A wide variety of strategies to develop new and improved methods of training rehabilitation personnel to support the effective delivery of rehabilitation services are being funded. Curriculum development efforts address adaptive technology training, computer-based learning, use of natural supports at the work site, and interdisciplinary instruction for dentistry professionals on rehabilitation and the needs of individuals with disabilities.

Uses and Use Restrictions

Training grants are provided in fields directly related to the vocational and independent living rehabilitation of individuals with disabilities.

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Eligibility Requirements

Applicant Eligibility

State vocational rehabilitation agencies, including Territories and other public or nonprofit agencies and organizations (including institutions of higher education) may apply.

Beneficiary Eligibility

Individuals preparing for or employed in positions relating to the rehabilitation of individuals with disabilities will benefit.

Credentials/Documentation

An application should show evidence of current accreditation by or seeking of accreditation from the designated accreditation agency in the respective professional field. Costs will be determined in accordance with OMB Circular No. A-87 for State and local governments. Costs will be determined in accordance with OMB Circular No. A-21 for educational institutions.

Aplication and Award Process

Preapplication Coordination

The standard application forms as furnished by the Federal agency and required by OMB Circular No.

A-102 must be used for this program.

This program is eligible for coverage under E.O.

12372, "Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs." An applicant should consult the office or official designated as the single point of contact in his or her State for more information on the process the State requires to be followed in applying for assistance, if the State has selected the program for review.

Application Procedures

New applications are made to the Department of Education, Application Control Center, 400 Maryland Avenue, S.W., Washington, DC 20202-4725. Attention: 84.263. This program is subject to the provisions of OMB Circular No. A-110.

Award Procedures

New and continuation grants are awarded by the Rehabilitation Services Administration. All new applications are reviewed by a panel of at least three individuals. Each panel will include nonfederal consultants with experience and training in the proposed area of training.

Deadlines

Deadlines are published in the Federal Register or you may contact the program office for application deadlines.

Authorization

Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, Title III, Section 302, 29 U.S.C. 774.

Range of Approval/Disapproval Time

From 120 to 160 days.

Appeals

None.

Renewals

Renewals are available only through the new application process. Projects with an approved multi-year project period may be continued based on the availability of adequate funds and an annual review of accomplishments to determine satisfactory performance.

Assistance Considerations

Formula and Matching Requirements

Grantees are required to share in the costs of projects with the proportion subject to individual negotiation.

Length and Time Phasing of Assistance

Projects may generally be supported for a maximum of 5 years. Funds are granted on a 12-month basis. Renewals are subject to the availability of funds.

Post Assistance Requirements

Reports

Annual financial and progress reports must be submitted as required by grant award terms and conditions.

Audits

Audits must be conducted on a continuing basis or at scheduled intervals, usually once a year, but at least once every 2 years. In accordance with the provisions of OMB Circular No. A-133 (Revised, June 27, 2003), "Audits of States, Local Governments, and Nonprofit Organizations," nonfederal entities that expend financial assistance of $500,000 or more in Federal awards will have a single or a program-specific audit conducted for that year. Nonfederal entities that expend less than $500,000 a year in Federal awards are exempt from Federal audit requirements for that year, except as noted in Circular No. A-133.

Records

Proper records must be maintained as required by the Education Department General Administrative Regulations (EDGAR) or until all audit questions are resolved.

Financial Information

Account Identification

91-0301-0-1-506.

Obigations

(Grants and Contracts) FY 07 $0; FY 08 est $500,000; and FY 09 est $500,000.

Range and Average of Financial Assistance

Average $125,000 in FY 08.

Regulations, Guidelines, and Literature

Regulations can be found in 34 CFR 385 and 387.

Information Contacts

Regional or Local Office

None.

Headquarters Office

Rehabilitation Services Administration, Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services, Department of Education, Washington, DC 20202-2649. Contact: Ruth Brannon. E-mail: ruth.brannon@ed.gov. Telephone: (202) 245-7278.

Criteria for Selecting Proposals

The relevance of the content of the training to the mission of the public rehabilitation program and priorities for projects are in the application notice. Criteria for evaluating applications are published in program regulations 34 CFR 385 and 387.