Head Start Division Utilization of ARRA Funds for Educational Reimbursement

2 ARRA Request Timeline Origination date /Notification of projected monies to be issued by Congress April, 2009 Budget narrative developed and submitted June 30, 2009 Original Award letter received after the 16 th of July 2009 Head Start Region IV restricted $212K of proposal –Head Start had identified these funds for bonuses and staff increases.

3 Timeline (cont.) February 2010 – second proposal request for restricted ARRA funds was made to Head Start Region IV. February September 2010 numerous proposals discussed. September 24, 2010 reached verbal agreement on a new plan for the restricted funds along with a no-cost extension. After much delay, written approval was received April 21, 2011, all funds must be encumbered prior to May 31, 2011.

4 The Proposal The proposal had to have a Head Start staff benefit. –Educational assistance program for staff needing to meet qualification standards. –Professional Development –Staff training – Early Childhood development / education related –Out of county travel

5 Educational Reimbursement Early Childhood Education degrees Over & above Orange County’s tuition reimbursement plan Assists employees with meeting Head Start mandate for 2011 & Coursework verified –Audited

6 Requested action Approval to use the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act grant funds to provide educational reimbursement in the amount of $39,933 for Head Start teachers and a field operation supervisor that completed pre-approved coursework in Early Childhood Education during the period from July 1, 2009 through May 31, 2011.