Arkansas Administrative Code
Agency 016 - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES
Division 10 - Division of Services for the Blind
Rule 016.10.10-001 - 2010 Vocational Rehabilitation State Plan

Section 1: State Certifications

Section 2: Public Comment on State Plan Policies and Procedures

Section 3: Submission of the State Plan and its Supplement

Section 4: Administration of the State Plan

Section 5: Administration of the Provision of Vocational Rehabilitation Services

Section 6: Program Administration

Section 7: Financial Administration

Section 8: Provision of Supported Employment Services

Additional Information: Cooperation with Agencies within the Statewide Workforce Investment System

The DSB Director serves on the Governor's Arkansas Workforce Investment Board, which meets quarterly, and DSB's VR Counselors attend quarterly meetings of local Workforce Investment Area Boards across the State. Cooperative agreements between DSB and local Workforce Investment Boards are periodically reviewed and updated as necessary. In a new effort, DSB is collaborating with Workforce to place accessible kiosks in 10 Workforce Services centers to better serve people who are blind or visually impaired. DHS will use part of American Recovery and Reinvestment (ARRA) funds to purchase the computers, software and other equipment necessary for the accessible kiosks.

Coordination with Education Officials {Attachment 4.8(b) (2)}

Institutions of Higher Education

DSB and Arkansas Rehabilitation Services (ARS) have jointly developed agreements with the 33 two and four year public institutions of higher education (IHE). Twenty-nine of these institutions have signed the agreements. Four are pending signatures, and receipt is anticipated in early FY 2010.

State Independent Living Council Appointments

The State Independent Living Council (SILC) was properly constituted as of July, 2009, and assurance thereof has been provided to RSA.

Secondary Education

DSB counselors assist in developing and approving Individual Plans for Employment (TPE's) before each student determined to be eligible for vocational rehabilitation services leaves the school setting. Directive 08-06 was sent August 5, 2008 to field staff to remind them of the importance of developing IPE's for students transitioning from high school to secondary education or employment and to complete the IPE before the student's graduation.

DSB maintains an interagency agreement with the Arkansas Department of Education, Special Education, regarding transition services to students who are blind or severely visually impaired and are in public schools, including Arkansas School for the Blind (ASB). The interagency agreement with the Department of Education outlines the roles and responsibilities, financial responsibility, determination of lead agency, and qualified personnel.

DSB is a charter member of the Arkansas Interagency Transition Partnership (AITP), which has approximately 22 member agencies and is coordinated by Arkansas Transition Services in affiliation with the Arkansas Department of Education, Special Education Unit. AITP meets quarterly to discuss transition issues and coordinate services among the member agencies. The DSB Transition Coordinator expects that the state-level quarterly meetings will resume since its director/facilitator has returned, and any of the local AITP workgroups or teams who have gone inactive in their school districts will be encouraged to renew their work efforts. The local workgroups were formed during the past Transition Summits. The next Transition Summit will be in October, 2009, and DSB will again require VR Counselors to attend.

Secondary schools invite DSB to Individualized Education Plan (TEP) meetings to be part of the planning team to assist education agencies in preparing students who are blind or severely visually impaired for transition from school to post-school activities, such as employment, training, supported employment, and other VR services. The IEP outlines the roles and responsibilities of DSB, the student, the school, and any other agency/organization involved in providing transition services.

In regard to the development and approval of Individual Plans for Employment (IPE), all DSB consumers, including transition students, receive services based upon their IPE. The counselor and the consumer and/or a representative, as appropriate, develop the IPE jointly and mutually approve its contents. The IPE must be designed to achieve the specific employment outcome chosen by the individual and be consistent with the individual's unique strengths, resources, priorities, concerns, abilities, capabilities, career interests, and informed choice. The services, service providers, and all activities selected by the consumer must be necessary to meet the employment outcome goal. The VR Counselor communicates with the consumer and other service providers, such as ARS, to avoid duplication of services and to ensure that comparable benefits are considered.

DSB collaborated with the University of Arkansas Center for the Utilization of Rehabilitation Resources for Education, Networking, Training, and Service (CURRENTS) and four other states in the development of an online training module for VR Counselors and mid-level management, which is expected to go online in FY 2010 on CURRENTS' web site. The group established the Transition Learning Collaborative (TLC) to share information and resources to improve transition at the state level.

CURRENTS staff researches student data collection and analysis models used in other states and shares them with the states in the TLC collaborative. The group identifies effective practices through its regional resource guide and its monthly transition teleconferences and at a face-to-face meeting held in February 2009 in San Antonio.

Responsibilities

DSB is both a DSU and a DSA. DSB is also a division within the Department of Human Services. DSB has an RSA-approved agreement with the Department of Education/Special Education, which provides information on financial responsibilities, the lead agency, and qualified personnel.

Outreach Procedures

Field Services Directive 08-06 was developed for contacting schools and distributing information at least semi-annually. Per the directive, each DSB regional office maintains a contact list for all secondary schools in its service area and sends letters and information to contacts on the list. This process gives schools a pathway for increased communications with DSB.

Cooperative Agreements with Private Nonprofit Organizations

{Attachment 4.8(b)(3)}

DSB has been a long-standing partner with the Deaf/Blind Consortium, which has changed its name to the Arkansas Deafblindness Project. DSB serves on the Arkansas Advisory Committee for the Deafblindness Project, which provides training for parents and professionals to foster stronger partnerships among agencies who work with this population. The Deafblind Project's grant has been extended to run through September 2013. DSB is an affiliate of the Helen Keller National Center.

Manner in Which DSB Establishes Cooperative Agreements

Cooperative agreements are developed in response to:

Arrangements and Cooperative Agreements for the Provision of Supported Employment Services

{Attachment 4.8(b) (4)}

DSB, Arkansas Rehabilitation Services (ARS), the DHS Division of Developmental Disabilities Services (DDS), the DHS Division of Behavioral Health Services (BHS), and the Arkansas Department of Education (ADE), Special Education Unit (SEU), Transition Unit are partners in a cooperative agreement outlining responsibilities and the provision of services, including Supported Employment, to transition-aged consumers. The agreement produced an interagency steering committee which works on Supported Employment issues. The steering committee is facilitated by the Employ Ability Project, which is a grant program housed in the DHS Division of Aging and Adult Services.

DSB collaborates with ARS and other agencies to interest Community Rehabilitation Providers (CRP's) in assisting with Supported Employment services such as job assessment, job adjustment, On-the-job Training (OJT), placement, and transition services.

DSB coordinates with over 20 agencies, non-profits and consumers on the Medicaid Infrastructure Grant (MIG) Advisory Committee. The MIG Project has had its grant renewed with funding running through 2011. The MIG Project works to:

* reduce barriers to Supported Employment;

* recruit more SE providers;

* reduce barriers to employment in other systems, such as workforce, special education, etc.;

* improve cooperation and collaboration among agencies and organizations;

* improve community outreach about the Medicaid Buy-In and other work incentives;

* publicize positive stories about individuals who are blind or severely visually impaired and/or have other disabilities, but who are also successfully employed;

* encourage changes in the Medicaid system to support employment, such as making Medicaid user-friendly to individuals who work; and

* offer training to VR Counselors regarding accessing these Medicaid programs and advocating with DHS county Medicaid workers to assist consumer's through the application process.

DSB anticipates the Employ Ability Project training DSB staff at its annual statewide conference on changes in programs related to benefits and work. In addition to staff updates, DSB invites Employ Ability Project staff to do presentations to transition students in DSB's Jump Start program about balancing benefits and work. The Employ Ability Project and DSB have resumed an effort that was started last year to increase the number of SE providers willing to serve DSB consumers. Previously, the Employ Ability Project provided DSB with a list of SE providers serving ARS and other agencies, which DSB reviewed to determine which providers might be appropriate for its consumers. DSB surveyed VR Counselors to gather information about the SE providers in their areas and the quality of the SE services from the providers. Results showed the need for more providers and the dissatisfaction with the quality and outcome of services of current providers. The survey also revealed more SE training is needed for VR Counselors.

DSB uses a performance-based reimbursement system for services provided by Community Rehabilitation Programs located around the state.

Extended Services

As with the rest of the nation, DSB is struggling to secure CRPs willing to provide extended services. In FY 2010, DSB will continue the current initiative with the Interagency Steering Committee and CRPs to develop a network of CRPs committed to the provision of ongoing support.

Comprehensive System of Personnel Development

{Attachment 4.10}

The Arkansas Division of State Services for the Blind (DSB) supports a Comprehensive System of Personnel Development (CSPD) as required by Section 101(a)(7) of the Rehabilitation Act Amendments of 1992. DSB's CSPD Plan is aimed at securing and maintaining an adequate supply of qualified rehabilitation professionals and paraprofessionals to provide Rehabilitation services to blind and severely visually impaired individuals. DSB requires VR Counselors to be certified by the Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification (CRCC) or at minimum be qualified to be certified and working toward certification. DSB requires Rehabilitation Teachers to be certified by the Academy for Certification of Vision Rehabilitation and Education Professionals (ACVREP) or at minimum be qualified to be certified and working toward certification. These state standards are consistent with national standards requiring recognized certifications for personnel providing vocational Rehabilitation services.

Procedures for evaluating progress

Progress by staff to meet CSPD standards is monitored by the Training Coordinator, the Chief of Field Services, and area Field Supervisors. The Training Coordinator reports to the Field Administrator monthly on CSPD progress and produces an annual report to the Director. An employee that declares retirement receives a lower priority in attaining the CSPD standard, but is required to complete to complete a course which will increase expertise but not satisfy the federal requirement. Newly hired counselors have established timeframes (three years from date of hire) to meet the requirements or face reclassification and demotion or other measures. Vocational Rehabilitation Counselors receive priority in training for CSPD requirements, and Rehabilitation Teachers for the Blind are given second priority.

Data System on Personnel and Personnel Development Qualified Personnel Needs

{Attachment 4.10(a) (1)}

Currently, DSB has 66 employees (20 of whom are from minority backgrounds and 10 individuals who are blind and severely visually impaired) providing services to a total of 1,985 consumers; 1,316 of whom are vocational rehabilitation clients including individuals with most significant disabilities and individuals with multiple disabilities. Currently, DSB has 75 authorized positions and 14 extra help positions. In Counseling and Guidance, there are currently 13 Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor positions (3 of whom are CRC and 1 CRC Eligible) and 12 Rehabilitation Teacher for the Blind positions (4 certified by ACVREP). This provides a consumer - VR Counselor ratio of 101 to one per year. The remaining VR staff includes the following:

1 - Counseling and Guidance - Chief of Field Services

5 - Counseling and Guidance Staff - Rehabilitation Field Supervisors

10 -Business and Technology Staff (1 Business and Technology Director, 1 Vending

Facility Specialist, 1 Braille Transcriber/Volunteer Coordinator, 4 Technology

Specialists, 1 Vending Accounting Supervisor, 1 Accounting Tech II, and 1

Administrative Office Supervisor)

12 - Support - Rehabilitation Assistant II 5 - Support - Administrative Assistant I

13 -Administration Staff (1 DSB Director,; 1 DSB Assistant Director, 1 Chief Fiscal Officer, 1 Policy Developer, 1 Staff Development Coordinator, 1 Vocational Instructor III, 2 Administrative Assistant IFs, 1 Arkansas Information Reading Services Director, 1 Accounting Tech II, 1 Blind Services Information Systems Data Manager, 1 Case Manager, 1 Executive Assistant, and 1 Accountant)

DSB has 9 vacant regular positions. In addition, DSB has 14 Extra Help positions, 2 of which are filled. DSB also anticipates hiring five job developers and five job coaches in temporary positions using American Recovery and Reinvestment (ARRA) funds.

DSB anticipates that 3 to 5 replacement VR Counselors will be needed over the next five years to provide vocational rehabilitation services to individuals who are blind and severely visually impaired, including individuals with significant disabilities. It is anticipated that 4 to 6 staff will retire or leave the field for other positions outside the field of Rehabilitation.

Personnel Development {Attachment 4.10(a) (2)}

The following institutions of higher education have programs preparing vocational rehabilitation professionals:

The University of Arkansas at Little Rock (UALR) has two Masters programs for preparing vocational rehabilitation professionals, a Masters in Rehabilitation Teaching (MRT) and a Masters in Rehabilitation Counseling Education (RCE) with Emphasis in Rehabilitation Counseling. The MRT also offers an Emphasis in Orientation and Mobility. Both programs are housed in the Counseling, Adult and Rehabilitation Education (CARE) degree Masters of Arts. Currently, two DSB staff, including one person with a disability, are enrolled in these programs.

The University of North Texas (UNT) was awarded a Comprehensive System of Personnel Development (CSPD) grant April, 2009 and will fund 18 VR Counselors outside of Texas. DSB will pursue this online training opportunity for new VR Counselors to complete their Master's degree. Information has been requested to initiate the process for Fall 2009.

The following information is required of all CORE-accredited RCE Programs; data reflects the current year, Summer 2008 through Spring 2009:

UALR Rehabilitation Teaching Masters Program Data:

23 current students: 23 part-time; 11 with disabilities; 21 female, 2 males; of the 17

whose ethnicity is known, 1 is African-American, 16 Caucasian.

Two program completers: 1 MA degree, 1 with an RC degree completing coursework needed for RT certification; both working for private, non-profit blind rehabilitation agencies, one in Oklahoma and one in Georgia, both female, both Caucasian, both with disabilities.

UALR Masters in RCE with Emphasis in Rehabilitation Counseling Program Data: UALR has 238 students enrolled; 71 full-time students, 36 full-time non-white students; 23 with disabilities; 167 part-time students, 55 with disabilities; 86 non-Caucasian, 55 part-time with disabilities.

Graduate Employment 12/07 - 8/08:

A total of 38 graduates, 11 with disabilities; 16 non-Caucasian, 14 with a disability; 8 non-white with a disability. 19 graduates were employed in state VR settings; 12 in not-for-profit facilities or community-based programs, and 6 in rehabilitation-related settings (non-VR funded) and 1 in a university setting.

The University of Arkansas at Fayetteville (U of A) - Masters Rehabilitation Counseling Program:

The Rehabilitation Education and Research Program is housed in the Department of Rehabilitation, Human Resources, Communication Disorders. A total of 32 students are currently enrolled; of which there are 12 males, 20 females, 1 international student (Malaysia), 2 Native Americans, 3 African-Americans, 26 Caucasians, and 16 persons with disabilities. This past year 12 students graduated; all 12 received both their Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) and Licensed Accredited Counselor (LAC). After graduating one student was employed by Services for the Blind here in Arkansas and 2

were employed by Arkansas Rehabilitation Services (ARS). The remaining 9 graduates took work in private rehabilitation.

Arkansas State University (ASU) at Jonesboro - Masters Rehabilitation Counseling program:

The Masters Rehabilitation Counseling program is housed in the Psychology and Counseling department. A total of 46 students are enrolled: 29 full-time; 10 non-white students (8 with disabilities); 22 part-time; 10 non-white (2 with disabilities); 13 total graduates; 4 non-white, 1 with a disability; 1 non-white with a disability; 2 who received RSA Traineeships; and 0 graduates who are non-US citizens. Graduate Employment: 1 in a state VR setting, 5 in not-for-profit facilities or community based programs, 5 in rehabilitation-related settings (not VR funded); 0 in private industry, 1 in a university setting, and 6 employed in non-rehabilitation settings.

The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff and Arkansas Tech University at Russellville offer Bachelor degree programs in Rehabilitation Science.

Plan for Recruitment Preparation {Attachment 4.10(b)}

DSB posts job openings with the Rehabilitation Recruitment Center at Utah State University to advertise vacancies nationwide. Locally, the Arkansas Department of Human Services personnel vacancies are published in the DHS Career Opportunities Bulletin, the statewide newspaper, the DSB website, Workforce Services offices, other state agencies, and college and university recruitment bulletins. Recruitment efforts are ongoing to colleges and universities with a predominately minority enrollment.

Personnel Standards {Attachment 4.10(c)}

The Arkansas Office of Personnel Management (OPM) continues to recommend the minimum qualifications, job descriptions and salary rates for specific classifications, based upon labor market surveys, which are then reviewed and approved by the legislature. OPM has amended State Minimum Qualifications for entry-level staff to show requirement for Rehabilitation field certifications.

Internships are available to students in the Rehabilitation programs across the state. In 2009, DSB had 1 practicum student and 1 intern in rehabilitation counseling. Both students were African-Americans and attended the University of Arkansas at Little Rock (UALR). The practicum student worked in the underserved Delta area, which has a high minority population and a high poverty rate. The intern worked in the metropolitan area of Little Rock. Both students completed their programs. In 2009, a DSB employee who is deafblind completed her internship and practicum in rehabilitation teaching at DSB and Lions World Services for the Blind. She is a non-minority student at UALR and is expected to graduate in August, 2009.

DSB recruits, and, to the degree possible, hires counselors with a Master's Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling or other closely related degree. DSB implements individual education plans for existing personnel to be retrained to meet certification standards for Council on Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC).

DSB established September 30, 2011 as the deadline for Vocational Rehabilitation Masters Degree Counselors currently employed to meet Comprehensive System of Personnel Development (CSPD) requirements. Newly hired counselors will have three years to meet CSPD requirements from date of hire. Currently, 4 new counselors are actively involved in training as follows: 2 - Masters Program at UALR and 4 -Completed Professional Skills Training at LWSB and at the Louisiana Center for the Blind, Ruston, LA, as required for New Employee Orientation. 3 new staff pending training at Rustin and will be scheduled as slots become available. Staff who do not meet the standards will be enrolled in the UALR Online Masters Program and/or additional options that are being explored, such as the University of North Texas or RSA online stipend programs. CRC Senior Counselors are mentoring new counselors to comply with RSA's prior approval standards regarding eligibility determination, approval of IPE's, and closure determinations.

In utilizing the training grant, support will focus on the Division's training of new VR staff and maintaining certification for existing CRC Counselors through CRCC approved courses. DBS's second priority will be the training of Rehabilitation Teachers and other paraprofessionals. Additionally, DSB staff will continue to participate in a variety of teleconferences and distance learning opportunities as well as state and federal conferences for personal growth and development.

Staff Development {Attachment 4.10(d)}

DSB staff must possess specific knowledge concerning the problems of blindness and be allowed the opportunity for career development as related to the delivery of Vocational Rehabilitation services.

DSB staff participated in trainings on these topics, including, but not limited to:

Employment issues/strategies

CSPD College Courses

Workforce Investment Act

Department of Labor Return-to-Work Programs, Institute's Employment Technology Work Group, which focused on the One-Stop System

Business Leadership Networks

State and local Workforce Investment Boards

Statewide systems

Performance accountability

Informed Choice

Ethics

Administrative issues

Social Security Reimbursement

Series of seminars, workshops, teleconferences, and webcasts and other activities:

CSPD College courses, including online university courses, UALR, UNT

Ethics Telecasts attended by VR CRC Staff

IRI Online /Ethics Telecasts by University of Arkansas CURRENTS

Supported Employment, UNT, CRP

California Transcribers and Educators of the Visually Handicapped (CTEVH) attended by Braille Transcriber

DSB Computer Training of Field Staff

Deafblind Consortium

HRD Managers Training by University of Arkansas CURRENTS, Texas

RSA Teleconferences on DSB State Plan and Public Hearings

DSB Board Meetings

Arkansas Transition Summit by Dept. of Education, Special Education Division

Volunteer Summit

Developing Cultural Competency attended by Volunteer Coordinator

IDEA Training by DDC, Special Education attended by all transition counselors; also had an exhibit booth

ACB State and National Convention

Feeling Safe to Look Beyond Disabilities by ADE

TACE Region 6, TX, Logic Models U of A CURRENTS

CSAVR spring meeting in Washington D.C.

National NFB Conference

National Employment Conference

Chapter II Program Managers Conference for Older Blind

Individualized Assessment Training by UNT, Region VI CRP-RCEP

AR AER State Conference, May, 2009

ARA Training Conference, May, 2009

Confronting Non-Performance DHS Training

Cross Cultural Counseling

Overview of Psychiatric Disabilities

Leadership in High Performance Culture DHS

21st Century Literacy by Easter Seals

Building Employer Relationships

ABC's Americans with Disabilities Act

Low Vision Seminar

Blindness and Vision Impairments

Education Forum, TX, CURRENTS

ENVISION Conference, Florida

Vocational Strategies

37th Annual Professional Assistants Conference

Arkansas Aging Conference

3 -Day Supervisor Training

Professional Skills Training

VR Counselor Training/Placement - Counselors participated in various employment conferences at national, regional and state levels. Additionally, staff was involved in various Workforce Investment Board activities as well as the following advisory committees: Arkansas Networking Consortium for Deaf/Blindness; UALR Masters Program Advisory Committee; University of Arkansas (U of A) Advisory; U of A CURRENTS TACE Liaisons; Region VI Independent Living Council Committee; the Region VI Community Rehabilitation Program (CRP); the AILC; and the Jobs for Arkansas Graduates (JAG) Advisory Committee with the Arkansas School for the Blind; and the LWSB Business Service Advisory Council.

DSB receives information/e-newsletters from Region VI CURRENTS: UNT and Universities (UALR; University of Washington; George Washington University and Research and Training Centers; University of North Texas (UNT) CRP; and VCU, Mississippi State). Information from these and other sources, i.e. CSAVR and NCDDR, is sent by e-mail to administrators, who in turn disseminate it to appropriate professionals and paraprofessionals as it relates to their area of expertise. DSB receives free copies of research materials to review, responds to special projects, and tests new technology in the field of blindness, deafblindness and other disabilities.

DSB provides additional support to various demonstration projects through its participation on advisory boards and committees and responds to surveys nationwide. The DSB Library has copies of various publications and IRI documents, which are distributed to each office as well as being available in the library. Various videos on transition job placement and technology are also on hand for staff use. Any new materials and acquisitions are listed on monthly reports and are available for checkout as needed.

Update/Summary - Education Activities for Professionals and Paraprofessionals in meeting Certification Standards:

CRC Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification (CRCC): 13 Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor positions

3 CRC

1 CRC Eligible

4 Vocational Rehabilitation Counselors in process of completing new employee orientation

2 UALR On-Line Program 2 Vacant positions

Other Educational Activity:

One Field Supervisor in Practicum/Internship Dual Masters: Rehabilitation Counseling Rehabilitation Teaching Programs, UALR relocated out of State; Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) Arkansas State Board of Counseling (Licensed Professional Counselor) lapsed

3 CRC-sponsored staff enrolled in various online programs to maintain certification

1 Case Monitor CRC

DSB utilized UALR Masters in Rehabilitation Counseling Programs, University of Arkansas CURRENTS, University of North Texas (UNT) Community Rehabilitation Program Region VI CRP - RCEP to meet continuing education in supported employment, and the In-service Training Grant as vehicle to meet CSPD requirements for Vocational Rehabilitation counselors currently employed. DSB has 3 CRC VR Counselors; lhas a dual masters in Rehabilitation Teaching and Orientation and Mobility; 1 CRC eligible; remaining staff is involved in training programs at UALR to met the standards. DSB provides financial support for all activities related to obtaining and maintaining certification and allows time for study on the job, and certification is a part of the agency Performance Evaluation Plan.

Other activities and resources utilized to support the agency plan included various teleconferences and programs that grant pre-approved CEU's by CRCC; Bridgeworks Teleconference Network for Online Study Groups; and courses on The Ethics Series sponsored by University of Arkansas CURRENTS.

ACVREP Rehabilitation Teaching and Orientation and Mobility Certification: 11 Rehabilitation Teacher positions

4 R/TC ACVREP Certified

2 vacant positions

Succession Planning:

* 2 CSPD participants have been promoted to supervisors: 1 VR CRC promoted to Area Field Supervisor in the Central Office and lin the Delta area.

* Community Leadership Institute for Change Knowledge (CLICK) conducted by CURRENTS: Although DSB has no candidates this year, this two-year program remains a valuable resource for future options for Succession Planning. DSB participants have included a Rehabilitation Program and Planning Director and a Staff Development Specialist I that advanced to Staff Development Specialist III. CURRRENTS plans to survey all agencies for future training needs in this area.

* Library of Congress (LOC) Certification: ICertified Braille Transcriber, enrolled online, National Braille Association, Braille Formats Self Study Course

Personnel to Address Individual Communication Needs

{Attachment 4.10(e)}

Appropriate modes of communication, including sign language interpreters, are available through a contract with Communications Plus. The directive to utilize Communications Plus has been provided to all staff and is on file in each DSB office; it is also in DSB policy and on the DSB website. DSB serves on the Arkansas Advisory Committee for the Arkansas Project for Children with Deafblindness and is an affiliate of the Helen Keller National Center. The Deaf/Blind Consortium has developed information in Spanish and provided training for parents and professionals to foster stronger partnerships among agencies who work with this population.

DSB provides interpreter services for communication with persons with limited English speaking ability through contracts with Communications Plus and Arkansas Spanish Interpreters and Translators, Inc. DSB brochures are available in Spanish, and a supply is available in each office. The Arkansas Information Reading Services (AIRS) brochure has been updated and is now available in Spanish. These translation resources will be utilized as needed for other materials and training for consumers in this underserved population.

Reader service, guide service, and any special adaptive equipment are made available to applicants for services, DSB consumers, and DSB personnel. Information is also available in the medium of choice for persons making application for DSB services and for persons with disabilities who are employed by DSB. The Technology Staff conducted training for Field staff throughout the state regarding the transition to digital television and how it will impact consumers and AIRS.

Coordination of Personnel Development under the Individuals

with Disabilities Education Act

{Attachment 4.10(f)}

DSB is working closely with the Department of Education to provide training to VR Counselors. Training has been conducted through a state Transition Summit, workshops, and state and local meetings. DSB co-sponsored the third annual Arkansas Transition Summit entitled "Focusing on What Matters in Arkansas", February 6-7, 2008, and anticipates all VR counselors will attend the next Transition Summit tentatively scheduled for October, 2009. DSB will continue to collaborate with Arkansas Rehabilitation Services/State Rehabilitation Council; the Arkansas Department of Education, Special Education Unit; and other members of the state Arkansas Interagency Transition Partnership (AITP) in planning the upcoming Summit. Local AITP teams will continue to focus on bringing together various elements of support needed to provide more effective outcomes for students with disabilities from around the state. DSB will have an exhibit at the Summit to show its programs and services and to network with educators from across the state.

The University of Arkansas Center for the Utilization of Rehabilitation Resources for Education, Networking, Training and Service (CURRENTS) conducted a Kickoff Meeting of the TACE February 9-11, 2009 in San Antonio, TX. The TLC composed of transition coordinators from both general and blind VR agencies in Region VI developed a training module addressing Section 101, IDEA, ADA and the IEP. The training module was launched in December and will be conducted online; CRC CEU's will be provided to all participants. The Transition Coordinator will spearhead this training event and conduct evaluation. Staff also participates in monthly transition teleconferences. A policy directive instructs counselors to contact transition professionals each September and February to identify any transition needs.

Additionally, Jump Start, a three-week transition summer program, is scheduled for June 7-26, 2009.This program serves high school students who are blind and severely visually impaired from across Arkansas. The purpose of the program is to expose students to the world of work and help them in transitioning from high school to employment/adulthood. DSB places students in part-time jobs in the mornings and conducts activities in the afternoons and evenings to develop career awareness and self-sufficiency.

Students participate in field trips to businesses and colleges. During the tours of businesses, employers speak to the students about applying for jobs, the hiring/interview process, and employers' expectations. Students are taught job search skills and computer technology. The students are taken to the mall and grocery stores to learn how to do their own shopping. Students learn how to do their own menu planning, cooking, clothing care, budgeting money, banking, and other needs. They receive orientation and mobility training and skills which will help them become more independent and prepare them for work or college.

Working part-time and interacting with other students who are visually impaired increases the student's confidence, social skills, and self-esteem. Students stay at the Arkansas School for the Blind in Little Rock during the week, but go home on weekends. About 30 students apply each year and DSB usually has openings for 20-22 students. In 2009, 27 students applied and 22 students were accepted into the program.

The DSB administrative staff works as a planning committee to organize activities, determine acceptance, hire temporary staff to work as drivers and house parents, and conduct general operations activities, including fiscal management.

Comprehensive Needs Assessment {Attachment 4.11(a)}

DSB developed goals based on RSA guidance for the State Plan FY 2010 and recommendations by the DSB Board. DSB conducts a comprehensive, statewide needs assessment every 3 years and the results are used in developing goals. A needs assessment was done April-May, 2007, using public forums in which a total of 72 people attended. The results were reported in the FY 2008 plan. DSB conducted another needs assessment May 1 - May 30, 2009, and received 190 responses. The DSB Board approved the needs assessment instrument, which was developed with input from consumer groups, the CAP agency, and other stakeholders and widely distributed to consumers, support groups, medical providers, and other stakeholders. The assessment was also distributed through the news media, the DSB web site and the Arkansas Information Reading Service (AIRS). The results are given below:

Summary of 2009 DSB Needs Assessment

A total of 190 needs assessments were completed and returned to the Division of Services for the Blind (DSB). Participants were asked to rank the following needs with #5 being the most needed to #1 being the least needed:

* Transportation

* Orientation and Mobility

* Home Services (paying bills, shopping, cleaning, etc.)

* Job assistance

* Reader services

* Other

Below are comments from consumers responding to the Needs Assessment:

* "I appreciate the books on tape that I received from DSB, thanks."

* "Division of Services for the Blind has always been there for me. They have helped with my college tuition. I know I will need in the future more services such as transportation. Transportation is the most needed services for me at this time."

* "At this time I am not receiving services from Division of Services for the Blind and would appreciate having their help. I am registered for college (2 classes) for this fall and I am working part-time Monday thru Friday."

* "Thanks for everything you have done! I am back to work!"

* "Thanks for assistance paying for my college tuition at UALR. I still need more assistance with my tuition."

* "I am a client of Division of Services for the Blind, but only get job listings, which I can find on the internet myself. Otherwise, I have not had much contact with them."

* "I would like some real dark shades to wear when I go outside. Can you tell me where I can find some? They are hard to find here in Camden. The ultra rays of light assist me so that I can see when I am outside."

* "I would like assistance cleaning around my house."

* "I have received services from Division of Services for the Blind and was pleased with the help I was given to get my eye surgery done."

* "I have been of short term disability from my job since February 25, 2009, because of my medical condition, which is glaucoma. Division of Services for the Blind is currently paying for all of my doctor appointments and surgery."

* "I need services. I am allowed up to $400.00 a month, but would work full-time permanently for Disabilities Act."

* "I would like Blood Pressure Cuffs as promised several months ago."

* "I just thank you very much."

* "Division of Services for the Blind is doing a wonderful job in helping people. I received good information about what is going on in the community."

* "The Division of Services for the Blind was very helpful to me. I could hardly see anything due to cataracts covering both eyes. If it had not been for Services for the Blind I would have gone blind, because I did not have the money to have the surgery."

* "Division of Services for the Blind said they could assist me with finding a cornea for my right eye. However, I have not received anything."

* "I really enjoy the computer classes. It is slow going but it has helped me be a little more independent."

* "Dawna Fultz is excellent."

* "So far, Lasonja is doing well for herself. If anything you all would like to do for her, feel free."

* "I never received the cane I asked for."

* "My doctor informed me that I need surgery to save my sight, but I can not afford it."

* "A lady from the Division of Services for the Blind needs to contact me because they never came to see me as scheduled/Ivory Nelson"

* "On behalf of student, we usually have one-three low vision students and occasionally a blind student. All of these students so far have worked with vocational rehabilitation counselors. All used RFBandD and other reader services."

* "We have hoped that services for rural disabled will become a lot more accessible."

* "I receive the books on tape, and a kit for check writing, larger numbers for computer keys, address books and line space."

* "I would like assistance to gain votech help."

* "I was seen by Doctor Stiles (low vision specialist) was tested with a "telescoping eye" it really helped. I hope I might be approved from DSB to get one."

* "Your services put me through massage college, now I own my own massage clinic training others."

* "I need assistance with my sight."

* "I appreciate the information being gathered informing me of what is needed in my life. Thank you very much."

* "I really do not know what is available. I receive $1,322.00 from social security. Do I qualify for SSI Supplement?"

* "I can not see to stay on the right. They have been very good to me."

* "An Optelec CCTV has been made available to me. I am very grateful for it."

* "I have requested software for a Braille printer, Victor Stream Reader and College Tuition. The software for the Braille printer has been on the list for years."

* "The agency has been very good to me."

* "Thank you for your services."

* "Omagene is very compassionate and helpful."

* "I have had training at Lions World Services for the Blind as a Customer Service Rep, but have had serious problems with decrease in vision and have been rejected for cornea transplants for at least the past three years. I would love to work but at this time I am still dealing with cornea transplant rejection."

* "I am pleased with everyone who assisted with my surgery. It was deeply appreciated. (P.S. this would be my charity services if I had to choose it. That's how pleased I was."

* "I truly appreciate DSB for their help in providing the funds for my surgery. I am very grateful."

* "I have not requested any of these services."

* "The measuring cups and spoons are useful in my kitchen. The magnifying glass does not work real well, but when it works I can read well. You need to use larger print in letters such as this. Thank you very much."

* "I received reader services and still need other services from Division of Services for the Blind."

* "Margaret Magar has been good to me. She comes when needed and calls to monitor. I am very pleased with the helpful devices provided."

* "DSB has an excellent program."

* "We are a clinic that refers patients for services. It would be helpful if information on approval could be done quicker - this would allow us to seek other services if patients are not approved for services."

* "Thanks so much for your help. Any information you need from me, I will be at P.O. Box 378, Diamond, MO 64840 "

* "Harry T. Craig appreciates all of your help. If it were not for your agency I would have gone blind."

* "I am unable to take my medication without help." William Johnson

* "I would like to thank you for all that you have done for me, if it were not for your agency, I would have gone blind. Thank God for you for stepping in on time for me."

* "Thank you very much for your help. Division of Services for the Blind is a blessing for me and to me. DSB is currently paying my portion for my corneal transplant that was performed on 2/05/09."

* "I would like for the Division of Services for the Blind to assist me with employment."

* "The Division of Services for the Blind has been very helpful for me."

* "I enjoy the reading machine and books on tape."

* "I have applied but have not received a reply." Connie Ramos

* "Words can not sufficiently express my heartfelt gratitude for DSB. I was beyond legally blind in my right eye, with diminishing vision in my left eye due to cataract. Corrective surgery has restored my vision and allowed me to once again, keep working and drive myself without assistance. Without your services, I was going blind. A special thanks to Tina Shelby."

* "I am able to do some work from my home. I am a florist by trade."

* "I am receiving books from Library for the Blind. I have a clock, radio, and magnifying glass."

* "I am trying to obtain a job driving for Food Service. I have a CDL Class D Arkansas driving license."

* "I have received a small lighted magnifying tool. It has limited ability. I work as a volunteer at Hospice Circle of Life in Springdale, Arkansas. I can not see very well, my vision is 20/70."

* "I receive talking devices through O Magazine in Fayetteville. A very nice lady work with me."

* "Thanks for all the help with assisting me to do my daily routines and enabling me to take my medicine independently."

* "I am very pleased with the products/services provided to me. The only negative aspect has been length of time in getting everything about 5 months."

* "I had cataract surgery in January and February, 2009. The surgery was very successful. I have returned to work and we are so thankful. We appreciate the financial assistance from Services for the Blind."

* "I have been extraordinarily pleased with Services for the Blind. My rep has been extremely helpful. This is one Government Agency that succeeds in it's goal."

* "I am disabled and it is hard to find something???"

* "I have only received reading services and a clock."

* "I just need to be stable in the finance department to keep my family and I in good standing."

* "The CCTV provided for my home and school has brought great order in me life. Thanks 1,000,000 X's over. Life is Great!"

* "I feel I was given good assistance when I needed it-you helped pay for 1 month's financing at Lions World 2 V2 years ago-this was the key to my successful independence. Thank you."

* "I really appreciate all you have done for me, and appreciate what you are continuing to do for me with my eye sight. Thanks again."

* "I want to thank you all for assistance you have provided me. With your help I was able to continue to work and drive. May God bless all!"

* "I appreciate so vey much the help that I received from DSB. After my cataract surgeries it is as though the rain has washed the windows and I can see the world again. I want to thank Tina Shelby for being so helpful in getting everything processed and for being patient with all of my questions. Thank you again."

* "I appreciate everything Services for the Blind has helped me with. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. God bless you and your agency."

* "Will or could someone point me in the direction of how to get (Plan-to Achieve Self-Support) pass for hope. I have called Social Security, but have not gotten anywhere. Thank you," Suzan Freeman 1-870-784 -0452.

* "I appreciated financial help in securing cataract surgery in 2008 for my single good eye!"

* "I have requested getting help and classroom observation since I am a teaching assistant while attending graduate school."

* "I would be blind if it were not for the care I received from the Division of Services for the Blind. I thank God for your services."

* "Margaret Magar sometimes helps with things. Thanks so much!"

* "I will start transition services after July 5th. Tina Shelby attended the planning meeting in May."

* "I enjoy the new telephone. The caseworker is very helpful (Margaret), she brings equipment that she thinks would be helpful for me."

* "Thank you very much for your help. The surgery helped my eyes and I am now able to work."

* "A counselor called on my wife in 2007, she sent her a talking watch which was very useful. It quit and we tried to no avail to contact her again. We have had no contact since."

Assurance

DSB further assures RSA that by September 30, 2010, it will conduct a comprehensive needs assessment utilizing an instrument recommended by RSA.

Annual Estimate of Individuals to be Served and Costs of

Services {Attachment 4.11(b)}

Basis for Estimates

DSB uses census data, population growth, and the incidence of blindness as the basis for its 3.8% estimated growth rate for individuals to be served through Part B of Title I. Historical data is used to estimate the number of Supported Employment cases to be served through Part B of Title VI, which has remained relatively stable through the years. However, due to planned emphasis in the area of Supported Employment, DSB projects a 10% increase in SE cases. DSB estimates the average cost per VR and SE consumer will increase by 7%.

Estimates for Part B of Title I for FY 2010:

DSB estimates an increase of 50 consumers above the current number served of 1316, making a projected total of 1366 at a total cost of $2,804,010 ($2,053 per consumer).

DSB estimates an increase of 20 consumers who are members of a minority population, making a projected total of 418 compared to 398 in the previous published year. (Note: the minority figures are included in the total VR figures given in the first paragraph.)

Estimates for Part B of Title VI for FY 2010:

DSB estimates an increase of two consumers in Supported Employment above the current 20, making a projected total of 22 at a total cost of $40,497 ($1,841 per consumer).

Estimates of Eligible Consumers for FY 2010:

Based on statistical reporting derived from Prevent Blindness America, an overall rate of 2.7% for the prevalence of blindness was applied to the projected 2009 growth figures for Arkansas population aged 15 to 64, and DSB estimates that there are approximately 50,358 persons in Arkansas who might be eligible for and could receive Vocational Rehabilitation services.

Goals and Priorities {Attachment 4.11(c) (1)}

DSB developed the following goals based on RSA guidance for the State Plan FY 2010 and recommendations by the DSB Board. DSB conducts a comprehensive, statewide needs assessment every 3 years. A needs assessment was done April-May, 2007, using public forums in which a total of 72 people attended. The results were reported in the FY 2008 plan. Another needs assessment was conducted May 1 - May 30, 2009, with 190 individuals completing needs assessments. Below are the goals for FY 2010:

Goal #1: DSB will increase the employment opportunities for people who are blind or severely visually impaired.

Strategy: DSB will hire job placement personnel to contact employers, develop jobs, and do job coaching.

Performance Measure: DSB will use part of its stimulus money to employ five job developers and five job coaches as a pilot program within the expansion plan recommended by RSA following the 2007 Annual Review. The plan contained a schedule for increased direct services and associated management. The job developers and job coaches will be placed in each of the five service areas, and, if productive, will be scheduled to be absorbed in the formula VR funding when the recovery funds are fully expended. Purchased services will be adjusted to absorb these costs.

Strategy: DSB will hold Job Clubs to assist consumers in seeking and securing employment.

Performance Measure: Weekly Job Clubs will be held at the DSB Tech Lab.

Strategy: DSB will expand and improve services to individuals who are blind or severely visually impaired in the underserved Delta area. Services will be based upon the individual's assessment and IPE and may include services such as mobility, physical restoration, independent living skills, equipment needs, and employment counseling.

Performance Measure: DSB will see an increase in the number of cases from this new area and an increase in closures due to employment.

Strategy: DSB will continue to refer individuals for benefits counseling.

Performance Measure: During FY 2010, VR Counselors will refer at least 10 consumers per caseload to Project Work Incentive for benefits counseling. Area Supervisors will monitor this through changes in monthly reports.

Strategy: DSB will continue to refer eligible Older Blind individuals to VR.

Performance Measure: DSB will refer 100% of eligible Older Blind individuals to VR.

Strategy: DSB will recognize successful consumers and their employers and will encourage peer mentoring.

Performance Measures:

* Each counselor who has been in his/her position for at least a year will nominate one individual from his/her caseload as a candidate for Consumer of the Year and encourage the individual to serve as a peer mentor to other people who are blind or severely visually impaired.

* DSB will award Consumer of the Year candidates and their employers with certificates/plaques and related publicity.

Strategy: DSB will expand its assistive technology services and improve access to these services and equipment. Performance Measures:

* DSB will continue to offer assistive technology training to new Rehabilitation Teachers as vacant positions are filled, so that staff can provide basic technology support to consumers in their respective geographic areas statewide.

* DSB will provide accessible kiosks at 10 Workforce Services centers to assist individuals who are blind or severely visually impaired in their job searches. DHS will use part of American Recovery and Reinvestment (ARRA) funds to purchase the computers, software and other equipment necessary for the accessible kiosks.

Overall Performance Measures for Goal 1: Meet or exceed federal performance indicator 1.1 for services for individuals who are blind or severely visually impaired. Performance Indicator 1.1: Change in the number of employment outcomes is the difference between the number of individuals exiting the VR program who achieved an employment outcome during the current performance period compared to the number of individuals who exit the VR program after achieving an employment outcome during the previous performance period. The difference must equal or exceed the previous year's performance.

Goal #2: DSB will increase its services to transition students.

Strategy: DSB will continue to expand and update a collaborative database of transition students.

Performance Measure: Area Supervisors will review the database to insure it is being maintained by Rehabilitation Assistants, who input local information.

Strategy: VR Counselors will continue to track transition students on their caseloads to insure that the IPE is developed or updated before a student graduates from high school.

Performance Measure: Area Supervisors will monitor this during case reviews to insure that no transition student will graduate without a current IPE.

Strategy: DSB will provide assessments to transition students specifically focused on activities of daily living, including but not limited to, mobility, knowledge of available transportation resources, self-advocacy, acquisition of a variety of reading options,

awareness of job opportunities, and rights and responsibilities as an informed consumer.

Performance Measure: All transition students will be referred to Rehabilitation Teachers for assessment of daily living skills and needed instruction.

Goal #3: DSB will continue to reach out to minorities and stakeholders.

Strategy: DSB will increase its contacts with faith-based organizations.

Performance Measure: DSB will make 10 outreach efforts to faith-based organizations during FY 2010.

Strategy: DSB will increase its services to minorities.

Performance Measures: DSB will make 10 outreach efforts to Hispanic, Asian, or other ethnic groups during FY 2010.

Strategy: DSB will collaborate with Workforce Centers to assist individuals who are blind or severely visually impaired in their job searches.

Performance Measure: DSB will provide accessible kiosks at 10 local Workforce

Services centers. DHS will use part of American Recovery and Reinvestment (ARRA)

funds to purchase the computers, software and other equipment necessary for the accessible kiosks.

Strategy: Area Supervisors and administrative staff will continue to attend the state conferences of blindness consumer groups, and opportunities will be offered to direct service staff as well.

Performance Measure: DSB will continue to send at least five supervisors/administrators to these conferences and will make presentations as requested.

Goals and Plans for Distribution of Title VI, Part B Funds

{Attachment 4.11(c) (4)}

During FY 2008 the amount of Title VI, Part B funds distributed was $36,811. The amount of Title VI, Part B funds projected for FY 2009 is $71,814; DSB projects that this will be distributed by close of the FY September 30, 2009. DSB will allocate funding from Title VI, Part B to provide Supported Employment services to individuals with the most significant disabilities. These funds are a supplement to the funds provided under Title I of the Act. Title VI, Part B funds will only be used in the provision of Supported Employment services to those individuals determined eligible through assessments determining that it is an appropriate objective. Supported Employment services will be customer-driven through the setting of goals in the consumer's Individual Plan for Employment (TPE). In FY 2008, DSB provided supported employment services to 20 individuals. Of this number, 3 cases were closed, of which 0 were closed competitively employed not in supported employment, 2 were closed competitively employed in supported employment, 0 were closed not competitively employed-not in supported employment, and 1 was closed without an employment outcome. FY 2009-2010 Projections: 22 consumers will be served.

Issues affecting Supported Employment in Arkansas include: the limited number of service providers statewide; the rural nature of the state; the lack of consistent available funding for extended services; and the lack of knowledge, experience, and training SE providers have in the provision of supported employment services and placement for individuals who are blind or severely visually impaired. Many providers do not have and are unwilling to expend time, monies and resources to train staff in this specialty area of expertise.

DSB provides assistive technology services and devices based upon assessments and recommendations by the DSB Technology Unit, availability of funds, and the consumer's IPE.

DSB has set the following goals for the utilization and distribution of Title VI, Part B Funds:

Goal #1: Increase the number of Supported Employment Providers to better serve DSB consumers.

Strategy: DSB will continue to collaborate with other agencies to expand the number of

SE providers.

Performance Measures: At least two new SE providers will be identified and contacted face-to-face.

Strategy: A new Request for Qualifications (RFQ) will be issued to recruit SE providers.

Performance Measure: At least two providers will be recruited through the RFQ.

Goal #2: Address the lack of knowledge and training that SE Providers have in the provision of SE Services and placement for individuals who are blind or severely visually impaired.

Strategy: DSB will collaborate with the University of Arkansas Center for the Utilization of Rehabilitation Resources for Education, Networking, Training, and Service

(CURRENTS) and other agencies to develop a pilot program to train SE Providers.

Performance Measures: At least one training on SE outcomes will be conducted in FY 2010.

Strategy: DSB will develop a PowerPoint presentation that VR Counselors can take to SE

Providers to increase their awareness of the capability of DSB consumers and introduce

SE Providers to blindness issues and how consumers can be placed on jobs often with only slight modifications/adaptations.

Performance Measures: The PowerPoint presentation will be shown at least once in each DSB service area during FY 2010.

Strategies and Use of Title I Funds for Innovation and

Expansion Activities {Attachment 4.11(d)}

Strategies

DSB has developed the following strategies to expand and improve services to its consumers. These strategies were developed in regard to its goals for the State Plan FY 2010, which are to: increase the employment opportunities for people who are blind or severely visually impaired, increase its services to transition students, and continue to reach out to minorities and stakeholders. The performance measures are included with the goals in 4.11(c) (1). Here are the strategies:

* DSB will hire job placement personnel to contact employers, develop jobs, and do job coaching.

* DSB will hold Job Clubs to assist consumers in seeking and securing employment.

* DSB will expand and improve services to individuals who are blind or severely visually impaired in the underserved Delta area. Services will be based upon the individual's assessment and Individual Plan for Employment (IPE) and may include services such as mobility, physical restoration, independent living skills, equipment needs, and employment counseling.

* DSB will continue to refer individuals for benefits counseling.

* DSB will continue to refer eligible Older Blind individuals to VR.

* DSB will recognize successful consumers and their employers and will encourage peer mentoring.

* DSB will expand its assistive technology services and improve access to these services and equipment.

* DSB will continue to expand and update a collaborative database of transition students.

* VR Counselors will continue to track transition students on their caseloads to insure that the IPE is developed or updated before a student graduates from high school.

* DSB will provide assessments to transition students specifically focused on activities of daily living, including but not limited to, mobility, knowledge of available transportation resources, self-advocacy, acquisition of a variety of reading options, awareness of job opportunities, and rights and responsibilities as an informed consumer.

* DSB will increase its contacts with faith-based organizations.

* DSB will increase its services to minorities.

* DSB will collaborate with Workforce Centers to assist individuals who are blind or severely visually impaired in their job searches.

* Area Supervisors and administrative staff will continue to attend the state conferences of blindness consumer groups, and opportunities will be offered to direct service staff as well.

A broad range of assistive technology services and devices will be provided to individuals who are blind or severely visually impaired at each stage of the rehabilitation process in accordance with the individual's employment goal and IPE. The provision of assistive technology services and devices is based upon assessments and recommendations by the DSB Technology Unit, availability of funds, and the consumer's IPE. In FY 2009, DSB expanded its assistive technology services and improved access to these services and equipment by increasing its assistive technology staff at the local level. DSB trained its Rehabilitation Teachers to provide basic technology support to consumers in their respective geographic areas statewide. DSB will continue to offer assistive technology training to new Rehabilitation Teachers in FY 2010 as vacant positions are filled, so that staff can continue to provide basic technology support to consumers in their local areas.

The following strategies address outreach activities to identify and serve individuals who are blind or severely visually impaired, including those with the most significant disabilities, and who have been unserved or underserved by the VR program:

* Strategy: DSB will expand and improve services to individuals who are blind or severely visually impaired in the underserved Delta area. As a result of this strategy, DSB expects to see an increase in the number of minority cases from this new area.

* Strategy: DSB will increase its contacts with faith-based organizations. This will include contacts with churches that do outreach to specific minority populations or are churches comprised of minorities.

* Strategy: DSB will increase its services to minorities. Area Supervisors and counselors have been asked to reach out to ethnic organizations in their communities and offer to speak to their groups or meet with their presidents/chairpersons regarding referrals and services.

DSB has developed the following strategies to expand and improve Supported Employment services to its consumers. These strategies were developed in regard to its SE goals for FY 2010, which are: to increase the number of Supported Employment Providers to better serve DSB consumers and to address the lack of knowledge and training that SE Providers have in the provision of SE Services and placement for individuals who are blind or severely visually impaired. The performance measures are included with the goals in 4.11(c) (4). Here are the strategies for those goals:

* Strategy: DSB will continue to collaborate with other agencies to expand the number of SE providers.

* Strategy: A new Request for Qualifications (RFQ) will be issued to recruit SE providers.

* Strategy: DSB will collaborate with the University of Arkansas Center for the Utilization of Rehabilitation Resources for Education, Networking, Training, and Service (CURRENTS) and other agencies to develop a pilot program to train SE Providers.

* Strategy: DSB will develop a PowerPoint presentation that VR Counselors can take to SE Providers to increase their awareness of the capability of DSB consumers and introduce SE Providers to blindness issues and how consumers can be placed on jobs often with only slight modifications/adaptations.

Strategies for Improving Indicator 1.6

DSB missed Indicator 1.6 this report period and plans the following strategies:

* DSB will network with the top five states identified in the RSA Annual Report under Indicator 1.6 to benefit from their best practices in order to increase the difference in the percentage of individuals achieving competitive employment who report their own income as the primary source of support at the time of closure versus the time of application.

* DSB will serve homemakers with ILRS funds in an effort to reduce the number of homemaker closures and improve performance in this indicator.

Use of Title I Funds for Innovation and Expansion Activities

Initiatives include educational and disaster-preparedness programming targeted to individuals who are blind and severely visually impaired under the Arkansas Information Reading Services Program (AIRS), which is located on the campus of the Arkansas Educational Television Network in Conway. DHS will provide $12,930 of American Recovery and Reinvestment funds toward the initiatives.

Evaluation and Reports of Progress {Attachment 4.11(e) (2)}

Below are the evaluation and reports of progress for FY 2008 Goals and Priorities, covering September 30, 2007 - October 1, 2008:

Evaluation and Report of Progress on the Performance Evaluation Standards and Performance Indicators

Below is the evaluation and report of progress on the Performance Evaluation Standards and Performance Indicators established by the Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA) in the reporting of data to comply with the 34 CFR 361, Subpart E, 361.80 through 361.89 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended in 1998. Historically, DSB has succeeded at meeting or exceeding the goals, and therefore will continue with present methods of counseling and providing services; monitoring by supervisors; and case reviews. However, DSB has used trends in performance indicators, along with RSA reviews, to recognize the need to improve in its outreach to minorities, especially Hispanics; to reduce the number of homemaker closures; and to decrease the ratio of caseload staff to supervisors. DSB missed Indicator 1.6 this report period and plans strategies to network with the top five states identified in the RSA Annual Report under Indicator 1.6 and to serve homemakers with ILRS funds. These strategies are contained in more detail under Attachment 4.11(d) Strategies.

The information below describes DSB performance for Standard 1 and Standard 2:

Evaluation Standard 1 - Employment Outcomes:

A Designated State Unit (DSU) must assist any eligible individual, including an individual with a significant disability, to obtain, maintain, or regain high-quality employment.

In order to pass Standard 1 a state VR agency must meet or exceed the performance level for four of the six indicators including meeting or exceeding the performance level for two of the three primary indicators. Primary indicators are 1.3, 1.4 and 1.5.

* Performance Indicator 1.1: Change in the number of employment outcomes

The number of individuals exiting the VR program who achieved an employment outcome during the current performance period compared to the number of individuals who exit the VR program after achieving an employment outcome during the previous performance period.

Required Performance Level: DSU's performance in current period must equal or exceed performance in previous period.

* Performance Indicator 1.2: Percent Employed

Of all individuals who exit the VR program after receiving services, the percentage who are determined to have achieved an employment outcome.

Required Performance Level: For the general and combined DSU's, the level is 55.8%; for agencies serving individuals who are blind, the level is 68.9%

* Performance Indicator 1.3: Employed Competitively

Of all Individuals determined to have achieved an employment outcome, the percentage who exit the VR program in competitive, self-, or BEP employment with earnings equivalent to at least the minimum wage.

Required Performance Level: For the general and combined DSU's, the level is 72.6%; for agencies serving individuals who are blind, the level is 35.4%.

* Performance Indicator 1.4: Significant Disability

Of all individuals who exit the VR program in competitive, self, or BEP employment with earnings equivalent to at least the minimum wage, the percentage who are individuals with significant disabilities.

Required Performance Level: For the general and combined DSU's, the level is 62.4%; for agencies serving individuals who are blind, the level is 89.0%

* Performance Indicator 1.5: Earning Ratio

The average hourly earnings of all individuals who exit the VR program in competitive, self-, or BEP employment with earnings equivalent to at least the minimum wage as a ratio to the State's average hourly earnings for all individuals in the State who are employed (as derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports "State Average Annual Pay" for the most recent available year).

Required Performance Level: For the general and combined DSU's, the level is a ratio of .52; for agencies serving individuals who are blind, the ratio is .59.

* Performance Indicator 1.6: Self-support

Of all individuals who exit the VR program in competitive, self-, or BEP employment with earnings equivalent to at least the minimum wage, the difference between the percentage who report their own income as the largest single source of economic support at the time they exit the VR program and the percentage who report their own income as the largest single source of support at the time they apply for VR services.

Required Performance Level: For the general and combined DSU's, the level is an arithmetic difference of 53.0; for agencies serving individuals who are blind, the level is a difference of 30.4.

Evaluation Standard 2: Equal Access to Services

Required Performance Level: All agencies must attain a ratio level of .80.

Report on How Funds Reserved for Innovation and Expansion Activities Were Utilized in the Most Recently Completed Federal Fiscal Year

During FY 2008 Innovation and Expansion funds of $55,805 were utilized to provide services through three Centers for Independent Living and to support the operation of the SILC. The Arkansas Independent Living Council (AILC/SILC) received $18,957, and the remainder was distributed among the CIL's.

Quality, Scope, and Extent of

Supported Employment Services

{Attachment 6.3}

DSB, ARS, the DHS Division of Developmental Disabilities Services (DDS), the DHS Division of Behavioral Health Services (BHS), and the Arkansas Department of Education (ADE), Special Education Unit (SEU), Transition Unit partner through an interagency cooperative agreement outlining responsibilities and the provision of Supported Employment and other services to transition-aged consumers. The agreement produced an interagency steering committee which works on Supported Employment issues. The steering committee is facilitated by the Employ Ability Project, which is a grant program housed in the DHS Division of Aging and Adult Services.

DSB coordinates with approximately 20 agencies, non-profits and consumers, on the Medicaid Infrastructure Grant (MIG) Advisory Committee and seeks ways to reduce barriers to Supported Employment and recruit more SE providers.

DSB has resumed efforts with the Employ Ability Project to expand SE services and recruit more SE providers.

These groups have identified similar issues affecting Supported Employment in Arkansas. There are a limited number of service providers in the state, and there are a relatively low number of consumers who need SE services, particularly those who are blind or severely visually impaired. These consumers are spread throughout the rural parts of the state. Providers often consider these barriers as cost prohibitive. Added to this, providers want assurances of consistent available funding for continuing extended services, perhaps for the life of the consumer, and want payments for less tangible results than job placement, such as improving the consumers' social interaction. Another barrier that has been identified is the lack of knowledge, experience, and training SE providers have in the provision of supported employment services and placement for individuals who are blind or severely visually impaired. This is a specialty area of expertise that many providers do not have and are unwilling to expend time, monies and resources to train staff in this area.

DSB continues to provide supported employment services and uses the following providers: Easter Seals, Goodwill, Abilities, Cross County Special Workshop, Boost in Fort Smith, Blind Inc., Clovernook Center in Memphis, and Pathfinders. Other providers are available if needed. Transitioning from DSB services to extended services will not occur until at least 90 days after the case is placed into status 22 (employment), but should occur no later than 18 months after the case is placed into status 22. The time frame for moving a case into extended services will be determined by the VR Counselor's monitoring of the consumer's adjustment to the work environment and will be outlined in the Individual Plan for Employment (IPE). In FY 2008, DSB provided supported employment services to 20 individuals. Of this number, 3 cases were closed, of which 0 were closed competitively employed not in supported employment, 2 were closed competitively employed in supported employment, 0 were closed not competitively employed-not in supported employment, and 1 was closed without an employment outcome. FY 2009-2010 Projections: 22 consumers will be served.