Guidelines will be presented and explained in order to clarify, standardize and expedite the contingency fund application process.

Applications will be accepted for "Contingency Funds for Extraordinary Special Education Program Expenses", beginning December 14, 2009 and ending January 29, 2010. Applications will not be accepted after January 29, 2010.

The application and review process remains similar for the 2009-2010 school year. Representatives from Leader Services Inc. will provide training on the software used in applying for Contingency Funds. They will offer suggestions to reduce time on line and to avoid the loss of data. In addition, they will explain how to electronically submit IEPs.

By clarifying the manner in which contingency funds are reviewed and what expenses are allowable, districts should be better able to focus their attention on only those children whose needs qualify them for contingency funding. The process of calculating and prorating allowable expenses for 2009-2010 will be explained. Time will be devoted to answering questions and discussing specific concerns.

Objectives

Save staff time:

• in determining which children are eligible for contingency funds.
• in preparing the necessary data.
• in completing the applications.

Avoid errors in preparing applications that cost time and money.

Target Audience

School District Special Education Administrators, Charter School Special Education Administrators, and IU Special Education Directors.

Districts are urged to send an administrative team that will be preparing the applications to this training. The application process will be reviewed in detail. The procedure used to determine allowable expenses will be explained. Suggestions will be given to applicants that should simplify and expedite the application process.