[Federal Register: June 18, 1998 (Volume 63, Number 117)] [Notices] [Page 33499-33522] From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov] [DOCID:fr18jn98-136] [[Page 33499]] _______________________________________________________________________ Part VI Department of Education _______________________________________________________________________ Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services, National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research: Applications Invitation for New Awards Under Certain Programs (FY 1999); Notice [[Page 33500]] DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION [CFDA Nos.: 84.133F, 84.133G, and 84.133P] Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services; National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research Notice Inviting Applications for New Awards Under Certain Programs for Fiscal Year 1999 Note to Applicants: This notice is a complete application package. Together with the statute authorizing the programs and applicable regulations governing the programs, including the Education Department General Administrative Regulations (EDGAR), this notice contains information, application forms, and instructions needed to apply for a grant under these competitions. These programs support the National Education Goal that calls for all Americans to possess the knowledge and skills necessary to compete in a global economy and exercise the rights and responsibilities of citizenship. The estimated funding levels in this notice do not bind the Department of Education to make awards in any of these categories, or to any specific number of awards or funding levels, unless otherwise specified in statute. APPLICABLE REGULATIONS: The Education Department General Administrative Regulations (EDGAR), 34 CFR parts 74, 75, 77, 80, 81, 82, 85, and 86; and the following program regulations: Research Fellowships--34 CFR part 356. Field-Initiated Projects--34 CFR part 350. Advanced Rehabilitation Research Training Projects--34 CFR part 350. Program Title: Research Fellowships. CFDA Number: 84.133F. Purpose: The purpose of the Research Fellowship program is to build research capacity by providing support to highly qualified individuals, including those who are individuals with disabilities, to perform research on the rehabilitation of individuals with disabilities. Fellows may conduct original research in any area authorized by section 204 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended. Fellows may address problems encountered by persons with disabilities in their daily lives that are due to the presence of a disabling condition, problems associated with the provision of rehabilitation services to individuals with disabilities, and problems connected with the conduct of disability research. The program provides two categories of Fellowships: Merit Fellowships and Distinguished Fellowships. To be eligible for a Distinguished Fellowship, an individual must have seven or more years of research experience in subject areas, methods, or techniques relevant to rehabilitation research and must have a doctorate, other terminal degree, or comparable academic qualifications. To be eligible for a Merit Fellowship, an individual must have either advanced professional training or experience in independent study in an area which is directly pertinent to disability and rehabilitation. The Fellowship awards are for twelve months and include a fixed stipend and a flat rate allowance for research and research-related expenses including travel expenses. Applicants are not required to submit budget proposals. Selection Criteria: The Secretary evaluates applications for Fellowships according to the following criteria in 34 CFR 356.30. (a) Quality and level of formal education, previous work experience, and recommendations of present or former supervisors or colleagues that include an indication of the applicant's ability to work creatively in scientific research; and (b) The quality of a research proposal of no more than 12 pages containing the following information: (1) The importance of the problem to be investigated to the purpose of the Act and the mission of NIDRR. (2) The research hypotheses or related objectives and the methodology and design to be followed. (3) Assurance of the availability of any necessary data resources, equipment, or institutional support, including technical consultation and support where appropriate, required to carry out the proposed activity. Eligible Applicants: Only individuals are eligible to be recipients of Fellowships. Institutions are not eligible to be recipients of Fellowships. Program Authority: 29 U.S.C. 761a(d). Application Notice for Fiscal Year 1999 Research Fellowships, CFDA No. 84.133F ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Deadline for Estimated Project Funding priority transmittal of number of Maximum award amount period applications awards (per year) * (months) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Research Fellowships................ September 30, 1998..... 10 Merit: $45,000 12 Distinguished: $55,000. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Note: The Secretary will reject without consideration or evaluation any application that proposes a project funding level that exceeds the stated maximum award amount (See 34 CFR 75.104(b)). Program Title: Field-Initiated Projects. CFDA Number: 84.133G. Purpose: Field-Initiated (FI) projects must further one or more of the following purposes: Develop methods, procedures, and rehabilitation technology, that maximize the full inclusion and integration into society, employment, independent living, family support, and economic and social self-sufficiency of individuals with disabilities, especially individuals with the most severe disabilities; and improve the effectiveness of services authorized under the Act. Field-Initiated projects carry out either research activities or development activities. In carrying out a research activity, a grantee must identify one or more hypotheses, and based on the hypotheses identified, perform an intensive systematic study directed toward new or full scientific knowledge, or understanding of the subject or problem studied. In carrying out a development activity, a grantee must use knowledge and understanding gained from research to create materials, devices, systems, or methods beneficial to the target population, including design and development of prototypes and processes. Target population means the group of individuals, organizations, or other entities expected to be affected by the project. More than one group may be involved since a project may affect those who receive services, provide services, or administer services. There are two different sets of selection criteria for FI projects: one set to evaluate applications proposing to carry out research activities, and a second set to evaluate applications proposing to carry out development activities. The set of FI selection criteria that will be used to evaluate an [[Page 33501]] application will be based on the applicant's designation of the type of activity that the application proposes to carry out. AN APPLICANT FOR A FIELD-INITIATED PROJECT SHOULD CLEARLY IDENTIFY ON THE COVER PAGE OF THE APPLICATION WHETHER THE PROPOSAL IS FOR A RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT PROJECT. Invitational Priorities: The Secretary is particularly interested in applications that address one of the following invitational priorities. However, under 34 CFR 75.105(c)(1) an application that meets an invitational priority does not receive competitive or absolute preference over other applications. The invitational priorities are: (1) The marketing of disability-related products, services, and publications; (2) issues related to the implementation of the Americans with Disabilities Act on individuals with disabilities from minority backgrounds, especially Asian-Americans; (3) the needs of individuals with a combination of significant physical and speech disabilities; and (4) issues related to the effectiveness of alternative rehabilitation treatments such as acupuncture, exercise, and therapeutic massage. Selection Criteria: Research Project. The Secretary uses the following criteria to evaluate a Field- Initiated Project application that proposes to carry out research activities. (a) Importance of the problem (15 points total). (1) The Secretary considers the importance of the problem. (2) In determining the importance of the problem, the Secretary considers the following factors: (i) The extent to which the applicant clearly describes the need and target population (5 points). (ii) The extent to which the proposed activities further the purposes of the Act (4 points). (iii) The extent to which the proposed project will have beneficial impact on the target population (6 points). (b) Design of research activities (40 points total). (1) The Secretary considers the extent to which the design of research activities is likely to be effective in accomplishing the objectives of the project. (2) In determining the extent to which the design is likely to be effective in accomplishing the objectives of the project, the Secretary considers the following factors: (i) The extent to which the research activities constitute a coherent, sustained approach to research in the field, including a substantial addition to the state-of-the-art (10 points). (ii) The extent to which the methodology of each proposed research activity is meritorious, including consideration of the extent to which-- (A) The proposed design includes a comprehensive and informed review of the current literature, demonstrating knowledge of the state- of-the-art (5 points); (B) Each research hypothesis is theoretically sound and based on current knowledge (5 points); (C) Each sample population is appropriate and of sufficient size (5 points); (D) The data collection and measurement techniques are appropriate and likely to be effective (4 points); and (E) The data analysis methods are appropriate (4 points). (iii) The extent to which anticipated research results are likely to satisfy the original hypotheses and could be used for planning additional research, including generation of new hypotheses where applicable (7 points). (c) Design of dissemination activities (5 points total). (1) The Secretary considers the extent to which the design of dissemination activities is likely to be effective in accomplishing the objectives of the project. (2) In determining the extent to which the design is likely to be effective in accomplishing the objectives of the project, the Secretary considers the following factors: (i) The extent to which the materials to be disseminated are likely to be effective and usable, including consideration of their quality, clarity, variety, and format (2 points). (ii) The extent to which the materials and information to be disseminated and the methods for dissemination are appropriate to the target population, including consideration of the familiarity of the target population with the subject matter, format of the information, and subject matter (2 points). (iii) The extent to which the information to be disseminated will be accessible to individuals with disabilities (1 point). (d) Plan of operation (6 points total). (1) The Secretary considers the quality of the plan of operation. (2) In determining the quality of the plan of operation, the Secretary considers the adequacy of the plan of operation to achieve the objectives of the proposed project on time and within budget, including clearly defined responsibilities, and timelines for accomplishing project tasks (6 points). (e) Adequacy and reasonableness of the budget (4 points total). (1) The Secretary considers the adequacy and the reasonableness of the proposed budget. (2) In determining the adequacy and the reasonableness of the proposed budget, the Secretary considers the following factors: (i) The extent to which the costs are reasonable in relation to the proposed project activities (2 points). (ii) The extent to which the budget for the project, including any subcontracts, is adequately justified to support the proposed project activities (2 points). (f) Plan of evaluation (10 points total). (1) The Secretary considers the quality of the plan of evaluation. (2) In determining the quality of the plan of evaluation, the Secretary considers the following factors: (i) The extent to which the plan of evaluation provides for periodic assessment of progress toward-- (A) Implementing the plan of operation (3 points); and (B) Achieving the project's intended outcomes and expected impacts (2 points). (ii) The extent to which the plan of evaluation provides for periodic assessment of a project's progress that is based on identified performance measures that-- (A) Are clearly related to the intended outcomes of the project and expected impacts on the target population (3 points); and (B) Are objective, and quantifiable or qualitative, as appropriate (2 points). (g) Project staff (15 total points). (1) The Secretary considers the quality of the project staff. (2) In determining the quality of the project staff, the Secretary considers the extent to which the applicant encourages applications for employment from persons who are members of groups that have traditionally been underrepresented based on race, color, national origin, gender, age, or disability (2 points). (3) In addition, the Secretary considers the following: (i) The extent to which the key personnel and other key staff have appropriate training and experience in disciplines required to conduct all proposed activities (5 points). (ii) The extent to which the commitment of staff time is adequate to accomplish all the proposed activities of the project (3 points). (iii) The extent to which the key personnel are knowledgeable about the methodology and literature of pertinent subject areas (5 points). [[Page 33502]] (h) Adequacy and accessibility of resources (5 points total). (1) The Secretary considers the adequacy and accessibility of the applicant's resources to implement the proposed project. (2) In determining the adequacy and accessibility of resources, the Secretary considers the following factors: (i) The extent to which the applicant is committed to provide adequate facilities, equipment, other resources, including administrative support, and laboratories, if appropriate (3 points). (ii) The extent to which the facilities, equipment, and other resources are appropriately accessible to individuals with disabilities who may use the facilities, equipment, and other resources of the project (2 points). Selection Criteria: Development Project. The Secretary uses the following criteria to evaluate a Field- Initiated Project application that proposes to carry out development activities. (a) Importance of the problem (15 points total). (1) The Secretary considers the importance of the problem. (2) In determining the importance of the problem, the Secretary considers the following factors: (i) The extent to which the applicant clearly describes the need and target population (5 points). (ii) The extent to which the proposed activities further the purposes of the Act (4 points). (iii) The extent to which the proposed project will have beneficial impact on the target population (6 points). (b) Design of development activities (40 points total). (1) The Secretary considers the extent to which the design of development activities is likely to be effective in accomplishing the objectives of the project. (2) In determining the extent to which the design is likely to be effective in accomplishing the objectives of the project, the Secretary considers the following factors: (i) The extent to which the plan for development, clinical testing, and evaluation of new devices and technology is likely to yield significant products or techniques, including consideration of the extent to which-- (A) The proposed project will use the most effective and appropriate technology available in developing the new device or technique (6 points); (B) The proposed development is based on a sound conceptual model that demonstrates an awareness of the state-of-the-art in technology (9 points); (C) The new device or technique will be developed and tested in an appropriate environment (6 points); (D) The new device or technique is likely to be cost-effective and useful (5 points); (E) The new device or technique has the potential for commercial or private manufacture, marketing, and distribution of the product (9 points); and (F) The proposed development efforts include adequate quality controls and, as appropriate, repeated testing of products (5 points). (c) Design of dissemination activities (5 points total). (1) The Secretary considers the extent to which the design of dissemination activities is likely to be effective in accomplishing the objectives of the project. (2) In determining the extent to which the design is likely to be effective in accomplishing the objectives of the project, the Secretary considers the following factors: (i) The extent to which the materials to be disseminated are likely to be effective and usable, including consideration of their quality, clarity, variety, and format (2 points). (ii) The extent to which the materials and information to be disseminated and the methods for dissemination are appropriate to the target population, including consideration of the familiarity of the target population with the subject matter, format of the information, and subject matter (2 points). (iii) The extent to which the information to be disseminated will be accessible to individuals with disabilities (1 point). (d) Plan of operation (6 points total). (1) The Secretary considers the quality of the plan of operation. (2) In determining the quality of the plan of operation, the Secretary considers the adequacy of the plan of operation to achieve the objectives of the proposed project on time and within budget, including clearly defined responsibilities, and timelines for accomplishing project tasks (6 points). (e) Adequacy and reasonableness of the budget (4 points total). (1) The Secretary considers the adequacy and the reasonableness of the proposed budget. (2) In determining the adequacy and the reasonableness of the proposed budget, the Secretary considers the following factors: (i) The extent to which the costs are reasonable in relation to the proposed project activities (2 points). (ii) The extent to which the budget for the project, including any subcontracts, is adequately justified to support the proposed project activities (2 points). (f) Plan of evaluation (10 points total). (1) The Secretary considers the quality of the plan of evaluation. (2) In determining the quality of the plan of evaluation, the Secretary considers the following factors: (i) The extent to which the plan of evaluation provides for periodic assessment of progress toward-- (A) Implementing the plan of operation (3 points); and (B) Achieving the project's intended outcomes and expected impacts (2 points). (ii) The extent to which the plan of evaluation provides for periodic assessment of a project's progress that is based on identified performance measures that-- (A) Are clearly related to the intended outcomes of the project and expected impacts on the target population (3 points); and (B) Are objective, and quantifiable or qualitative, as appropriate (2 points). (g) Project staff (15 total points). (1) The Secretary considers the quality of the project staff. (2) In determining the quality of the project staff, the Secretary considers the extent to which the applicant encourages applications for employment from persons who are members of groups that have traditionally been underrepresented based on race, color, national origin, gender, age, or disability (2 points). (3) In addition, the Secretary considers the following: (i) The extent to which the key personnel and other key staff have appropriate training and experience in disciplines required to conduct all proposed activities (5 points). (ii) The extent to which the commitment of staff time is adequate to accomplish all the proposed activities of the project (3 points). (iii) The extent to which the key personnel are knowledgeable about the methodology and literature of pertinent subject areas (5 points). (h) Adequacy and accessibility of resources (5 points total). (1) The Secretary considers the adequacy and accessibility of the applicant's resources to implement the proposed project. (2) In determining the adequacy and accessibility of resources, the Secretary considers the following factors: (i) The extent to which the applicant is committed to provide adequate facilities, equipment, other resources, including administrative support, and laboratories, if appropriate (3 points). (ii) The extent to which the facilities, equipment, and other resources are [[Page 33503]] appropriately accessible to individuals with disabilities who may use the facilities, equipment, and other resources of the project (2 points). Eligible Applicants: Public and private organizations, including institutions of higher education and Indian tribes and tribal organizations, are eligible to apply for awards under this program. Program Authority: 29 U.S.C. 762. Application Notice for Fiscal Year 1999 Field-Initiated Projects, CFDA No. 84.133G ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Maximum Deadline for transmittal of Estimated award Project Funding priority applications number of amount period awards (per year)* (months) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Field-Initiated Projects.................. September 30, 1998........... 30 $150,000 36 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Note: The Secretary will reject without consideration or evaluation any application that proposes a project funding level that exceeds the stated maximum award amount (See 34 CFR 75.104(b)). Program Title: Advanced Rehabilitation Research Training Projects. CFDA Number: 84.133P. Purpose: Advanced Rehabilitation Research Training (ARRT) Projects must provide research training and experience at an advanced level to individuals with doctorates or similar advanced degrees who have clinical or other relevant experience. ARRT Projects train rehabilitation researchers, including individuals with disabilities, with particular attention to research areas that support the implementation and objectives of the Rehabilitation Act and that improve the effectiveness of services authorized under the Act. ARRT Projects must carry out all of the following activities: recruit and select candidates for advanced research training; provide a training program that includes didactic and classroom instruction, is multidisciplinary, and emphasizes scientific methodology, and may involve collaboration among institutions; provide research experience, laboratory experience or its equivalent in a community-based research setting, and a practicum that involve each individual in clinical research and in practical activities with organizations representing individuals with disabilities; provide academic mentorship or guidance, and opportunities for scientific collaboration with qualified researchers at the host university and other appropriate institutions; and provide opportunities for participation in the development of professional presentations and publications, and for attendance at professional conferences and meetings as appropriate for the individual's field of study and level of experience. Selection Criteria: Advanced Rehabilitation Research Training Projects The Secretary uses the following criteria to evaluate an Advanced Rehabilitation Research Training Project application. (a) Importance of the problem (10 points total). (1) The Secretary considers the importance of the problem. (2) In determining the importance of the problem, the Secretary considers the extent to which the applicant proposes to provide training in a rehabilitation discipline or area of study in which there is a shortage of qualified researchers, or to a trainee population in which there is a need for more qualified researchers (10 points). (b) Design of training activities (40 points total). (1) The Secretary considers the extent to which the design of training activities is likely to be effective in accomplishing the objectives of the project. (2) In determining the extent to which the design is likely to be effective in accomplishing the objectives of the project, the Secretary considers the following factors: (i) The extent to which the proposed training methods are of sufficient quality, intensity, and duration (5 points). (ii) The extent to which the proposed training materials and methods are accessible to individuals with disabilities (6 points). (iii) The extent to which the applicant's proposed recruitment program is likely to be effective in recruiting highly qualified trainees, including those who are individuals with disabilities (7 points). (iv) The extent to which the proposed didactic and classroom training programs emphasize scientific methodology and are likely to develop highly qualified researchers (6 points). (v) The extent to which the quality and extent of the academic mentorship, guidance, and supervision to be provided to each individual trainee are of a high level and are likely to develop highly qualified researchers (6 points). (vi) The extent to which the type, extent, and quality of the proposed clinical and laboratory research experience, including the opportunity to participate in advanced-level research, are likely to develop highly qualified researchers (5 points). (vii) The extent to which the opportunities for collegial and collaborative activities, exposure to outstanding scientists in the field, and opportunities to participate in the preparation of scholarly or scientific publications and presentations are extensive and appropriate (5 points). (c) Plan of operation (10 points total). (1) The Secretary considers the quality of the plan of operation. (2) In determining the quality of the plan of operation, the Secretary considers the following factors: (i) The adequacy of the plan of operation to achieve the objectives of the proposed project on time and within budget, including clearly defined responsibilities, and timelines for accomplishing project tasks (5 points). (ii) The adequacy of the plan of operation to provide for using resources, equipment, and personnel to achieve each objective (5 points). (d) Collaboration (5 points total). (1) The Secretary considers the quality of collaboration. (2) In determining the quality of collaboration, the Secretary considers one or more of the following factors: (i) The extent to which the applicant's proposed collaboration with one or more agencies, organizations, or institutions is likely to be effective in achieving the relevant proposed activities of the project (2 points). (ii) The extent to which agencies, organizations, or institutions demonstrate a commitment to collaborate with the applicant (2 points). (iii) The extent to which agencies, organizations, or institutions that commit to collaborate with the applicant have the capacity to carry out collaborative activities (1 point). (e) Adequacy and reasonableness of the budget (10 points). [[Page 33504]] (1) The Secretary considers the adequacy and the reasonableness of the proposed budget. (2) In determining the adequacy and the reasonableness of the proposed budget, the Secretary considers the following factors: (i) The extent to which the costs are reasonable in relation to the proposed project activities (4 points). (ii) The extent to which the budget for the project, including any subcontracts, is adequately justified to support the proposed project activities (3 points). (iii) The extent to which the applicant is of sufficient size, scope, and quality to effectively carry out the activities in an efficient manner (3 points). (f) Plan of evaluation (10 points). (1) The Secretary considers the quality of the plan of evaluation. (2) In determining the quality of the plan of evaluation, the Secretary considers the following factors: (i) The extent to which the plan of evaluation provides for periodic assessment of progress toward-- (A) Implementing the plan of operation (2 points); and (B) Achieving the project's intended outcomes and expected impacts (2 points). (ii) The extent to which the plan of evaluation will be used to improve the performance of the project through the feedback generated by its periodic assessments (2 points). (iii) The extent to which the plan of evaluation provides for periodic assessment of a project's progress that is based on identified performance measures that-- (A) Are clearly related to the intended outcomes of the project and expected impacts on the target population (2 points); and (B) Are objective, and quantifiable or qualitative, as appropriate (2 points). (g) Project staff (10 points total). (1) The Secretary considers the quality of the project staff. (2) In determining the quality of the project staff, the Secretary considers the extent to which the applicant encourages applications for employment from persons who are members of groups that have traditionally been underrepresented based on race, color, national origin, gender, age, or disability (2 points). (3) In addition, the Secretary considers the following: (i) The extent to which the key personnel and other key staff have appropriate training and experience in disciplines required to conduct all proposed activities (2 points). (ii) The extent to which the commitment of staff time is adequate to accomplish all the proposed activities of the project (2 points). (iii) The extent to which the key personnel are knowledgeable about the methodology and literature of pertinent subject areas (2 points). (iv) The extent to which the project staff includes outstanding scientists in the field (1 point). (v) The extent to which key personnel have up-to-date knowledge from research or effective practice in the subject area covered in the priority (1 point). (h) Adequacy and accessibility of resources (5 points). (1) The Secretary considers the adequacy and accessibility of the applicant's resources to implement the proposed project. (2) In determining the adequacy and accessibility of resources, the Secretary considers the following factors: (i) The extent to which the applicant is committed to provide adequate facilities, equipment, other resources, including administrative support, and laboratories, if appropriate (2 points). (ii) The quality of an applicant's past performance in carrying out a grant (1 point). (iii) The extent to which the applicant has appropriate access to clinical populations and organizations representing individuals with disabilities to support advanced clinical rehabilitation research (1 point). (iv) The extent to which the facilities, equipment, and other resources are appropriately accessible to individuals with disabilities who may use the facilities, equipment, and other resources of the project (1 point). Eligible Applicants: Institutions of higher education are eligible to receive awards under this program. Program Authority: 29. U.S.C. 761a(k). Application Notice for Fiscal Year 1999 Advanced Rehabilitation Research Training Projects, CFDA No. 84.133P ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Maximum Deadline for transmittal of Estimated award Project Funding priority applications number of amount (per period awards year)* (months) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Advanced Rehabilitation Research Training September 30, 1998........... 5 $150,000 60 Projects. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Note: The Secretary will reject without consideration or evaluation any application that proposes a project funding level that exceeds the stated maximum award amount (See 34 CFR 75.104(b)). Instructions for Application Narrative Recommended Page Limits: Field-Initiated and Advanced Rehabilitation Research Projects The Secretary strongly recommends that applicants for FI or ARRT projects: (1) Include a one-page abstract in their application; (2) Limit Part III--Application Narrative to no more than 50 double-spaced 8\1/2\'' x 11'' pages (on one side only) with one inch margins (top, bottom, and sides); (3) Double-space (no more than 3 lines per vertical inch) all sections of text in the application narrative; and (4) Use no smaller than a 12-point font, and an average character density no greater than 14 characters per inch. The recommended application narrative page limit does not apply to: Part I--the electronically scannable form; Part II--the budget section (including the narrative budget justification); and Part IV--the assurances and certifications. Also, the one-page abstract, resume(s), bibliography, or letters of support, while considered part of the application, are not subject to the recommended page limitation. Applicants should note that reviewers are not required to review any information provided in addition to the application information listed above. The recommendations for double-spacing and font do not apply within charts, tables, figures, and graphs, but the information presented in those formats should be easily readable. AN APPLICANT FOR A FIELD-INITIATED PROJECT SHOULD CLEARLY IDENTIFY ON THE COVER PAGE OF THE APPLICATION [[Page 33505]] WHETHER THE PROPOSAL IS FOR A RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT PROJECT. Strict Page Limits: Research Fellowships The research proposal for a Fellowship application must be limited to no more than 12 pages. Note: The Secretary will reject without consideration or evaluation any application for a Research Fellowship that does not adhere to the 12-page limit. Instructions for Transmittal of Applications (a) If an applicant wants to apply for a grant, the applicant shall-- (1) Mail the original and two copies of the application on or before the deadline date to: U.S. Department of Education, Application Control Center, Attention: (CFDA # [Applicant must insert number and letter]), Washington, D.C. 20202-4725, or (2) Hand deliver the original and two copies of the application by 4:30 p.m. [Washington, D.C. time] on the deadline date to: U.S. Department of Education, Application Control Center, Attention: (CFDA # (Applicant must insert number and letter)), Room #3633, Regional Office Building3, 7th and D Streets, S.W., Washington, D.C. (b) An applicant must show one of the following as proof of mailing: (1) A legibly dated U.S. Postal Service postmark. (2) A legible mail receipt with the date of mailing stamped by the U.S. Postal Service. (3) A dated shipping label, invoice, or receipt from a commercial carrier. (4) Any other proof of mailing acceptable to the Secretary. (c) If an application is mailed through the U.S. Postal Service, the Secretary does not accept either of the following as proof of mailing: (1) A private metered postmark. (2) A mail receipt that is not dated by the U.S. Postal Service. Notes: (1) The U.S. Postal Service does not uniformly provide a dated postmark. Before relying on this method, an applicant should check with its local post office. (2) An applicant wishing to know that its application has been received by the Department must include with the application a stamped self-addressed postcard containing the CFDA number and title of this program. (3) The applicant must indicate on the envelope and--if not provided by the Department--in Item 10 of the Application for Federal Assistance (Standard Form 424) the CFDA number--and letter, if any--of the competition under which the application is being submitted. Application Forms and Instructions The appendix to this application is divided into four parts. These parts are organized in the same manner that the submitted application should be organized. These parts are as follows: Part I: Application for Federal Assistance (Standard Form 424 (Rev. 4-88)) and instructions. Part II: Budget Form--Non-Construction Programs (Standard Form 524A) and instructions. Part III: Application Narrative. Additional Materials Estimated Public Reporting Burden. Assurances--Non-Construction Programs (Standard Form 424B). Certification Regarding Lobbying, Debarment, Suspension, and Other Responsibility Matters: and Drug-Free Work-Place Requirements (ED Form 80-0013). Certification Regarding Debarment, Suspension, Ineligibility and Voluntary Exclusion: Lower Tier Covered Transactions (ED Form 80-0014) and instructions. (Note: ED Form GCS-014 is intended for the use of primary participants and should not be transmitted to the Department. Disclosure of Lobbying Activities (Standard Form LLL (if applicable) and instructions; and Disclosure Lobbying Activities Continuation Sheet (Standard Form LLL-A). An applicant may submit information on a photostatic copy of the application and budget forms, the assurances, and the certifications. However, the application form, the assurances, and the certifications must each have an original signature. No grant may be awarded unless a completed application form has been received. FOR APPLICATIONS CONTACT: The Grants and Contracts Service Team, Department of Education, 600 Independence Avenue S.W., Switzer Building, 3317, Washington, D.C. 20202, or call (202) 205-8207. Individuals who use a telecommunications device for the deaf (TDD) may call the TDD number at (202) 205-9860. The preferred method for requesting information is to FAX your request to (202) 205-8717. Electronic Access to This Document Anyone may view this document, as well as all other Department of Education documents published in the Federal Register, in text or portable document format (pdf) on the World Wide Web at either of the following sites: http://ocfo.ed.gov/fedreg.htm http://www.ed.gov/news.html To use the pdf you must have the Adobe Acrobat Reader Program with Search, which is available free at either of the preceding sites. If you have questions about using the pdf, call the U.S. Government Printing Office at (202) 512-1530 or, toll free at 1-888-293-6498. Anyone may also view these documents in text copy only on an electronic bulletin board of the Department. Telephone: (202) 219-1511 or, toll free, 1-800-222-4922. The documents are located under Option G--Files/Announcements, Bulletins and Press Releases. Note: The official version of this document is the document published in the Federal Register. Program Authority: 29 U.S.C. 760-762. Dated: June 10, 1998. Curtis L. Richards, Acting Assistant Secretary for Special Education and Rehabilitative Services. Appendix Application Forms and Instructions Applicants are advised to reproduce and complete the application forms in this Section. Applicants are required to submit an original and two copies of each application as provided in this Section. FREQUENT QUESTIONS 1. CAN I GET AN EXTENSION OF THE DUE DATE? No! On rare occasions the Department of Education may extend a closing date for all applicants. If that occurs, a notice of the revised due date is published in the Federal Register. However, there are no extensions or exceptions to the due date made for individual applicants. 2. WHAT SHOULD BE INCLUDED IN THE APPLICATION? The application should include a project narrative, vitae of key personnel, and a budget, as well as the Assurances forms included in this package. Vitae of staff or consultants should include the individual's title and role in the proposed project, and other information that is specifically pertinent to this proposed project. The budgets for both the first year and all subsequent project years should be included. If collaboration with another organization is involved in the proposed activity, the application should include assurances of participation by the other parties, including written agreements or assurances of cooperation. It is not useful to include general letters of support or endorsement in the application. If the applicant proposes to use unique tests or other measurement instruments that are not widely known in the field, it would be helpful to include the instrument in the application. [[Page 33506]] Many applications contain voluminous appendices that are not helpful and in many cases cannot even be mailed to the reviewers. It is generally not helpful to include such things as brochures, general capability statements of collaborating organizations, maps, copies of publications, or descriptions of other projects completed by the applicant. 3. WHAT FORMAT SHOULD BE USED FOR THE APPLICATION? NIDRR generally advises applicants that they may organize the application to follow the selection criteria that will be used. The specific review criteria vary according to the specific program, and are contained in this Consolidated Application Package. 4. MAY I SUBMIT APPLICATIONS TO MORE THAN ONE NIDRR PROGRAM COMPETITION OR MORE THAN ONE APPLICATION TO A PROGRAM? Yes, you may submit applications to any program for which they are responsive to the program requirements. You may submit the same application to as many competitions as you believe appropriate. You may also submit more than one application in any given competition. 5. WHAT IS THE ALLOWABLE INDIRECT COST RATE? The limits on indirect costs vary according to the program and the type of application. Applicants for an Advanced Rehabilitation Research Training project must limit indirect charges to 8 percent. Applicants for a Field-Initiated project program should limit indirect charges to the organization's approved rate. If the organization does not have an approved rate, the application should include an estimated actual rate. Fellowship awards are made to individuals, therefore indirect cost rates do not apply. 6. CAN PROFITMAKING BUSINESSES APPLY FOR GRANTS? Yes. However, for-profit organizations will not be able to collect a fee or profit on the grant, and in some programs will be required to share in the costs of the project. 7. CAN INDIVIDUALS APPLY FOR GRANTS? No. Only organizations are eligible to apply for grants under NIDRR programs. However, individuals are the only entities eligible to apply for fellowships. 8. CAN NIDRR STAFF ADVISE ME WHETHER MY PROJECT IS OF INTEREST TO NIDRR OR LIKELY TO BE FUNDED? No. NIDRR staff can advise you of the requirements of the program in which you propose to submit your application. However, staff cannot advise you of whether your subject area or proposed approach is likely to receive approval. 9. HOW DO I ASSURE THAT MY APPLICATION WILL BE REFERRED TO THE MOST APPROPRIATE PANEL FOR REVIEW? Applicants should be sure that their applications are referred to the correct competition by clearly including the competition title and CFDA number, including alphabetical code, on the Standard Form 424, and including a project title that describes the project. 10. HOW SOON AFTER SUBMITTING MY APPLICATION CAN I FIND OUT IF IT WILL BE FUNDED? The time from closing date to grant award date varies from program to program. Generally speaking, NIDRR endeavors to have awards made within five to six months of the closing date. Unsuccessful applicants generally will be notified within that time frame as well. For the purpose of estimating a project start date, the applicant should estimate approximately six months from the closing date, but no later than the following September 30. 11. CAN I CALL NIDRR TO FIND OUT IF MY APPLICATION IS BEING FUNDED? No. When NIDRR is able to release information on the status of grant applications, it will notify applicants by letter. The results of the peer review cannot be released except through this formal notification. 12. IF MY APPLICATION IS SUCCESSFUL, CAN I ASSUME I WILL GET THE REQUESTED BUDGET AMOUNT IN SUBSEQUENT YEARS? No. Funding in subsequent years is subject to availability of funds and project performance. 13. WILL ALL APPROVED APPLICATIONS BE FUNDED? No. It often happens that the peer review panels approve for funding more applications than NIDRR can fund within available resources. Applicants who are approved but not funded are encouraged to consider submitting similar applications in future competitions. BILLING CODE 4000-01-P [[Page 33507]] [GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TN18JN98.001 [[Page 33508]] [GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TN18JN98.002 [[Page 33509]] [GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TN18JN98.003 [[Page 33510]] [GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TN18JN98.004 [[Page 33511]] [GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TN18JN98.005 [[Page 33512]] [GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TN18JN98.006 [[Page 33513]] [GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TN18JN98.007 [[Page 33514]] [GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TN18JN98.008 [[Page 33515]] [GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TN18JN98.009 [[Page 33516]] [GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TN18JN98.010 [[Page 33517]] [GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TN18JN98.011 [[Page 33518]] [GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TN18JN98.012 [[Page 33519]] [GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TN18JN98.013 [[Page 33520]] [GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TN18JN98.014 [[Page 33521]] [GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TN18JN98.015 [[Page 33522]] [GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TN18JN98.016 [FR Doc. 98-16180 Filed 6-17-98; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4000-01-P