Located in:
- III. Operational Planning Elements
The Unified or Combined State Plan must include an Operational Planning Elements section that supports the State’s strategy and the system-wide vision described in Section II(c) above. Unless otherwise noted, all Operational Planning Elements apply to Combined State Plan partner programs included in the plan as well as to core programs. This section must include—
- b. State Operating Systems and Policies
The Unified or Combined State Plan must include a description of the State operating systems and policies that will support the implementation of the State strategy described in section II Strategic Elements. This includes—
- 5. Distribution of Funds for Core Programs
Describe the methods and factors the State will use in distributing funds under the core programs in accordance with the provisions authorizing such distributions.
- 5. Distribution of Funds for Core Programs
- b. State Operating Systems and Policies
III. b. 5. B. ii. Describe how the eligible agency will ensure direct and equitable access to all eligible providers to apply and compete for funds and how the eligible agency will ensure that it is using the same grant or contract announcement and application procedure for all eligible providers
Current Narrative:
The CDE developed internal processes to ensure that there is direct and equitable access to the grant funds. All currently funded providers, public adult schools listed in the current California Public School Directory, and all other identified eligible agencies receive a grant or contract application notification by e-mail. This includes all known community-based organizations, community colleges, libraries, literacy councils, public housing authorities, and any other provider that is eligible pursuant to WIOA Section 203(5). In addition to the general distribution of WIOA Sections 225, 231, and/or 243 application notifications, CDE will post a notice of the availability of funding on the website maintained by the Outreach and Technical Assistance Network. In addition, the CDE provides application information at conferences, workshops, and other activities attended by potential providers.
The CDE requires all eligible providers for WIOA Sections 225, 231, and/or 243 to use the same application process. This ensures that all applications are evaluated using the same rubric and scoring criteria. Statewide leadership activities are provided through contracted service providers in compliance with state contracting requirements. The CDE has also developed interagency agreements with the CDCR, DDS, and the California Youth Authority to provide the appropriate and necessary services for institutionalized adults.
The CDE ensures that all eligible providers have direct and equitable access to apply for grants or contracts. It also ensures that the same grant or contract announcement, application, and proposal process is used for all eligible providers. During the initial period of the grant submission process, any eligible agency that contacts CDE with an interest in participating will be provided the information needed. The CDE sends notification of availability of applications to all potential new adult education providers in the years when the RFA is open to new applicants. The CDE believes that these approaches meet the requirements specified in WIOA Title II and is satisfied that every effort is made to ensure direct and equitable access.