[Federal Register Volume 62, Number 219 (Thursday, November 13, 1997)]
[Notices]
[Pages 60942-60960]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 97-29795]


      

[[Page 60941]]

_______________________________________________________________________

Part II





Department of Education





_______________________________________________________________________



Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services National 
Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research; Notice

  Federal Register / Vol. 62, No. 219 / Thursday, November 13, 1997 / 
Notices  

[[Page 60942]]



DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

[CFDA Nos.: 84.133A and 84.133B]


Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services National 
Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research

    Subject: Notice Reinviting Applications for New Awards Under the 
Disability and Rehabilitation Research Project and Centers Program for 
Fiscal Year (FY) 1998.
    Purpose: On May 9, 1997 a notice was published in the Federal 
Register inviting applications for new awards under the Rehabilitation 
Research and Training Center (RRTC) program and Knowledge Dissemination 
and Utilization Program (D&U) for fiscal year 1997 (62 FR 25770). The 
same Federal Register included a notice of final funding priorities 
establishing the required activities for the RRTCs and D&U projects (62 
FR 25760). There were no satisfactory applications received for an RRTC 
on effective interventions for children and youth who exhibit severe 
problem behaviors (62 FR 25767) and a D&U project on improving the 
utilization of existing and emerging rehabilitation technology in State 
vocational rehabilitation programs (62 FR 25769).
    On July 1, 1997 a notice was published in the Federal Register 
inviting applications for a new award under the D&U program (62 FR 
35644). The same Federal Register included a notice of final funding 
priority establishing the required activities for a D&U project on 
Parenting with a Disability Technical Assistance Center (62 FR 35643). 
There were no satisfactory applications received for this project.
    On July 14, 1997 a notice was published in the Federal Register 
inviting applications for a new award under the RRTC program (62 FR 
37650). The same Federal Register included a notice of final funding 
priority establishing the required activities for an RRTC on Medical 
Rehabilitation Services and Outcomes (62 FR 37646). There were no 
satisfactory applications received for this RRTC.
    There is a continuing need for these RRTCs and D&U projects. The 
purpose of this notice is to reinvite applications for these projects 
for FY 1998.
    On February 6, 1997 NIDRR published in the Federal Register 
regulations consolidating a number of regulations governing NIDRR's 
existing programs, including, but not limited to, Parts 350 (General 
Provisions), 352 (Rehabilitation Research and Training Centers), and 
355 (Knowledge Dissemination and Utilization Programs) (62 FR 5712). 
These new regulations took effect on October 1, 1997 and apply to this 
competition. The new regulations include a new menu of selection 
criteria (34 CFR 350.54) for use in evaluating all applications. NIDRR 
has drawn from this menu of selection criteria to establish the 
specific selection criteria that will be used to evaluate applications 
for the four priorities included in this notice reinviting 
applications. In addition, because Part 355 was consolidated into Part 
350, the final priorities established for D&U projects in FY 1997 will 
be used for equivalent training, dissemination, and technical 
assistance projects in FY 1998.

    Note To Applicants: This notice is a complete application 
package. Together with the statute authorizing the programs and 
applicable regulations governing the programs, including the 
Education Department General Administrative Regulations (EDGAR), 
this notice contains information, application forms, and 
instructions needed to apply for a grant under these competitions.

    These programs support the National Education Goal that calls for 
all Americans to possess the knowledge and skills necessary to compete 
in a global economy and exercise the rights and responsibilities of 
citizenship.
    The estimated funding levels in this notice do not bind the 
Department of Education to make awards in any of these categories, or 
to any specific number of awards or funding levels, unless otherwise 
specified in statute.
    Applicable Regulations: The Education Department General 
Administrative Regulations (EDGAR), 34 CFR Parts 74, 75, 77, 80, 81, 
82, 85, 86, and 350.
    Program Title: Disability and Rehabilitation Research Project and 
Centers Program.
    CFDA Numbers: 84.133A and 84.133B.
    Purpose Of Program: The purpose of the Disability and 
Rehabilitation Research Project and Centers Program is to plan and 
conduct research, demonstration projects, training, and related 
activities, including international activities, develop methods, 
procedures, and rehabilitation technology, that maximize the full 
inclusion and integration into society, employment, independent living, 
family support, and economic and social self-sufficiency of individuals 
with disabilities, especially individuals with the most severe 
disabilities. In addition, the purpose of the Disability and 
Rehabilitation Research Project and Centers Program is to improve the 
effectiveness of services authorized under the Act.
    Eligible Applicants: Parties eligible to apply for grants under 
this program are States; public or private agencies, including for-
profit agencies; public or private organizations, including for-profit 
organizations; institutions of higher education; and Indian tribes and 
tribal organizations.

    Program Authority: 29 U.S.C. 762 (a) and (b)(6).

    Application Notice for Fiscal Year 1998 Disability and Rehabilitation Research Projects, CFDA No. 84-133A   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                   Deadline for      Estimated     Maximum award                
                Funding priority                  transmittal of     number of      amount (per   Project period
                                                   applications       awards          year)*         (months)   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(1). Improving the Utilization of Emerging and                                                                  
 Existing Rehabilitation Technology in State VR                                                                 
 Programs.......................................         1/12/98               1        $500,000              60
(2). Parenting with a Disability Technical                                                                      
 Assistance Center..............................         1/12/98               1         500,000              60
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
*Note: The Secretary will reject without consideration or evaluation any application that proposes a project    
  funding level that exceeds the stated maximum award amount per year (See 34 CFR 75.104(b)).                   

    Priority 1: The final priority on improving the utilization of 
existing and emerging rehabilitation technology in State vocational 
rehabilitation programs published in the Federal Register on May 9, 
1997 applies to this competition (62 FR 25769).
    Priority 2: The final priority on parenting with a disability 
technical assistance center published in the

[[Page 60943]]

Federal Register on July 1, 1997 applies to this competition (62 FR 
35643).
    Selection Criteria: The Secretary uses the following selection 
criteria to evaluate applications for a Training, Dissemination, and 
Technical Assistance Project on improving the utilization of existing 
and emerging rehabilitation technology in State vocational 
rehabilitation programs and a Technical Assistance Center on parenting 
with a disability under the Disability and Rehabilitation Research 
Project and Centers Program.
    (a) Importance of the problem (9 points total).
    (i) The extent to which the applicant clearly describes the need 
and target population (3 points).
    (ii) The extent to which the proposed activities address a 
significant need of those who provide services to individuals with 
disabilities (3 points).
    (iii) The extent to which the proposed project will have beneficial 
impact on the target population (3 points).
    (b) Responsiveness to an absolute or competitive priority (4 points 
total).
    (i) The extent to which the applicant addresses all requirements of 
the absolute or competitive priority (2 points).
    (ii) The extent to which the applicant's proposed activities are 
likely to achieve the purposes of the absolute or competitive priority 
(2 points).
    (c) Design of training activities (13 points total).
    (i) The extent to which the proposed training materials are likely 
to be effective, including consideration of their quality, clarity, and 
variety (4 points).
    (ii) The extent to which the proposed training methods are of 
sufficient quality, intensity, and duration (3 points).
    (iii) The extent to which the proposed training materials, methods, 
and content are appropriate to the trainees, including consideration of 
the skill level of the trainees and the subject matter of the materials 
(4 points).
    (iv) The extent to which the proposed training materials and 
methods are accessible to individuals with disabilities (2 points).
    (d) Design of dissemination activities (24 points total).
    (i) The extent to which the materials to be disseminated are likely 
to be effective and usable, including consideration of their quality, 
clarity, variety, and format (7 points).
    (ii) The extent to which the methods for dissemination are of 
sufficient quality, intensity, and duration (7 points).
    (iii) The extent to which the materials and information to be 
disseminated and the methods for dissemination are appropriate to the 
target population, including consideration of the familiarity of the 
target population with the subject matter, format of the information, 
and subject matter (7 points).
    (iv) The extent to which the information to be disseminated will be 
accessible to individuals with disabilities (3 points).
    (e) Design of utilization activities (8 points total).
    (i) The extent to which the utilization strategies are likely to be 
effective (8 points).
    (f) Design of technical assistance activities (10 points total).
    (i) The extent to which the methods for providing technical 
assistance are of sufficient quality, intensity, and duration (3 
points).
    (ii) The extent to which the information to be provided through 
technical assistance covers all of the relevant aspects of the subject 
matter (2 points).
    (iii) The extent to which the technical assistance is appropriate 
to the target population, including consideration of the knowledge 
level of the target population, needs of the target population, and 
format for providing information (3 points).
    (iv) The extent to which the technical assistance is accessible to 
individuals with disabilities (2 points).
    (g) Plan of operation (6 points total).
    (i) The adequacy of the plan of operation to achieve the objectives 
of the proposed project on time and within budget, including clearly 
defined responsibilities, and timelines for accomplishing project tasks 
(3 points).
    (ii) The adequacy of the plan of operation to provide for using 
resources, equipment, and personnel to achieve each objective (3 
points).
    (h) Collaboration (2 points total).
    (i) The extent to which the applicant's proposed collaboration with 
one or more agencies, organizations, or institutions is likely to be 
effective in achieving the relevant proposed activities of the project 
(1 point).
    (ii) The extent to which agencies, organizations, or institutions 
demonstrate a commitment to collaborate with the applicant (1 point).
    (i) Adequacy and reasonableness of the budget (4 points total).
    (i) The extent to which the costs are reasonable in relation to the 
proposed project activities (2 point).
    (ii) The extent to which the budget for the project, including any 
subcontracts, is adequately justified to support the proposed project 
activities (2 point).
    (j) Plan of evaluation (7 points total).
    (i) The extent to which the plan of evaluation provides for 
periodic assessment of progress toward--
    (A) Implementing the plan of operation (1 point); and
    (B) Achieving the project's intended outcomes and expected impacts 
(1 point).
    (ii) The extent to which the plan of evaluation will be used to 
improve the performance of the project through the feedback generated 
by its periodic assessments (1 point).
    (iii) The extent to which the plan of evaluation provides for 
periodic assessment of a project's progress that is based on identified 
performance measures that--
    (A) Are clearly related to the intended outcomes of the project and 
expected impacts on the target population (2 points); and
    (B) Are objective, and quantifiable or qualitative, as appropriate 
(2 points).
    (k) Project staff (9 points total).
    (i) The extent to which the applicant encourages applications for 
employment from persons who are members of groups that have 
traditionally been underrepresented based on race, color, national 
origin, gender, age, or disability (2 points).
    (ii) The extent to which the key personnel and other key staff have 
appropriate training and experience in disciplines required to conduct 
all proposed activities (2 points).
    (iii) The extent to which the commitment of staff time is adequate 
to accomplish all the proposed activities of the project (2 points).
    (iv) The extent to which the key personnel are knowledgeable about 
the methodology and literature of pertinent subject areas (2 points).
    (v) The extent to which key personnel have up-to-date knowledge 
from research or effective practice in the subject area covered in the 
priority (1 point).
    (l) Adequacy and accessibility of resources (4 points total).
    (i) The extent to which the applicant is committed to provide 
adequate facilities, equipment, other resources, including 
administrative support, and laboratories, if appropriate (2 points).
    (ii) The extent to which the facilities, equipment, and other 
resources are appropriately accessible to individuals with disabilities 
who may use the facilities, equipment, and other resources of the 
project (2 points).

[[Page 60944]]



     Application Notice for Fiscal Year 1998 Rehabilitation Research and Training Centers, CFDA No. 84-133B     
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                   Deadline for      Estimated     Maximum award                
                Funding priority                  transmittal of     number of      amount (per   Project period
                                                   applications       awards          year) *        (months)   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3.) Effective Interventions for Children and                                                                    
 Youth who Exhibit Severe Problem Behaviors.....         1/12/98               1        $600,000              60
4.) Medical Rehabilitation Services and Outcomes         1/12/98               1         950,000              60
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
*Note: The Secretary will reject without consideration or evaluation any application that proposes a project    
  funding level that exceeds the stated maximum award amount per year (See 34 CFR 75.104(b)).                   

    Priority 3: The RRTC final priority on effective interventions for 
children and youth who exhibit severe problem behaviors published in 
the Federal Register on May 9, 1997 applies to this competition (62 FR 
25767).
    Priority 4: The RRTC final priority on medical rehabilitation 
services and outcomes published in the Federal Register on July 14, 
1997 applies to this competition (62 FR 37646).
    Selection Criteria: The Secretary uses the following selection 
criteria to evaluate applications for an RRTC on effective 
interventions for children and youth who exhibit severe problem 
behaviors and an RRTC on medical rehabilitation services and outcomes 
under the Disability and Rehabilitation Research Project and Centers 
Program.
    (a) Importance of the problem (9 points total).
    (i) The extent to which the applicant clearly describes the need 
and target population (3 points).
    (ii) The extent to which the proposed activities address a 
significant need of those who provide services to individuals with 
disabilities (3 points).
    (iii) The extent to which the proposed project will have beneficial 
impact on the target population (3 points).
    (b) Responsiveness to an absolute or competitive priority (4 points 
total).
    (i) The extent to which the applicant addresses all requirements of 
the absolute or competitive priority (2 points).
    (ii) The extent to which the applicant's proposed activities are 
likely to achieve the purposes of the absolute or competitive priority 
(2 points).
    (c) Design of research activities (35 points total).
    (i) The extent to which the research activities constitute a 
coherent, sustained approach to research in the field, including a 
substantial addition to the state-of-the-art (5 points).
    (ii) The extent to which the methodology of each proposed research 
activity is meritorious, including consideration of the extent to 
which--
    (A) The proposed design includes a comprehensive and informed 
review of the current literature, demonstrating knowledge of the state-
of-the-art (5 points);
    (B) Each research hypothesis is theoretically sound and based on 
current knowledge (5 points);
    (C) Each sample population is appropriate and of sufficient size (5 
points);
    (D) The data collection and measurement techniques are appropriate 
and likely to be effective (5 points); and
    (E) The data analysis methods are appropriate (5 points).
    (iii) The extent to which anticipated research results are likely 
to satisfy the original hypotheses and could be used for planning 
additional research, including generation of new hypotheses where 
applicable (5 points).
    (d) Design of training activities (11 points total).
    (i) The extent to which the proposed training materials are likely 
to be effective, including consideration of their quality, clarity, and 
variety (2 points).
    (ii) The extent to which the proposed training methods are of 
sufficient quality, intensity, and duration (2 points).
    (iii) The extent to which the proposed training content--
    (A) Covers all of the relevant aspects of the subject matter (1 
point); and
    (B) If relevant, is based on new knowledge derived from research 
activities of the proposed project (1 point).
    (iv) The extent to which the proposed training materials, methods, 
and content are appropriate to the trainees, including consideration of 
the skill level of the trainees and the subject matter of the materials 
(2 points).
    (v) The extent to which the proposed training materials and methods 
are accessible to individuals with disabilities (1 point).
    (vi) The extent to which the applicant is able to carry out the 
training activities, either directly or through another entity (2 
points).
    (e) Design of dissemination activities (8 points total).
    (i) The extent to which the content of the information to be 
disseminated--
    (A) Covers all of the relevant aspects of the subject matter (1 
point); and
    (B) If appropriate, is based on new knowledge derived from research 
activities of the project (1 point).
    (ii) The extent to which the materials to be disseminated are 
likely to be effective and usable, including consideration of their 
quality, clarity, variety, and format (2 points).
    (iii) The extent to which the methods for dissemination are of 
sufficient quality, intensity, and duration (2 points).
    (iv) The extent to which the materials and information to be 
disseminated and the methods for dissemination are appropriate to the 
target population, including consideration of the familiarity of the 
target population with the subject matter, format of the information, 
and subject matter (1 point).
    (v) The extent to which the information to be disseminated will be 
accessible to individuals with disabilities (1 point).
    (f) Design of technical assistance activities (4 points total).
    (i) The extent to which the methods for providing technical 
assistance are of sufficient quality, intensity, and duration (1 
point).
    (ii) The extent to which the information to be provided through 
technical assistance covers all of the relevant aspects of the subject 
matter (1 point).
    (iii) The extent to which the technical assistance is appropriate 
to the target population, including consideration of the knowledge 
level of the target population, needs of the target population, and 
format for providing information (1 point).
    (iv) The extent to which the technical assistance is accessible to 
individuals with disabilities (1 point).
    (g) Plan of operation (4 points total).
    (i) The adequacy of the plan of operation to achieve the objectives 
of the proposed project on time and within budget, including clearly 
defined responsibilities, and timelines for accomplishing project tasks 
(2 points).
    (ii) The adequacy of the plan of operation to provide for using 
resources,

[[Page 60945]]

equipment, and personnel to achieve each objective (2 points).
    (h) Collaboration (2 points total).
    (i) The extent to which the applicant's proposed collaboration with 
one or more agencies, organizations, or institutions is likely to be 
effective in achieving the relevant proposed activities of the project 
(1 point).
    (ii) The extent to which agencies, organizations, or institutions 
demonstrate a commitment to collaborate with the applicant (1 point).
    (i) Adequacy and reasonableness of the budget (3 points total).
    (i) The extent to which the costs are reasonable in relation to the 
proposed project activities (1 point).
    (ii) The extent to which the budget for the project, including any 
subcontracts, is adequately justified to support the proposed project 
activities (2 points).
    (j) Plan of evaluation (7 points total).
    (i) The extent to which the plan of evaluation provides for 
periodic assessment of progress toward--
    (A) Implementing the plan of operation (1 point); and
    (B) Achieving the project's intended outcomes and expected impacts 
(1 point).
    (ii) The extent to which the plan of evaluation will be used to 
improve the performance of the project through the feedback generated 
by its periodic assessments (1 point).
    (iii) The extent to which the plan of evaluation provides for 
periodic assessment of a project's progress that is based on identified 
performance measures that--
    (A) Are clearly related to the intended outcomes of the project and 
expected impacts on the target population (2 points); and
    (B) Are objective, and quantifiable or qualitative, as appropriate 
(2 points).
    (k) Project staff (9 points total).
    (i) The extent to which the applicant encourages applications for 
employment from persons who are members of groups that have 
traditionally been underrepresented based on race, color, national 
origin, gender, age, or disability (1 points).
    (ii) The extent to which the key personnel and other key staff have 
appropriate training and experience in disciplines required to conduct 
all proposed activities (2 points).
    (iii) The extent to which the commitment of staff time is adequate 
to accomplish all the proposed activities of the project (2 points).
    (iv) The extent to which the key personnel are knowledgeable about 
the methodology and literature of pertinent subject areas (2 points).
    (v) The extent to which the project staff includes outstanding 
scientists in the field (2 points).
    (l) Adequacy and accessibility of resources (4 points).
    (i) The extent to which the applicant is committed to provide 
adequate facilities, equipment, other resources, including 
administrative support, and laboratories, if appropriate (1 point).
    (ii) The extent to which the applicant has appropriate access to 
clinical populations and organizations representing individuals with 
disabilities to support advanced clinical rehabilitation research (2 
points).
    (iii) The extent to which the facilities, equipment, and other 
resources are appropriately accessible to individuals with disabilities 
who may use the facilities, equipment, and other resources of the 
project (1 point).

Instructions For Application Narrative

    The Secretary strongly recommends that applicants include a one-
page abstract in their application.

Strict Page Limits

    Part III of the application, the Application Narrative, requires 
applicants to address the selection criteria that will be used by 
reviewers in evaluating individual proposals. The applicant for an RRTC 
must limit Part III--Application Narrative to no more than 125 double-
spaced 8\1/2\ x 11'' pages (on one side only) with one inch margins 
(top, bottom, and sides). The applicant for a Training, Dissemination 
and Technical Assistance Project on improving the utilization of 
existing and emerging rehabilitation technology in State vocational 
rehabilitation programs, or a Technical Assistance Center on parenting 
with a disability must limit Part III--Application Narrative to no more 
than 75 double-spaced 8\1/2\ x 11'' pages (on one side only) with one 
inch margins (top, bottom, and sides).
    These page limitations applies to all materials presented in the 
application narrative--including, for example, any charts, tables, 
figures, and graphs. The application narrative page limit does not 
apply to: Part I--the electronically scannable form; Part II--the 
budget section (including the narrative budget justification); and Part 
IV--the assurances and certifications.
    All sections of text in the application narrative must be double-
spaced (no more than 3 lines per vertical inch). The double-spacing 
requirement applies to EVERY line on a page, including every line in 
the title, headings, footnotes, quotations, references, figure 
captions, and all parts of tables.
    If using a proportional computer font, an applicant must use a font 
no smaller than a 12-point font and an average character density no 
greater than 14 characters per inch. If using a nonproportional font or 
typewriter, an applicant must use more no than 12 characters per inch.
    The one-page abstract, resume(s), bibliography, or letters of 
support, while considered part of the application, are not subject to 
the page limitation, double spacing, and font requirements. Applicants 
should note that reviewers are not required to review any information 
provided in addition to the application information listed above.

    Note: The Secretary will reject without consideration or 
evaluation any application that does not adhere to these page limit, 
double-spacing, and font requirements.

Instructions for Transmittal of Applications

    (a) If an applicant wants to apply for a grant, the applicant 
shall--
    (1) Mail the original and two copies of the application on or 
before the deadline date to: U.S. Department of Education, Application 
Control Center, Attention: (CFDA # [Applicant must insert number and 
letter]), Washington, D.C. 20202-4725, or
    (2) Hand deliver the original and two copies of the application by 
4:30 p.m. [Washington, D.C. time] on or before the deadline date to: 
U.S. Department of Education, Application Control Center, Attention: 
(CFDA # [Applicant must insert number and letter]), Room #3633, 
Regional Office Building #3, 7th and D Streets, S.W., Washington, D.C.
    (b) An applicant must show one of the following as proof of 
mailing:
    (1) A legibly dated U.S. Postal Service postmark.
    (2) A legible mail receipt with the date of mailing stamped by the 
U.S. Postal Service.
    (3) A dated shipping label, invoice, or receipt from a commercial 
carrier.
    (4) Any other proof of mailing acceptable to the Secretary.
    (c) If an application is mailed through the U.S. Postal Service, 
the Secretary does not accept either of the following as proof of 
mailing:
    (1) A private metered postmark.
    (2) A mail receipt that is not dated by the U.S. Postal Service.

    Notes: (1) The U.S. Postal Service does not uniformly provide a 
dated postmark. Before relying on this method, an applicant should 
check with its local post office.
    (2) An applicant wishing to know that its application has been 
received by the Department must include with the application a stamped 
self-addressed

[[Page 60946]]

postcard containing the CFDA number and title of this program.
    (3) The applicant must indicate on the envelope and--if not 
provided by the Department--in Item 10 of the Application for Federal 
Assistance (Standard Form 424) the CFDA number--and letter, if any--of 
the competition under which the application is being submitted.

Application Forms and Instructions

    The appendix to this application is divided into four parts. These 
parts are organized in the same manner that the submitted application 
should be organized. These parts are as follows:
    PART I: Application for Federal Assistance (Standard Form 424 
(Rev. 4-88)) and instructions.
    PART II: Budget Form--Non-Construction Programs (Standard Form 
524A) and instructions.
    PART III: Application Narrative.
Additional Materials
    Estimated Public Reporting Burden.

Note to Applicants

    Assurances--Non-Construction Programs (Standard Form 424B).
    Certification Regarding Lobbying, Debarment, Suspension, and Other 
Responsibility Matters: and Drug-Free Work-Place Requirements (ED Form 
80-0013).
    Certification Regarding Debarment, Suspension, Ineligibility and 
Voluntary Exclusion: Lower Tier Covered Transactions (ED Form 80-0014) 
and instructions.

    Note: ED Form GCS-014 is intended for the use of primary 
participants and should not be transmitted to the Department.

    Disclosure of Lobbying Activities (Standard Form LLL (if 
applicable) and instructions; and Disclosure Lobbying Activities 
Continuation Sheet (Standard Form LLL-A).
    An applicant may submit information on a photostatic copy of the 
application and budget forms, the assurances, and the certifications. 
However, the application form, the assurances, and the certifications 
must each have an original signature. No grant may be awarded unless a 
completed application form has been received.
    For Applications Contact: The Grants and Contracts Service Team 
(GCST), Department of Education, 600 Independence Avenue S.W., Switzer 
Building, 3317, Washington, D.C. 20202, or call (202) 205-8207. 
Individuals who use a telecommunications device for the deaf (TDD) may 
call the TDD number at (202) 205-9860. The preferred method for 
requesting information is to FAX your request to (202) 205-8717.
    Individuals with disabilities may obtain a copy of the application 
package in an alternate format by contacting the GCST. However, the 
Department is not able to reproduce in an alternate format the standard 
forms included in the application package.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Donna Nangle, U.S. Department of 
Education, 600 Maryland Avenue, S.W., room 3418, Switzer Building, 
Washington, D.C. 20202-2645. Telephone: (202) 205-5880. Individuals who 
use a telecommunications device for the deaf (TDD) may call the TDD 
number at (202) 205-2742.

Internet: Donna--N[email protected]

    Individuals with disabilities may obtain this document in an 
alternate format(e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, or computer 
diskette) on request to the contact person listed in the preceding 
paragraph.

Electronic Access to This Document

    Anyone may view this document, as well as all other Department of 
Education documents published in the Federal Register, in text or 
portable document format (pdf) on the World Wide Web at either of the 
following sites:

http://ocfo.ed.gov/fedreg.htm
    5http://www.ed.gov/news.html

To use the pdf you must have the Adobe Acrobat Reader Program with 
Search, which is available free at either of the preceding sites. If 
you have questions about using the pdf, call the U.S. Government 
Printing Office toll free at 1-888-293-6498.
    Anyone may also view these documents in text copy only on an 
electronic bulletin board of the Department. Telephone: (202) 219-1511 
or, toll free, 1-800-222-4922. The documents are located under Option 
G--Files/Announcements, Bulletins and Press Releases.

    Note: The official version of this document is the document 
published in the Federal Register.
    Program Authority: 29 U.S.C. 760-762.

    Dated: November 6, 1997.
Judith E. Heumann,
Assistant Secretary for Special Education and Rehabilitative Services.

Appendix--Application Forms and Instructions

    Applicants are advised to reproduce and complete the application 
forms in this Section. Applicants are required to submit an original 
and two copies of each application as provided in this Section.

Frequent Questions

1. Can I Get an Extension of the Due Date?
    No! On rare occasions the Department of Education may extend a 
closing date for all applicants. If that occurs, a notice of the 
revised due date is published in the Federal Register. However, there 
are no extensions or exceptions to the due date made for individual 
applicants.
2. What Should be Included in the Application?
    The application should include a project narrative, vitae of key 
personnel, and a budget, as well as the Assurances forms included in 
this package. Vitae of staff or consultants should include the 
individual's title and role in the proposed project, and other 
information that is specifically pertinent to this proposed project. 
The budgets for both the first year and all subsequent project years 
should be included.
    If collaboration with another organization is involved in the 
proposed activity, the application should include assurances of 
participation by the other parties, including written agreements or 
assurances of cooperation. It is not useful to include general letters 
of support or endorsement in the application.
    If the applicant proposes to use unique tests or other measurement 
instruments that are not widely known in the field, it would be helpful 
to include the instrument in the application.
    Many applications contain voluminous appendices that are not 
helpful and in many cases cannot even be mailed to the reviewers. It is 
generally not helpful to include such things as brochures, general 
capability statements of collaborating organizations, maps, copies of 
publications, or descriptions of other projects completed by the 
applicant.
3. What Format Should be Used for the Application?
    NIDRR generally advises applicants that they may organize the 
application to follow the selection criteria that will be used. The 
specific review criteria vary according to the specific program, and 
are contained in this Consolidated Application Package.
4. May I Submit Applications to More Than One NIDRR Program Competition 
or More Than One Application to a Program?
    Yes, you may submit applications to any program for which they are 
responsive to the program requirements. You may submit the same 
application to

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as many competitions as you believe appropriate. You may also submit 
more than one application in any given competition.
5. What is the Allowable Indirect Cost Rate?
    The limits on indirect costs vary according to the program and the 
type of application.
    An applicant for a Training, Dissemination, and Technical 
Assistance project or a Technical Assistance Center should limit 
indirect charges to the organization's approved indirect cost rate. If 
the organization does not have an approved indirect cost rate, the 
application should include an estimated actual rate.
    An applicant for an RRTC is limited to an indirect cost rate of 15 
percent.
6. Can Profitmaking Businesses Apply for Grants?
    Yes. However, for-profit organizations will not be able to collect 
a fee or profit on the grant, and in some programs will be required to 
share in the costs of the project.
7. Can Individuals Apply for Grants?
    No. Only organizations are eligible to apply for grants under NIDRR 
programs. However, individuals are the only entities eligible to apply 
for fellowships.
8. Can NIDRR Staff Advise Me Whether My Project Is of Interest to NIDRR 
or Likely To Be Funded?
    No. NIDRR staff can advise you of the requirements of the program 
in which you propose to submit your application. However, staff cannot 
advise you of whether your subject area or proposed approach is likely 
to receive approval.
9. How Do I Assure That My Application Will Be Referred to the Most 
Appropriate Panel for Review?
    Applicants should be sure that their applications are referred to 
the correct competition by clearly including the competition title and 
CFDA number, including alphabetical code, on the Standard Form 424, and 
including a project title that describes the project.
10. How Soon After Submitting My Application Can I Find Out If It Will 
Be Funded?
    The time from closing date to grant award date varies from program 
to program. Generally speaking, NIDRR endeavors to have awards made 
within five to six months of the closing date. Unsuccessful applicants 
generally will be notified within that time frame as well. For the 
purpose of estimating a project start date, the applicant should 
estimate approximately six months from the closing date, but no later 
than the following September 30.
11. Can I Call NIDRR To Find Out If My Application Is Being Funded?
    No. When NIDRR is able to release information on the status of 
grant applications, it will notify applicants by letter. The results of 
the peer review cannot be released except through this formal 
notification.
12. If My Application Is Successful, Can I Assume I Will Get the 
Requested Budget Amount in Subsequent Years?
    No. Funding in subsequent years is subject to availability of funds 
and project performance.
13. Will All Approved Applications be funded
    No. It often happens that the peer review panels approve for 
funding more applications than NIDRR can fund within available 
resources. Applicants who are approved but not funded are encouraged to 
consider submitting similar applications in future competitions.

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    Public reporting burden for these collections of information is 
estimated to average 30 hours per response, including the time for 
reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering and 
maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the 
collection of information.
    Send comments regarding this burden estimate or any other aspect of 
these collections of information, including suggestions for reducing 
this burden, to: the U.S. Department of Education, Information 
Management and Compliance Division, Washington, D.C. 20202-4651; and to 
the Office of Management and Budget, Paperwork Reduction Project 1820-
0027, Washington, D.C. 20503.
    Disability and Rehabilitation Research Projects (CFDA No. 84.133A) 
34 CFR Part 350 Subpart B.
    Rehabilitation Research and Training Center (CFDA No. 84.133B) 34 
CFR Part 350 Subpart C.

Notice To All Applicants

    Thank you for your interest in this program. The purpose of this 
enclosure is to inform you about a new provision in the Department of 
Education's General Education Provision Act (GEPA) that applies to 
applicants for new grant awards under Department programs. This 
provision is section 427 of GEPA, enacted as part of the Improving 
America's Schools Act of 1994 (Pub. L. 103-382).

To Whom Does This Provision Apply?

    Section 427 of GEPA affects applicants for new discretionary grant 
awards under this program. All applicants for new awards must include 
information in their applications to address this new provision in 
order to receive funding under this program.

What Does This Provision Require?

    Section 427 requires each applicant for fund (other than an 
individual person) to include in its application a description of the 
steps the applicant proposes to take to ensure equitable access to, and 
participation in, its federally assisted program for students, 
teachers, and other program beneficiaries with special needs.
    This section allows applicants discretion in developing the 
required description. The statute highlights six types of barriers that 
can impede equitable access or participation that you may address: 
gender, race, national origin, color, disability, or age. Based on 
local circumstances, you can determine whether these or other barriers 
may prevent your students, teachers, etc. from equitable access or 
participation. Your description need not be lengthy; you may provide a 
clear and succinct description of how you plan to address those 
barriers that are applicable to your circumstances. In addition, the 
information may be provided in a single narrative, or, if appropriate, 
may be discussed in connection with related topics in the application.
    Section 427 is not intended to duplicate the requirements of civil 
rights statutes, but rather to ensure that, in designing their 
projects, applicants for Federal funds address equity concerns that may 
affect the ability of certain potential beneficiaries to fully 
participate in the project and to achieve to high standards. Consistent 
with program requirements and its approved application, an applicant 
may use the Federal funds awarded to it to eliminate barriers it 
identifies.

What are Examples of How an Applicant Might Satisfy the Requirement of 
This Provision?

    The following examples may help illustrate how an applicant may 
comply with section 427.
    (1) An applicant that proposes to carry out an adult literacy 
project serving, among others, adults with limited English proficiency, 
might describe in its application how it intends to distribute a 
brochure about the proposed project to such potential participants in 
their native language.
    (2) An applicant that proposes to develop instructional materials 
for classroom use might describe how it will make the materials 
available on audio tape or in braille for students who are blind.
    (3) An applicant that proposes to carry out a model science program 
for secondary students and is concerned that girls may be less likely 
than boys to enroll in the course, might indicate how it tends to 
conduct ``outreach'' efforts to girls, to encourage their enrollment.
    We recognize that many applicants may already be implementing 
effective steps to ensure equity of access and participation in their 
grant programs, and we appreciate your cooperation in responding to the 
requirements of this provision.

Estimated Burden Statement

    According to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, no persons are 
required to respond to a collection of information unless it displays a 
valid OMB control number. The valid OMB control number for this 
information collection is 1801-0004 (Exp. 8/31/98). The time required 
to complete this information collection is estimated to vary from 1 to 
3 hours per response, with an average of 1.5 hours, including the time 
to review instructions, search existing data resources, gather and 
maintain the data needed, and complete and review the information 
collection. If you have any comments concerning the accuracy of the 
time estimate(s) or suggestions for improving this form, please write 
to: U.S. Department of Education, Washington, DC 20202-4651.

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[FR Doc. 97-29795 Filed 11-12-97; 8:45 am]
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