Arkansas Administrative Code
Agency 172 - Department of Career Education
Rule 172.00.11-002 - 2012 State Plan for the Vocational Rehabilitation and Supported Employment Services Programs
Current through Register Vol. 49, No. 2, February 2024
Section 1 : State Certifications
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Commissioner Arkansas Rehabilitation Services
... has the authority under state law to receive, hold and disburse federal funds made available under this State Plan and its supplement.
Yes
Commissioner Arkansas Rehabilitation Services
... has the authority to submit this State Plan for vocational rehabilitation services and the State Plan supplement for supported employment services.
Yes
State Plan Certified By
As the authorized signatory identified above, I hereby certify that I will sign, date and retain in the files of the designated state agency/designated state unit Section 1 of the Preprint, and separate Certification of Lobbying forms (Form ED-80-0013; available at http://www.ed.gov/fund/grant/apply/appforms/ed80-013.pdf) for both the vocational rehabilitation and supported employment programs.
Signed Yes
Name of Signatory Robert P. Trevino
Title of Signatory Commissioner of Arkansas Rehabilitation Services
Date Signed (mm/dd/yyyy) 06/13/2011
Assurances Certified By
The designated state agency and/or the designated state unit provide the following assurance(s) in connection with the approval of the State Plan for FY 2012
None
Comments:
Signed?
Name of Signatory
Title of Signatory
Date Signed (mm/dd/yyyy)
* The signatory of the assurance with the authority to execute and submit the State Plan will maintain a signed copy of the assurance(s) with the signed State Plan.
Section 1 Footnotes
[1]Public Law 93 112, as amended by Public Laws 93 516, 95 602, 98 221, 99 506, 100-630, 102-569, 103-073, and 105-220.
[2] Unless otherwise stated, "Rehabilitation Act" means the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended.
[3] All references in this plan to "designated state agency" or to "the state agency" relate to the agency identified in this paragraph.
[4] No funds under Title I of the Rehabilitation Act may be awarded without an approved State Plan in accordance with Section 101(a) of the Rehabilitation Act and 34 CFR part 361.
[5] Applicable regulations include the Education Department General Administrative Regulations (EDGAR) in 34 CFR Parts 74, 76, 77, 79, 80, 81, 82, 85 and 86 and the State Vocational Rehabilitation Services Program regulations in 34 CFR Part 361.
[6] No funds under Title VI, Part B, of the Rehabilitation Act may be awarded without an approved supplement to the Title I State Plan in accordance with Section 625(a) of the Rehabilitation Act.
[7] Applicable regulations include the EDGAR citations in footnote 5, 34 CFR Part 361, and 34 CFR Part 363.
Section 2 : Public Comment on State Plan Policies and Procedures
The designated state agency, prior to the adoption of any substantive policies or procedures governing the provision of vocational rehabilitation services under the State Plan and supported employment services under the supplement to the State Plan, including making any substantive amendments to the policies and procedures, conducts public meetings throughout the state to provide the public, including individuals with disabilities, an opportunity to comment on the policies or procedures.
The designated state agency, prior to conducting the public meetings, provides appropriate and sufficient notice throughout the state of the meetings in accordance with state law governing public meetings or, in the absence of state law governing public meetings, procedures developed by the state agency in consultation with the State Rehabilitation Council, if the agency has a council.
The state agency actively consults with the director of the Client Assistance Program, the State Rehabilitation Council, if the agency has a council and, as appropriate, Indian tribes, tribal organizations and native Hawaiian organizations on its policies and procedures governing the provision of vocational rehabilitation services under the State Plan and supported employment services under the supplement to the State Plan.
Section 3 :Submission of the State Plan and its Supplement
Section 4 : Administration of the State Plan
The designated state agency is:
Arkansas Rehabilitation Services
The State Plan must contain one of the following assurances.
Or
The designated state agency takes into account, in connection with matters of general policy arising in the administration of the plan and its supplement, the views of:
The nonfederal share of the cost of carrying out this State Plan is 21.3 percent and is provided through the financial participation by the state or, if the state elects, by the state and local agencies.
The State Plan provides for the administration of the plan by a local agency.
No
If "Yes", the designated state agency:
The State Plan provides for the state agency to share funding and administrative responsibility with another state agency or local public agency to carry out a joint program to provide services to individuals with disabilities.
No
If "Yes", the designated state agency submits to the commissioner for approval a plan that describes its shared funding and administrative arrangement. The plan must include:
X This agency is not requesting a waiver of statewideness.
The designated state agency or the designated state unit has cooperative agreements with other entities that are components of the statewide work force investment system and replicates those agreements at the local level between individual offices of the designated state unit and local entities carrying out the One-Stop service delivery system or other activities through the statewide work force investment system.
Attachment 4.8(b) (1)-(4) describes the designated state agency's:
The designated state unit, the Statewide Independent Living Council established under Section 705 of the Rehabilitation Act and 34 CFR 364, and the independent living centers described in Part C of Title VII of the Rehabilitation Act and 34 CFR 366 have developed working relationships and coordinate their activities.
The state agency employs methods of administration, including procedures to ensure accurate data collection and financial accountability, found by the commissioner to be necessary for the proper and efficient administration of the plan and for carrying out all the functions for which the state is responsible under the plan and 34 CFR 361.
The designated state agency and entities carrying out community rehabilitation programs in the state, who are in receipt of assistance under Part B, of Title I of the Rehabilitation Act and this State Plan, take affirmative action to employ and advance in employment qualified individuals with disabilities covered under and on the same terms and conditions as set forth in Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act.
Any facility used in connection with the delivery of services assisted under this State Plan meets program accessibility requirements consistent with the provisions, as applicable, of the Architectural Barriers Rehabilitation Act of 1968, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and the regulations implementing these laws.
Attachment 4.10 describes the designated state agency's procedures and activities to establish and maintain a comprehensive system of personnel development designed to ensure an adequate supply of qualified state rehabilitation professional and paraprofessional personnel for the designated state unit. The description includes the following:
Development and maintenance of a system for collecting and analyzing on an annual basis data on qualified personnel needs and personnel development with respect to:
Development, updating on an annual basis, and implementation of a plan to address the current and projected needs for qualified personnel based on the data collection and analysis system described in paragraph (a) of this subsection and that provides for the coordination and facilitation of efforts between the designated state unit and institutions of higher education and professional associations to recruit, prepare and retain personnel who are qualified in accordance with paragraph (c) of this subsection, including personnel from minority backgrounds and personnel who are individuals with disabilities.
Policies and procedures for the establishment and maintenance of personnel standards to ensure that designated state unit professional and paraprofessional personnel are appropriately and adequately prepared and trained, including:
Policies, procedures and activities to ensure that all personnel employed by the designated state unit receive appropriate and adequate training. The narrative describes the following:
Availability of personnel within the designated state unit or obtaining the services of other individuals who are able to communicate in the native language of applicants or eligible individuals who have limited English speaking ability or in appropriate modes of communication with applicants or eligible individuals.
Procedures and activities to coordinate the designated state unit's comprehensive system of personnel development with personnel development under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.
(Sections 101(a)(15), 105(c)(2) and 625(b)(2) of the Rehabilitation Act; 34 CFR 361.17(h)(2), .29, and 363.11(b))
Attachment 4.11(b) identifies on an annual basis state estimates of the:
If the state agency implements an order of selection, consistent with subparagraph 5.3(b)(2) of the State Plan, Attachment 4.11(c)(3):
Attachment 4.11(c)(4) specifies, consistent with subsection 6.4 of the State Plan supplement, the state's goals and priorities with respect to the distribution of funds received under Section 622 of the Rehabilitation Act for the provision of supported employment services.
Section 5 : Administration of the Provision of Vocational Rehabilitation Services
The designated state agency has implemented an information and referral system that is adequate to ensure that individuals with disabilities, including individuals who do not meet the agency's order of selection criteria for receiving vocational rehabilitation services if the agency is operating on an order of selection, are provided accurate vocational rehabilitation information and guidance, including counseling and referral for job placement, using appropriate modes of communication, to assist such individuals in preparing for, securing, retaining or regaining employment, and are referred to other appropriate federal and state programs, including other components of the statewide work force investment system in the state.
The designated state unit imposes no duration of residence requirement as part of determining an individual's eligibility for vocational rehabilitation services or that excludes from services under the plan any individual who is present in the state.
Yes[tick]
Applicants and eligible individuals or, as appropriate, their representatives are provided information and support services to assist in exercising informed choice throughout the rehabilitation process, consistent with the provisions of Section 102(d) of the Rehabilitation Act and 34 CFR 361.52.
The designated state unit provides vocational rehabilitation services to American Indians who are individuals with disabilities residing in the state to the same extent as the designated state agency provides such services to other significant populations of individuals with disabilities residing in the state.
If the state elects to construct, under special circumstances, facilities for community rehabilitation programs, the following requirements are met:
The designated state agency has the authority to enter into contracts with for-profit organizations for the purpose of providing, as vocational rehabilitation services, on-the-job training and related programs for individuals with disabilities under Part A of Title VI of the Rehabilitation Act, upon the determination by the designated state agency that for-profit organizations are better qualified to provide vocational rehabilitation services than nonprofit agencies and organizations.
Attachment 4.8(b)(3) describes the manner in which the designated state agency establishes cooperative agreements with private nonprofit vocational rehabilitation service providers.
Section 6 : Program Administration
The designated state agency for vocational rehabilitation services identified in paragraph 1.2 of the Title I State Plan is the state agency designated to administer the State Supported Employment Services Program authorized under Title VI, Part B, of the Rehabilitation Act.
Attachment 4.11(a) describes the results of the comprehensive, statewide needs assessment conducted under Section 101(a)(15)(a)(1) of the Rehabilitation Act and subparagraph 4.11(a)(1) of the Title I State Plan with respect to the rehabilitation needs of individuals with most significant disabilities and their need for supported employment services, including needs related to coordination.
Attachment 6.3 describes the quality, scope and extent of supported employment services to be provided to individuals with the most significant disabilities who are eligible to receive supported employment services. The description also addresses the timing of the transition to extended services to be provided by relevant state agencies, private nonprofit organizations or other sources following the cessation of supported employment service provided by the designated state agency.
Attachment 4.11(c)(4) identifies the state's goals and plans with respect to the distribution of funds received under Section 622 of the Rehabilitation Act.
Attachment 4.8(b)(4) describes the efforts of the designated state agency to identify and make arrangements, including entering into cooperative agreements, with other state agencies and other appropriate entities to assist in the provision of supported employment services and other public or nonprofit agencies or organizations within the state, employers, natural supports, and other entities with respect to the provision of extended services.
Attachment 4.11(d) includes a description of the designated state agency's outreach procedures for identifying and serving individuals with the most significant disabilities who are minorities.
The designated state agency submits reports in such form and in accordance with such procedures as the commissioner may require and collects the information required by Section 101(a)(10) of the Rehabilitation Act separately for individuals receiving supported employment services under Part B, of Title VI and individuals receiving supported employment services under Title I of the Rehabilitation Act.
Section 7 : Financial Administration
The designated state agency expends no more than five percent of the state's allotment under Section 622 of the Rehabilitation Act for administrative costs in carrying out the State Supported Employment Services Program.
Section 8 : Provision of Supported Employment Services
The comprehensive assessment of individuals with significant disabilities conducted under Section 102(b)(1) of the Rehabilitation Act and funded under Title I of the Rehabilitation Act includes consideration of supported employment as an appropriate employment outcome.
Attachment 4.2(c) Input of State Rehabilitation Council
Required annually by all agencies except those agencies that are independent consumer-controlled commissions.
Identify the Input provided by the state rehabilitation council, including recommendations from the council's annual report, the review and analysis of consumer satisfaction, and other council reports. Be sure to also include:
* the Designated state unit's response to the input and recommendations; and
* explanations for the designated state unit's rejection of any input or recommendation of the council.
The State Rehabilitation Council (SRC) is an integral part of ARS strategic planning. The SRC meets every quarter and analyzes the agency's service planning and goals. No recommendations or input from the SRC were rejected by ARS. The following initiatives were instituted in collaboration with the SRC analysis and guidance.
* Reorganization of Field Services
* Revision of the ARS Policy and Procedure Manual
* Comprehensive Statewide Needs Assessment
* VR State Plan
* ARS Budget, ARRA Stimulus funds and re-allotment funds
* ARS Community Forums
* ARS Alternative Finance Program
* ACTI rehabilitation center renovations
* Comprehensive System of Personnel Development and CRC training
* Business Relations Representative job placement activities
* ARS Business Leadership Network development plan
* The new Libera computer case management system
* Relocation of the ARS Central Office
Attachment 4.7(b)(3) Request for Waiver of Statewideness
Identify the types of services to be provided by the program for which the waiver of statewideness is requested.
The waiver request should also include:
* a written assurance from the local public agency that it will make available to the designated state unit the non-federal share of funds;
* a written assurance that designated state unit approval will be obtained for each proposed service before it is put into effect;
* a written assurance that all state plan requirements will apply to all services approved under the waiver.
ARS has not requested a waiver of statewideness.
Attachment 4.8(b)(1) Cooperative Agreements with Agencies Not Carrying Out Activities Under the Statewide Workforce Investment System
Describe interagency cooperation with and utilization of the services and facilities of agencies and programs that are not carrying out activities through the statewide workforce investment system with respect to
* Federal, state, and local agencies and programs;
* if applicable, Programs carried out by the Under Secretary for Rural Development of the United States Department of Agriculture; and
* if applicable, state use contracting programs.
ARS collaborates and coordinates services with federal, state and local agencies that contribute to the vocational rehabilitation and independent living of Arkansans with disabilities. ARS cooperates with agencies in carrying out activities including planning and coordinating services to people with disabilities in order to build capacity in communities, improve the quality and quantity of services, and avoid duplication of services. Collaborating agencies include:
* Arkansas Department of General Education, Special Education - Transition
* Centers for Independent Living
* Community Rehabilitation Programs
* Developmental Disability Providers
* Supported Employment Vendors
* A-Win Benefits Planning Project
* Social Security Administration Ticket to Work
* DHS - Division of Aging and Adult Services
* DHS - Working Disabled Medicaid Program
* DHS - Division of Behavioral Health Services
* DHS - Division of Developmental Disabilities
* Spinal Cord Commission
* Arkansas Kidney Commission
*AgrAbility Project.
ARS maintains an active presence on numerous councils and committees, including:
* Interagency Steering Committee on Integrated Employment
* Arkansas Interagency Transition Partnership
* The Arkansas Independent Living Council
* The Governor's Commission on People with Disabilities
* Mental Health Planning and Advisory Council
* Governor's Developmental Disabilities Council
* Governor's Taskforce on Integrated Services and Supported Housing
* Youth Leadership Forum
* Arkansas Workforce Investment Board
* Traumatic Brain Injury Task Force
* SoundStARt
ARS does not have any cooperative agreements with programs carried out by the Under Secretary for Rural Development of the United States Department of Agriculture, or State use contracting programs.
Attachment 4.8(b)(2) Coordination with Education Officials
* Describe the designated state unit's plans, policies, and procedures for coordination with education officials to facilitate the transition of students with disabilities from school to the receipt of vocational rehabilitation services, including provisions for the development and approval of an individualized plan for employment before each student determined to be eligible for vocational rehabilitation services leaves the school setting or, if the designated state unit is operating on an order of selection, before each eligible student able to be served under the order leaves the school setting.
* Provide information on the formal interagency agreement with the state educational agency with respect to
o consultation and technical assistance to assist educational agencies in planning for the transition of students with disabilities from school to post-school activities, including VR services;
o transition planning by personnel of the designated state agency and educational agency that facilitates the development and completion of their individualized education programs;
o roles and responsibilities, including financial responsibilities, of each agency, including provisions for determining state lead agencies and qualified personnel responsible for transition services;
o procedures for outreach to and identification of students with disabilities who need transition services.
ARS maintains interagency agreements with the AR Department of Education-Special Education (ADE-SPED) and provides transition services to students in public schools. ARS maintains an interagency agreement with the AR Department of Higher Education (ADHE) with the objective of seamless provision of vocational rehabilitation services and access to higher education. The parties agree to participate in technical assistance and in-service training to assist educational agencies in planning. ARS, ADE-SPED and ADHE agree to coordinate services to ensure timely and appropriate supports and services are provided to eligible individuals. ARS Transition policy requires ARS counselors to engage school personnel to generate referrals of students to ARS and an IPE is developed for each eligible student. ADE is financially responsible for secondary education and ARS is responsible for taking applications, determining eligibility and providing VR services to those determined eligible for transition services. ARS participates in the state level AR Interagency Transition Partnership (AITP). AITP is a task-force made up of representatives of state agencies, including ARS, DHS-Division of Services for the Blind, AR Department of Higher Education, Special Education-Transition, AR Workforce Investment Board, DHS-Division of Behavioral Health Services and parent advocates.
ARS is currently developing an updated interagency transition agreement with ADE, ACE and ADHE. ARS also implemented postsecondary (IHE) agreements with all public colleges and universities within the state of Arkansas.
Attachment 4.8(b)(3) Cooperative Agreements with Private Nonprofit Organizations
Describe the manner in which the designated state agency establishes cooperative agreements with private non-profit vocational rehabilitation service providers.
Cooperative Agreements with Private Non-profit Vocational Rehabilitation Service Providers
ARS has cooperative agreements with Community Rehabilitation Programs (CRPs) throughout the state. ARS and representatives from CRPs developed and implemented standard procedures for the referral process and outcome indicators resulting in a fee for service schedule for individuals served by CRPs.
Attachment 4.8(b)(4) Arrangements and Cooperative Agreements for the Provision of Supported Employment Services
Describe the efforts of the designated state agency to identify and make arrangements, including entering into cooperative agreements, with other state agencies and other appropriate entities in order to provide the following services to individuals with the most significant disabilities:
* supported employment services; and
* extended services.
Evidence of Collaboration Regarding Supported Employment Services and Extended Services
ARS maintains written cooperative agreements with all private non-profit agencies providing supported employment (SE) services and extended services to individuals with the most significant disabilities. All providers of SE services to consumers of ARS agree in writing to provide extended services for the consumer as long as he/she remains employed.
ARS is currently finalizing and completing an enhanced SE agreement with eligible providers and Disability Determination Services designed to streamline SE services and produce more effective outcomes for consumers.
Attachment 4.10 Comprehensive System of Personnel Development
Data System on Personnel and Personnel Development
* the number of personnel who are employed by the state agency in the provision of vocational rehabilitation services in relation to the number of individuals served, broken down by personnel category;
* the number of personnel currently needed by the state agency to provide vocational rehabilitation services, broken down by personnel category; and
* projections of the number of personnel, broken down by personnel category, who will be needed by the state agency to provide vocational rehabilitation services in the state in 5 years based on projections of the number of individuals to be served, including individuals with significant disabilities, the number of personnel expected to retire or leave the field, and other relevant factors.
Introduction
A comprehensive and well-managed human resource program is critical to Arkansas Rehabilitation Services' efforts to expand and enhance customer services. The program is essential for individuals who are unserved or underserved and those with significant disabilities who have more complex rehabilitation needs. This is accomplished through a strong ARS commitment to provide and make available training programs to all staff, especially those providing direct services to ARS consumers.
ARS maintains training records for all staff The records are updated on an annual basis and include training request records and completed training documentation. Completed training documentation for each employee specifies the training source, course name, number of credit hours, and attendance date.
Professional qualifications for ARS counselors are monitored to ensure that certification is current and to track educational progress for those of achieving certification. The table below lists the projected total number of personnel, by category needed by agency to provide vocation rehabilitation services in the state in five (5) years based on projections of the number of individuals to be served, including individuals with significant disabilities, the number of individuals expected to retire or leave the field, and other relevant factors.
ARS is developing a comprehensive database designed to provide a menu of training opportunities and to institute online training capacity and tracking.
|
Row |
Job Title |
Total positions |
Current vacancies |
Projected vacancies over the next 5 years |
|
1 |
VR Counselors |
89 |
1 |
10 |
|
2 |
District Managers |
10 |
0 |
3 |
|
3 |
ACTI Counselors |
6 |
0 |
2 |
|
4 |
Interpreters |
5 |
0 |
1 |
|
5 |
Support Staff |
74 |
0 |
8 |
|
6 |
||||
|
7 |
||||
|
8 |
||||
|
9 |
||||
|
10 |
* a list of the institutions of higher education in the state that are preparing vocational rehabilitation professionals, by type of program;
* the number of students enrolled at each of those institutions, broken down by type of program; and
* the number of students who graduated during the prior year from each of those institutions with certification or licensure, or with the credentials for certification or licensure, broken down by the personnel category for which they have received, or have the credentials to receive, certification or licensure.
As part of the CSPD plan, ARS maintains and annually updates a list of higher education institutions in Arkansas that prepare rehabilitation professionals that is updated annually. ARS monitors students enrolled in rehabilitation and related programs at each of the institutions by category, the number of students graduating the previous year, and certification or licensure. ARS works closely with the institutions to provide internship and practicum opportunities for students. All universities are notified when job openings become available within the agency.
|
Row |
Institutions |
Students enrolled |
Employees sponsored by agency and/or RSA |
Graduates sponsored by agency and/or RSA |
Graduates from the previous year |
|
1 |
University of Arkansas Fayetteville (UAF) MRC |
32 |
0 |
24 |
18 |
|
2 |
University of Arkansas Little Rock (UALR) MRC |
87 |
3 |
0 |
77 |
|
3 |
Arkansas State University (ASU) MRC |
12 |
0 |
0 |
13 |
|
4 |
UAF, UALR & ASU Combined Part-Time |
145 |
0 |
4 |
2 |
|
5 |
Full-Time & Part Time Student totals combined. |
276 |
0 |
28 |
110 |
Plan for Recruitment, Preparation and Retention of Qualified Personnel
Describe the development (updated on an annual basis) and implementation of a plan to address the current and projected needs for qualified personnel including, the Coordination and facilitation of efforts between the designated state unit and institutions of higher education and professional associations to recruit, prepare, and retain personnel who are qualified, including personnel from minority backgrounds and personnel who are individuals with disabilities.
ARS has implemented the following plan to address CSPD requirements:
The plan places emphasis on rehabilitation counselors. The agency has worked diligently with the Arkansas Legislature, the state Office of Personnel Management (OPM) and the Department of Finance and Administration (DFA) to address the requirements of CSPD for ARS staff.
The AR Legislature authorized special language in 2007 to ARS for a waiver of the Continuing Professional Education policy that prohibits state agencies from providing college courses to employees. The special language allows ARS to provide college level coursework in degree programs designed to result in an MRC for eligible employees selected by the agency. The special language assists the agency in assuring that qualified professional personnel are in place to provide quality rehabilitation services to disabled Arkansans.
During the 2009 Arkansas Legislative Session, ARS received permission to institute a graduated pay incentive to counselors who progress toward an MRC/CRC. The pay increase aids ARS in recruitment efforts to obtain the best candidates for present and future needs. Additionally ARS continues to utilize the Student Loan Forgiveness incentive program which has resulted in enhanced counselor recruitment. Under this program newly hired VR counselors can be provided up to $2,000 per year repayment to the student loan creditor. Counselors who participate in the Student Loan Forgiveness Program agree to continue working for the agency for two years in return for each year of repayment.
The ARS Staff Development section reviews the current training levels of all personnel. Required standards, evaluation of training needs, and timeline goals are established. Staff Development develops and monitors agency policy and procedure for training and retaining qualified personnel to meet standards.
All ARS staff receives an annual personnel performance evaluation from their immediate supervisor. The evaluation is reviewed and approved by their respective senior manager. The plan outlines training each employee needs to complete to fulfill his/her job duties in providing services to our consumers.
The Human Resources section tracks critical positions within the agency that need to be filled. Individuals from minority backgrounds and those with disabilities are actively recruited and hired. Staff Training tracks VR counselors' progress in meeting CSPD standards on an annual basis. This is monitored by the Chief of Field Services who is responsible for making sure that established timelines are met within the agency's CSPD plan.
ARS works closely with the universities to provide internship and practicum opportunities for students. The universities are notified when job openings become available within the agency. Students are recruited on an ongoing basis from the university and college programs within the state and encouraged to seek employment with ARS upon graduation. ARS recruitment efforts have been very productive.
ARS maintains staff liaisons with the university programs including the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville (UAF), the University of Arkansas at Little Rock (UALR), and Arkansas State University (ASU). This gives the agency first-hand information regarding graduates from the MRC programs in the state. Students, including minorities, are encouraged to join professional rehabilitation organizations such as the National Rehabilitation Association (NRA) and the National Association of Multicultural Rehabilitation Concerns (NAMRC). The agency actively recruits minorities and students with disabilities from the universities. ARS also has a liaison with the undergraduate programs at Arkansas Tech and the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, designated as a historical black university. The rehabilitation professional organizations provide scholarship opportunities to individuals, including, minorities, that major in the field of rehabilitation. Additionally ARS advertizes its student loan payback incentive in every campus newspaper each semester and hosts receptions for prospective graduates at their schools and at the ARS Conference.
Personnel Standards
Describe the state agency's policies and procedures for the establishment and maintenance of personnel standards to ensure that designated state unit professional and paraprofessional personnel are adequately trained and prepared, including:
Be sure to include the following:
* specific strategies for retraining, recruiting, and hiring personnel;
* the specific time period by which all state unit personnel will meet the standards;
* procedures for evaluating the designated state unit's progress in hiring or retraining personnel to meet applicable personnel standards within the established time period;
* the identification of initial minimum qualifications that the designated state unit will require of newly hired personnel when the state unit is unable to hire new personnel who meet the established personnel standards;
* the identification of a plan for training newly hired personnel who do not meet the established standards to meet the applicable standards within the time period established for all state unit personnel to meet the established personnel standards.
Policies and procedures are reviewed in all areas of personnel standards to ensure that all personnel employed by ARS including professionals and paraprofessionals receive appropriate and adequate training. Because there is no standard established by the State of Arkansas, ARS bases its personnel standards for VR counselors on the degree needed to meet the national CRC requirements through CRCC. ARS requires a master's degree in rehabilitation counseling or a closely related field, as defined by the CRCC eligibility criteria, and to be CRC certified, or eligible to sit for CRC certification.
The ARS Staff Development section reviews the current training levels of all personnel. Required standards, evaluation of training needs and timelines are established. Staff Development develops and monitors agency policy and procedure for training or retraining personnel to meet standards.
All ARS staff receives an annual personnel performance evaluation from their immediate supervisor. This evaluation is reviewed and approved by the appropriate senior manager. The evaluation includes an Individual Training Plan (ITP) that is completed by each employee and approved by the immediate supervisor. The plan indicates the training or retraining needed by each employee to complete his/her job duties in line with providing services to our consumers. ARS maintains liaisons with the university programs. The agency actively recruits students from the universities, including minorities and individuals with disabilities. ARS works closely with the institutions to provide internship and practicum opportunities for students. All universities are notified when job openings become available within the agency. ARS actively recruits key counselor and quality assurance staff for post-retirement retention as permitted by state law.
Time Period by Which Existing State Unit Will Meet the Standards
ARS has experienced high turnover rates due to retirement and other attrition of administrative staff, VR counselors and senior management personnel due to retirement requirements mandated by state law. As a result, CSPD time periods were modified. The time line of October of 2007 to no longer hire counselors at the Counselor I level was met. During the 2009 Biennial Arkansas Legislative Session a new pay plan was adopted by the State that met CSPD requirements. Effective July 1, 2009, all ARS rehabilitation counselors are reclassified as either grade level C117 Rehabilitation Counselor or C119 Certified Rehabilitation Counselor. The C119 Certified Rehabilitation Counselor classification requires the counselor to be CRC certified. Effective October 1, 2010 all rehabilitation counselor positions should meet the standard of having a Master's degree and either be CRC certified, or eligible to sit for CRC certification. Those who do not meet the standards have a prescribed time period to achieve the designation.
Rehabilitation counselors who do not meet the standard will be cross-graded in position to the classification of C117. The counselors who do not meet CSPD requirements and as a result are cross-graded must be working towards meeting the standard. The counselors who do not meet CSPD requirements and as a result are cross-graded and are not working towards meeting standards will perform limited case management functions. Counselors working towards meeting standards will continue to perform counseling functions. Counselors who are not working towards meeting standards will not be authorized to perform the following functions that must be initiated and completed by the District Manager or their designee CRC level counselor:
During the 2009 Biennial Arkansas Legislative Session a new pay plan was adopted by the State. Effective July 1, 2009, all ARS Counselor are reclassified as either grade level C 117 Rehabilitation Counselor or C119 Certified Rehabilitation Counselor. The C119 Certified Rehabilitation Counselor classification requires the counselor to be CRC certified. According to state Office of Personnel Management (OPM) requirements, ARS now advertises for a C117 position with the preferred qualification being a Master's Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling and CRC certified. ARS was able to establish an internal counselor salary grid with the approval of OPM. This grid allows the agency to hire VR counselors in the counselor C117 series under different salary ranges based on qualification and certification. The grid also allows for cost of living rates for counselor in the C119 classification.
State hiring policy currently authorized by OPM allows ARS to consider graduates with Bachelor's degrees in rehabilitation for C117 positions when there is no suitable applicant with a Master's degree. A condition of employment is that the person will seek and obtain a Master's degree in Rehabilitation Counseling within four years of employment and will meet CRC certification or become eligible to sit for CRC certification within one year of graduation.
Staff Development
Describe the state agency's policies, procedures, and activities to ensure that all personnel employed by the designated state unit receive appropriate and adequate training in terms of:
Staff Development oversees the current training levels of all personnel. Required standards, evaluation of training needs and timelines are established. Opportunities for training are provided to all staff via the Annual ARA Training conference, state Interagency Training Calendar, CRC training, CEU training for purposes of certification or licensure in the professions, webinars, and training provided internally by the agency in case management and compliance with policy and procedure. Internal policy and procedure are developed and monitored for the agency in terms of hiring, training, or retraining personnel to meet standards set within the agency. The universities are utilized to provide training opportunities.
ARS ensures all personnel receive appropriate and adequate continuing education. The agency provides for employees to attend classes, seminars, and conferences, and disseminates information through newsletters, in-service training, workshops, and training conferences. The field program conducts district meetings annually in their respective districts where the latest techniques for providing service to our customers are discussed. An annual spring ARA Training Conference is also conducted that includes training on VR issues, case management, policy, procedure, assistive technology, and best practices. Continuing Education Credits and CRC Certification Credits are provided at the training conferences. The Deputy Chief of Field Services provides best practices training in each of the Field Offices throughout the state.
Personnel to Address Individual Communication Needs
Describe how the designated state unit has personnel or obtains the services of other individuals who are able to communicate in the native language of applicants or eligible individuals who have limited English speaking ability or in appropriate modes of communication with applicants or eligible individuals.
ARS continues to employ personnel who communicate in the native languages of applicants and consumers with limited English speaking ability. ARS also provides special communication modes such as interpreters, captioned videos, specialized telecommunications services and materials for individuals who are deaf and deaf-blind, as well as other specialized media systems for individuals with disabilities. Staff with language skills is hired and special equipment is provided. Interpreters are provided for the deaf or hearing impaired. Sign language skills are included as a minimum qualification for positions providing services to persons who are deaf or hearing impaired. Arkansas continues to experience a large influx of Spanish speaking citizens and these citizens are requesting our services. ARS promotes hiring of staff with Spanish language skills and provides access to native language interpreters. The agency provides assistance to our employees in order to help them accommodate consumer needs. ARS requested and the Arkansas General Assembly granted permission to the agency to compensate staff who demonstrate relevant foreign language skills at enhanced levels when using their skill set for the benefit of VR consumers.
Coordination of Personnel Development under the individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act
Describe the procedures and activities to coordinate the designated state unit's comprehensive system of personnel development with personnel development under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act.
ARS provides training opportunities for staff in transition. Staff participates in the Interagency Transition Partnership that includes State Department of Education, Special Education-Transition. ARS staff participates in regional transition coordination meetings. ARS co-sponsors a statewide annual Transition Summit. The annual Transition Summit has been very helpful in bringing all the stakeholders together that work with the high schools in transitioning disabled student from school to the world of work. ARS has restructured the field program and added counselor positions in order to effectively utilize personnel who are working with our partners in the region and area schools. ARS also sponsors transition staff participation in national training conferences throughout the year.
Attachment 4.11 (a) Statewide Assessment
Provide an assessment of the rehabilitation needs of individuals with disabilities residing within the state, particularly the vocational rehabilitation services needs of
* individuals with most significant disabilities, including their need for supported employment services;
* individuals with disabilities who are minorities;
* individuals with disabilities who have been unserved or underserved by the vocational rehabilitation program; and
* individuals with disabilities served through other components of the statewide workforce investment system.
Identify the need to establish, develop, or improve community rehabilitation programs within the state.
The Comprehensive Statewide Needs Assessment (CSNA) for Arkansas was completed in June 2010. ARS contracted with Dan Hopkins & Associates, Inc. who worked collaboratively with the State Rehabilitation Council (SRC), key stakeholders and ARS to complete a CSNA of rehabilitation needs of individuals with disabilities in the State, with emphasis on vocational rehabilitation services as outlined in 34 CFR Part 361. A mixed methods approach was used to collect data and information including, focus groups with stakeholders, service providers and consumers; structured interviews with consumers, counselors and ARS leadership and managers; and surveys with counselors and managers.
The ARS comprehensive statewide assessment is conducted every three years. The assessment indicates the unserved and underserved include individuals with disabilities from the Hispanic community and minorities due to higher incidence of disability; ex-offenders; individuals with mental health disabilities; and individuals who are deaf and hearing impaired. The results of the assessment indicate the needs for services of the unserved and underserved include additional and enhanced job placement services; assistance with education, training and tuition; medical, dental needs and hearing aids; and transportation. The needs for improved service delivery from ARS include improved information, outreach and marketing, and additional staff and training concerning diverse cultures and language. Needs for services for individuals with disabilities served through other components of the statewide workforce investment system include job placement services, increased accessibility and accommodations in the Workforce Centers, and private office areas for purposes of confidentiality.
Secondary data sources include the American Community Survey (ACS), current population surveys, and employment data from the Department of Labor and RSA-911 data. Additionally, various agency materials and study results were reviewed.
The Hispanic population is the fastest growing demographic throughout the nation, and Arkansas' Hispanic population reflects the pinnacle of that growth. For the past decade, Arkansas has had the fastest growing Hispanic population per capita than any other state in the nation rivaled only by North Carolina. This statistic reflects the growing percentage of Hispanic consumer responses and consumers receiving VR services, which are reflected in the RSA 911 data.
Because the CSNA is a vital tool for strategic planning in the VR process, ARS is committed to utilizing the information contained therein as a platform on which to provide targeted VR services to Hispanics living with disabilities within the state.
Implications and Recommendations for Planning
The following recommendations are derived from needs, concerns and issues identified from CSNA results and are presented for consideration for both short and long-range planning and further study.
Data from the Consumer Survey and RSA-911 data are consistent in identifying referral sources. The majority of referrals come from educational institutions or self-referral/word-of-mouth and 25% of referrals are from "other" sources. Reported referrals from the medical community, community-based programs, and One-Stop Centers are extremely low, as low as 1%. Focus group participants, family members, and most stakeholders report having limited knowledge or understanding of the nature and scope of ARS services. Thus, there remains a critical need to educate the community, programs and agencies to facilitate access and referral of appropriate individuals with disabilities to ARS, emphasizing minorities, those with developmental disabilities and chronic mental illness. New outreach strategies will be developed reflective of growing numbers in Arkansas's Hispanic population.
An analysis of data from the Consumer Survey, Counselor Survey and RSA-911 data clearly demonstrate a need in Job Development, Placement and Employment. Consumers reported the most desirable outcome of their rehabilitation program is "education and training" (80%) and "employment" (70%). Consumer respondents also said the service not provided or of insufficient quality/quantity is "employment, finding a job." Based on information from these surveys, one can assume there is a need for improving system-wide approaches to job-development, placement services and employment, including Supported Employment.
Presently, ARS operates two approaches to Transition services. One is a transition services pilot project operating in six school districts in Crittenden, Jefferson, Pulaski and Washington counties. The second is a more traditional approach of Field Program services and provided by VR counselors throughout the state. The CSNA reveals some issues and concerns are being raised in regard to both the pilot project and the traditional transition programs. Only a small number of schools receive services and outcomes vary from school to school. Another critical issue affecting both programs is the varying responses from different school districts. Many school districts or schools within a district do not want transition or VR counselors to provide services. Additionally, CSNA findings indicate there is a varying level of appreciation of the pilot project among ARS managers and counselors throughout the state.
Focus group findings indicate older VR consumers have varying concerns and lack information regarding amount of earnings allowed. As a result, they are reluctant to seek or secure employment for fear of losing benefits. Findings also reveal younger consumers have a much stronger desire to become employed and increase their earnings even if it means not having the SSI/SSDI safety net. The data demonstrates the need to improve and increase benefits counseling services and access to information and expertise in SSA Work Incentive programs such as Individual Work Related Expenses, PASS accounts, Working Medicaid and the Ticket to Work program.
The data and information relative to CRPs indicate that there is a decrease in referrals to CRPs and agency utilization of CRPs. Agency leadership and counselors stated that the CRPs are not providing services relevant to the times. CRPs continue to provide Sheltered Workshop services while more career development, job readiness, job development and placement are needed, including Supported Employment services. The decreased utilization of CRPs is consistent with the trend of VR agencies to decrease traditional Sheltered Workshop services. Respondents said there is a lack of CRP services in rural parts of the state. This is consistent with information acquired regarding ARS's need to strengthen working relationships and collaborative efforts with key stakeholders, community providers and vendors.
The data and information acquired from all sources indicate working relationships between ARS and WIS partners varies by level of administration and ARS district. A few ARS districts report positive and productive working relationships. However, the majority of ARS districts report the relationship to be more symbolic than substantive. All districts have a counselor assigned to the WIS center. Counselors report there is not a place for the counselor to conduct confidential interviews for purposes of referrals and gathering intake information. ARS leadership will work with WIS leadership to ensure communication and facilitation of working models are fostered at the district manager and counselor levels.
Attachment 4.11(b) Annual Estimates
* Identify the number of individuals in the state who are eligible for services.
* Identify the number of eligible individuals who will receive services provided with funds under:
o Part B of Title I;
o Part B of Title VI;
o Each priority category, if under an order of selection.
* Identify the cost of services for the number of individuals estimated to be eligible for services. If under an order of selection, identify the cost of services for each priority category.
In Arkansas there are 279,347 individuals with disabilities within the age range of 18 to 64 years of age according to the U.S. Census Bureau, 2009 American Community Survey. This is out of the total estimated population within this age range of 1,734,882.
|
Category |
Title I or Title VI |
Estimated Funds |
Estimated Number to be Served |
Average Cost of Services |
|
Title I, Part B |
- |
|||
|
Priority I Priority II Priority III |
Title I Title I Title I |
$2,680,678 $16,013,882 $1,926,100 |
2,366 14,134 1,700 |
$1,133 $1,133 $1,133 - |
|
Title VI, Part B |
Title VI |
$296,500 |
335 |
$885 |
|
- |
||||
|
- |
||||
|
- |
||||
|
- |
||||
|
Totals |
$20,917,160 |
18,535 |
$1,128 |
Attachment 4.11(c)(1) State Goals and Priorities
The goals and priorities are based on the comprehensive statewide assessment, on requirements related to the performance standards and indicators, and on other information about the state agency. (See section 101(a)(15)(C) of the Act.) This attachment should be updated when there are material changes in the information that require the description to be amended.
* Identify if the goals and priorities were jointly developed and agreed to by the state VR agency and the State Rehabilitation Council, if the state has a council.
* Identify if the state VR agency and the State Rehabilitation Council, if the state has such a council, jointly reviewed the goals and priorities and jointly agreed to any revisions.
* Identify the goals and priorities in carrying out the vocational rehabilitation and supported employment programs.
* Ensure that the goals and priorities are based on an analysis of the following areas:
o the most recent comprehensive statewide assessment, including any updates;
o the performance of the state on standards and indicators; and
o other available information on the operation and effectiveness of the VR program, including any reports received from the State Rehabilitation Council and findings and recommendations from monitoring activities conducted under section 107.
ARS and the State Rehabilitation Council (SRC) have developed and agreed upon goals and priorities. The goals have been reviewed and revised by ARS and the SRC. The goals are based on the Performance Standards and Indicators and the CSNA, completed in June 2010. Other available information utilized included RSA recommendations from the most recent 107 on-site review. The priorities include meeting or exceeding the standards and indicators. The goals are:
Goal 1: Meet or exceed benchmarks for performance on the state standards and indicators. Goal 2: Increase the availability of assistive technology (AT) for consumers statewide.
Goal 3: ARS will reserve and use a portion of the funds under Sec. 110 for the development and implementation of innovative approaches to expand and improve vocational rehabilitation services to individuals with disabilities under the state plan and for the support of the SRC and/or the SILC.
Goal 4: Increase the availability of Supported Employment (SE) services to consumers by providing technical assistance to CRPs and other vendors and increasing the number of referrals for SE services.
Goal 5: Improve public relations, marketing, information, outreach and referral.
Goal 6: Improve and expand job development, placement and employment.
Goal 7: Improve and expand transition services programs.
Goal 8: Improve services to meet issues and concerns of SSI/SSDI beneficiaries with disabilities.
Goal 9: Develop and improve Community Rehabilitation Programs.
Goal 10: Enhance collaboration and partnerships with the Workforce Investment System.
Goal 11: Increase and enhance services to individuals served by ARS.
Attachment 4.11(c)(3) Order of Selection
* Identify the order to be followed in selecting eligible individuals to be provided vocational rehabilitation services.
* Identify the justification for the order.
* Identify the service and outcome goals.
* Identify the time within which these goals may be achieved for individuals in each priority category within the order.
* Describe how individuals with the most significant disabilities are selected for services before all other individuals with disabilities.
This agency is not under an order of selection.
Attachment 4.11(c)(4) Goals and Plans for Distribution of Title VI, Part B Funds
Specify the state's goals and priorities with respect to the distribution of funds received under section 622 of the Act for the provision of supported employment services.
ARS has the goal to increase the availability of Supported Employment (SE) Services to consumers by providing technical assistance to vendors and to increase the number of referrals for SE services. The strategy is to provide technical assistance and develop incentives to SE providers including CRPs to increase the availability of SE services to consumers. At the same time, the agency will place greater emphasis on supported employment outcomes and traditional sheltered employment outcomes will be de-emphasized.
The strategy involves an increased focus on appropriate SE outcomes as opposed to traditional sheltered employment. ARS has developed interagency agreements with the state agencies that serve individuals with the most significant disabilities including Developmental Disabilities Services, Special Education, Behavioral Health and the Division of Services for the Blind. The agreement places an emphasis on competitive employment as a desirable outcome for individuals with the most significant disabilities including those with developmental disabilities and mental health diagnoses.
ARS utilizes a fee schedule for CRPs and other SE providers predicated on a fee-for-service model. The goal is to stimulate an increase in the number of SE providers in the state and to provide incentives for provision of SE services in rural areas that are unserved and underserved. In turn, the goal is to increase the number of referrals and individuals served and rehabilitated in the SE program. ARS is developing a revised agreement that includes the use of Medicaid waiver funds to provide support services and extended services to SE clients receiving waiver services.
Attachment 4.11(d) State's Strategies
This attachment should include required strategies and how the agency will use these strategies to achieve its goals and priorities, support innovation and expansion activities, and overcome any barriers to accessing the vocational rehabilitation and the supported employment programs. See sections 101(a)(15)(D) and (18)(B) of the Act and Section 427 of the General Education Provisions Act (GEPA.)
* Describe the methods to be used to expand and improve services to individuals with disabilities.
* Identify how a broad range of assistive technology services and assistive technology devices will be provided to individuals with disabilities at each stage of the rehabilitation process.
* Describe how assistive technology services and devices will be provided to individuals with disabilities on a statewide basis.
* Identify what outreach procedures will be used to identify and serve individuals with disabilities who are minorities, including those with the most significant disabilities.
* Identify what outreach procedures will be used to identify and serve individuals with disabilities who have been unserved or underserved by the VR program.
* Identify plans for establishing, developing, or improving community rehabilitation programs, if applicable.
* Describe strategies to improve the performance with respect to the evaluation standards and performance indicators.
* Describe strategies for assisting other components of the statewide workforce investment system in assisting individuals with disabilities.
* Describe how the agency's strategies will be used to:
o achieve the goals and priorities identified in Attachment 4.11(c)(1);
o support innovation and expansion activities; and
o overcome identified barriers relating to equitable access to and participation of individuals with disabilities in the state Vocational Rehabilitation Services Program and the state Supported Employment Services Program.
Strategies to Achieve Goals and Priorities
Goal 1: To meet or exceed the benchmarks for state performance standards and indicators.
Strategy
* ARS will make a concentrated effort - through increased referrals, enhanced job development and placement services, and recruitment of qualified rehabilitation counselors to fill vacancies -to meet or exceed past performance in employment outcomes in FY 2012.
*ARS will increase performance in Supported Employment with emphasis on serving an increased number of individuals with developmental disabilities and mental illness.
Goal 2: Increase availability of assistive technology (AT) for consumers statewide.
Strategy
* Field Services will utilize the Assistive Technology@Work (AT@Work) program (formerly S.E.A.T. program) through all satellite offices to assess and utilize assistive technology equipment and devices for consumers throughout FY2012 on a statewide basis.
* ARS will continue collaboration efforts and provide referrals to the Increasing Capabilities Access Network (ICAN) to increase awareness and utility of assistive technology on a statewide basis.
Goal 3: ARS will use a portion of the funds in compliance with Section 101(a)(18) for the development and implementation of innovative approaches to expand and improve vocational rehabilitation services to individuals with disabilities.
Strategy
* ARS will strengthen collaboration with Independent Living Centers through meetings and conferences.
* ARS will develop and implement Community Forums across the state to provide marketing of ARS services and outreach to local communities targeting individuals with minority backgrounds and individuals with disabilities who have been unserved or underserved.
* ARS will use a portion of the funds under Section 101(a)(18) for the support of the SRC and/or the SILC.
Goal 4: Increase the availability of Supported Employment (SE) Services to consumers by providing technical assistance to vendors and increasing the number of referrals for SE services.
Strategy
* ARS will provide technical assistance and develop incentives to Supported Employment (SE) providers or potential providers, including CRPs, to increase the availability of SE services to consumers statewide.
*ARS will explore revision of interagency agreements with Developmental Disabilities Services and Behavioral Health Services.
Goal 5: Improve public relations, marketing, information, outreach, and referrals.
Strategy
* ARS will develop outreach strategies designed to improve access to VR services for the state's Hispanic residents living with a disability.
* ARS will study the needs and emerging population trends for purposes of developing and implementing a plan designed to increase the knowledge and access of potential consumers of the scope, and availability of Rehabilitation Services.
* ARS will develop educational and informational materials designed to inform potential referral sources of the scope of ARS services and of the referral process.
* Materials and information will be provided in a variety of formats for Field personnel to distribute at the local community level.
* The materials will provide special attention to strategies designed to reach and serve a growing diverse population in the state.
Goal 6: Improve and expand job development, placement and employment.
Strategy
* ARS will enhance and facilitate a business services component in an effort to increase quality employment outcomes.
* ARS will increase the number of placement specialists employed throughout the state.
* The Field Program will be provided training regarding role, function and responsibility of placement specialists.
* An advisory group will be established composed of individuals from business and industry, counselors, job placement specialists, and other appropriate professionals.
Goal 7: Improve and expand transition services program.
Strategy
* ARS leadership will work with the State Department of Education to insure that rehabilitation counselors have ready access to all students with disabilities.
* ARS leadership will work with the school districts throughout the state to facilitate and enhance the working relationship between the school districts and local rehabilitation District Managers and counselors.
* ARS will promote that all students reported to have a disability and an IEP will be contacted by a transition or rehabilitation counselor prior to or during their junior year of school.
* ARS will promote that all students with an IEP will be provided eligibility determination for VR services before they graduate high school.
* ARS will present opportunities for both further training and higher education as options to students and their families during transition planning for students. Additionally, students and their families will be given information and explanation of employment services and options, including information that describes and defines supported employment as one of those options.
Goal 8: Improve services to better meet the needs concerning SSI/SSDI beneficiaries with disabilities.
Strategy
* ARS will explore the development of additional SSA benefit counselors to work with ARS consumers and potential consumers regarding SSA rules and work incentives for employment.
* ARS will collaborate with the AWIN Benefits Counseling Program, the Working Medicaid Program, and Employment Networks to leverage and expand services to SSI/DI beneficiaries.
Goal 9: Develop and improve Community Rehabilitation Programs.
Strategy
* ARS will continue assignment of a rehabilitation counselor as a liaison to each CRP in his/her District.
* ARS District Managers will assume a more active role with the CRPs for purposes of developing positive working relationships, to further assessing the need to improve or expand services, and to determine if additional CRPs need to be constructed.
Goal 10: Enhance collaboration and partnerships with the Workforce Investment System. Strategy
* ARS will collaborate with the Workforce Center staff to increase the ability of ARS staff to conduct intake interviews and take applications in a confidential manner while located at a Workforce Center site.
* ARS District Managers will conduct follow-up contacts with Workforce Managers to increase and improve working relationships and collaborative efforts.
Goal 11: Increase and enhance services to clients.
Strategy
* ARS will reclassify positions and request additional positions from the Legislature in order to increase the number of VR counselors and reduce caseloads.
* Counselor caseloads will be redistributed to achieve a more equitable number of cases per counselor and to reduce the number of cases per counselor.
4.11 (d) Outreach
The agency is developing and implementing the Community Forum program. The Forum program is a marketing and outreach program to inform Arkansas citizens about the availability of ARS services. The Forums are also an outreach activity to individuals from minority backgrounds, individuals with the most significant disabilities, and others who are unserved or underserved. The Forums will take place in five communities around the state tentatively in North Little Rock, Helena, Fayetteville, Monticello and Texarkana. The Forums will include representatives from Field Services, the ACTI Rehabilitation Center, Special Programs, and all services components of ARS. In some instances employers will be present for mini-job fair activities. Advertising informs the community about the Forum activities and the availability of food and refreshments. Forum activities are extended beyond the regular work-day hours in order to serve individuals after work hours.
Attachment 4.11(e)(2) Evaluation and Reports of Progress
Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) and Supported Employment (SE) Goals
* Identify the strategies that contributed to the achievement of the goals.
* Provide a description of the factors that impeded the achievement of the goals and priorities.
Introduction
The Arkansas Department of Career Education, Arkansas Rehabilitation Services (ARS) Division is the program within the state of Arkansas (along with the Department of Human Services-Division of State Services for the Blind) that provides vocational rehabilitation services to assist individuals with significant disabilities in obtaining employment and living independently. The program is authorized through the Vocational Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as Amended, (Title IV of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998) and is provided through federal funds and state matching funds. Federal funding is received through the Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA), Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services, U.S. Department of Education.
Evaluation and Progress for Goals and Strategies
Goal 1: To successfully meet or exceed the RSA requirements for performance.
ARS Evaluation and Progress
ARS Performance on the Standards and Indicators Pursuant To Section 106 for FY 2010
Standard 1: Employment Outcomes
Performance Indicator 1.1
The data indicates that the number of individuals in Arkansas who achieved an employment outcome increased in FY 2010 (2,670) compared to FY 2009 (2,361). This meets the federal benchmark of equaling or exceeding performance in the previous fiscal year.
Performance Indicator 1.2
The data indicates that 56.7% of the individuals in Arkansas who exited the VR program after receiving services achieved an employment outcome. This exceeds the federal benchmark of 55.8%.
Performance Indicator 1.3
The data indicates that the percentage of individuals determined to have achieved an employment outcome, which exited the VR program in competitive, self-employment, or BEP employment with earnings equivalent to at least the minimum wage is 99.5% in Arkansas, which exceeds the federal benchmark of 72.6%.
Performance Indicator 1.4
The data indicates that of all individuals who exited the VR program in competitive, self-employment, or BEP employment, with earnings equivalent to at least the minimum wage, the percentage that are individuals with significant disabilities in Arkansas is 87.2% which exceeds the federal benchmark of 62.4%.
Performance Indicator 1.5
The data indicates that the result for Performance Indicator 1.5 in Arkansas is the ratio of 0.63, which exceeds the federal benchmark of 0.52.
Performance Indicator 1.6
The data indicates the mathematical difference between the percentage reporting their own income as the largest single source of economic support at exit and the percentage reporting their own income as the largest single source of economic support at application is 50.6 in Arkansas which is below the federal benchmark of 53.0.
Standard 2: Equal Access to Services
Performance Indicator 2.1
The data indicates the service rate for all individuals with disabilities from minority backgrounds, as a ratio to the service rate for all non-minority individuals with disabilities is 0.88 in Arkansas, which exceeds the federal benchmark of 0.80.
Evaluation and Progress for Goals and Strategies for FY 2010
Goal 2: Reduce systemic barriers that may inhibit counselor interaction with consumers to increase counselor/client contact.
Strategy
* Agency will utilize data from the Comprehensive Assessment to determine systemic barriers and reduce the barriers.
* Agency will implement an updated policy manual to enhance services during FY 2010.
* Agency will acquire a new client case management system.
* Agency will implement the new client case management system during FY 2010.
* Agency will provide training on the new client case management system.
ARS Evaluation and Progress
* During FY 2010 ARS increased the number of positions for VR Counselors in order to decrease the number of clients on counselor caseloads. Case services funds were increased through reallocation of funds and using ARRA funds. Services to individuals living with developmental delays and mental illness were targeted. Collaborative efforts were made through work groups established with cooperative agreements with the Division of Behavioral Health Services, and Division of Developmental Disabilities.
* ARS revised and implemented the policy manual, which along with the new case management software system will create efficiencies and increase counselor time with applicants and clients.
* ARS contracted with Libera System 7 to implement a new case management software system.
* The new case management software system went live October 22, 2010.
* Training was provided to ARS staff in three phases in a Train-the-Trainer mode. ARS staff received training before the live date with additional training available through WebEx, on-line User Manual and Trainers in each satellite office.
Goal 3: Increase number of CSPD participants who meet standards.
Strategy
* Agency will continue providing Comprehensive System of Personnel Development training opportunities and support to assure development of qualified staff and seamless succession throughout FY2010.
ARS Evaluation and Progress
* ARS continues to implement the CSPD plan for Agency staff. All VR counselors hired in the event that no appropriate MRC or CRC candidate is available must be enrolled in a MRC or CRC program. Courses targeted for successful completion of the CRC exam have been arranged with the University of Arkansas and counselors enrolled in the training. ARS hired a Deputy Chief of Field Services to facilitate the programs and track CRC achievement. The Deputy Chief of Field Services developed curriculum and intensive classroom training to assist counselors in passing the CRC exam.
Goal 4: Increase number of students served with transition programs.
Strategy
* The agency will continue participation in the state Interagency Transition Partnership to assure collaboration and increase referrals throughout FY2010.
* Field services will increase the number of counselors in FY2010 to serve transition cases in FY2010 and expand knowledge of community service opportunities.
ARS Evaluation and Progress
* ARS continues to participate in the Interagency Transition Partnership (IATP) along with Department of Education-Transition, Special Education, and other key agencies. The IATP is designing a statewide help line to increase information and referral services statewide.
*ARS increased the number of counselors in Field Services from 74 to 90, increasing the number of counselors available to provide services including transition.
*ARS sponsors a summer program for Transition Youth, the Youth Leadership Forum (YLF). This program gives 10-15 transition students a week's experience on the University of Central Arkansas campus. The program includes college-type classroom activities; dorm room overnight experience; motivational speakers in such subjects as independent living, and self-advocacy, and social activities. ARS plans to expand the program to enhance transition services offered to students.
Goal 5: Increase availability of assistive technology (AT) for consumers.
Strategy
* Field Services will continue the Successful Employment through Assistive Technology (S.E.A.T.) program to increase the assessments and application of technology equipment and devices for consumers throughout FY2010.
* Agency will continue collaboration and referrals to the Increasing Capabilities Access Network (ICAN) to increase awareness and utility of assistive technology.
ARS Evaluation and Progress
*The Assistive Technology@Work (AT@Work) program is utilized by Field Services to assess individual's assistive technology needs. The new case management system incorporates assistive technology referral electronically in the system along with the bidding process which creates economy and efficiency.
* The ICAN Assistive Technology project is utilized by counselors for AT needs for clients and promotes public awareness and training. ICAN also has an AT recycling program with a lending and permanent assignment program.
Goal 6: Reserve and use a portion of the funds under Sec. 110 for the development and implementation of innovative approaches to expand and improve vocational rehabilitation services to individuals with disabilities under the state plan and for the support of the SRC and/or the SILC. To increase collaboration and partnerships with Centers for Independent Living (CIL) including referrals, marketing and public information. Provide funds to support an innovative outreach program to unserved and underserved individuals.
Strategy
* The agency will reserve and use Title I funds for Innovation and Expansion to support the State Independent Living Council.
* The agency will provide technical assistance to the State Rehabilitation Council regarding the revised policy manual and case management to be implemented In FY2010.
* Agency will implement strategies to strengthen collaboration with Independent Living Centers.
* Agency will continue to support the efforts of the Arkansas Outreach to Emerging Communities Program targeting individuals with minority backgrounds with disabilities.
ARS Evaluation and Progress
* ARS uses funds described under Section 101(a)(18) to support the SILC in partnership with the DHS-Division of State Services for the Blind on a 88-12% shared basis.
* ARS provided a review of the policy manual and case management to the SRC.
* ARS collaborates with the SILC and Centers on an ongoing basis and attends SILC meetings.
* ARS is developing Community Forums across the state to provide marketing of ARS services and outreach to local communities.
Goal 7: To increase the availability of Supported Employment (SE) Services to consumers by providing technical assistance to CRPs and other vendors and increasing the number of referrals for SE services.
Strategy
* The agency will provide technical assistance and develop incentives to Supported Employment (SE) providers or potential providers, including CRPs, to increase the availability of SE services to consumers statewide.
ARS Evaluation and Progress
*ARS continues to attempt to expand and improve Supported Employment (SE) Services for individuals with the most significant disabilities throughout the state. An Interagency Agreement enhances collaboration between ARS, DSB, DD and MH state agencies. ARS participates in the Governor's Taskforce on Employment for People with Disabilities. An interagency agreement is being developed with DD and MH state agencies to emphasize work as a high priority outcome and to utilize Medicaid waiver to fund extended services.
* Identify the strategies that contributed to the achievement of the goals.
* Provide a description of the factors that impeded the achievement of the goals and priorities.
The agency continues strategies to develop and expand Supported Employment services. The number of SE cases served in FY 2010 was 323 compared to 328 in FY 2009, 302 in FY 2008 and 284 in FY 2007, which is a modest upward trend slightly down in 2010. Strategies involve an increased focus on appropriate SE outcomes as opposed to traditional sheltered employment.
ARS has interagency agreements with state agencies that serve individuals with the most significant disabilities including DDS, Special Education, Behavioral Health and the Division of Services for the Blind. ARS is a member of the recently formed Governor's Task Force on Employment of People with Disabilities. The Task Force goal is to make employment a priority outcome rather than services provision for individuals with the most significant disabilities.
The agency anticipates that the number of individuals served in the SE program will continue to grow. The main factors that impeded the achievement of the goals were lack of adequate funding for SE; lack of transportation and of providers in rural areas, and limitations of staff and expertise in existing CRPs that could potentially provide SE services.
ARS met or exceeded the benchmarks for all of the performance standards and indicators for FY 2010 with the exception of 1.6. In recent years the number has increased of individuals that reported their own income as the largest single source of economic support at application. Many of these cases are for job retention with physical restoration, assistive technology or other services to assist clients in maintaining their current employment. ARS has a RAVE (Retaining a Valued Employee) program to assist state government with worker's compensation cases.
ARS uses funds described under Section 101(a)(18) to support the SILC in partnership with the DHS-Division of State Services for the Blind on a 88%-12% shared basis. ARS is developing Community Forums across the state to provide marketing of ARS services and outreach to local communities. The program will inform and expand VR services to citizens and provide outreach to traditionally unserved and underserved populations including individuals with minority backgrounds and underserved disability groups.
Attachment 6.3 Quality, Scope, and Extent of Supported Employment Services
* Describe quality, scope, and extent of supported employment services to be provided to individuals with the most significant disabilities
* Describe the timing of the transition to extended services
ARS continues initiatives to expand and improve Supported Employment (SE) Services for individuals with the most significant disabilities throughout the state. An Interagency Agreement enhances collaboration among ARS, DSB, DD and MH state agencies. Another Interagency Agreement is in place with SE service vendors to implement strategies to expand the SE system, including job placement services. Strategies include increasing the number of vendors offering SE and job placement statewide through enhanced incentives; utilizing a fee-for-service approach with CRPs and SE providers; revised fee schedules; and commitment from DD and MH state agencies to emphasize work as a high priority outcome.
ARS provides Supported Employment (SE) Services in compliance with Sec. 7 Definitions in the Act based on a determination of the needs of an eligible individual, as specified in an individualized plan for employment. To the extent job skills training is provided, the training is provided on-site. SE services include placement in an integrated setting for the maximum number of hours possible based on the unique strengths, resources, priorities, concerns, abilities, capabilities, interests, and informed choice of individuals with the most significant disabilities. ARS identifies and makes arrangements (including entering into cooperative agreements) with other State agencies and other appropriate entities to assist in the provision of SE services.
State agency partners involved in ARS SE include the Department of Human Services (DHS) Developmental Disabilities Services, DHS Division of Behavioral Health Services, DHS Division of State Services for the Blind and Arkansas Department of Education. SE providers are utilized statewide. Faulkner Co. Council on Developmental Disabilities in Conway, First Step School in Hot Springs, Easter Seals in Little Rock, Arkansas Support Network, serving northwest Arkansas, and Abilities Unlimited of Jonesboro are a few of the extensive list of vendors for SE services.
All providers of SE services to consumers of ARS agree in writing to provide extended services for the client as long as the client has the current job. The timing of the transition from employment to extended services is immediate. Extended services begin immediately after the case is closed status 26 when the employment outcome is achieved.
OMB Notice
According to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, no persons are required to respond to a collection of information unless it displays a valid OMB control number. The valid OMB control number of this information collection is 1820-0500. The time required to complete this information collection is estimated to average 25 hours per response, including the time to review instructions, search existing data sources, gather the data needed, and complete and review the information collection. If you have any comments concerning the accuracy of the time estimate or suggestions for improving this form, please write to: U.S. Department of Education, Washington, D.C. 20202-4537. If you have any comments or concerns regarding the status of your individual submission of this form, write directly to: Carol Dobak, Chief of the Vocational Rehabilitation Program Unit, Rehabilitation Services Administration, U.S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue S.W., PCP, Room 5014, Washington, D.C. 20202.
