[Federal Register Volume 84, Number 72 (Monday, April 15, 2019)]
[Notices]
[Pages 15193-15204]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2019-07456]


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DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION


Applications for New Awards; Perkins Innovation and Modernization 
Grant Program

AGENCY: Office of Career, Technical, and Adult Education, Department of 
Education.

ACTION: Notice.

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SUMMARY: The Department of Education (Department) is issuing a notice 
inviting applications for new awards for fiscal year (FY) 2019 for the 
Perkins Innovation and Modernization Grant Program, Catalog of Federal 
Domestic Assistance (CFDA) number 84.051F. This notice relates to the 
approved information collection under OMB control number 1894-0006.

DATES: 
    Applications Available: April 15, 2019.
    Deadline for Notice of Intent to Apply: Applicants are strongly 
encouraged, but not required, to submit a notice of intent to apply by 
May 15, 2019.
    Date of Pre-Application Webinar: For information about a pre-
application webinar or potential future webinars, visit the Perkins 
Collaborative Resource Network (PCRN) at http://cte.ed.gov/.
    Deadline for Transmittal of Applications: June 14, 2019.
    Deadline for Intergovernmental Review: August 13, 2019.

ADDRESSES: For the addresses for obtaining and submitting an 
application, please refer to our Common Instructions for Applicants to 
Department of Education Discretionary Grant Programs, published in the 
Federal Register on February 13, 2019 (84 FR 3768), and available at 
www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2019-02-13/pdf/2019-02206.pdf.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Laura Messenger, U.S. Department of 
Education, 400 Maryland Avenue SW, Potomac Center Plaza (PCP), Room 
11028, Washington, DC 20202-7241. Telephone: (202) 245-7840. Email: 
[email protected].
    If you use a telecommunications device for the deaf (TDD) or a text 
telephone (TTY), call the Federal Relay Service (FRS), toll-free, at 1-
800-877-8339.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Full Text of Announcement

I. Funding Opportunity Description

    Purpose of Program: The purpose of the Perkins Innovation and 
Modernization Grant Program is to identify, support, and rigorously 
evaluate Evidence-Based \1\ and innovative strategies and activities to 
improve and modernize Career and Technical Education (CTE) and ensure 
workforce skills taught in CTE programs funded under the Carl D. 
Perkins Career and Technical Education Act of 2006, as amended by the 
Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act 
(Perkins V or the Act) align with labor market needs.
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    \1\ Throughout this notice, all defined terms are denoted with 
capitals.
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    Background: One of the most pressing tasks and most important 
opportunities facing America today is closing the Nation's workforce 
skills gap, while unleashing untapped talent where it is needed most. 
Although the U.S. labor market has strengthened over the last several 
years, as unemployment has reached historic lows,\2\ business leaders 
continue to voice concerns about the gap between the skills needed to 
advance their companies, and those that many workers can offer today. 
The National Federation of Independent Business reported that 35 
percent of small businesses were unable to find qualified applicants to 
fill job openings in January 2019.\3\ The U.S. Chamber of Commerce 
Foundation examined skills gaps on an occupation-by-occupation basis 
and detailed in a March 2018 report that more job openings than workers 
contributed to a skills gap of more than 4.4 million job openings. The 
skills gap was greatest in the health-care sector where over a million 
health-care jobs are unfilled for lack of qualified workers.\4\ The 
Department knows that there are many ways to validate that students 
have developed skills that employers need: Industry-recognized 
certificates, associates degrees, stackable credits and credentials, 
licenses, advanced degrees, four-year degrees, and apprenticeships. As 
Secretary DeVos has said, ``We must also rethink education after high 
school and embrace the fact that a global economy demands a posture of 
lifelong learning . . . We must put to rest the notion that a 
traditional four-year degree is the only pathway to success.'' \5\
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    \2\ The Employment Situation, U.S. Bureau of Labor and 
Statistics. (January 4, 2019). Retrieved from: www.bls.gov/news.release/pdf/empsit.pdf.
    \3\ National Federation of Independent Business. Monthly Job 
Report (January 2019). Retrieved from: www.nfib.com/assets/jobs1218hw1.pdf.
    \4\ Restuccia, D., Taska, B. and Bittle, S. ``Different Skills, 
Different Gaps: Measuring & Closing the Skills,'' March 2018. U.S. 
Chamber of Commerce Foundation. Retrieved from: 
www.uschamberfoundation.org/sites/default/files/Skills_Gap_Different_Skills_Different_Gaps_FINAL.pdf.
    \5\ Devos, Betsy. Remarks to the House Education and the 
Workforce Committee, May 22, 2018. Retrieved from: www.ed.gov/news/speeches/prepared-remarks-us-secretary-education-betsy-devos-house-education-and-workforce-committee.
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    On July 31, 2018, President Trump signed the Strengthening Career 
and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act, reauthorizing the 
Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act of 2006. Perkins V 
recognizes the importance of developing employability skills through 
high-quality CTE programs and aligns several new key definitions to the 
Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA)(29 U.S.C. 3101 et seq.) 
and the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, as amended by the Every 
Student Succeeds Act (ESEA)(20 U.S.C. 6301 et seq.). For example, the 
new definition for CTE Programs of Study requires alignment with the 
needs of industry. State plans under Perkins V require consultation 
with employers, among others, and the local comprehensive needs 
assessment must include a description of how CTE programs are aligned 
to State, regional, or local in-demand industry sectors or occupations. 
Perkins V allows Eligible Recipients to build off of these new 
opportunities to redesign CTE programs to better prepare students for 
successful careers and to rethink and revitalize CTE delivery systems 
in the United States. One way we will support these efforts through the 
Perkins Innovation and Modernization Grant Program, funded under 
section 114(e) of Perkins V, is by awarding up to six competitive 
grants to Eligible Entities, Eligible Institutions, and Eligible 
Recipients to create, develop, implement, replicate, or take to scale 
Evidence-Based, field-initiated innovations that modernize CTE, 
increase program effectiveness and alignment, and improve student 
outcomes. Grant funds under this competition may be used for a broad 
range of approaches to innovation and modernization, and grantees agree 
to conduct a rigorous Independent Evaluation of their project.
    The intent of the Perkins Innovation and Modernization Grant 
Program is to test new ideas that can help better prepare students for 
success in the workforce. Section 114(e)(1) of Perkins V requires the 
strategies and activities funded under this program to be not

[[Page 15194]]

only innovative, but also Evidence-Based, using the definition of 
``evidence-based'' from the ESEA. This definition includes four tiers 
of evidence that are distinguished from each other by the strength and 
extent of rigorous research on the effectiveness of an intervention: An 
Evidence-Based strategy or activity may be supported by strong 
evidence, moderate evidence, promising evidence, or evidence that 
Demonstrates a Rationale. For this competition, through the Absolute 
Priority, we require applicants to demonstrate that they meet the 
Demonstrates a Rationale evidence tier and provide a corresponding 
Logic Model. Evidence that Demonstrates a Rationale means a key Project 
Component of the proposed strategy or activity is informed by research 
or evaluation findings that suggest it is likely to improve Relevant 
Outcomes. This research may include favorable findings from an 
experimental study, a quasi-experimental design study, a correlational 
study with statistical controls for selection bias, or some other high-
quality research study or evaluation. We consider Demonstrates a 
Rationale to be an appropriate level of evidence for this competition 
in order to invite the broadest possible range of innovative solutions 
to persistent problems in CTE.
    Each applicant receiving a grant under this program must provide 
for an Independent Evaluation of the activities carried out under the 
grant. Consistent with 34 CFR 75.591, grantees also must cooperate in 
any evaluation of this program that may be carried out by the 
Department. Applicants must include an assurance in their applications 
that they will provide information to the Secretary, as requested, for 
evaluations that the Secretary may carry out.
    In addition, to receive a grant under this program, an applicant 
must, through cash or in-kind contributions, provide matching funds 
from non-Federal sources in an amount equal to not less than 50 percent 
of the funds provided under such grant. Applicants may wish to partner 
with their Perkins State Eligible Agency \6\ in order to pool fiscal 
and other resources, combine expertise, and coordinate project 
activities with the State's leadership activities funded under section 
124 of Perkins V.
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    \6\ Applicants can identify their Perkins State Eligible Agency 
and contact information for that agency in the State profiles 
published on the Department's web page at https://cte.ed.gov/profiles/national-summary.
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    This competition includes three competitive preference priorities. 
We include a competitive preference priority for projects designed to 
improve student achievement or other education outcomes in science, 
technology, engineering, and math (STEM), generally, with an extra 
preference for projects designed to improve student achievement or 
other education outcomes in Computer Science, specifically. These 
competitive preferences are based on Priority 6--Promoting Science, 
Technology, Engineering, or Math (STEM) Education, With a Particular 
Focus on Computer Science, from the Secretary's Final Supplemental 
Priorities and Definitions for Discretionary Grant Programs, published 
on March 2, 2018 (83 FR 9096) (Secretary's Supplemental Priorities). 
Projects that address Computer Science may include those that focus on 
cybersecurity-related education, training, and apprenticeship programs, 
consistent with the Executive Order on Strengthening the Cybersecurity 
of Federal Networks and Critical Infrastructure,\7\ as well as coding. 
Preparing secondary and postsecondary CTE students for career 
opportunities in industries in the STEM sectors, such as advanced 
manufacturing and health care, is essential to promoting innovation and 
economic growth. Furthermore, STEM jobs that require less than a 
bachelor's degree pay higher wages than non-STEM jobs with similar 
educational requirements.\8\
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    \7\ Trump, Donald, J., Executive Order 13800, 82 FR 22391. (May 
11, 2017).
    \8\ [thinsp]Real-Time Insight into the Market for Entry-Level 
STEM Jobs, Burning Glass Technologies (2014). Retrieved from: 
www.burning-glass.com/wp-content/uploads/Real-Time-Insight-Into-The-Market-For-Entry-Level-STEM-Jobs.pdf.
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    We include a second competitive preference priority for projects 
that are designed to predominantly serve students from low-income 
families, consistent with the statutory requirement in section 
114(e)(4) of the Act.
    We also include a third competitive preference priority for 
projects that propose to serve students residing, or attending CTE 
programs, in Qualified Opportunity Zones. Qualified Opportunity Zones, 
established under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (Pub. Law 115-97), are 
economically-distressed communities that have been nominated by the 
Governor of each State and Chief Executive Officer of United States 
territories and the District of Columbia and that have been certified 
by the U.S. Secretary of the Treasury. Effectively addressing the 
education and skill needs of students in Opportunity Zones is central 
to improving the economic circumstances of these communities. It will 
also help ensure that community members are trained and ready to assume 
the new jobs that will be created by the infusion of capital in these 
local job markets. The Department believes the opportunities for 
innovative approaches to CTE available through this competition have 
the potential to improve economic opportunity in economically-
distressed communities.
    Finally, consistent with section 114(e)(5) of Perkins V, the 
Department plans to award at least 25 percent of the available funds to 
applicants serving eligible rural communities, contingent on our 
receipt of a sufficient number of applications of sufficient quality. 
Improving access to education and training in rural communities is one 
of the priority recommendations of the Interagency Task Force on 
Agriculture and Rural Prosperity that was established by President 
Trump through Executive Order 13790.\9\
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    \9\ Report to the President of the United States from the Task 
Force on Agriculture and Rural Prosperity (2017). Retrieved at: 
www.usda.gov/sites/default/files/documents/rural-prosperity-report.pdf.
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    Priorities: This notice contains one absolute priority, three 
competitive preference priorities, and one invitational priority. We 
are establishing the absolute priority and Competitive Preference 
Priorities 1, 2, and 3 for the FY 2019 grant competition and any 
subsequent year in which we make awards from the list of unfunded 
applications from this competition, in accordance with section 
437(d)(1) of the General Education Provisions Act (GEPA), 20 U.S.C. 
1232(d)(1).
    Absolute Priority: This priority is an absolute priority. Under 34 
CFR 75.105(c)(3), we consider only applications that meet this 
priority.
    This priority is:
    Plan for Evidence-Based Field-Initiated Innovations.
    To meet this priority, applicants must submit a plan to create, 
develop, implement, replicate, or take to scale Evidence-Based, field-
initiated innovations to modernize and to improve effectiveness and 
alignment of CTE with labor market needs and to improve student 
outcomes in CTE.
    The plan must include the following information:
    (a) A description of how the proposed project will carry out one or 
more of the allowable activities under section 114(e)(7) of Perkins V, 
detailed in Program Requirement 2: Use of Funds, and how the proposed 
project is designed to create, develop, implement, replicate, or take 
to scale Evidence-Based, field-initiated innovations to modernize and 
improve effectiveness

[[Page 15195]]

and alignment of CTE with labor market needs and to improve student 
outcomes in CTE;
    (b) A detailed description of the key goals, the activities to be 
undertaken, including the Independent Evaluation, the rationale for 
selecting those activities, the timeline, and the parties responsible 
for implementing the activities; and
    (c) A description of how the proposed project Demonstrates a 
Rationale, including the corresponding Logic Model.
    Competitive Preference Priorities: These priorities are competitive 
preference priorities. Under 34 CFR 75.105(c)(2)(i), we award an 
additional 3 points to an application that meets Competitive Preference 
Priority 1(a), and we award an additional 2 points to an application 
that meets Competitive Preference Priority 1(b), as applicable. We 
award up to an additional 3 points to an application, depending on how 
well the application meets Competitive Preference Priority 2, and we 
award an additional 2 points to an application that meets Competitive 
Preference Priority 3.
    The total maximum points we may award an application that chooses 
to address all of the Competitive Preference Priorities is 10.
    These priorities are:
    Competitive Preference Priority 1--Promoting STEM Education and 
Computer Science Education.
    Projects designed to improve student achievement or other education 
outcomes in one or more of the following areas: Science, technology, 
engineering, math and Computer Science. An applicant must address 
Competitive Preference Priority 1(a) or both Competitive Preference 
Priority 1(a) and Competitive Preference Priority 1(b):
    Competitive Preference Priority 1(a)--Promoting STEM Education 
(three points).
    Projects designed to improve student achievement or other education 
outcomes in one or more of the following areas: Science, technology, 
engineering, and math. These projects must address one or more of the 
following priority areas:
    (a) Increasing access to STEM coursework, and hands-on learning 
opportunities, such as through expanded course offerings, dual-
enrollment, high-quality online coursework, or other innovative 
delivery mechanisms.
    (b) Creating or expanding partnerships between schools, local 
educational agencies (LEAs), State educational agencies (SEAs), 
businesses, not-for-profit organizations, or Institutions of Higher 
Education (IHEs) to give students access to internships, 
apprenticeships, or other Work-Based Learning experiences in STEM 
fields.
    (c) Supporting programs that lead to Recognized Postsecondary 
Credentials or skills that align to the skill needs of industries in 
the State or regional economy for careers in STEM fields.
    Competitive Preference Priority 1(b)--Promoting Computer Science 
Education (two points).
    Projects designed to improve student achievement or other education 
outcomes in Computer Science. These projects must address one or more 
of the following priority areas:
    (a) Increasing access to Computer Science coursework, and hands-on 
Computer Science learning opportunities, such as through expanded 
course offerings, dual-enrollment, high-quality online coursework, or 
other innovative delivery mechanisms.
    (b) Creating or expanding partnerships between schools, LEAs, SEAs, 
businesses, not-for-profit organizations, or IHEs to give students 
access to Computer Science internships, apprenticeships, or other Work-
Based Learning experiences in Computer Science fields.
    (c) Supporting programs that lead to Computer Science Recognized 
Postsecondary Credentials or skills that align with the skill needs of 
industries in the State or regional economy for careers in Computer 
Science.
    Competitive Preference Priority 2--Serving Students from Low-Income 
Families (up to 3 points).
    Projects designed to predominantly serve students from low-income 
families.
    To meet this priority, applicants must submit a plan in which the 
students the applicant proposes to serve are predominantly from low-
income families.
    The plan must include--
    (a) The specific activities the applicant proposes to ensure that 
the project will predominantly serve students from low-income families;
    (b) The rationale for how the proposed activities will result in 
projects in which the students to be served are predominantly students 
from low-income families;
    (c) The timeline for implementing the activities;
    (d) The parties responsible for implementing the activities; and
    (e) The key data sources and measures demonstrating that the 
project is designed to predominantly serve students from low-income 
families.
    Note: These data sources and measures may include: Children aged 5 
through 17 in poverty counted in the most recent census data approved 
by the Secretary; \10\ students eligible for a free or reduced-price 
lunch under the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act (42 U.S.C. 
1751 et seq.); students from families receiving assistance under the 
State program funded under part A of title IV of the Social Security 
Act; students eligible to receive medical assistance under the Medicaid 
Program; students who are Federal Pell Grant recipients; students who 
are eligible for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program 
authorized by the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008, as amended (7 U.S.C. 
2013 et seq.); or a composite of such indicators.
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    \10\ The U.S. Census Bureau LEA poverty estimates are available 
at: www.census.gov/data/datasets/2017/demo/saipe/2017-school-districts.html.
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    Competitive Preference Priority 3--Serving Students in Qualified 
Opportunity Zones (two points).
    Projects designed to promote economic mobility by serving students 
residing or attending CTE programs in Qualified Opportunity Zones. To 
meet this priority, each eligible applicant must--
    (a) Submit documentation that identifies at least one designated 
Qualified Opportunity Zone by census tract number, as well as by the 
county and State; and
    (b) Describe how the project will promote economic mobility by 
serving students who reside, or who will attend CTE programs, in the 
designated Qualified Opportunity Zone(s) identified under paragraph 
(a).
    Invitational Priority: For FY 2019, and any subsequent year in 
which we make awards from the list of unfunded applications from this 
competition, this priority is an invitational priority. Under 34 CFR 
75.105(c)(1), we do not give an application that meets this 
invitational priority any preference over other applications.
    This priority is:
    Spurring Investment in CTE from Qualified Opportunity Funds.
    Under this priority, an applicant must provide evidence in its 
application that it has received or will receive financial assistance 
from a qualified opportunity fund under section 1400Z-2 of the Internal 
Revenue Code, as amended by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, for a purpose 
directly related to its proposed project, especially for property 
including needed equipment and technology. In addressing this priority, 
an applicant must identify the qualified opportunity

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fund from which it has received or will receive financial assistance.
    Note: Financial assistance from a qualified opportunity fund could 
allow an eligible applicant to meet the cost sharing or matching 
requirement in whole or in part.
    Requirements: The application requirements are from section 
114(e)(3) of Perkins V. All applicants must meet the application 
requirements in order to be considered for funding. Under the 
Secretary's transition authority in section 4 of the Strengthening 
Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act, we are waiving 
the application requirement from section 114(e)(3)(E) of Perkins V that 
requires applicants to ensure that the plan reflects the comprehensive 
needs assessment required under section 134(c) of Perkins V, because 
State and local entities have not yet implemented this provision. The 
program requirements are established in accordance with section 
437(d)(1) of GEPA. However, they are based on sections 114(e)(7) and 
(e)(8) of Perkins V. The definitions of Computer Science and 
Independent Evaluation cross referenced in both of the program 
requirements are established in accordance with section 437(d)(1) of 
GEPA.
    The application requirements are:
    (a) Each applicant must identify and designate the agency, 
institution, or school responsible for the administration and 
supervision of the proposed project;
    (b) Each applicant must describe the budget for the project, 
including the source and amount of the required matching funds and how 
the applicant will continue the project after the grant period ends, if 
applicable;
    (c) Each applicant must describe how the applicant will use the 
grant funds, including how such grant funds will directly benefit 
students, including Special Populations, served by the applicant;
    Note: In addressing this application requirement, applicants should 
indicate which allowable activities in Program Requirement 2 the 
applicant intends to fund.
    (d) Each applicant must describe how the program assisted under 
this subsection will be coordinated with the activities carried out 
under section 124 or 135 of Perkins V.
    Note: In addressing this application requirement, applicants need 
only describe this coordination, to the extent the applicant is aware 
of State leadership activities or local uses of funds under section 124 
or 135 of Perkins V.
    (e) Each applicant must describe how the CTE programs or Programs 
of Study to be implemented with grant funds reflect the needs of 
regional, State, or local employers;
    (f) Each applicant must describe how the proposed program will be 
evaluated and how that evaluation may inform the report described in 
section 114(d)(2)(C) of Perkins V; and
    Note: In addressing this application requirement, applicants should 
ensure that their response is consistent with Program Requirement 1.
    (g) Each applicant must provide an assurance that the applicant 
will--
    (i) Provide information to the Secretary, as requested, for 
evaluations that the Secretary may carry out; and
    (ii) Make data available to third parties for validation, in 
accordance with applicable data privacy laws, including section 444 of 
GEPA (20 U.S.C. 1232g, commonly known as the Family Educational Rights 
and Privacy Act of 1974).
    Note: The applicable FERPA disclosure regulations regarding prior 
consent may be found at 34 CFR 99.30 and 34 CFR 99.31(a).
    The program requirements are:
    Program Requirement 1--Evaluation.
    In accordance with section 437(d)(1) of GEPA, a grantee must 
conduct an Independent Evaluation of the activities carried out under 
the grant and submit to the Secretary an annual report that includes:
    (a) A description of how the grant funds were used;
    (b) The performance of the project with respect to, at a minimum, 
the performance indicators described under section 113 of the Act, as 
applicable, and disaggregated by--
    (1) Subgroups of students described in section 1111(c)(2)(B) of the 
ESEA;
    (2) Special Populations; and
    (3) As appropriate, each CTE program and Program of Study; and
    (c) A quantitative analysis of the effectiveness of the project.
    Program Requirement 2--Use of Funds.
    In accordance with section 437(d)(1) of GEPA, a grantee must use 
Perkins Innovation and Modernization funds for one or more of the 
following activities:
    (a) Designing and implementing courses or Programs of Study aligned 
to labor market needs in new or emerging fields and working with 
industry to upgrade equipment, technology, and related curriculum used 
in CTE programs, which is needed for the development, expansion, and 
implementation of State-approved CTE Programs of Study, including--
    (1) The development or acquisition of instructional materials 
associated with the equipment and technology purchased by an Eligible 
Entity, Eligible Institution, or Eligible Recipient through the grant; 
or
    (2) Efforts to expand, develop, or implement programs designed to 
increase opportunities for students to take rigorous courses in coding 
or Computer Science subject areas, and support for statewide efforts to 
increase access and implementation of coding or Computer Science 
courses in order to meet local labor market needs in occupations that 
require skills in those subject areas.
    (b) Improving CTE outcomes of students served by Eligible Entities, 
Eligible Institutions, or Eligible Recipients through activities such 
as--
    (1) Supporting the development and enhancement of innovative 
delivery models for CTE-related Work-Based Learning, including school-
based simulated work sites, mentoring, work site visits, job shadowing, 
project-based learning, and skills-based and paid internships;
    (2) Increasing the effective use of technology within CTE programs 
and Programs of Study;
    (3) Supporting new models for integrating academic content at the 
secondary and postsecondary level in CTE; or
    (4) Integrating STEM fields, including Computer Science education, 
with CTE.
    (c) Improving the transition of students--
    (1) From secondary education to postsecondary education or 
employment through programs, activities, or services that may include 
the creation, development, or expansion of Dual or Concurrent 
Enrollment Programs, Articulation Agreements, Credit Transfer 
Agreements, and competency-based education; or
    (2) From the completion of one postsecondary program to another 
postsecondary program that awards a Recognized Postsecondary 
Credential.
    (d) Supporting the development and enhancement of innovative 
delivery models for CTE.
    (e) Working with industry to design and implement courses or 
Programs of Study aligned to labor market needs in new or emerging 
fields.
    (f) Supporting innovative approaches to CTE by redesigning the high 
school experience for students, which may include Evidence-Based 
transitional support strategies for students who have not met 
postsecondary education eligibility requirements.
    (g) Creating or expanding recruitment, retention, or professional 
development activities for CTE teachers, faculty, school leaders, 
administrators,

[[Page 15197]]

Specialized Instructional Support Personnel, career guidance and 
academic counselors, and Paraprofessionals, which may include--
    (1) Providing resources and training to improve instruction for, 
and provide appropriate accommodations to, Special Populations;
    (2) Externships or site visits with business and industry;
    (3) The integration of coherent and rigorous academic content 
standards and CTE curricula, including through opportunities for 
appropriate academic and CTE teachers to jointly develop and implement 
curricula and pedagogical strategies;
    (4) Mentoring by experienced teachers;
    (5) Providing resources or assistance with meeting State teacher 
licensure and credential requirements; or
    (6) Training for career guidance and academic counselors at the 
secondary level to improve awareness of postsecondary education and 
postsecondary career options, and improve the ability of such 
counselors to communicate to students the career opportunities and 
employment trends.
    (h) Improving CTE Concentrator employment outcomes in 
nontraditional fields.
    (i) Supporting the use of CTE programs and Programs of Study in a 
coordinated strategy to address identified employer needs and workforce 
shortages, such as shortages in the early childhood, elementary school, 
and secondary school education workforce.
    (j) Providing integrated student support that addresses the 
comprehensive needs of students, such as incorporating accelerated and 
differentiated learning opportunities supported by Evidence-Based 
strategies for Special Populations.
    (k) Establishing an online portal for CTE students, including 
Special Populations, preparing for postsecondary CTE, which may include 
opportunities for mentoring, gaining financial literacy skills, and 
identifying career opportunities and interests, and a platform to 
establish online savings accounts to be used exclusively for 
postsecondary CTE programs and Programs of Study.
    (l) Developing and implementing a Pay for Success Initiative.
    Definitions: The definitions of Articulation Agreement, Career and 
Technical Education, Credit Transfer Agreement, CTE Concentrator, 
Eligible Agency, Eligible Entity, Eligible Institution, Eligible 
Recipient, Pay for Success Initiative, Postsecondary Educational 
Institution, Professional Development, Program of Study, Special 
Populations, and Work-Based Learning are from section 3 of Perkins V. 
The definitions of Dual or Concurrent Enrollment Program, Early College 
High School, Evidence-Based, Paraprofessional, and Specialized 
Instructional Support Personnel are from section 8101 of the ESEA (20 
U.S.C. 7801 et seq.) because Perkins V adopted the ESEA definitions 
(see subsections (15), (16), (23), and (47) of section 3 of Perkins V, 
respectively). The definition of Institution of Higher Education is 
from section 101 of the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended (HEA), 
because Perkins V adopted the HEA definition (see section 3(30) of 
Perkins V). The definitions of Baseline, Demonstrates a Rationale, 
Logic Model, Performance Measure, Performance Target, Project 
Component, and Relevant Outcome are from 34 CFR 77.1. The definition of 
Recognized Postsecondary Credential is from section 3 of WIOA (29 
U.S.C. 3102), because Perkins V adopted the WIOA definition. The 
definition of Computer Science is from the Secretary's Supplemental 
Priorities. We are establishing the definition for Independent 
Evaluation and Qualified Opportunity Zone for the FY 2019 grant 
competition and any subsequent year in which we make awards from the 
list of unfunded applications from this competition, in accordance with 
section 437(d)(1) of GEPA.
    Articulation Agreement means a written commitment--
    (a) That is agreed upon at the State level or approved annually by 
the lead administrators of--
    (1) A secondary institution and a Postsecondary Educational 
Institution; or
    (2) A subbaccalaureate degree granting Postsecondary Educational 
Institution and a baccalaureate degree granting Postsecondary 
Educational Institution; and
    (b) To a program that is--
    (1) Designed to provide students with a nonduplicative sequence of 
progressive achievement leading to technical skill proficiency, a 
credential, a certificate, or a degree; and
    (2) Linked through Credit Transfer Agreements between the 2 
institutions described in clause (1) or (2) of subparagraph (a) (as the 
case may be).
    Baseline means the starting point from which performance is 
measured and targets are set.
    Career and Technical Education means organized educational 
activities that--
    (a) Offer a sequence of courses that--
    (1) Provides individuals with rigorous academic content and 
relevant technical knowledge and skills needed to prepare for further 
education and careers in current or emerging professions, which may 
include high-skill, high-wage, or in-demand industry sectors or 
occupations, which shall be, at the secondary level, aligned with the 
challenging State academic standards adopted by a State under section 
1111(b)(1) of the ESEA;
    (2) Provides technical skill proficiency or a Recognized 
Postsecondary Credential which may include an industry-recognized 
credential, a certificate, or an associate degree; and
    (3) May include prerequisite courses (other than a remedial course) 
that meet the requirements of this subparagraph;
    (b) Include competency-based, Work-Based, or other applied learning 
that supports the development of academic knowledge, higher-order 
reasoning and problem-solving skills, work attitudes, employability 
skills, technical skills, and occupation-specific skills, and knowledge 
of all aspects of an industry, including entrepreneurship, of an 
individual;
    (c) To the extent practicable, coordinate between secondary and 
postsecondary education programs through Programs of Study, which may 
include coordination through Articulation Agreements, Early College 
High School programs, Dual or Concurrent Enrollment Program 
opportunities, or other Credit Transfer Agreements that provide 
postsecondary credit or advanced standing; and
    (d) May include career exploration at the high school level or as 
early as the middle grades (as such term is defined in section 8101 of 
the ESEA).
    Computer Science means the study of computers and algorithmic 
processes and includes the study of computing principles and theories, 
computational thinking, computer hardware, software design, coding, 
analytics, and computer applications.
    Computer Science often includes computer programming or coding as a 
tool to create software, including applications, games, websites, and 
tools to manage or manipulate data; or development and management of 
computer hardware and the other electronics related to sharing, 
securing, and using digital information.
    In addition to coding, the expanding field of Computer Science 
emphasizes computational thinking and interdisciplinary problem-solving 
to equip students with the skills and abilities necessary to apply 
computation in our digital world.

[[Page 15198]]

    Computer Science does not include using a computer for everyday 
activities, such as browsing the internet; use of tools like word 
processing, spreadsheets, or presentation software; or using computers 
in the study and exploration of unrelated subjects.
    Credit Transfer Agreement means a formal agreement, such as an 
Articulation Agreement, among and between secondary and postsecondary 
education institutions or systems that grant students transcripted 
postsecondary credit, which may include credit granted to students in 
Dual or Concurrent Enrollment Programs, Early College High School, dual 
credit, articulated credit, and credit granted on the basis of 
performance on technical or academic assessments.
    CTE Concentrator means--
    (a) At the secondary school level, a student served by an Eligible 
Recipient who has completed at least two courses in a single CTE 
program or Program of Study; and
    (b) At the postsecondary level, a student enrolled in an Eligible 
Recipient who has--
    (1) Earned at least 12 credits within a CTE program or Program of 
Study; or
    (2) Completed such a program if the program encompasses fewer than 
12 credits or the equivalent in total.
    Demonstrates a Rationale means a key Project Component included in 
the project's Logic Model is informed by research or evaluation 
findings that suggest the Project Component is likely to improve 
Relevant Outcomes.
    Dual or Concurrent Enrollment Program means a program offered by a 
partnership between at least one IHE and at least one LEA through which 
a secondary school student who has not graduated from high school with 
a regular high school diploma is able to enroll in one or more 
postsecondary courses and earn postsecondary credit that--
    (a) Is transferable to the IHEs in the partnership; and
    (b) Applies toward completion of a degree or recognized educational 
credential as described in the HEA (20 U.S.C. 1001 et seq.).
    Early College High School means a partnership between at least one 
LEA and at least one IHE that allows participants to simultaneously 
complete requirements toward earning a regular high school diploma and 
earn not less than 12 credits that are transferable to the IHEs in the 
partnership as part of an organized course of study toward a 
postsecondary degree or credential at no cost to the participant or 
participant's family.
    Eligible Agency means a State board designated or created 
consistent with State law as the sole State agency responsible for the 
administration of CTE in the State or for the supervision of the 
administration of CTE in the State.
    Eligible Entity means a consortium that includes the following:
    (a) Representatives of not less than 2 of the following categories 
of entities, 1 of which shall serve as the fiscal agent for the 
consortium:
    (1) An LEA or a consortium of such agencies.
    (2) An educational service agency serving secondary school 
students.
    (3) An area CTE school or a consortium of such schools.
    (4) An Indian Tribe, Tribal organization, or Tribal educational 
agency.
    (5) An IHE whose most common degree awarded is an associate degree, 
or a consortium of such institutions.
    (6) An IHE whose most common degree awarded is a bachelor's or 
higher degree, or a consortium of such institutions.
    (7) An SEA.
    (b) One or more business or industry representative partners, which 
may include representatives of local or regional businesses or 
industries, including industry or sector partnerships in the local 
area, local workforce development boards, or labor organizations.
    (c) One or more stakeholders, which may include--
    (1) Parents and students;
    (2) Representatives of local agencies serving out-of-school youth, 
homeless children and youth, and at-risk youth (as defined in section 
1432 of the ESEA (20 U.S.C. 6472));
    (3) Representatives of Indian Tribes and Tribal organizations, 
where applicable;
    (4) Representatives of minority-serving institutions (as described 
in paragraphs (1) through (7) of section 371(a) of the HEA (20 U.S.C. 
1067q (a)), where applicable;
    (5) Representatives of Special Populations;
    (6) Representatives of adult CTE providers; or
    (7) Other relevant community stakeholders.
    Eligible Institution means--
    (a) A consortium of 2 or more of the entities described in 
subparagraphs (b) through (f);
    (b) A public or nonprofit private IHE that offers and will use 
funds provided under this title in support of CTE courses that lead to 
technical skill proficiency or a Recognized Postsecondary Credential, 
including an industry-recognized credential, a certificate, or an 
associate degree;
    (c) An LEA providing education at the postsecondary level;
    (d) An area CTE school providing education at the postsecondary 
level;
    (e) An Indian Tribe, Tribal organization, or Tribal education 
agency that operates a school or may be present in the State;
    (f) A Postsecondary Educational Institution controlled by the 
Bureau of Indian Education or operated by or on behalf of any Indian 
Tribe that is eligible to contract with the Secretary of the Interior 
for the administration of programs under the Indian Self-Determination 
and Education Assistance Act (25 U.S.C. 5301 et seq.) or the Act of 
April 16, 1934 (25 U.S.C. 5342 et seq.);
    (g) A tribally controlled college or university; or
    (h) An educational service agency.
    Eligible Recipient means--
    (a) An LEA (including a public charter school that operates as an 
LEA), an area CTE school, an educational service agency, an Indian 
Tribe, Tribal organization, or Tribal educational agency or a 
consortium, eligible to receive assistance under section 131; or
    (b) An Eligible Institution or consortium of Eligible Institutions 
eligible to receive assistance under section 132.
    Evidence-Based, when used with respect to State, LEA, or school 
activity, means an activity, strategy, or intervention that--
    (1) Demonstrates a Rationale based on high-quality research 
findings or positive evaluation that such activity, strategy, or 
intervention is likely to improve student outcomes or other Relevant 
Outcomes; and
    (2) Includes ongoing efforts to examine the effects of such 
activity, strategy, or intervention.
    Note: Under section 3(23) of Perkins V, and specifically for the 
purpose of this competition, this definition of Evidence-Based from 
section 8101(21)(A) of the ESEA also applies to an Eligible Entity, an 
Eligible Institution, and an Eligible Recipient.
    Independent Evaluation means an evaluation that is designed and 
carried out independent of and external to the grantee but in 
coordination with any employees of the grantee who develop a Project 
Component that is currently being implemented as part of the grant's 
activities.
    Institution of Higher Education (IHE) means--
    (a) An educational institution in any State that--

[[Page 15199]]

    (1) Admits as regular students only persons having a certificate of 
graduation from a school providing secondary education, or the 
recognized equivalent of such a certificate, or persons who meet the 
requirements of section 484(d)(3) of the HEA;
    (2) Is legally authorized within such State to provide a program of 
education beyond secondary education;
    (3) Provides an educational program for which the institution 
awards a bachelor's degree or provides not less than a 2-year program 
that is acceptable for full credit toward such a degree, or awards a 
degree that is acceptable for admission to a graduate or professional 
degree program, subject to review and approval by the Secretary;
    (4) Is a public or other nonprofit institution; and
    (5) Is accredited by a nationally recognized accrediting agency or 
association or, if not so accredited, is an institution that has been 
granted pre-accreditation status by such an agency or association that 
has been recognized by the Secretary of Education for the granting of 
pre-accreditation status, and the Secretary of Education has determined 
that there is satisfactory assurance that the institution will meet the 
accreditation standards of such an agency or association within a 
reasonable time.
    (b) The term also includes:
    (1) Any school that provides not less than a 1-year program of 
training to prepare students for gainful employment in a recognized 
occupation and that meets the provisions of paragraphs (1), (2), (4), 
and (5) of subsection (a) of this definition; and
    (2) A public or nonprofit private educational institution in any 
State that, in lieu of the requirement in subsection (a)(1) of this 
definition, admits as regular students individuals--
    (A) Who are beyond the age of compulsory school attendance in the 
State in which the institution is located; or
    (B) Who will be dually or concurrently enrolled in the institution 
and a secondary school.
    Logic Model (also referred to as a theory of action) means a 
framework that identifies key Project Components of the proposed 
project (i.e., the active ``ingredients'' that are hypothesized to be 
critical to achieving the Relevant Outcomes) and describes the 
theoretical and operational relationships among the key Project 
Components and Relevant Outcomes.
    Paraprofessional, also known as a ``paraeducator,'' includes an 
education assistant and instructional assistant.
    Pay for Success Initiative means a performance-based grant, 
contract, or cooperative agreement awarded by a State or local public 
entity (such as an LEA) to a public or private nonprofit entity--
    (a) In which a commitment is made to pay for improved outcomes that 
result in increased public value and social benefit to students and the 
public sector, such as improved student outcomes as evidenced by the 
indicators of performance described in section 113(b)(2) of Perkins V 
and direct cost savings or cost avoidance to the public sector; and
    (b) That includes--
    (1) A feasibility study on the initiative describing how the 
proposed intervention is based on evidence of effectiveness;
    (2) A rigorous, third-party evaluation that uses experimental or 
quasi-experimental design or other research methodologies that allow 
for the strongest possible causal inferences to determine whether the 
initiative has met its proposed outcomes;
    (3) An annual, publicly available report on the progress of the 
initiative; and
    (4) A requirement that payments are made to the recipient of a 
grant, contract, or cooperative agreement only when agreed upon 
outcomes are achieved, except that the entity may make payments to the 
third party conducting the evaluation described in subclause (2).
    Exclusion--The term ``Pay for Success Initiative'' does not include 
any initiative that--
    (a) Reduces the special education or related services that a 
student would otherwise receive under the Individuals with Disabilities 
Education Act (IDEA); or
    (b) Otherwise reduces the rights of a student or the obligations of 
an entity under the IDEA, the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 701 
et seq.),\11\ the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 
12101 et seq.), or any other law.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \11\ This includes Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 
(29 U.S.C. 794).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Performance Measure means any quantitative indicator, statistic, or 
metric used to gauge program or project performance.
    Performance Target means a level of performance that an applicant 
would seek to meet during the course of a project or as a result of a 
project.
    Postsecondary Educational Institution means--
    (a) An IHE that provides not less than a 2-year program of 
instruction that is acceptable for credit toward a bachelor's degree;
    (b) A tribally controlled college or university; or
    (c) A nonprofit educational institution offering certificate or 
other skilled training programs at the postsecondary level.
    Professional Development means activities that--
    (a) Are an integral part of Eligible Agency, Eligible Recipient, 
institution, or school strategies for providing educators (including 
teachers, principals, other school leaders, administrators, Specialized 
Instructional Support Personnel, career guidance and academic 
counselors, and Paraprofessionals) with the knowledge and skills 
necessary to enable students to succeed in Career and Technical 
Education, to meet challenging State academic standards under section 
1111(b)(1) of the ESEA, or to achieve academic skills at the 
postsecondary level; and
    (b) Are sustained (not stand-alone, 1-day, or short-term 
workshops), intensive, collaborative, job-embedded, data-driven, and 
classroom-focused, to the extent practicable Evidence-Based, and may 
include activities that--
    (1) Improve and increase educators'--
    (A) Knowledge of the academic and technical subjects;
    (B) Understanding of how students learn; and
    (C) Ability to analyze student work and achievement from multiple 
sources, including how to adjust instructional strategies, assessments, 
and materials based on such analysis;
    (2) Are an integral part of Eligible Recipients' improvement plans;
    (3) Allow personalized plans for each educator to address the 
educator's specific needs identified in observation or other feedback;
    (4) Support the recruitment, hiring, and training of effective 
educators, including educators who became certified through State and 
local alternative routes to certification;
    (5) Advance educator understanding of--
    (A) Effective instructional strategies that are Evidence-Based; and
    (B) Strategies for improving student academic and technical 
achievement or substantially increasing the knowledge and teaching 
skills of educators;
    (6) Are developed with extensive participation of educators, 
parents, students, and representatives of Indian Tribes (as 
applicable), of schools and institutions served under the Act;
    (7) Are designed to give educators of students who are English 
learners in CTE programs or Programs of Study the

[[Page 15200]]

knowledge and skills to provide instruction and appropriate language 
and academic support services to those students, including the 
appropriate use of curricula and assessments;
    (8) As a whole, are regularly evaluated for their impact on 
increased educator effectiveness and improved student academic and 
technical achievement, with the findings of the evaluations used to 
improve the quality of professional development;
    (9) Are designed to give educators of individuals with disabilities 
in CTE programs or Programs of Study the knowledge and skills to 
provide instruction and academic support services to those individuals, 
including positive behavioral interventions and supports, multi-tier 
system of supports, and use of accommodations;
    (10) Include instruction in the use of data and assessments to 
inform and instruct classroom practice;
    (11) Include instruction in ways that educators may work more 
effectively with parents and families;
    (12) Provide follow-up training to educators who have participated 
in activities described in this paragraph that are designed to ensure 
that the knowledge and skills learned by the educators are implemented 
in the classroom;
    (13) Promote the integration of academic knowledge and skills and 
relevant technical knowledge and skills, including programming jointly 
delivered to academic and CTE teachers; or
    (14) Increase the ability of educators providing CTE instruction to 
stay current with industry standards.
    Program of Study means a coordinated, nonduplicative sequence of 
academic and technical content at the secondary and postsecondary level 
that--
    (a) Incorporates challenging State academic standards, including 
those adopted by a State under section 1111(b)(1) of the ESEA;
    (b) Addresses both academic and technical knowledge and skills, 
including employability skills;
    (c) Is aligned with the needs of industries in the economy of the 
State, region, Tribal community, or local area;
    (d) Progresses in specificity (beginning with all aspects of an 
industry or career cluster and leading to more occupation-specific 
instruction);
    (e) Has multiple entry and exit points that incorporate 
credentialing; and
    (f) Culminates in the attainment of a Recognized Postsecondary 
Credential.
    Project Component means an activity, strategy, intervention, 
process, product, practice, or policy included in a project. Evidence 
may pertain to an individual project component or to a combination of 
project components (e.g., training teachers on instructional practices 
for English learners and follow-on coaching for these teachers).
    Qualified Opportunity Zone is an economically distressed community 
where new investments, under certain conditions, may be eligible for 
preferential tax treatment. Localities are Qualified Opportunity Zones 
if they have been nominated for that designation by the State and that 
nomination has been certified by the Secretary of the U.S. Treasury via 
his delegation of authority to the Internal Revenue Service. A list of 
designated Qualified Opportunity Zones and other resources can be found 
at: www.cdfifund.gov/Pages/Opportunity-Zones.aspx.
    Recognized Postsecondary Credential means a credential consisting 
of an industry-recognized certificate or certification, a certificate 
of completion of an apprenticeship, a license recognized by the State 
involved or Federal Government, or an associate or baccalaureate 
degree.
    Relevant Outcome means the student outcome(s) or other outcome(s) 
the key Project Component is designed to improve, consistent with the 
specific goals of the program.
    Specialized Instructional Support Personnel means--
    (a) School counselors, school social workers, and school 
psychologists; and
    (b) Other qualified professional personnel, such as school nurses, 
speech language pathologists, and school librarians, involved in 
providing assessment, diagnosis, counseling, educational, therapeutic, 
and other necessary services (including related services as that term 
is defined in section 602 of the IDEA (20 U.S.C. 1401)) as part of a 
comprehensive program to meet student needs.
    Special Populations means--
    (a) Individuals with disabilities;
    (b) Individuals from economically disadvantaged families, including 
low-income youth and adults;
    (c) Individuals preparing for nontraditional fields;
    (d) Single parents, including single pregnant women;
    (e) Out-of-workforce individuals;
    (f) English learners;
    (g) Homeless individuals described in section 725 of the McKinney-
Vento Homeless Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 11434a);
    (h) Youth who are in, or have aged out of, the foster care system; 
and
    (i) Youth with a parent who--
    (1) Is a member of the armed forces (as such term is defined in 
section 101(a)(4) of title 10, United States Code); and
    (2) Is on active duty (as such term is defined in section 101(d)(1) 
of such title).
    Work-Based Learning means sustained interactions with industry or 
community professionals in real workplace settings, to the extent 
practicable, or simulated environments at an educational institution 
that foster in-depth, firsthand engagement with the tasks required of a 
given career field, that are aligned to curriculum and instruction.
    Waiver of Proposed Rulemaking: Under the Administrative Procedure 
Act (5 U.S.C. 553), the Department generally offers interested parties 
the opportunity to comment on proposed priorities, program 
requirements, and definitions. Section 437(d)(1) of GEPA, however, 
allows the Secretary to exempt from rulemaking requirements regulations 
governing the first grant competition under a new or substantially 
revised program authority. This is the first grant competition for this 
program under section 114(e) of Perkins V and, therefore, qualifies for 
this exemption. In order to ensure timely grant awards, the Secretary 
has decided to forgo public comment on the priorities, program 
requirements, and definitions under section 437(d)(1) of GEPA. These 
priorities, program requirements, and definitions will apply to the FY 
2019 grant competition and any subsequent year in which we make awards 
from the list of unfunded applications from this competition.
    Program Authority: Section 114(e) of Perkins V.
    Applicable Regulations: (a) The Education Department General 
Administrative Regulations in 34 CFR parts 75, 77, 79, 81, 82, 84, 86, 
97, 98, and 99. (b) The Office of Management and Budget Guidelines to 
Agencies on Governmentwide Debarment and Suspension (Nonprocurement) in 
2 CFR part 180, as adopted and amended as regulations of the Department 
in 2 CFR part 3485. (c) The Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost 
Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards in 2 CFR part 
200, as adopted and amended as regulations of the Department in 2 CFR 
part 3474. (d) Secretary's Supplemental Priorities.
    Note: The regulations in 34 CFR part 86 apply to IHEs only.

II. Award Information

    Type of Award: Discretionary grants.
    Estimated Available Funds: $2,800,000.

[[Page 15201]]

    Contingent upon the availability of funds and the quality of 
applications, we may make additional awards in subsequent years from 
the list of unfunded applications from this competition.
    Estimated Range of Awards: $400,000-$500,000 for one 36-month 
project period.
    Estimated Average Size of Awards: $450,000.
    Estimated Number of Awards: 6.
    Note: The Department is not bound by any estimates and does not set 
a maximum award in this notice.
    Project Period: Up to 60 months. We anticipate that initial awards 
under this competition will be made for a three-year (36-month) period.
    Under section 114(e)(6)(B) of Perkins V, contingent upon the 
availability of funds and each grantee's demonstration to the Secretary 
that the grantee is achieving the program objectives and, as 
applicable, has improved education outcomes for CTE students, including 
Special Populations, the Secretary may make continuation awards to 
grantees for the remainder of the project period.
    Note: Under section 114(e)(5) of Perkins V, the Department must use 
at least 25 percent of Perkins Innovation and Modernization funds per 
fiscal year to make awards to applicants serving rural areas, 
contingent on receipt of a sufficient number of applications of 
sufficient quality. For purposes of this competition, we will consider 
an applicant as rural if the applicant meets the qualifications for 
rural applicants established in section 114(e)(5)(A) of Perkins V, and 
the applicant certifies that it meets those qualifications in its 
application. In implementing this statutory provision and program 
requirement, the Department may fund high-quality applications from 
rural applicants out of rank order.

III. Eligibility Information

    1. Eligible Applicants: The following entities are eligible to 
apply under this competition:
    (a) An Eligible Entity.
    (b) An Eligible Institution.
    (c) An Eligible Recipient.
    Note:An Eligible Entity must comply with the regulations in 34 CFR 
75.127 through 75.129, which address group applications.
    2. Rural Applicants: To qualify as a rural applicant under section 
114(e)(5)(A) of Perkins V, an applicant must meet at least one of the 
following requirements:
    (a) The applicant is--
    (1) An LEA with an urban-centric district locale code of 32, 33, 
41, 42, or 43, as determined by the Secretary;
    (2) An IHE primarily serving one or more areas served by an LEA 
with an urban-centric district locale code of 32, 33, 41, 42, or 43, as 
determined by the Secretary;
    (3) A consortium of such LEAs or such IHEs described in clause (1) 
or (2), above;
    (4) An educational service agency or a nonprofit organization in 
partnership with such an LEA or such an IHE, in clause (1) or (2), 
above; or
    (5) An applicant described in clause (1) or (2) in partnership with 
an SEA.
    Note: For the purposes of meeting the statutory rural set aside, an 
applicant must meet the requirements as listed above and provide the 
necessary locale codes in its grant application. Applicants are 
encouraged to retrieve locale codes from the National Center for 
Education Statistics School District search tool (https://nces.ed.gov/ccd/districtsearch/), where districts can be looked up individually to 
retrieve locale codes.
    3. a. Cost Sharing or Matching:
    Under section 114(e)(2) of Perkins V, each grant recipient must 
provide, from non-Federal sources (e.g., State, local, or private 
sources), an amount equal to not less than 50 percent of funds provided 
under the grant, which may be provided in cash or through in-kind 
contributions, to carry out activities supported by the grant. Grantees 
must include a budget detailing the source of the matching funds and 
must provide evidence of their matching contributions for at least the 
first year of the grant in their grant applications, including a letter 
committing to the match from an individual who has authority to make 
legally binding commitments on behalf of the entity. Consistent with 2 
CFR 200.306(b), any matching funds must be an allowable use of funds 
consistent with the cost principles detailed in Subpart E of the 
Uniform Guidance, and not included as a contribution for any other 
Federal award. Perkins V authorizes the Secretary to waive the matching 
requirement on a case-by-case basis upon demonstration of exceptional 
circumstances. The Secretary does not, as a general matter, anticipate 
waiving this requirement in the future. Furthermore, given the 
importance of matching funds to the long-term success of the project, 
eligible entities must identify appropriate matching funds in the 
proposed budget.
    b. Supplement-not-Supplant: This program is subject to supplement-
not-supplant funding requirements. In accordance with section 211(a) of 
Perkins V, funds under this program may not be used to supplant non-
Federal funds used to carry out CTE activities. Because this program 
also has a match requirement, and consistent with 2 CFR 200.306(b)(4), 
any matching funds must be for allowable expenditures, and any funds or 
contributions used to meet the match requirement must supplement and 
not supplant non-Federal funds that, in the absence of the Perkins 
Innovation & Modernization funds, would otherwise support CTE 
activities. Further, the prohibition against supplanting also means 
that grantees will be required to use their negotiated restricted 
indirect cost rates under this program. (34 CFR 75.563)
    4. Subgrantees: Under 34 CFR 75.708(b) and (c), a grantee under 
this competition may award subgrants to directly carry out project 
activities described in its application to the following types of 
entities: LEAs, Postsecondary Educational Institutions, or SEAs. The 
grantee may award subgrants to entities it has identified in an 
approved application.

IV. Application and Submission Information

    1. Application Submission Instructions: Applicants are required to 
follow the Common Instructions for Applicants to Department of 
Education Discretionary Grant Programs, published in the Federal 
Register on February 13, 2019 (84 FR 3768), and available at 
www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2019-02-13/pdf/2019-02206.pdf, which 
contain requirements and information on how to submit an application.
    2. Submission of Proprietary Information: Given the types of 
projects that may be proposed in applications for the Perkins 
Innovation and Modernization competition, your application may include 
business information that you consider proprietary. In 34 CFR 5.11 we 
define ``business information'' and describe the process we use in 
determining whether any of that information is proprietary and, thus, 
protected from disclosure under Exemption 4 of the Freedom of 
Information Act (5 U.S.C. 552, as amended). Because we may make 
successful applications available to the public, you may wish to 
request confidentiality of business information. Consistent with 
Executive Order 12600, please designate in your application any 
information that you believe is exempt from disclosure under Exemption 
4. In the appropriate Appendix section of your application, under 
``Other Attachments Form,'' please list the page number or numbers on 
which we can

[[Page 15202]]

find this information. For additional information please see 34 CFR 
5.11(c).
    3. Intergovernmental Review: This competition is subject to 
Executive Order 12372 and the regulations in 34 CFR part 79. 
Information about Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs under 
Executive Order 12372 is in the application package for this program.
    4. Funding Restrictions: We reference regulations outlining funding 
restrictions in the Applicable Regulations section of this notice.
    5. Recommended Page Limit: The application narrative is where you, 
the applicant, address the selection criteria that reviewers use to 
evaluate your application. We recommend that you (1) limit the 
application narrative to no more than 35 pages and (2) use the 
following standards:
     A ``page'' is 8.5'' x 11'', on one side only, with 1'' 
margins at the top, bottom, and both sides.
     Double-space (no more than three lines per vertical inch) 
all text in the application narrative, including titles, headings, 
footnotes, quotations, references, and captions, as well as all text in 
charts, tables, figures, and graphs.
     Use a font that is either 12 point or larger or no smaller 
than 10 pitch (characters per inch).
     Use one of the following fonts: Times New Roman, Courier, 
or Arial.
    The recommended page limit does not apply to the cover sheet; the 
budget section, including the narrative budget justification; the 
assurances and certifications; or the one-page abstract, the resumes, 
the bibliography, or the letters of support. However, the recommended 
page limit does apply to all of the application narrative.
    6. Notice of Intent to Apply: The Department will be able to review 
grant applications more efficiently if we know the approximate number 
of applicants that intend to apply. Therefore, we strongly encourage 
each potential applicant to notify us of their intent to submit an 
application. To do so, please email the program contact person listed 
under FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT with the subject line ``Intent to 
Apply,'' and include the applicant's name and a contact person's name 
and email address. Applicants that do not submit a notice of intent to 
apply may still apply for funding; applicants that do submit a notice 
of intent to apply are not bound to apply or bound by the information 
provided.

V. Application Review Information

    1. Selection Criteria: The selection criteria for this program are 
from 34 CFR 75.210. The maximum score for all of the selection criteria 
is 100 points. The maximum score for each criterion is indicated in 
parentheses. In addressing the criteria, applicants are encouraged to 
make explicit connections to the priorities and requirements listed 
elsewhere in this notice. The selection criteria for this competition 
are as follows:
    (a) Significance (up to 20 points).
    In determining the significance of the project, the Secretary 
considers the following factors:
    (1) The extent to which the proposed project involves the 
development or demonstration of promising new strategies that build on, 
or are alternatives to, existing strategies. (up to 10 points)
    (2) The likelihood that the proposed project will result in system 
change or improvement. (up to 10 points)
    (b) Quality of the Project Design and Management Plan (up to 35 
points).
    In determining the quality of the proposed project design and 
management plan, the Secretary considers the following factors:
    (1) The extent to which the goals, objectives, and outcomes to be 
achieved by the proposed project are clearly specified and measurable. 
(up to 15 points)
    (2) The adequacy of the management plan to achieve the objectives 
of the proposed project on time and within budget, including clearly 
defined responsibilities, timelines, and milestones for accomplishing 
project tasks. (up to 10 points)
    (3) The potential and planning for the incorporation of project 
purposes, activities, or benefits into the ongoing work of the 
applicant beyond the end of the grant. (up to 10 points)
    (c) Adequacy of resources. (25 points)
    The Secretary considers the adequacy of resources for the proposed 
project. In determining the adequacy of resources for the proposed 
project, the Secretary considers--
    (1) The extent to which the budget is adequate to support the 
proposed project. (up to 15 points)
    (2) The relevance and demonstrated commitment of each partner in 
the proposed project to the implementation and success of the project. 
(up to 10 points)
    (d) Quality of the Project Evaluation. (20 points)
    In determining the quality of the project evaluation to be 
conducted, the Secretary considers the following factors:
    (1) The extent to which the methods of evaluation include the use 
of objective Performance Measures that are clearly related to the 
intended outcomes of the project and will produce quantitative and 
qualitative data to the extent possible. (up to 5 points)
    (2) The extent to which the methods of evaluation will provide 
performance feedback and permit periodic assessment of progress toward 
achieving intended outcomes. (up to 5 points)
    (3) The extent to which the evaluation will provide guidance about 
effective strategies suitable for replication or testing in other 
settings. (up to 10 points)
    Note: Applicants may wish to review the following technical 
assistance resources on evaluation:
    (1) The What Works Clearinghouse (WWC) Procedures and Standards 
Handbooks: https://ies.ed.gov/ncee/wwc/Handbooks;
    (2) ``Technical Assistance Materials for Conducting Rigorous Impact 
Evaluations'': http://ies.ed.gov/ncee/projects/evaluationTA.asp; and
    (3) IES/NCEE Technical Methods papers: http://ies.ed.gov/ncee/tech_methods/.
    In addition, applicants may view an optional webinar recording that 
was hosted by the Institute of Education Sciences, focused on more 
rigorous evaluation designs, discussing strategies for designing and 
executing experimental studies that meet WWC evidence standards without 
reservations. This webinar is available at: http://ies.ed.gov/ncee/wwc/Multimedia.aspx?sid=18.
    2. Review and Selection Process: We remind potential applicants 
that in reviewing applications in any discretionary grant competition, 
the Secretary may consider, under 34 CFR 75.217(d)(3), the past 
performance of the applicant in carrying out a previous award, such as 
the applicant's use of funds, achievement of project objectives, and 
compliance with grant conditions. The Secretary may also consider 
whether the applicant failed to submit a timely performance report or 
submitted a report of unacceptable quality.
    In addition, in making a competitive grant award, the Secretary 
requires various assurances including those applicable to Federal civil 
rights laws that prohibit discrimination in programs or activities 
receiving Federal financial assistance from the Department of Education 
(34 CFR 100.4, 104.5, 106.4, 108.8, and 110.23).
    Before making awards, we will screen applications submitted in 
accordance with the requirements in this notice to determine whether 
applications have met eligibility and other requirements. This 
screening process may occur at

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various stages of the process; applicants that are determined to be 
ineligible will not receive a grant, regardless of peer reviewer scores 
or comments.
    Peer reviewers will read, prepare a written evaluation of, and 
score the assigned applications, using the selection criteria provided 
in this notice.
    Additional factors we consider in selecting an application for an 
award are as follows:
    (a) As required under section 114(e)(5) of Perkins, the Secretary 
shall award no less than 25 percent of the total available funds for 
any fiscal year to Eligible Entities, Eligible Institutions, or 
Eligible Recipients proposing to fund CTE activities that serve--
    (1) An LEA with an urban-centric district locale code of 32, 33, 
41, 42, or 43, as determined by the Secretary;
    (2) An IHE primarily serving one or more areas served by such an 
LEA;
    (3) A consortium of such LEAs or such IHEs;
    (4) A partnership between--
    (A) An educational service agency or a nonprofit organization; and
    (B) Such an LEA or such an IHE; or
    (5) A partnership between--
    (A) A grant recipient described in clause (1) or (2); and
    (B) An SEA.
    (b) The Secretary shall reduce the amount of funds made available 
under such clause if the Secretary does not receive a sufficient number 
of applications of sufficient quality.
    3. Risk Assessment and Specific Conditions: Consistent with 2 CFR 
200.205, before awarding grants under this program the Department 
conducts a review of the risks posed by applicants. Under 2 CFR 
3474.10, the Secretary may impose specific conditions and, in 
appropriate circumstances, high-risk conditions on a grant if the 
applicant or grantee is not financially stable; has a history of 
unsatisfactory performance; has a financial or other management system 
that does not meet the standards in 2 CFR part 200, subpart D; has not 
fulfilled the conditions of a prior grant; or is otherwise not 
responsible.
    4. Integrity and Performance System: If you are selected under this 
competition to receive an award that over the course of the project 
period may exceed the simplified acquisition threshold (currently 
$250,000), under 2 CFR 200.205(a)(2), we must make a judgment about 
your integrity, business ethics, and record of performance under 
Federal awards--that is, the risk posed by you as an applicant--before 
we make an award. In doing so, we must consider any information about 
you that is in the integrity and performance system (currently referred 
to as the Federal Awardee Performance and Integrity Information System 
(FAPIIS)), accessible through the System for Award Management. You may 
review and comment on any information about yourself that a Federal 
agency previously entered and that is currently in FAPIIS.
    Please note that, if the total value of your currently active 
grants, cooperative agreements, and procurement contracts from the 
Federal Government exceeds $10,000,000, the reporting requirements in 2 
CFR part 200, Appendix XII, require you to report certain integrity 
information to FAPIIS semiannually. Please review the requirements in 2 
CFR part 200, Appendix XII, if this grant plus all the other Federal 
funds you receive exceed $10,000,000.

VI. Award Administration Information

    1. Award Notices: If your application is successful, we notify your 
U.S. Representative and U.S. Senators and send you a Grant Award 
Notification (GAN); or we may send you an email containing a link to 
access an electronic version of your GAN. We may notify you informally, 
also.
    If your application is not evaluated or not selected for funding, 
we notify you.
    2. Administrative and National Policy Requirements: We identify 
administrative and national policy requirements in the application 
package and reference these and other requirements in the Applicable 
Regulations section of this notice.
    We reference the regulations outlining the terms and conditions of 
an award in the Applicable Regulations section of this notice and 
include these and other specific conditions in the GAN. The GAN also 
incorporates your approved application as part of your binding 
commitments under the grant.
    3. Open Licensing Requirements: Unless an exception applies, if you 
are awarded a grant under this competition, you will be required to 
openly license to the public grant deliverables created in whole, or in 
part, with Department grant funds. When the deliverable consists of 
modifications to pre-existing works, the license extends only to those 
modifications that can be separately identified and only to the extent 
that open licensing is permitted under the terms of any licenses or 
other legal restrictions on the use of pre-existing works. 
Additionally, a grantee or subgrantee that is awarded competitive grant 
funds must have a plan to disseminate these public grant deliverables. 
This dissemination plan can be developed and submitted after your 
application has been reviewed and selected for funding. For additional 
information on the open licensing requirements please refer to 2 CFR 
3474.20.
    4. Reporting: (a) If you apply for a grant under this competition, 
you must ensure that you have in place the necessary processes and 
systems to comply with the reporting requirements in 2 CFR part 170 
should you receive funding under the competition. This does not apply 
if you have an exception under 2 CFR 170.110(b).
    (b) At the end of your project period, you must submit a final 
performance report, including financial information, as directed by the 
Secretary. If you receive a multiyear award, you must submit an annual 
performance report that provides the most current performance and 
financial expenditure information as directed by the Secretary under 34 
CFR 75.118. The Secretary may also require more frequent performance 
reports under 34 CFR 75.720(c). For specific requirements on reporting, 
please go to www.ed.gov/fund/grant/apply/appforms/appforms.html.
    (c) Under 34 CFR 75.250(b), the Secretary may provide a grantee 
with additional funding for data collection analysis and reporting. In 
this case, the Secretary establishes a data collection period.
    5. Performance Measures: The overall purpose of the Perkins 
Innovation and Modernization Grant Program is to support and evaluate 
Evidence-Based and innovative strategies and activities to improve and 
modernize CTE and align workforce skills with labor market needs as 
part of the State plan. Each grantee will be required to report on 
student outcomes, as applicable, using the Perkins V section 113 core 
indicators of performance.
    The core indicators of performance for CTE Concentrators at the 
secondary level are--
    (a) The percentage of CTE Concentrators who graduate high school, 
as measured by the four-year adjusted cohort graduation rate (defined 
in section 8101 of the ESEA);
    (b) The percentage of CTE Concentrators who graduate high school, 
as measured by extended-year adjusted cohort graduation rate (defined 
in section 8101 of the ESEA);
    (c) CTE Concentrator proficiency in the challenging State academic 
standards adopted by the State under section 1111(b)(1) of the ESEA, as 
measured by the academic assessments in reading/language arts as 
described in section 1111(b)(2) of the ESEA;
    (d) CTE Concentrator proficiency in the challenging State academic

[[Page 15204]]

standards adopted by the State under section 1111(b)(1) of the ESEA, as 
measured by the academic assessments in mathematics as described in 
section 1111(b)(2) of the ESEA;
    (e) CTE Concentrator proficiency in the challenging State academic 
standards adopted by the State under section 1111(b)(1) of the ESEA, as 
measured by the academic assessments in science as described in section 
1111(b)(2) of the ESEA;
    (f) At least one of the following:
    (i) The percentage of CTE Concentrators graduating from high school 
having attained a Recognized Postsecondary Credential;
    (ii) The percentage of CTE Concentrators graduating from high 
school having attained postsecondary credits in the relevant CTE 
program or Program of Study earned through a Dual or Concurrent 
Enrollment Program or another Credit Transfer Agreement; or
    (iii) The percentage of CTE Concentrators graduating from high 
school having participated in Work-Based learning;
    (g) The percentage of CTE Concentrators who, in the second quarter 
after exiting from secondary education, are in postsecondary education 
or advanced training, are in military service or a service program that 
receives assistance under title I of the National and Community Service 
Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 12511 et seq.), are volunteers as described in 
section 5(a) of the Peace Corps Act (22 U.S.C. 2504(a)), or are 
employed; and
    (h) The percentage of CTE Concentrators in CTE programs and 
Programs of Study that lead to nontraditional fields.
    The core indicators of performance for CTE Concentrators at the 
postsecondary level are--
    (a) The percentage of CTE Concentrators who, during the second 
quarter after program completion, remain enrolled in postsecondary 
education, are in advanced training, military service, or a service 
program that receives assistance under title I of the National and 
Community Service Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 12511 et seq.), are volunteers 
as described in section 5(a) of the Peace Corps Act (22 U.S.C. 
2504(a)), or are placed or retained in employment;
    (b) The percentage of CTE Concentrators who receive a Recognized 
Postsecondary Credential during participation in or within one year of 
program completion; and
    (c) The percentage of CTE Concentrators in CTE programs and 
Programs of Study that lead to nontraditional fields.
    Project-Specific Performance Measures:
    Applicants must propose project-specific Performance Measures and 
Performance Targets consistent with the objectives of the proposed 
project.
    Applications must provide the following information as directed 
under 34 CFR 75.110(b) and (c):
    (a) Performance Measures. How each proposed Performance Measure 
would accurately measure the performance of the project and how the 
proposed Performance Measures would be consistent with the Performance 
Measures established for the program funding the competition.
    (b) Baseline data.
    (i) Why each proposed Baseline is valid; or
    (ii) If the applicant has determined that there are no established 
Baseline data for a particular Performance Measure, an explanation of 
why there is no established Baseline and of how and when, during the 
project period, the applicant would establish a valid Baseline for the 
Performance Measure.
    (c) Performance Targets. Why each proposed Performance Target is 
ambitious yet achievable compared to the Baseline for the Performance 
Measure and when, during the project period, the applicant would meet 
the Performance Target(s).
    (d) Data collection and reporting.
    (i) The data collection and reporting methods the applicant would 
use and why those methods are likely to yield reliable, valid, and 
meaningful performance data; and
    (ii) The applicant's capacity to collect and report reliable, 
valid, and meaningful performance data, as evidenced by high-quality 
data collection, analysis, and reporting in other projects or research.
    All grantees must submit an annual performance report with 
information that is responsive to these Performance Measures.
    6. Continuation Awards: In making a continuation award under 34 CFR 
75.253, the Secretary considers, among other things: Whether a grantee 
has made substantial progress in achieving the goals and objectives of 
the project; whether the grantee has expended funds in a manner that is 
consistent with its approved application and budget; and, if the 
Secretary has established performance measurement requirements, the 
performance targets in the grantee's approved application.
    In making a continuation award, the Secretary also considers 
whether the grantee is operating in compliance with the assurances in 
its approved application, including those applicable to Federal civil 
rights laws that prohibit discrimination in programs or activities 
receiving Federal financial assistance from the Department (34 CFR 
100.4, 104.5, 106.4, 108.8, and 110.23).

VII. Other Information

    Accessible Format: Individuals with disabilities can obtain this 
document and a copy of the application package in an accessible format 
(e.g., braille, large print, audiotape, or compact disc) on request to 
the program contact person listed under FOR FURTHER INFORMATION 
CONTACT. If you use a TDD or a TTY, call the FRS, toll free, at 1-800-
877-8339.
    Electronic Access to This Document: The official version of this 
document is the document published in the Federal Register. You may 
access the official edition of the Federal Register and the Code of 
Federal Regulations at www.govinfo.gov. At this site you can view this 
document, as well as all other documents of this Department published 
in the Federal Register, in text or Portable Document Format (PDF). To 
use PDF you must have Adobe Acrobat Reader, which is available free at 
the site.
    You may also access documents of the Department published in the 
Federal Register by using the article search feature at 
www.federalregister.gov. Specifically, through the advanced search 
feature at this site, you can limit your search to documents published 
by the Department.

    Dated: April 10, 2019.
Scott Stump,
Assistant Secretary for Career, Technical, and Adult Education.
[FR Doc. 2019-07456 Filed 4-12-19; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4000-01-P