About the Webinar:
This engaging session provided an overview by the Charter School Program (CSP) team, which delved into the CSP Grant managed by the Florida Department of Education. Attendees gained insights into the grant application process, participated in an interactive budget exercise, and reviewed key grant requirements and standards.
Unlocking Opportunities: Navigating the CSP Grant Process
Presenter:
- Chasity Ingram, CSP Budget Analyst, Florida Department of Education
- Horace Taylor, CSP Budget Analyst, Florida Department of Education
- Nicolle Leider, Director, CSP Grant, Florida Department of Education
Date/Time: November 20, 2024
Conference: 2024 FL Charter School Conference
View The Recording:
Session Summary
This session, presented by the Charter School Program (CSP) team from the Florida Department of Education, provides a comprehensive guide to the CSP grant process, aiming to equip both current and prospective subrecipients with the knowledge and tools to effectively utilize grant funds.
The session begins with an overview of the CSP grant, its purpose, eligibility criteria, and the application process. The grant, awarded by the U.S. Department of Education to the Florida Department of Education, is intended to support the planning, design, and initial implementation of new, high-quality charter schools.
A key focus of the presentation is the budget process, with an interactive exercise designed to help participants understand the nuances of allowable and unallowable costs. The presenters emphasize the importance of aligning budget requests with the school's mission, vision, and startup needs, ensuring that all expenditures are necessary, reasonable, and allowable under the grant guidelines.
The session also delves into the post-award phase, highlighting key requirements and common issues encountered by subrecipients. This includes a detailed discussion on important documentation, such as board policies, conflict of interest policies, and inventory control procedures, emphasizing the importance of compliance with both state and federal regulations.
Real-world examples and practical tips are shared throughout the session, drawing on the presenters' experiences in reviewing grant applications and conducting site visits. This includes guidance on navigating the online portal for document submission and reimbursement requests, as well as strategies for effective communication and collaboration with the CSP team.
The presentation concludes with a Q&A session, offering further clarification on specific questions and concerns raised by participants. This session serves as a valuable resource for any charter school seeking to understand and navigate the CSP grant process successfully.