Assistant Secretary for Postsecondary Education. [FR Doc. 2023–08586 Filed 4–21–23; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4000–01–P E:\FR\FM\24APN1.SGM 24APN1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 88, Number 78 (Monday, April 24, 2023)]
[Notices]
[Pages 24780-24784]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2023-08586]


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DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION


Applications for New Awards; Modeling and Simulation Program

AGENCY: Office of Postsecondary Education, Department of Education.

ACTION: Notice.

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SUMMARY: The Department of Education (Department) is issuing a notice 
inviting applications for new awards for fiscal year (FY) 2023 for the 
Modeling and Simulation Program (MSP), Assistance Listing Number 
84.116S. This notice relates to the approved information collection 
under OMB control number 1894-0006.

DATES: 
    Applications Available: April 24, 2023.
    Deadline for Transmittal of Applications: June 23, 2023.
    Deadline for Intergovernmental Review: August 22, 2023.

ADDRESSES: For the addresses for obtaining and submitting an 
application, please refer to our Common Instructions for Applicants to 
Department of Education Discretionary Grant Programs, published in the 
Federal Register on December 7, 2022 (87 FR 75045), and available at 
www.federalregister.gov/d/2022-26554. Please note that these Common 
Instructions supersede the version published on December 27, 2021.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Robin M. Dabney, U.S. Department of 
Education, 400 Maryland Avenue SW, Room 2B117, Washington, DC 20202-
4260. Telephone: (202) 453-7908. Email: [email protected].
    If you are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability and 
wish to access telecommunications relay services, please dial 7-1-1.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Full Text of Announcement

I. Funding Opportunity Description

    Purpose of Program: The MSP is designed to promote the study of 
modeling and simulation at institutions of higher education (IHEs) 
through collaboration with new and existing programs, and specifically 
to promote the use of technology through the creation of accurate 
models that can simulate processes or recreate real life, by--
    (a) Establishing a task force at the Department to raise awareness 
of and define the study of modeling and simulation;
    (b) Providing grants to IHEs to develop new modeling and simulation 
degree programs; and
    (c) Providing grants for IHEs to enhance existing modeling and 
simulation degree programs.
    Background: According to House Report 117-403, which accompanied 
the FY 2023 appropriations bill for the Departments of Labor, Health 
and Human Services, and Education, and related agencies, ``modeling and 
simulation technology has numerous applications for Federal and State 
governments and their partners in the defense, education, gaming, 
shipbuilding, and workforce training sectors, allowing them to generate 
data to help make decisions or predictions about their systems.'' \1\ 
Modeling and simulation programs can develop tools or techniques in 
numerous industries to support education and training where they 
otherwise would be high risk or hazardous in a real-world scenario. 
Programs can also leverage modeling simulation and technology, such as, 
but not limited to, experiential learning models, economic and 
predictive modeling, and advanced data science and analytics. This 
program seeks to fund the development or enhancement of degree programs 
focused on modeling and simulation technology. Through grant support, 
we hope to increase the availability and capacity of such programs in 
today's world. In FY 2022, the Department provided funding to three 
IHEs to develop degree programs in this field. Given the additional 
funding for this program in FY 2023, the Department will fund new 
projects to expand opportunities for students who are interested in 
pursuing this type of degree program.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \1\ H. Rept. 117-403 at p. 291 (2023).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    In addition, under the MSP, a task force provides input into the 
development of curriculum and research on the instructional methods and 
pedagogy needed to further develop modeling and simulation programs. In 
accordance with section 891(b)(1) of the Higher Education Opportunity 
Act of 2008, as amended (HEA), the task force will help to define the 
study of modeling and simulation (including the content of modeling and 
simulation classes and programs), identify best practices for such 
study, identify core knowledge and skills that individuals who 
participate in modeling and simulation programs should acquire, and 
provide recommendations to the Secretary on these topics and on grants 
distribution. Grantees under this program will be members of the task 
force.
    Priorities: This notice contains two absolute priorities and one 
invitational priority. Applicants may only apply under one of the two 
absolute priorities. In accordance with 34 CFR 75.105(b)(2)(iv), the 
absolute priorities are from section 891 of the HEA, 20 U.S.C. 1161v.
    Absolute Priorities: For FY 2023 and any subsequent year in which 
we make awards from the list of unfunded applications from this 
competition, these priorities are absolute priorities. Under 34 CFR 
75.105(c)(3) we consider only applications that meet one of these 
priorities. Applicants must specify which absolute priority they are 
responding to in their application abstract and must respond to each 
element of the selected absolute priority.
    These priorities are:
    Absolute Priority 1--Enhancing Modeling and Simulation at 
Institutions of Higher Education.
    To be considered for a grant under this absolute priority, an 
eligible institution must propose to enhance an existing modeling and 
simulation degree program, including a major, minor, or career-track 
program, or an existing certificate or concentration program, and must 
include in its application--
    (a) A letter from the president or provost of the eligible 
institution that demonstrates the institution's commitment to the 
enhancement of the modeling and simulation program at the institution 
of higher education;
    (b) An identification of designated faculty responsible for the 
enhancement of the institution's modeling and simulation program; and
    (c) A detailed plan for how the grant funds will be used to enhance 
a modeling and simulation program of the institution.
    Absolute Priority 2--Establishing Modeling and Simulation Programs.
    To be considered for a grant under this absolute priority, an 
eligible institution must propose to establish, or work toward the 
establishment of, a modeling and simulation program, including a major, 
minor, career-track, certificate, or concentration program, and must 
include in its application--
    (a) A letter from the president or provost of the eligible 
institution that demonstrates the institution's

[[Page 24781]]

commitment to the establishment of a modeling and simulation program at 
the institution of higher education;
    (b) A detailed plan for how the grant funds will be used to 
establish a modeling and simulation program at the institution; and
    (c) A description of how the modeling and simulation program 
established under this priority will complement existing programs and 
fit into the institution's current program and course offerings.
    Invitational Priority: For FY 2023 and any subsequent year in which 
we make awards from the list of unfunded applications from this 
competition, this priority is an invitational priority. Under 34 CFR 
75.105(c)(1), we do not give an application that meets this 
invitational priority a competitive or absolute preference over other 
applications.
    This priority is:
    Promoting Equity in Student Access to Educational Resources and 
Opportunities.
    Under this priority, an application must demonstrate that the 
project will be implemented by or in partnership with one or more of 
the following entities:
    (a) Community colleges (as defined in this notice).
    (b) Historically Black colleges and universities (as defined in 
this notice).
    (c) Tribal Colleges and Universities (as defined in this notice).
    (d) Minority-serving institutions (as defined in this notice).
    Definitions: The definition of ``modeling and simulation'' is from 
section 891 of the HEA. The definitions of ``demonstrates a 
rationale,'' ``logic model,'' ``project component,'' and ``relevant 
outcome'' are from 34 CFR 77.1.
    Community college means ``junior or community college'' as defined 
in section 312(f) of the HEA, as amended.
    Demonstrates a rationale means a key project component included in 
the project's logic model is informed by research or evaluation 
findings that suggest the project component is likely to improve 
relevant outcomes.
    Historically Black colleges and universities means colleges and 
universities that meet the criteria set out in 34 CFR 608.2.
    Logic model (also referred to as a theory of action) means a 
framework that identifies key project components of the proposed 
project (i.e., the active ``ingredients'' that are hypothesized to be 
critical to achieving the relevant outcomes) and describes the 
theoretical and operational relationships among the key project 
components and relevant outcomes.
    Note: In developing logic models, applicants may want to use 
resources such as the Regional Educational Laboratory Program's (REL 
Pacific) Education Logic Model Application, available at https://ies.ed.gov/ncee/edlabs/regions/pacific/elm.asp. Other sources include: 
https://ies.ed.gov/ncee/edlabs/regions/pacific/pdf/REL_2014025.pdf, 
https://ies.ed.gov/ncee/edlabs/regions/pacific/pdf/REL_2014007.pdf, and 
https://ies.ed.gov/ncee/edlabs/regions/northeast/pdf/REL_2015057.pdf.
    Minority-serving institution means an institution that is eligible 
to receive assistance under sections 316 through 320 of part A of title 
III, under part B of title III, or under title V of the HEA.
    Modeling and simulation means a field of study related to the 
application of computer science and mathematics to develop a level of 
understanding of the interaction of the parts of a system and of a 
system as a whole.
    Project component means an activity, strategy, intervention, 
process, product, practice, or policy included in a project. Evidence 
may pertain to an individual project component or to a combination of 
project components (e.g., training teachers on instructional practices 
for English learners and follow-on coaching for these teachers).
    Relevant outcome means the student outcome(s) or other outcome(s) 
the key project component is designed to improve, consistent with the 
specific goals of the program.
    Tribal College or University has the meaning ascribed it in section 
316(b)(3) of the HEA.
    Program Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1161v; 20 U.S.C. 1138-1138d; and the 
Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023 (Pub. L. 117-328).
    Note: Projects will be awarded and must be operated in a manner 
consistent with the nondiscrimination requirements contained in Federal 
civil rights laws.
    Applicable Regulations: (a) The Education Department General 
Administrative Regulations in 34 CFR parts 75, 77, 79, 82, 84, 86, 97, 
98, and 99. (b) The Office of Management and Budget Guidelines to 
Agencies on Governmentwide Debarment and Suspension (Nonprocurement) in 
2 CFR part 180, as adopted and amended as regulations of the Department 
in 2 CFR part 3485. (c) The Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost 
Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards in 2 CFR part 
200, as adopted and amended as regulations of the Department in 2 CFR 
part 3474.

II. Award Information

    Type of Award: Discretionary grant.
    Estimated Available Funds: $7,920,000.
    Approximately 50 percent of available funds will be used to fund 
awards under Absolute Priority 1, and approximately 50 percent of 
available funds will be used to fund awards under Absolute Priority 2.
    Contingent upon the availability of funds and the quality of 
applications, we may make additional awards in subsequent years from 
the list of unfunded applications from this competition.
    Estimated Range of Awards: $750,000 to $1,155,000.
    Estimated Average Size of Awards: $990,000.
    Maximum Award: We will not make an award exceeding $1,155,000 for 
the entire budget period of 36 months.
    Estimated Number of Awards: 8.
    Note: The Department is not bound by any estimates in this notice.
    Note: Applicants must set aside sufficient funds to carry out 
activities related to task force participation. A listing of line-item 
costs associated with task force activities must include travel for at 
least two or three grantee representatives for two or three annual 
meetings to be held in Washington, DC, and/or site visits to 
organizations using modeling and simulation technologies to help expand 
awareness, and costs associated with a white paper outlining lessons 
learned from the enhanced or established modeling and simulation 
program.
    Project Period: Up to 36 months.

III. Eligibility Information

    1. Eligible Applicants: A public or private nonprofit institution 
of higher education as defined in section 101(a) of the HEA. Applicants 
must be eligible to apply under either Absolute Priority 1 or Absolute 
Priority 2 as outlined in the Absolute Priorities section. Applicants 
applying under Absolute Priority 1 must also be an institution of 
higher education that has--
    (a) An established modeling and simulation degree program, 
including a major, minor, or career-track program; or
    (b) An established modeling and simulation certificate or 
concentration program.
    2. a. Cost Sharing or Matching: In accordance with the requirements 
in section 891(c)(1)(D) and (d)(1)(D) of the HEA, each eligible 
institution receiving a grant under this program must provide, from 
non-Federal sources, in cash or in-kind, an amount equal to 25

[[Page 24782]]

percent of the amount of the grant to carry out the activities 
supported by the grant.
    b. Indirect Cost Rate Information: This program uses an 
unrestricted indirect cost rate. For more information regarding 
indirect costs, or to obtain a negotiated indirect cost rate, please 
see www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocfo/intro.html.
    c. Administrative Cost Limitation: This program does not include 
any program-specific limitation on administrative expenses. All 
administrative expenses must be reasonable and necessary and conform to 
Cost Principles described in 2 CFR part 200 subpart E of the Uniform 
Guidance.
    3. Subgrantees: A grantee under this competition may not award 
subgrants to entities to directly carry out project activities 
described in its application.

IV. Application and Submission Information

    1. Application Submission Instructions: Applicants are required to 
follow the Common Instructions for Applicants to Department of 
Education Discretionary Grant Programs, published in the Federal 
Register on December 7, 2022 (87 FR 75045) and available at 
www.federalregister.gov/d/2022-26554, which contain requirements and 
information on how to submit an application. Please note that these 
Common Instructions supersede the version published on December 27, 
2021.
    2. Submission of Proprietary Information: Given the types of 
projects that may be proposed in applications for the MSP, your 
application may include business information that you consider 
proprietary. In 34 CFR 5.11 we define ``business information'' and 
describe the process we use in determining whether any of that 
information is proprietary and, thus, protected from disclosure under 
Exemption 4 of the Freedom of Information Act (5 U.S.C. 552, as 
amended). Because we plan to post on our website the application 
narrative sections of all MSP applications, you may wish to request 
confidentiality of business information.
    Consistent with Executive Order 12600, please designate in your 
application any information that you believe is exempt from disclosure 
under Exemption 4. In the appropriate Appendix section of your 
application under ``Other Attachments Form,'' please list the page 
number or numbers on which we can find this information. For additional 
information please see 34 CFR 5.11(c).
    3. Intergovernmental Review: This competition is subject to 
Executive Order 12372 and the regulations in 34 CFR part 79. 
Information about Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs under 
Executive Order 12372 is in the application package for this 
competition.
    4. Funding Restrictions: In accordance with section 891(c)(4) of 
the HEA, a grant awarded under Absolute Priority 1, Enhancing Modeling 
and Simulation at Institutions of Higher Education, must be used by an 
eligible institution to carry out a plan to enhance the modeling and 
simulation program of the institution, which may include--
    (a) Introducing activities to assist in the establishment of a 
major, minor, or career-track modeling and simulation program at the 
eligible institution;
    (b) Expanding the multidisciplinary nature of the institution's 
modeling and simulation programs;
    (c) Recruiting students into the field of modeling and simulation 
through the provision of fellowships or assistantships;
    (d) Creating new courses to complement existing courses and reflect 
emerging developments in the modeling and simulation field;
    (e) Conducting research to support new methodologies and techniques 
in modeling and simulation; and
    (f) Purchasing equipment necessary for modeling and simulation 
programs.
    In accordance with section 891(d)(3) of the HEA, a grant awarded 
under Absolute Priority 2, Establishing Modeling and Simulation 
Programs, may be used by an eligible institution to--
    (a) Establish, or work toward the establishment of, a modeling and 
simulation program, including a major, minor, career-track, 
certificate, or concentration program at the eligible institution;
    (b) Provide adequate staffing to ensure the successful 
establishment of the modeling and simulation program, which may include 
the assignment of full-time dedicated or supportive faculty; and
    (c) Purchase equipment necessary for modeling and simulation 
program.
    We reference additional regulations outlining funding restrictions 
in the Applicable Regulations section of this notice.
    5. Recommended Page Limit: The application narrative is where you, 
the applicant, address the selection criteria that reviewers use to 
evaluate your application. We recommend that you (1) limit the 
application narrative to no more than 50 pages and (2) use the 
following standards:
     A ``page'' is 8.5'' x 11'', on one side only, with 1'' 
margins at the top, bottom, and both sides.
     Double-space (no more than three lines per vertical inch) 
all text in the application narrative, including titles, headings, 
footnotes, quotations, references, and captions, as well as all text in 
charts, tables, figures, and graphs.
     Use a font that is either 12 point or larger, and no 
smaller than 10 pitch (characters per inch).
     Use one of the following fonts: Times New Roman, Courier, 
Courier New, or Arial.
    The recommended page limit does not apply to the cover sheet; the 
budget section, including the narrative budget justification; the 
assurances and certifications; or the one-page abstract, the resumes, 
the bibliography, or the letters of support. However, the recommended 
page limit does apply to all of the application narrative.

V. Application Review Information

    1. Selection Criteria: The selection criteria for this competition 
are from 34 CFR 75.210. The points assigned to each criterion are 
indicated in parentheses next to the criterion. An application may earn 
up to a total of 100 points based on the selection criteria. All 
applications will be evaluated based on the selection criteria as 
follows:
    (a) Significance. (Maximum 25 points)
    (1) The Secretary considers the significance of the proposed 
project.
    (2) In determining the significance of the proposed project, the 
Secretary considers the following factors:
    (i) The extent to which the proposed project is likely to yield 
findings that may be utilized by other appropriate agencies and 
organizations. (up to 5 points)
    (ii) The extent to which the proposed project involves the 
development or demonstration of promising new strategies that build on, 
or are alternatives to, existing strategies. (up to 10 points)
    (iii) The extent to which the results of the proposed project are 
to be disseminated in ways that will enable others to use the 
information or strategies. (up to 10 points)
    (b) Quality of the project design. (Maximum 50 points)
    (1) The Secretary considers the quality of the design of the 
proposed project.
    (2) In determining the quality of the design of the proposed 
project, the Secretary considers the following factors:
    (i) The extent to which there is a conceptual framework underlying 
the

[[Page 24783]]

proposed research or demonstration activities and the quality of that 
framework. (up to 10 points)
    (ii) The extent to which the proposed activities constitute a 
coherent, sustained program of training in the field. (up to 10 points)
    (iii) The extent to which the proposed project is designed to build 
capacity and yield results that will extend beyond the period of 
Federal financial assistance. (up to 10 points)
    (iv) The extent to which the proposed project represents an 
exceptional approach to the priority or priorities established for the 
competition. (up to 10 points)
    (v) The extent to which the proposed project demonstrates a 
rationale (as defined in this notice). (up to 10 points)
    (c) Quality of project personnel. (Maximum 5 points)
    (1) The Secretary considers the quality of the personnel who will 
carry out the proposed project.
    (2) In determining the quality of project personnel, the Secretary 
considers the extent to which the applicant encourages applications for 
employment from persons who are members of groups that have 
traditionally been underrepresented based on race, color, national 
origin, gender, age, or disability. (up to 2 points)
    (3) In addition, the Secretary considers the qualifications, 
including relevant training and experience, of the project director or 
principal investigator. (up to 3 points)
    (d) Adequacy of resources. (Maximum 5 points)
    (1) The Secretary considers the adequacy of the resources for the 
proposed project.
    (2) In determining the adequacy of resources for the proposed 
project, the Secretary considers the adequacy of support, including 
facilities, equipment, supplies, and other resources, from the 
applicant organization or the lead applicant organization.
    (e) Quality of the management plan. (Maximum 5 points)
    (1) The Secretary considers the quality of the management plan for 
the proposed project.
    (2) In determining the quality of the management plan for the 
proposed project, the Secretary considers the extent to which the time 
commitments of the project director and principal investigator and 
other key project personnel are appropriate and adequate to meet the 
objectives of the proposed project.
    (f) Quality of the project evaluation. (Maximum 10 points)
    (1) The Secretary considers the quality of the evaluation to be 
conducted of the proposed project.
    (2) In determining the quality of the evaluation, the Secretary 
considers the following factors:
    (i) The extent to which the methods of evaluation are thorough, 
feasible, and appropriate to the goals, objectives, and outcomes of the 
proposed project. (up to 5 points)
    (ii) The extent to which the methods of evaluation will provide 
performance feedback and permit periodic assessment of progress toward 
achieving intended outcomes. (up to 5 points)
    2. Review and Selection Process: We remind potential applicants 
that in reviewing applications in any discretionary grant competition, 
the Secretary may consider, under 34 CFR 75.217(d)(3), the past 
performance of the applicant in carrying out a previous award, such as 
the applicant's use of funds, achievement of project objectives, and 
compliance with grant conditions. The Secretary may also consider 
whether the applicant failed to submit a timely performance report or 
submitted a report of unacceptable quality.
    In addition, in making a competitive grant award, the Secretary 
requires various assurances, including those applicable to Federal 
civil rights laws that prohibit discrimination in programs or 
activities receiving Federal financial assistance from the Department 
(34 CFR 100.4, 104.5, 106.4, 108.8, and 110.23).
    For this competition, a panel of external reviewers will read, 
prepare a written evaluation of, and score all eligible applications 
using the selection criteria provided in this notice. The individual 
scores of the reviewers will be added and the sum divided by the number 
of reviewers to determine the peer review score. The Department may use 
more than one tier of reviews in evaluating grantees. The Department 
will prepare a rank order of applications based solely on the 
evaluation of their quality according to the selection criteria.
    In the event there are two or more applications with the same final 
score in the rank order listing, and there are insufficient funds to 
fully support each of these applications, the Department will apply the 
following procedure to determine which application or applications will 
receive an award:
    First Tiebreaker: The first tiebreaker will be the highest average 
score for the selection criterion ``Quality of the Project Design.'' If 
a tie remains, the second tiebreaker will be utilized.
    Second Tiebreaker: The second tiebreaker will be the highest 
average score for the selection criterion ``Significance.'' If a tie 
remains, the third tiebreaker will be utilized.
    Third Tiebreaker: The third tiebreaker will be the highest average 
score for the selection criterion ``Quality of the Project 
Evaluation.'' If a tie remains, the fourth tiebreaker will be utilized.
    Fourth Tiebreaker: The fourth tiebreaker will be the highest 
average score for the selection criterion ``Adequacy of Resources.'' If 
a tie remains, the fifth tiebreaker will be utilized.
    Fifth Tiebreaker: The fifth tiebreaker will be the application that 
proposes to provide the highest non-Federal share percentage, or the 
highest total dollar match if non-Federal share percentages are 
determined to be equal.
    3. Risk Assessment and Specific Conditions: Consistent with 2 CFR 
200.206, before awarding grants under this competition, the Department 
conducts a review of the risks posed by applicants. Under 2 CFR 
200.208, the Secretary may impose specific conditions and, under 2 CFR 
3474.10, in appropriate circumstances, high-risk conditions on a grant 
if the applicant or grantee is not financially stable; has a history of 
unsatisfactory performance; has a financial or other management system 
that does not meet the standards in 2 CFR part 200, subpart D; has not 
fulfilled the conditions of a prior grant; or is otherwise not 
responsible.
    4. Integrity and Performance System: If you are selected under this 
competition to receive an award that over the course of the project 
period may exceed the simplified acquisition threshold (currently 
$250,000), under 2 CFR 200.206(a)(2) we must make a judgment about your 
integrity, business ethics, and record of performance under Federal 
awards--that is, the risk posed by you as an applicant--before we make 
an award. In doing so, we must consider any information about you that 
is in the integrity and performance system (currently referred to as 
the Federal Awardee Performance and Integrity Information System 
(FAPIIS)), accessible through the System for Award Management. You may 
review and comment on any information about yourself that a Federal 
agency previously entered and that is currently in FAPIIS.
    Please note that, if the total value of your currently active 
grants, cooperative agreements, and procurement contracts from the 
Federal Government exceeds $10,000,000, the reporting requirements in 2 
CFR part 200, Appendix XII, require you to report certain integrity 
information to FAPIIS semiannually. Please review the requirements in 2 
CFR

[[Page 24784]]

part 200, Appendix XII, if this grant plus all the other Federal funds 
you receive exceed $10,000,000.
    5. In General: In accordance with the Office of Management and 
Budget's guidance located at 2 CFR part 200, all applicable Federal 
laws, and relevant Executive guidance, the Department will review and 
consider applications for funding pursuant to this notice inviting 
applications in accordance with:
    (a) Selecting recipients most likely to be successful in delivering 
results based on the program objectives through an objective process of 
evaluating Federal award applications (2 CFR 200.205);
    (b) Prohibiting the purchase of certain telecommunication and video 
surveillance services or equipment in alignment with section 889 of the 
National Defense Authorization Act of 2019 (Pub. L. 115--232) (2 CFR 
200.216);
    (c) Providing a preference, to the extent permitted by law, to 
maximize use of goods, products, and materials produced in the United 
States (2 CFR 200.322); and
    (d) Terminating agreements in whole or in part to the greatest 
extent authorized by law if an award no longer effectuates the program 
goals or agency priorities (2 CFR 200.340).

VI. Award Administration Information

    1. Award Notices: If your application is successful, we notify your 
U.S. Representative and U.S. Senators and send you a Grant Award 
Notification (GAN); or we may send you an email containing a link to 
access an electronic version of your GAN. We may notify you informally, 
also.
    If your application is not evaluated or not selected for funding, 
we notify you.
    2. Administrative and National Policy Requirements: We identify 
administrative and national policy requirements in the application 
package and reference these and other requirements in the Applicable 
Regulations section of this notice.
    We reference the regulations outlining the terms and conditions of 
an award in the Applicable Regulations section of this notice and 
include these and other specific conditions in the GAN. The GAN also 
incorporates your approved application as part of your binding 
commitments under the grant.
    3. Open Licensing Requirements: Unless an exception applies, if you 
are awarded a grant under this competition, you will be required to 
openly license to the public grant deliverables created in whole, or in 
part, with Department grant funds. When the deliverable consists of 
modifications to pre-existing works, the license extends only to those 
modifications that can be separately identified and only to the extent 
that open licensing is permitted under the terms of any licenses or 
other legal restrictions on the use of pre-existing works. 
Additionally, a grantee or subgrantee that is awarded competitive grant 
funds must have a plan to disseminate these public grant deliverables. 
This dissemination plan can be developed and submitted after your 
application has been reviewed and selected for funding. For additional 
information on the open licensing requirements please refer to 2 CFR 
3474.20.
    4. Reporting: (a) If you apply for a grant under this competition, 
you must ensure that you have in place the necessary processes and 
systems to comply with the reporting requirements in 2 CFR part 170 
should you receive funding under the competition. This does not apply 
if you have an exception under 2 CFR 170.110(b).
    (b) At the end of your project period, you must submit a final 
performance report, including financial information, as directed by the 
Secretary. If you receive a multiyear award, you must submit an annual 
performance report that provides the most current performance and 
financial expenditure information as directed by the Secretary under 34 
CFR 75.118. The Secretary may also require more frequent performance 
reports under 34 CFR 75.720(c). For specific requirements on reporting, 
please go to www.ed.gov/fund/grant/apply/appforms/appforms.html.
    5. Performance Measures: For the purposes of the Department 
reporting under 34 CFR 75.110, the Department will use the following 
performance measures to evaluate the success of the MSP:
    (a) The number of students enrolled in the established and enhanced 
modeling and simulation programs, including major, minor, career-track, 
certificate, and concentration programs.
    (b) The number of new modeling and simulation courses in 
established and enhanced programs developed under the MSP that reflect 
emerging developments in the modeling and simulation field.
    6. Continuation Awards: In making a continuation award under 34 CFR 
75.253, the Secretary considers, among other things: whether a grantee 
has made substantial progress in achieving the goals and objectives of 
the project; whether the grantee has expended funds in a manner that is 
consistent with its approved application and budget; and, if the 
Secretary has established performance measurement requirements, whether 
the grantee has made substantial progress in achieving the performance 
targets in the grantee's approved application.
    In making a continuation award, the Secretary also considers 
whether the grantee is operating in compliance with the assurances in 
its approved application, including those applicable to Federal civil 
rights laws that prohibit discrimination in programs or activities 
receiving Federal financial assistance from the Department (34 CFR 
100.4, 104.5, 106.4, 108.8, and 110.23).

VII. Other Information

    Accessible Format: On request to the program contact person listed 
under FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT, individuals with disabilities 
can obtain this document and a copy of the application package in an 
accessible format. The Department will provide the requestor with an 
accessible format that may include Rich Text Format (RTF) or text 
format (txt), a thumb drive, an MP3 file, braille, large print, 
audiotape, or compact disc, or other accessible format.
    Electronic Access to This Document: The official version of this 
document is the document published in the Federal Register. You may 
access the official edition of the Federal Register and the Code of 
Federal Regulations at www.govinfo.gov. At this site you can view this 
document, as well as all other documents of this Department published 
in the Federal Register, in text or Portable Document Format (PDF). To 
use PDF you must have Adobe Acrobat Reader, which is available free at 
the site.
    You may also access documents of the Department published in the 
Federal Register by using the article search feature at 
www.federalregister.gov. Specifically, through the advanced search 
feature at this site, you can limit your search to documents published 
by the Department.

Nasser H. Paydar,
Assistant Secretary for Postsecondary Education.
[FR Doc. 2023-08586 Filed 4-21-23; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4000-01-P


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