New audit requirements can be a “spooky” topic, but here at CSS, we don’t want to leave you in the dark! Beginning with fiscal year 2022, you will be required to attest that you have written policies and procedures for your bilingual and/or ESL program. Although the same will be required for your State Compensatory … Read More
Random Validations Begin – Title I, II, and IV
It is highly doubtful you are raising your hand shouting “pick me” for random validation of your federal program compliance. Face it, it’s not like winning the lotto! You can rest easy that if you are selected, you do have time and assistance to prepare. Read on to find out what the random validations will … Read More
Title I, 1003 School Improvement Funding – Important Updates
Did your charter district “opt in” to continue receiving Title I, 1003 School Improvement funds for 2021-22? Due to the pandemic and ratings being suspended, TEA made some changes with school improvement funding. A large chunk went to the ESF Focused Support Grant that was competitive. This pulled off a large amount of funds and … Read More
District Improvement Planning (DIP) for Charter Districts
You have heard the expression “If you fail to plan, you plan to fail,” and when it comes to school improvement, this is certainly the case. Having a well-designed DIP can help your organization have focus and reach its goals, but in some cases, it is also required by law. According to the federal law, … Read More
TCLAS Grant – Texas COVID Learning Acceleration Support
Wading through the abundance of government funding that has become available in response to the COVID pandemic can feel like swimming in an ocean. Every time you turn around, a new wave is coming. Staying afloat is a challenge, but CSS is here to assist you with today’s lifesaving article that provides the basics about … Read More
ESSER III – American Rescue Plan Funding 2020-23
ESSER III is bigger and better than its prequel ESSER I, but the critics say the sequel is packed with much more red tape. CSS has been busy attending numerous TEA trainings in preparation for the debut of ESSER III, and today’s article will summarize all the requirements of this blockbuster. The prep time will … Read More
NEW 2021 Travel Guidelines are now available
Travel has been largely stagnant since Covid hit, but people are starting to venture back out to in-person meetings and events. CSS wants to make sure you are up to date on the most current travel rates. On April 1, 2021 school officials were notified by the TEA that the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts … Read More
Title I, Part A Paraprofessional Requirements
Clarity. Having a clear understanding of the often-murky waters of Title I regulations is a good thing! The Federal Program Compliance Division at TEA has recently posted updated guidance on the requirements for paraprofessional positions funded fully or in part by Title I, Part A federal grants. If you have any paraprofessionals, you will want … Read More
Random Validations – Title IV, Part A
This is the third in a series of program checkups. Click here for the first article on Title I, Part A, and click here for the second review on Title II, Part A. Collaboration and planning are key in ESSA program compliance, and Title IV is very similar to Title II regarding documenting your stakeholder … Read More
Cares Act – Prior Purchase Reimbursement Program (PPRP) UPDATE
UPDATE: The PPRP program dates have been extended. Please see the updates on the Prior Purchase Reimbursement Program (PPRP) here on the CRF Reimbursement programs webpage. The PPRP application will reopen this month, with any new applications or amendments due by 1/31/21. The new deadline for receiving devices is 2/28/21. This may mean that your … Read More