CSS is redistributing the compliance report tip as a friendly reminder that it is due September 30, 2025! The prior year is not truly complete in the federal world until compliance reporting is complete. The back-to-school rush is at hand, but annual compliance reporting for Title funds is upon us! With a due date of … Read More
Phone-Free Schools Grant
Controversial as the cell phone ban decision was, your school year may be starting with less cell phone hassles from students. As you know, the legislature passed a law (HB 1481) banning cell phones and other personal devices, such as smart watches and ear buds, in the classroom. Hopefully, you have your school system policy … Read More
Title I Supplemental Methodology Requirement
Does your new budget year start September 1? CSS is re-running our previous tip about a Title I annual requirement. Many charter districts are starting new budget years on July 1, and planning for Title I funds must be part of the new budget year – especially if you have multiple campuses in the same … Read More
Micro-Purchase Threshold Self-Certification for 2025-26 Due Oct. 1 (Optional)
Spending time gathering quotes for purchasing is time-consuming. You might be interested in an option to allow less quoting, but there are requirements to consider. You might have previously raised your micro-purchase threshold (EDGAR allowed starting 2021), but action is needed annually to maintain it. If you are new or want to make a change, … Read More
Applying for Sub System of Time & Effort
Better to be safe than sorry! You might not have any split-funded staff in your federal grants next year, but it is better to get on the list just in case. Why would I need it you ask? If you end up needing to split-fund an employee with a federal grant later in the 2025-26 … Read More
Student and Campus Activity Funds
Activity Funds Activity Funds are used to account for campus and student funds at your charter. These funds are held in trust by the charter district and used to promote the general welfare of the school, as well as the educational development and morale of all students. Some examples of Activity Funds include school fundraisers, … Read More
Obtaining Permission to Charge PK Tuition
Does your charter charge tuition to parents with students in PK who are ineligible under free eligibility guidelines? If so, you must annually submit a letter to TEA to obtain permission from the commissioner to justify your tuition rate. Ideally, the rate should be approved before you charge parents. Click here to access the form … Read More
ESSA Basic Program Requirements: Fiscal and Program
Federal funds don’t just provide money to your schools. They create programs. By focusing on solid programs, you can add to your school’s repertoire and improve your ability to serve students. But programs funded by the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) are regulated by many rules that can seem confusing at times. As a savvy … Read More
Implementing the New EDGAR: Travel Costs
For any program to be successful, having well-trained teachers to implement it is a must. For this reason, travel is often necessary in federal programs. However, there are many rules and regulations about paying travel expenses using grant funds. The LEA must have written travel procedures and detailed documentation of travel expenses. Travel can be … Read More
Safety and Facilities Enhancement (SAFE) Grant
Are you in need of more funding to meet the school safety standards? A new grant opportunity was released last week that is the third in a series of recent state grants aimed at enhancing school facilities to protect students from violence. You may have previously received the SPAT (Silent Panic Alert Technology), and the … Read More