May 19, 2014
The U.S. Department of Education recently released a Request for Proposals for the School Climate Transformation Grant for Local Educational Agencies. The RFP and additional information is available here. More than $23 million for this new grant line is available to fund an estimated 118 programs nationwide for up to 5 years.
The purpose of the grant is to “develop, enhance, or expand systems of support for, and technical assistance to, schools implementing an evidence-based multi-tiered behavioral framework [such as Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS)] for improving behavioral outcomes and learning conditions for all students.” Priority preference points are available for coordination with other related activities and/or participation of a federally-designated Promise Zone.
The RFP emphasizes the importance of data-based decision making, use of evidence-based practices, and evaluation of fidelity of implementation throughout the RFP. The evaluation section of the grant is worth 10 points, with additional points awarded for high-quality objectives that align to federal priorities and grant activities. Applicants are asked to include a strong evaluation plan and to identify the qualifications of the organization/person that has agreed to serve as the project evaluator.
Via Evaluation has conducted many evaluations related to positive school climate and culture, PBIS, and related topics, as well as other U.S. Department of Education grants. We have extensive experience and expertise in measuring school climate and culture, behavioral outcomes, and disproportionality. In addition, we have attended the national PBIS, School Mental Health, and related conferences.
Applications are due by June 23rd, 2014.
Please contact us here at Via Evaluation soon if you are interested in discussing our role in your School Climate Transformation Grant. We look forward to hearing from you.
