Finding Text
CRITERIA: In accordance with the Uniform Guidance Compliance Supplement, Part III, Section N. “Special Tests and Provisions – Program Governance”, the Organization is required to provide training and technical assistance to the governing body and policy council to support understanding of financial information provided to them and support effective oversight of the Head Start award. CONDITION:
The Organization did not ensure the governing body received training and technical assistance or orientation on program performance standards or applicable federal regulations and program policies and procedures during fiscal year 2023-24.
QUESTIONED COSTS:
Not applicable.
CAUSE:
Program management was unaware of the requirement for formal board member training.
EFFECT:
The Organization did not ensure the governing body received training to effectively oversee the Head Start program.
RECOMMENDATION:
We recommend that program management provide training and education to the governing body on the Head Start Program including eligibility requirements, policies, and practices.
MANAGEMENT RESPONSE:
This compliance issue was recently addressed in the Organization’s ACF monitoring review. Accordingly, the Organization implemented corrective action in September 2024 that included in-person, virtual, and recorded training to board members, which was supported by providing binders to governing body members that contained hard copies of protocols and training materials.