Finding 622462 (2022-003)

Questioned Costs $ ? Finding No. 2022 003: Student Eligibility Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education Assistance Listing Number and Title: 84.002A ? Adult Education ? Basic Grants to States Condition During our audit, we noted three instances in which students were permitted to enroll in Workplace Literacy and Adult Basic Education programs without meeting the eligibility criteria for those programs. Criteria Section 200.403 ? Factors affecting allowability of costs of Title 2 U.S. CFR Part 200, states ?(c) ? in order for costs to be allowable under Federal awards it must be consistent with policies and procedures that apply uniformly to both federally-financed and other activities of non-Federal entity.? Cause The inaccurate eligibility determinations may be attributed to general oversight by the program personnel. Effect Failure to adhere to the program?s eligibility requirements exposes the Department to an undue risk of noncompliance with the requirements of Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations Part 200. Context A sample of 25 individuals were selected for audit from a population of 3,323 individuals eligible to participate in Workplace Literacy and Adult Basic Education programs. Our test found that 3 individuals were improperly deemed as being eligible to participate in Workplace Literacy and Adult Basic Education programs. Our sample was a statistically valid sample. Repeat Finding This is not a repeat finding. Recommendation We recommend that program personnel ensure that the appropriate eligibility criteria are followed when determining an individual?s ability to enroll in Workplace Literacy and Adult Basic Education programs. Cause and View of Responsible Officials The local service provider was unaware of the eligibility requirements for basic skills deficient individuals and did not thoroughly understand workplace adult education and literacy activities as defined in United States Code, Title 29, Chapter 32 Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act ?3272. The Office of Curriculum and Instructional Design Community Education Specialist will ensure the local service provider is informed through written eligibility procedures and training.