When it comes to purchasing with grant funds, micro problems can become mega problems if you don’t follow proper procedures. 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, you can consider this option … Read More
Applying for Sub System of Time & Effort
You know how sometimes you do something just in case you need it? Applying to use the substitute system of time and effort is a “just in case” situation; because if you don’t apply, you can’t use it. Why would I need it you ask? If you end up needing to split-fund an employee with … Read More
Basic Grants Management
Grants can be a great way to add funds to your school budget, but dealing with grants is not simple. The payoff of receiving grants can be worth it if you are cognizant of the regulations and rules of the grant. Before you venture too far into the grant waters, take the time to understand … Read More
ESSA Consolidated Grant Application
Summer is grant writing time in the federal world! This can often be our busiest time of year with closing out previous year grants, and planning and applying for the next round. One of the main ones is the ESSA Consolidated Grant Application that is the formula grant (non-competitive) for the major title funds (Title … Read More
Gun Free Schools Report
When is your last day of school? We have a task for you to do the day AFTER that date. Thank goodness gun incidents are rare; nonetheless, all charter districts that receive any federal funds must submit the Gun Free Report (PR6000) by June 29, 2024. This is the one case where you should not … Read More
Travel Pay from Federal Grant Funds
One of the best things about summer is the opportunity for new learning in the form of various workshops or conferences. Professional development that supports your improvement plans and is part of an ongoing goal can often be supported by federal funds. If you are considering funding travel for PD out of federal grant funds, … Read More
Title I Paraprofessional Requirements
Summer is coming and soon you will be hiring for next year! As you look to acquire new talent, please be aware of the qualifications that Title I-funded instructional paraprofessionals must possess. The “highly qualified” requirements for Title I-funded instructional paraprofessionals were retained when NCLB was reauthorized as ESSA. TEA has forms to complete when … Read More
When to Amend Federal Grants
It is spring cleaning time! Now is the time to review and clean up any changes needed in your federal grants to finish up the year. CSS recommends that you make sure the remaining funds are budgeted where you need them before the grant ends. Perhaps your summer plans have changed, an added expense is … Read More
College Exam Fees Reimbursements 2023-24
Do your juniors and seniors know they get one free SAT, ACT, or TSI administration? Since 2019, HB3 funding has removed barriers to college access by providing district reimbursements for the administration of the SAT/ACT/and TSIA once per student. Charter districts have already been given estimated funding for this in the 2023-24 Summary of Finances … Read More