Compilation of Rules and Regulations of the State of Georgia
Department 160 - RULES OF GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
Chapter 160-1
Subject 160-1-4 - GRANT PROGRAMS
Rule 160-1-4-.50 - IDEA Funds - Statewide Special Education Projects

(1) Purpose of Program. Under provisions of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, Title VI-B and Section 619, the State of Georgia receives grant funds from the Office of Special Education Programs, the U.S. Department of Education. The purpose of the Act is to provide grants to states to assist them in providing a free appropriate public education to all students with disabilities, ages 3-21. A percentage of these funds is discretionary, and a portion is used to provide statewide technical assistance, staff development, training and similar activities to assist local school systems in their provision of special education to students with disabilities. These activities are specified in the State Program Plan for Special Education, which is approved by the State Board of Education and the U.S. Department of Education. The activities include the Georgia Project for Assistive Technology, Positive Behavior Support of Georgia, and Georgia Instructional Materials Center.

(2) Terms and Conditions. Grant funds are allocated to the local school systems and regional educational services agencies (RESAs) serving as fiscal agents for these projects. The grantees agree to adhere to rules adopted by the State Board of Education and applicable federal regulations in 34 CFR Part 300.

(3) Eligible Recipients. Eligible recipients are the RESAs or local school boards serving as fiscal agents for these projects.

(4) Criteria for Award. Grant funds flow to the fiscal agents following the submission of project proposals, which must be reviewed and approved by department staff. As per Georgia Department of Education procedures for federal funds, the fiscal agents then request these funds quarterly on a reimbursement basis.

(5) Directions and Deadlines for Applying. The project proposals are due to the department in the spring of each year. Requests for information, directions or assistance for completing the proposal should be made to the Division for Exceptional Students Unit, Georgia Department of Education, 1870 Twin Towers East, Atlanta, Georgia 30334-5040.