Information Memorandums (IMs) - 2008

Head Start Reauthorization: Two new provisions (ACF-IM-HS-08-03)

INFORMATION MEMORANDUM [See Attachment at the bottom]

TO: Head Start and Early Head Start Grantees and Delegate Agencies

SUBJECT: Head Start Reauthorization

INFORMATION:

As you know, on December 12, 2007 the President signed a bill reauthorizing the Head Start program (see ACF-IM-HS-08-01 for a discussion of the major provisions in this Bill). The Office of Head Start is continuing to work on developing appropriate strategies for implementing the many new requirements of reauthorization, and we will be sharing information with you on this over the next several months. However, we want, at this time, to advise programs on two new provisions.

Grantees may, subject to the specific requirements of Section 645(a)(1)(B)(iii)(II), serve up to 35% of their children from families with incomes of up to 130% of the poverty line. This authority is effective immediately; grantees do not need prior approval to exercise this authority. OHS will, through its monitoring process, assure that all grantees exercising this new authority meet the conditions enumerated at Section 645(a)(1)(B)(iii)(II). OHS will provide more information on the reporting requirements associated with this provision at a future date.

In FY 2008, grantees may, consistent with Section 640(g)(3) of the Head Start Act, propose to reduce their funded enrollment. Any grantee submitting such a proposal to its Regional Office should fully address those factors discussed in the attachment to this IM.

Please direct any questions on this IM to your OHS Regional Office.

/ Patricia E. Brown /

Patricia E. Brown
Acting Director
Office of Head Start

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Attachment:
[Attachment:] Head Start Reauthorization: Two new provisions