Unlocking Support: Comprehensive Guide to EAASES Grants
Table of Contents:
- Introduction
- Background of the Grant Applications
- Overview of EAASES-II Grant
- EAASES-II Grant Application Process
- Eligible Expenses and Restrictions
- EAASES-Workforce Grant Overview
- EAASES-Workforce Grant Application Process
- Eligible Expenses and Restrictions
- Documentation and Record Keeping
- Future Plans and Funding
Article: A Comprehensive Guide to EAASES Grants
Introduction:
Welcome to this comprehensive guide on the EAASES grants. In this article, we will provide you with all the information you need to know about the EAASES-II and EAASES-Workforce grants. These grants aim to support approved special education schools in Massachusetts in addressing the ongoing challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. We will walk you through the application process, eligible expenses, and restrictions for each grant. So, let's get started and explore how these grants can benefit your school and help you strengthen and stabilize your workforce.
Background of the Grant Applications:
Before we delve into the details of the EAASES grants, let's take a moment to understand the background and the collaborative effort that led to their creation. The EAASES grants were developed as a response to the urgent need for resources in approved special education schools. The collaboration involved various state agencies, including the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, the Executive Office of Education, the Executive Office of Human Service, and many more.
This coordinated effort reflects the recognition of the unprecedented times we are in, and the importance of supporting special education schools. The grants were designed to provide funding to address the continuing costs of responding to the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring the programs can continue providing essential services to students with disabilities.
Overview of EAASES-II Grant:
The EAASES-II grant is a state-funded initiative with an allocation of $20 million. It builds upon the previous EAASES program and aims to provide support for approved special education schools in Massachusetts. The grant allows schools to address the ongoing challenges arising from the COVID-19 pandemic and covers a broad range of expenses.
EAASES-II Grant Application Process:
To apply for the EAASES-II grant, schools must follow a straightforward application process. The first step is to fill out a standard contract form for the full amount of the award. This contract represents an agreement between the school and the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE).
Once the contract is complete, schools are required to submit an invoice template for reimbursement. This template outlines the expenses for which the school is seeking reimbursement, such as staffing, infection control measures, learning support services, technology, and more. The invoice should be submitted to the designated email address provided by DESE.
Eligible Expenses and Restrictions:
The EAASES-II grant offers flexibility in how the funds can be utilized. Schools can use the grant to cover a wide range of expenses directly related to addressing the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Some eligible expenses include staffing costs, infection control measures, learning support services, technology, personal protective equipment (PPE), and other supports that directly benefit students.
However, it is important to note that the grant does have some restrictions. Schools cannot use the funds to double-dip or reimburse expenses that have already been reimbursed through other programs. Additionally, expenses unrelated to the COVID-19 pandemic are not eligible for reimbursement under this grant.
EAASES-Workforce Grant Overview:
The EAASES-Workforce grant is a federal-funded initiative with an allocation of $79 million. This grant specifically aims to strengthen and stabilize the workforce in approved special education schools. The funding focuses on retaining and recruiting staff who directly provide care, education services, or related services to students with disabilities.
EAASES-Workforce Grant Application Process:
The application process for the EAASES-Workforce grant follows a similar structure to the EAASES-II grant. Schools are required to fill out a standard contract form and an invoice template, both of which can be found on the EAASES website maintained by DESE.
The invoice template for the EAASES-Workforce grant has a specific provision regarding the first invoice. Schools can only bill up to 70% of the total allocation for the first invoice. This allows for some flexibility in case subsequent adjustments are needed throughout the fiscal year.
Eligible Expenses and Restrictions:
The EAASES-Workforce grant primarily focuses on recruitment and retention efforts to strengthen the workforce in approved special education schools. Schools are encouraged to use at least 90% of the allocated funds for activities and initiatives related to recruiting and retaining staff members.
Eligible expenses under this grant include recruitment incentives, retention incentives, salary increases, and other activities aimed at attracting and retaining qualified personnel. Schools have the freedom to introduce new staff positions, eliminate positions, or make changes as long as prior approval is obtained through a designated form.
Documentation and Record Keeping:
As with any grant program, it is crucial to keep thorough documentation and records of expenses to demonstrate how the funds were utilized. Schools should maintain records of the basis for all costs incurred, including payroll taxes, health insurance, workers' compensation, and other employee benefits. These records will serve as a proof of eligibility and can be critical for any future audit or reporting requirements.
Future Plans and Funding:
While the EAASES grants currently provide funding for the fiscal year 2022, there is ongoing advocacy and collaboration between state agencies and the legislature to address the long-term needs of approved special education schools. MAAPS, in conjunction with various stakeholders, is actively working to secure additional funding and a long-term plan to support these schools and ensure the continuity of essential services.
Conclusion:
The EAASES grants are a vital source of funding for approved special education schools in Massachusetts. These grants provide opportunities to strengthen and stabilize the workforce, address the ongoing challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, and ensure the provision of high-quality services to students with disabilities. By following the application process and adhering to the eligible expenses and restrictions, schools can make the most of these grants and support their mission of providing exceptional education and care to students in need.
