[DOCID: f:hr439.110]
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110th Congress Report
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
1st Session 110-439
======================================================================
IMPROVING HEAD START ACT, 2007
_______
November 9, 2007.--Ordered to be printed
_______
Mr. Kildee, from the committee of conference, submitted the following
CONFERENCE REPORT
[To accompany H.R. 1429]
The committee of conference on the disagreeing votes of the
two Houses on the amendment of the Senate to the bill (H.R.
1429), to reauthorize the Head Start Act, to improve program
quality, to expand access, and for other purposes, having met,
after full and free conference, have agreed to recommend and do
recommend to their respective Houses as follows:
That the House recede from its disagreement to the
amendment of the Senate and agree to the same with an amendment
as follows:
In lieu of the matter proposed to be inserted by the Senate
amendment, insert the following:
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
(a) Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the ``Improving
Head Start for School Readiness Act of 2007''.
(b) Table of Contents.--The table of contents of this Act
is as follows:
Sec. 1. Short title.
Sec. 2. Statement of purpose.
Sec. 3. Definitions.
Sec. 4. Financial assistance for Head Start programs.
Sec. 5. Authorization of appropriations.
Sec. 6. Allotment of funds; limitations on assistance.
Sec. 7. Designation of Head Start agencies.
Sec. 8. Standards; monitoring of Head Start agencies and programs.
Sec. 9. Powers and functions of Head Start agencies.
Sec. 10. Head start transition and alignment with K-12 education.
Sec. 11. Early childhood education, coordination, and improvement.
Sec. 12. Submission of plans.
Sec. 13. Administrative requirements and standards.
Sec. 14. Participation in Head Start programs.
Sec. 15. Early Head Start programs.
Sec. 16. Appeals, notice, and hearing.
Sec. 17. Records and audits.
Sec. 18. Technical assistance and training.
Sec. 19. Staff qualifications and development.
Sec. 20. Research, demonstrations, and evaluation.
Sec. 21. Reports.
Sec. 22. Comparability of wages.
Sec. 23. Limitation with respect to certain unlawful activities.
Sec. 24. Political activities.
Sec. 25. Parental consent requirement for health services.
Sec. 26. Centers of Excellence in Early Childhood.
Sec. 27. General provisions.
Sec. 28. Compliance with Improper Payments Information Act of 2002.
Sec. 29. References in other Acts.
SEC. 2. STATEMENT OF PURPOSE.
Section 636 of the Head Start Act (42 U.S.C. 9831) is
amended to read as follows:
``SEC. 636. STATEMENT OF PURPOSE.
``It is the purpose of this subchapter to promote the
school readiness of low-income children by enhancing their
cognitive, social, and emotional development--
``(1) in a learning environment that supports
children's growth in language, literacy, mathematics,
science, social and emotional functioning, creative
arts, physical skills, and approaches to learning; and
``(2) through the provision to low-income children
and their families of health, educational, nutritional,
social, and other services that are determined, based
on family needs assessments, to be necessary.''.
SEC. 3. DEFINITIONS.
(a) In General.--Section 637 of the Head Start Act (42
U.S.C. 9832) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (2), by inserting ``(including a
community-based organization, as defined in section
9101 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of
1965 (20 U.S.C. 7801))'' after ``nonprofit'';
(2) in paragraph (3)(C), by inserting ``, and
financial literacy.'' after ``self-sufficiency'';
(3) in paragraph (12), by striking ``migrant and
seasonal Head Start program'' and inserting ``migrant
or seasonal Head Start program'';
(4) by striking paragraph (17) and inserting the
following:
``(17) The term `State' means a State, the
Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the District of Columbia,
Guam, American Samoa, the Virgin Islands of the United
States, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana
Islands. The term includes the Republic of Palau for
fiscal years 2008 and 2009, and (if the legislation
described in section 640(a)(2)(B)(v) has not been
enacted by September 30, 2009) for fiscal years 2010
through 2012.''; and
(5) by adding at the end the following:
``(18) The term `deficiency' means--
``(A) a systemic or substantial material
failure of an agency in an area of performance
that the Secretary determines involves--
``(i) a threat to the health,
safety, or civil rights of children or
staff;
``(ii) a denial to parents of the
exercise of their full roles and
responsibilities related to program
operations;
``(iii) a failure to comply with
standards related to early childhood
development and health services, family
and community partnerships, or program
design and management;
``(iv) the misuse of funds received
under this subchapter;
``(v) loss of legal status (as
determined by the Secretary) or
financial viability, loss of permits,
debarment from receiving Federal grants
or contracts, or the improper use of
Federal funds; or
``(vi) failure to meet any other
Federal or State requirement that the
agency has shown an unwillingness or
inability to correct, after notice from
the Secretary, within the period
specified;
``(B) systemic or material failure of the
governing body of an agency to fully exercise
its legal and fiduciary responsibilities; or
``(C) an unresolved area of noncompliance.
``(19) The term `homeless children' has the meaning
given the term `homeless children and youths' in
section 725(2) of the McKinney-Vento Homeless
Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 11434a(2)).
``(20) The term `institution of higher education'
has the meaning given the term in section 101(a) of the
Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1001(a)).
``(21) The term `interrater reliability' means the
extent to which 2 or more independent raters or
observers consistently obtain the same result when
using the same assessment tool.
``(22) The term `limited English proficient', used
with respect to a child, means a child--
``(A)(i) who was not born in the United
States or whose native language is a language
other than English;
``(ii)(I) who is a Native American (as
defined in section 9101 of the Elementary and
Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C.
7801)), an Alaska Native, or a native resident
of an outlying area (as defined in such section
9101); and
``(II) who comes from an environment where
a language other than English has had a
significant impact on the child's level of
English language proficiency; or
``(iii) who is migratory, whose native
language is a language other than English, and
who comes from an environment where a language
other than English is dominant; and
``(B) whose difficulties in speaking or
understanding the English language may be
sufficient to deny such child--
``(i) the ability to successfully
achieve in a classroom in which the
language of instruction is English; or
``(ii) the opportunity to
participate fully in society.
``(23) The term `principles of scientific research'
means principles of research that--
``(A) apply rigorous, systematic, and
objective methodology to obtain reliable and
valid knowledge relevant to education
activities and programs;
``(B) present findings and make claims that
are appropriate to and supported by methods
that have been employed; and
``(C) include, as appropriate to the
research being conducted--
``(i) use of systematic, empirical
methods that draw on observation or
experiment;
``(ii) use of data analyses that
are adequate to support the general
findings;
``(iii) reliance on measurements or
observational methods that provide
reliable and generalizable findings;
``(iv) strong claims of causal
relationships, only with research
designs that eliminate plausible
competing explanations for observed
results, such as, but not limited to,
random assignment experiments;
``(v) presentation of studies and
methods in sufficient detail and
clarity to allow for replication or, at
a minimum, to offer the opportunity to
build systematically on the findings of
the research;
``(vi) acceptance by a peer-
reviewed journal or critique by a panel
of independent experts through a
comparably rigorous, objective, and
scientific review; and
``(vii) consistency of findings
across multiple studies or sites to
support the generality of results and
conclusions.
``(24) The term `professional development' means
high-quality activities that will improve the knowledge
and skills of Head Start teachers and staff, as
relevant to their roles and functions, in program
administration and the provision of services and
instruction, as appropriate, in a manner that improves
service delivery to enrolled children and their
families, including activities that--
``(A) are part of a sustained effort to
improve overall program quality and outcomes
for enrolled children and their families;
``(B) are developed or selected with
extensive participation of administrators and
teachers from Head Start programs;
``(C) are developmentally appropriate for
the children being served;
``(D) include instruction in ways that Head
Start teachers and staff may work more
effectively with parents, as appropriate;
``(E) are designed to give Head Start
teachers and staff the knowledge and skills to
provide instruction and appropriate support
services to children of diverse backgrounds, as
appropriate;
``(F) may include a 1-day or short-term
workshop or conference, if the workshop or
conference is consistent with the goals in the
professional development plan described in
section 648A(f) and will be delivered by an
institution of higher education or other
entity, with expertise in delivering training
in early childhood development, training in
family support, and other assistance designed
to improve the delivery of Head Start services;
and
``(G) in the case of teachers, assist
teachers with--
``(i) the acquisition of the
content knowledge and teaching
strategies needed to provide effective
instruction and other school readiness
services regarding early language and
literacy, early mathematics, early
science, cognitive skills, approaches
to learning, creative arts, physical
health and development, and social and
emotional development linked to school
readiness;
``(ii) meeting the requirements in
paragraphs (1) and (2) of section
648A(a), as appropriate;
``(iii) improving classroom
management skills, as appropriate;
``(iv) advancing their
understanding of effective
instructional strategies that are--
``(I) based on
scientifically valid research;
and
``(II) aligned with--
``(aa) the Head
Start Child Outcomes
Framework developed by
the Secretary and, as
appropriate, State
early learning
standards; and
``(bb) curricula,
ongoing assessments,
and other instruction
and services, designed
to help meet the
standards described in
section 641A(a)(1);
``(v) acquiring the knowledge and
skills to provide instruction and
appropriate language and support
services to increase the English
language skills of limited English
proficient children, as appropriate; or
``(vi) methods of teaching children
with disabilities, as appropriate.
``(25) The term `scientifically valid research'
includes applied research, basic research, and field-
initiated research in which the rationale, design, and
interpretation are soundly developed in accordance with
principles of scientific research.
``(26) The term `unresolved area of noncompliance'
means failure to correct a noncompliance item within
120 days, or within such additional time (if any) as is
authorized by the Secretary, after receiving from the
Secretary notice of such noncompliance item, pursuant
to section 641A(c).''.
(b) Redesignation and Reordering of Definitions.--Section
637 of such Act is amended--
(1) by redesignating paragraphs (1) through (23) as
paragraphs (1), (3), (4), (5), (6), (7), (8), (9),
(10), (12), (16), (17), (18), (19), (22), (24), (25),
(2), (11), (13), (14), (15), (20), (21), (23), and
(26), respectively; and
(2) so that paragraphs (1) through (26), as so
redesignated in paragraph (1), appear in numerical
order.
SEC. 4. FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FOR HEAD START PROGRAMS.
Section 638 of the Head Start Act (42 U.S.C. 9833) is
amended by inserting ``for a period of 5 years'' after
``provide financial assistance to such agency''.
SEC. 5. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
Section 639 of the Head Start Act (42 U.S.C. 9834) is
amended to read as follows:
``SEC. 639. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
``There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this
subchapter (other than section 657B) $7,350,000,000 for fiscal
year 2008, $7,650,000,000 for fiscal year 2009, $7,995,000,000
for fiscal year 2010, and such sums as may be necessary for
each of fiscal years 2011 and 2012.''.
SEC. 6. ALLOTMENT OF FUNDS; LIMITATIONS ON ASSISTANCE.
(a) Allotment of Funds.--Section 640(a) of the Head Start
Act (42 U.S.C. 9835(a)) is amended to read as follows:
``(a)(1) Using the sums appropriated pursuant to section
639 for a fiscal year, the Secretary shall allocate such sums
in accordance with paragraphs (2) through (5).
``(2)(A) The Secretary shall determine an amount for each
fiscal year for each State that is equal to the amount received
through base grants for the prior fiscal year by the Head Start
agencies (including Early Head Start agencies) in the State
that are not described in clause (ii) or (iii) of subparagraph
(B).
``(B) The Secretary shall reserve for each fiscal year such
sums as are necessary--
``(i) to provide each amount determined for a State
under subparagraph (A) to the Head Start agencies
(including Early Head Start agencies) in the State that
are not described in clause (ii) or (iii), by allotting
to each agency described in this clause an amount equal
to that agency's base grant for the prior fiscal year;
``(ii) to provide an amount for the Indian Head
Start programs that is equal to the amount provided for
base grants for such programs under this subchapter for
the prior fiscal year, by allotting to each Head Start
agency (including each Early Head Start agency)
administering an Indian Head Start program an amount
equal to that agency's base grant for the prior fiscal
year;
``(iii) to provide an amount for the migrant and
seasonal Head Start programs, on a nationwide basis,
that is equal to the amount provided nationwide for
base grants for such programs under this subchapter for
the prior fiscal year, by allotting to each Head Start
agency administering a migrant or seasonal Head Start
program an amount equal to that agency's base grant for
the prior fiscal year;
``(iv) to provide an amount for each of Guam,
American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern
Mariana Islands, and the Virgin Islands of the United
States (for Head Start agencies (including Early Head
Start agencies) in the jurisdiction) that is equal to
the amount provided for base grants for such
jurisdiction under this subchapter for the prior fiscal
year, by allotting to each agency described in this
clause an amount equal to that agency's base grant for
the prior fiscal year;
``(v) to provide an amount for the Republic of
Palau (for Head Start agencies (including Early Head
Start agencies) in the jurisdiction) for each of fiscal
years 2008 and 2009, and (if legislation approving a
new agreement regarding United States assistance for
the Republic of Palau has not been enacted by September
30, 2009) for each of fiscal years 2010 through 2012,
that is equal to the amount provided for base grants
for such jurisdiction under this subchapter for the
prior fiscal year, by allotting to each agency
described in this clause an amount equal to that
agency's base grant for the prior fiscal year; and
``(vi) to provide an amount for a collaboration
grant under section 642B(a) for each State, for the
Indian Head Start programs, and for the migrant and
seasonal Head Start programs, in the same amount as the
corresponding collaboration grant provided under this
subchapter for fiscal year 2007.
``(C)(i) The Secretary shall reserve for each fiscal year
an amount that is not less than 2.5 percent and not more than 3
percent of the sums appropriated pursuant to section 639 for
that fiscal year, to fund training and technical assistance
activities, from which reserved amount--
``(I) the Secretary shall set aside a portion, but
not less than 20 percent, to be used to fund training
and technical assistance activities for Early Head
Start programs, in accordance with section 645A(g)(2);
and
``(II) the Secretary shall set aside a portion,
equal to the rest of the reserved amount, to fund
training and technical assistance activities for other
Head Start programs, in accordance with section 648, of
which portion--
``(aa) not less than 50 percent shall be
made available to Head Start agencies to use
directly, which may include at their discretion
the establishment of local or regional
agreements with community experts, institutions
of higher education, or private consultants, to
make program improvements identified by such
agencies, by carrying out the training and
technical assistance activities described in
section 648(d);
``(bb) not less than 25 percent shall be
available to the Secretary to support a State-
based training and technical assistance system,
or a national system, described in section
648(e) for supporting program quality; and
``(cc) the remainder of the portion set
aside under this subclause shall be available
to the Secretary to assist Head Start agencies
in meeting and exceeding the standards
described in section 641A(a)(1) by carrying out
activities described in subsections (a), (b),
(c), (f), and (g) of section 648, including
helping Head Start programs address weaknesses
identified by monitoring activities conducted
by the Secretary under section 641A(c), except
that not less than $3,000,000 of the remainder
shall be made available to carry out activities
described in section 648(a)(3)(B)(ii).
``(ii) In determining the portion set aside under clause
(i)(I) and the amount reserved under this subparagraph, the
Secretary shall consider the number of Early Head Start
programs newly funded for that fiscal year.
``(D) The Secretary shall reserve not more than $20,000,000
to fund research, demonstration, and evaluation activities
under section 649, of which not more than $7,000,000 for each
of fiscal years 2008 through 2012 shall be available to carry
out impact studies under section 649(g).
``(E) The Secretary shall reserve not more than $42,000,000
for discretionary payments by the Secretary, including payments
for all costs (other than compensation of Federal employees)
for activities carried out under subsection (c) or (e) of
section 641A.
``(F) If the sums appropriated under section 639 are not
sufficient to provide the amounts required to be reserved under
subparagraphs (B) through (E), the amounts shall be reduced
proportionately.
``(G) Nothing in this section shall be construed to deny
the Secretary the authority, consistent with sections 641,
641A, and 646 to terminate, suspend, or reduce funding to a
Head Start agency.
``(3)(A) From any amount remaining for a fiscal year after
the Secretary carries out paragraph (2) (referred to in this
paragraph as the `remaining amount'), the Secretary shall--
``(i) subject to clause (ii)--
``(I) provide a cost of living increase for
each Head Start agency (including each Early
Head Start agency) funded under this subchapter
for that fiscal year, to maintain the level of
services provided during the prior year; and
``(II) subject to subparagraph (B), provide
$10,000,000 for Indian Head Start programs
(including Early Head Start programs), and
$10,000,000 for migrant and seasonal Head Start
programs, to increase enrollment in the
programs involved;
``(ii) subject to clause (iii), if the remaining
amount is not sufficient to carry out clause (i)--
``(I) for each of fiscal years 2008, 2009,
and 2010--
``(aa) subject to subparagraph (B),
provide 5 percent of that amount for
Indian Head Start programs (including
Early Head Start programs), and 5
percent of that amount for migrant and
seasonal Head Start programs, to
increase enrollment in the programs
involved; and
``(bb) use 90 percent of that
amount to provide, for each Head Start
agency (including each Early Head Start
agency) funded as described in clause
(i)(I), the same percentage (but not
less than 50 percent) of the cost of
living increase described in clause
(i); and
``(II) for fiscal year 2011 and each
subsequent fiscal year--
``(aa) provide, for each Head Start
agency (including each Early Head Start
agency) funded as described in clause
(i)(I), the cost of living increase
described in clause (i); and
``(bb) subject to subparagraph (B),
with any portion of the remaining
amount that is not used under item
(aa), provide equal amounts for Indian
Head Start programs (including Early
Head Start programs), and for migrant
and seasonal Head Start programs, to
increase enrollment in the programs
involved; and
``(iii) if the remaining amount is not sufficient
to carry out clause (ii) for the fiscal year involved,
use that amount to provide, for each Head Start agency
(including each Early Head Start agency) funded as
described in clause (i)(I), the same percentage of the
cost of living increase described in clause (i).
``(B)(i) Notwithstanding any other provision of this
paragraph, the Indian Head Start programs shall not receive
more than a total cumulative amount of $50,000,000 for all
fiscal years, and the migrant and seasonal Head Start programs
shall not receive more than a total cumulative amount of
$50,000,000 for all fiscal years, under clause (i)(II), and
subclauses (I)(aa) and (II)(bb) of clause (ii), of subparagraph
(A) (referred to in this subsection as the `special expansion
provisions'), to increase enrollment in the programs involved.
``(ii)(I) Funds that are appropriated under section 639 for
a fiscal year, and made available to Indian Head Start programs
or migrant or seasonal Head Start programs under the special
expansion provisions, shall remain available until the end of
the following fiscal year.
``(II) For purposes of subclause (I)--
``(aa) if no portion is reallocated under clause
(iii), those funds shall remain available to the
programs involved; or
``(bb) if a portion is reallocated under clause
(iii), the portion shall remain available to the
recipients of the portion.
``(iii) Of the funds made available as described in clause
(ii), the Secretary shall reallocate the portion that the
Secretary determines is unobligated 18 months after the funds
are made available. The Secretary shall add that portion to the
balance described in paragraph (4), and reallocate the portion
in accordance with paragraph (4), for the following fiscal year
referred to in clause (ii).
``(4)(A) Except as provided in subparagraph (B), from any
amount remaining for a fiscal year after the Secretary carries
out paragraphs (2) and (3) (referred to in this paragraph as
the `balance'), the Secretary shall--
``(i) reserve 40 percent to carry out subparagraph
(C) and paragraph (5);
``(ii) reserve 45 percent to carry out subparagraph
(D); and
``(iii) reserve 15 percent (which shall remain
available through the end of fiscal year 2012) to
provide funds for carrying out section 642B(b)(2).
``(B)(i) Under the circumstances described in clause (ii),
from the balance, the Secretary shall--
``(I) reserve 45 percent to carry out subparagraph
(C) and paragraph (5); and
``(II) reserve 55 percent to carry out subparagraph
(D).
``(ii) The Secretary shall make the reservations described
in clause (i) for a fiscal year if--
``(I) the total cumulative amount reserved under
subparagraph (A)(iii) for all preceding fiscal years
equals $100,000,000; or
``(II) in the 2-year period preceding such fiscal
year, funds were reserved under subparagraph (A)(iii)
in an amount that totals not less than $15,000,000 and
the Secretary received no approvable applications for
such funds.
``(iii) The total cumulative amount reserved under
subparagraph (A)(iii) for all fiscal years may not be greater
than $100,000,000.
``(C) The Secretary shall fund the quality improvement
activities described in paragraph (5) using the amount reserved
under subparagraph (A)(i) or subparagraph (B)(i)(I), as
appropriate, of which--
``(i) a portion that is less than 10 percent may be
reserved by the Secretary to provide funding to Head
Start agencies (including Early Head Start agencies)
that demonstrate the greatest need for additional
funding for such activities, as determined by the
Secretary; and
``(ii) a portion that is not less than 90 percent
shall be reserved by the Secretary to allot, to each
Head Start agency (including each Early Head Start
agency), an amount that bears the same ratio to such
portion as the number of enrolled children served by
the agency involved bears to the number of enrolled
children served by all the Head Start agencies
(including Early Head Start agencies), except that the
Secretary shall account for the additional costs of
serving children in Early Head Start programs and may
consider whether an agency is providing a full-day
program or whether an agency is providing a full-year
program.
``(D) The Secretary shall fund expansion of Head Start
programs (including Early Head Start programs) using the amount
reserved under subparagraph (A)(ii) or subparagraph (B)(i)(II),
as appropriate, of which the Secretary shall--
``(i) use 0.2 percent for Head Start programs
funded under clause (iv) or (v) of paragraph (2)(B)
(other than Early Head Start programs);
``(ii) for any fiscal year after the last fiscal
year for which Indian Head Start programs receive funds
under the special expansion provisions, use 3 percent
for Head Start programs funded under paragraph
(2)(B)(ii) (other than Early Head Start programs),
except that the Secretary may increase that percentage
if the Secretary determines that the results of the
study conducted under section 649(k) indicate that the
percentage should be increased;
``(iii) for any fiscal year after the last fiscal
year for which migrant or seasonal Head Start programs
receive funds under the special expansion provisions,
use 4.5 percent for Head Start programs funded under
paragraph (2)(B)(iii) (other than Early Head Start
programs), except that the Secretary may increase that
percentage if the Secretary determines that the results
of the study conducted under section 649(l) indicate
that the percentage should be increased; and
``(iv) from the remainder of the reserved amount--
``(I) use 50 percent for Head Start
programs funded under paragraph (2)(B)(i)
(other than Early Head Start programs), of
which--
``(aa) the covered percentage shall
be allocated among the States serving
less than 60 percent (as determined by
the Secretary) of children who are 3 or
4 years of age from families whose
income is below the poverty line, by
allocating to each of those States an
amount that bears the same relationship
to that covered percentage as the
number of children who are less than 5
years of age from families whose income
is below the poverty line (referred to
in this subclause as `young low-income
children') in that State bears to the
number of young low-income children in
all those States; and
``(bb) the remainder shall be
allocated proportionately among the
States on the basis of the number of
young low-income children; and
``(II) use 50 percent for Early Head Start
programs.
``(E) In this paragraph, the term `covered percentage'
means--
``(i) for fiscal year 2008, 30 percent;
``(ii) for fiscal year 2009, 40 percent;
``(iii) for fiscal year 2010, 50 percent;
``(iv) for fiscal year 2011, 55 percent; and
``(v) for fiscal year 2012, 55 percent.
``(5)(A) Not less than 50 percent of the amount reserved
under subparagraph (A)(i) or subparagraph (B)(i)(I), as
appropriate, of paragraph (4) to carry out quality improvement
activities under paragraph (4)(C) and this paragraph shall be
used to improve the compensation (including benefits) of
educational personnel, family service workers, and child
counselors, as described in sections 644(a) and 653, in the
manner determined by the Head Start agencies (including Early
Head Start agencies) involved, to--
``(i) ensure that compensation is adequate to
attract and retain qualified staff for the programs
involved in order to enhance program quality;
``(ii) improve staff qualifications and assist with
the implementation of career development programs for
staff that support ongoing improvement of their skills
and expertise; and
``(iii) provide education and professional
development to enable teachers to be fully competent to
meet the professional standards established under
section 648A(a)(1), including--
``(I) providing assistance to complete
postsecondary course work;
``(II) improving the qualifications and
skills of educational personnel to become
certified and licensed as bilingual education
teachers, or as teachers of English as a second
language; and
``(III) improving the qualifications and
skills of educational personnel to teach and
provide services to children with disabilities.
``(B) Any remaining funds from the reserved amount
described in subparagraph (A) shall be used to carry out any of
the following activities:
``(i) Supporting staff training, child counseling,
and other services, necessary to address the challenges
of children from immigrant, refugee, and asylee
families, homeless children, children in foster care,
limited English proficient children, children of
migrant or seasonal farmworker families, children from
families in crisis, children referred to Head Start
programs (including Early Head Start programs) by child
welfare agencies, and children who are exposed to
chronic violence or substance abuse.
``(ii) Ensuring that the physical environments of
Head Start programs are conducive to providing
effective program services to children and families,
and are accessible to children with disabilities and
other individuals with disabilities.
``(iii) Employing additional qualified classroom
staff to reduce the child-to-teacher ratio in the
classroom and additional qualified family service
workers to reduce the family-to-staff ratio for those
workers.
``(iv) Ensuring that Head Start programs have
qualified staff that promote the language skills and
literacy growth of children and that provide children
with a variety of skills that have been identified,
through scientifically based reading research, as
predictive of later reading achievement.
``(v) Increasing hours of program operation,
including--
``(I) conversion of part-day programs to
full-working-day programs; and
``(II) increasing the number of weeks of
operation in a calendar year.
``(vi) Improving communitywide strategic planning
and needs assessments for Head Start programs and
collaboration efforts for such programs, including
outreach to children described in clause (i).
``(vii) Transporting children in Head Start
programs safely, except that not more than 10 percent
of funds made available to carry out this paragraph may
be used for such purposes.
``(viii) Improving the compensation and benefits of
staff of Head Start agencies, in order to improve the
quality of Head Start programs.
``(6) No sums appropriated under this subchapter may be
combined with funds appropriated under any provision other than
this subchapter if the purpose of combining funds is to make a
single discretionary grant or a single discretionary payment,
unless such sums appropriated under this subchapter are
separately identified in such grant or payment and are used for
the purposes of this subchapter.
``(7) In this subsection:
``(A) The term `base grant', used with respect to a
fiscal year, means the amount of permanent ongoing
funding (other than funding described in sections
645A(g)(2)(A)(i) and paragraph (2)(C)(i)(II)(aa))
provided to a Head Start agency (including an Early
Head Start agency) under this subchapter for that
fiscal year.
``(B) The term `cost-of-living increase', used with
respect to an agency for a fiscal year, means an
increase in the funding for that agency, based on the
percentage change in the Consumer Price Index for All
Urban Consumers (issued by the Bureau of Labor
Statistics) for the prior fiscal year, calculated on
the amount of the base grant for that agency for the
prior fiscal year.
``(C) For the purposes of this subsection, the term
`State' does not include Guam, American Samoa, the
Virgin Islands of the United States, the Commonwealth
of the Northern Mariana Islands, the Federated States
of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands,
and the Republic of Palau.''.
(b) Minimum Enrollment Requirement for Children With
Disabilities.--Section 640(d) of the Head Start Act (42 U.S.C.
9835(d)) is amended to read as follows:
``(d)(1) The Secretary shall establish policies and
procedures to assure that, for fiscal year 2009 and thereafter,
not less than 10 percent of the total number of children
actually enrolled by each Head Start agency and each delegate
agency will be children with disabilities who are determined to
be eligible for special education and related services, or
early intervention services, as appropriate, as determined
under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (20
U.S.C. 1400 et seq.), by the State or local agency providing
services under section 619 or part C of the Individuals with
Disabilities Education Act (20 U.S.C. 1419, 1431 et seq.).
``(2) Such policies and procedures shall ensure the
provision of early intervening services, such as educational
and behavioral services and supports, to meet the needs of
children with disabilities, prior to an eligibility
determination under the Individuals with Disabilities Education
Act.
``(3) Such policies and procedures shall require Head Start
agencies to provide timely referral to and collaborate with the
State or local agency providing services under section 619 or
part C of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act to
ensure the provision of special education and related services
and early intervention services, and the coordination of
programmatic efforts, to meet the special needs of such
children.
``(4) The Secretary shall establish policies and procedures
to provide Head Start agencies with waivers of the requirements
of paragraph (1) for not more than 3 years. Such policies and
procedures shall require Head Start agencies, in order to
receive such waivers, to provide evidence demonstrating that
the Head Start agencies are making reasonable efforts on an
annual basis to comply with the requirements of that paragraph.
``(5) Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to
limit or create a right to a free appropriate public education
under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.''.
(c) Service Delivery Models.--Section 640(f) of the Head
Start Act (42 U.S.C. 9835(f)) is amended--
(1) by striking ``(f) The'' and inserting ``(f)(1)
Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of
the Improving Head Start for School Readiness Act of
2007, the'';
(2) by striking ``needs.'' and inserting ``needs,
including models that leverage the capacity and
capabilities of the delivery system of early childhood
education and development services or programs.''; and
(3) by adding at the end the following:
``(2) In establishing the procedures the Secretary shall
establish procedures to provide for--
``(A) the conversion of part-day programs to full-
working-day programs or part-day slots to full-working-
day slots; and
``(B) serving additional infants and toddlers
pursuant to section 645(a)(5).''.
(d) Additional Funds.--Section 640(g) of the Head Start Act
(42 U.S.C. 9835(g)) is amended--
(1) by striking paragraphs (1), (3), and (4);
(2) in paragraph (2)--
(A) in the matter preceding subparagraph
(A), by striking ``, in allocating funds to an
applicant within a State, from amounts allotted
to a State pursuant to subsection (a)(4),'';
(B) in subparagraph (A), by striking
``performance standards'' and inserting
``standards described in section 641A(a)(1)'';
(C) by striking subparagraph (C) and
inserting the following:
``(C) the extent to which the applicant has
undertaken a communitywide strategic planning and needs
assessment involving other entities, including
community organizations, and Federal, State, and local
public agencies (including the local educational agency
liaison designated under section 722(g)(1)(J)(ii) of
the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act (42 U.S.C.
11432(g)(1)(J)(ii))), that provide services to children
and families, such as--
``(i) family support services;
``(ii) child abuse prevention services;
``(iii) protective services;
``(iv) foster care;
``(v) services for families in whose homes
English is not the language customarily spoken;
``(vi) services for children with
disabilities; and
``(vii) services for homeless children;'';
(D) in subparagraph (D)--
(i) by striking ``family and
community needs assessment'' and
inserting ``family needs assessment and
communitywide strategic planning and
needs assessment'';
(ii) by striking ``reflects'' and
inserting ``reflect''; and
(iii) by striking ``other local''
and inserting ``the State and local'';
(E) by striking subparagraph (E) and
inserting the following:
``(E) the number of eligible children, as
described in clause (i) or (ii) of section
645(a)(1)(B), in each community who are not
participating in a Head Start program or any
other publicly funded early childhood education
and development program;'';
(F) by striking subparagraphs (G) and (H)
and inserting the following:
``(G) the extent to which the applicant proposes to
foster partnerships with other service providers in a
manner that will leverage the existing delivery systems
of such services and enhance the resource capacity of
the applicant; and
``(H) the extent to which the applicant, in
providing services, successfully coordinated activities
with the local educational agency serving the community
involved (including the local educational agency
liaison designated under section 722(g)(1)(J)(ii) of
the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act (42 U.S.C.
11432(g)(1)(J)(ii))), and with schools in which
children participating in such applicant's program will
enroll following such program, with respect to such
services and the education services provided by such
local educational agency.'';
(3) by redesignating paragraph (2) as paragraph
(1); and
(4) by adding at the end the following:
``(2) Notwithstanding paragraph (1), in using funds made
available for expansion under subsection (a)(4)(D), the
Secretary shall first allocate the funds to qualified
applicants proposing to use such funds to serve children from
families with incomes below the poverty line. Agencies that
receive such funds are subject to the eligibility and
enrollment requirements under section 645(a)(1).
``(3)(A) In the event that the amount appropriated to carry
out the program under this subchapter for a fiscal year does
not exceed the amount appropriated for the prior fiscal year,
or is not sufficient to maintain services comparable to the
services provided under this subchapter during the prior fiscal
year, a Head Start agency may negotiate with the Secretary a
reduced funded enrollment level without a reduction in the
amount of the grant received by the agency under this
subchapter, if such agency can reasonably demonstrate that such
reduced funded enrollment level is necessary to maintain the
quality of services.
``(B) In accordance with this paragraph, the Secretary
shall set up a process for Head Start agencies to negotiate the
reduced funded enrollment levels referred to in subparagraph
(A) for the fiscal year involved.
``(C) In the event described in subparagraph (A), the
Secretary shall be required to notify Head Start agencies of
their ability to negotiate the reduced funded enrollment levels
if such an agency can reasonably demonstrate that such reduced
funded enrollment level is necessary to maintain the quality of
services.''.
(e) Vehicle Safety Requirements.--Section 640(i) of the
Head Start Act (42 U.S.C. 9835(i)) is amended by adding at the
end the following: ``The regulations shall also establish
requirements to ensure the appropriate supervision of, and
appropriate background checks for, individuals with whom the
agencies contract to transport those children.''.
(f) Migrant and Seasonal Head Start Programs.--Section
640(l) of the Head Start Act (42 U.S.C. 9835(l)) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (1)--
(A) by striking ``With funds'' and all that
follows through ``programs,'' and inserting
``With funds made available under this
subchapter to expand migrant and seasonal Head
Start programs,''; and
(B) by striking ``children of migrant and
seasonal farmworker families'' and inserting
``children of migrant or seasonal farmworker
families'';
(2) in paragraph (2)--
(A) by striking ``For'' and all that
follows through ``in determining'' and
inserting ``In determining'';
(B) by striking ``children of migrant
farmworkers'' and inserting ``children of
migrant farmworker families'';
(C) by striking ``under such subsection''
and inserting ``under this subchapter'';
(D) by striking ``children of seasonal
farmworkers'' each place it appears and
inserting ``children of seasonal farmworker
families''; and
(E) by striking ``children of such
farmworkers'' and inserting ``children of such
farmworker families''; and
(3) by striking paragraph (3) and inserting the
following:
``(3) In carrying out this subchapter, the Secretary shall
continue the administrative arrangement at the national level
for meeting the needs of Indian children and children of
migrant and seasonal farmworker families and shall ensure--
``(A) the provision of training and technical
assistance by staff with knowledge of and experience in
working with such populations; and
``(B) the appointment of a national Indian Head
Start collaboration director and a national migrant and
seasonal Head Start collaboration director.
``(4)(A) For the purposes of paragraph (3), the Secretary
shall conduct an annual consultation in each affected Head
Start region, with tribal governments operating Head Start
(including Early Head Start) programs.
``(B) The consultations shall be for the purpose of better
meeting the needs of Indian, including Alaska Native, children
and their families, in accordance with this subchapter, taking
into consideration funding allocations, distribution formulas,
and other issues affecting the delivery of Head Start services
in their geographic locations.
``(C) The Secretary shall publish a notification of the
consultations in the Federal Register before conducting the
consultations.
``(D) The Secretary shall ensure that a detailed report of
each consultation shall be prepared and made available, within
90 days after the consultation, to all tribal governments
receiving funds under this subchapter.''.
(g) Enrollment of Homeless Children; Rule of Construction;
Materials.--Section 640 of the Head Start Act (42 U.S.C. 9835)
is amended by adding at the end the following:
``(m) The Secretary shall issue rules to establish policies
and procedures to remove barriers to the enrollment and
participation of homeless children in Head Start programs. Such
rules shall require Head Start agencies--
``(1) to implement policies and procedures to
ensure that homeless children, along with children from
other special populations, are identified and
prioritized for enrollment;
``(2) to allow families of homeless children to
apply to, enroll in, and attend Head Start programs
while required documents, such as proof of residency,
immunization and other medical records, birth
certificates, and other documents, are obtained within
a reasonable time frame; and
``(3) to coordinate individual Head Start programs
with efforts to implement subtitle B of title VII of
the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act (42 U.S.C.
11431 et seq.).
``(n) Nothing in this subchapter shall be construed to
require a State to establish a publicly funded program of early
childhood education and development, or to require any child to
participate in such a publicly funded program, including a
State-funded preschool program, or to participate in any
initial screening before participating in a publicly funded
program of early childhood education and development, except as
provided under sections 612(a)(3) and 635(a)(5) of the
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (20 U.S.C.
1412(a)(3), 1435(a)(5)).
``(o) All curricula funded under this subchapter shall be
based on scientifically valid research, and be age and
developmentally appropriate. The curricula shall reflect all
areas of child development and learning and be aligned with the
Head Start Child Outcomes Framework. Parents shall have the
opportunity to examine any such curricula or instructional
materials funded under this subchapter.''.
SEC. 7. DESIGNATION OF HEAD START AGENCIES.
Section 641 of the Head Start Act (42 U.S.C. 9836) is
amended to read as follows:
``SEC. 641. DESIGNATION OF HEAD START AGENCIES.
``(a) Authority To Designate.--
``(1) In general.--The Secretary is authorized to
designate as a Head Start agency any local public or
private nonprofit agency, including community-based and
faith-based organizations, or for-profit agency, within
a community, pursuant to the requirements of this
section.
``(2) Interim policy.--Notwithstanding paragraph
(1), until such time as the Secretary develops and
implements the system for designation renewal under
this section, the Secretary is authorized to designate
as a Head Start agency, any local public or private
nonprofit agency, including community-based and faith-
based organizations, or for-profit agency, within a
community, in the manner and process utilized by the
Secretary prior to the enactment of the Improving Head
Start for School Readiness Act of 2007.
``(b) Application for Designation Renewal.--To be
considered for designation renewal, an entity shall submit an
application to the Secretary, at such time and in such manner
as the Secretary may require.
``(c) System for Designation Renewal.--
``(1) In general.--The Secretary shall develop a
system for designation renewal that integrates the
recommendations of the expert panel convened under
paragraph (2) to determine if a Head Start agency is
delivering a high-quality and comprehensive Head Start
program that meets the educational, health,
nutritional, and social needs of the children and
families it serves, and meets program and financial
management requirements and standards described in
section 641A(a)(1), based on--
``(A) annual budget and fiscal management
data;
``(B) program reviews conducted under
section 641A(c);
``(C) annual audits required under section
647;
``(D) classroom quality as measured under
section 641A(c)(2)(F); and
``(E) Program Information Reports.
``(2) Expert panel.--Not later than 3 months after
the date of enactment of the Improving Head Start for
School Readiness Act of 2007, the Secretary shall
convene an expert panel of 7 members to make
recommendations to the Secretary on the development of
a transparent, reliable, and valid system for
designation renewal.
``(3) Composition of expert panel.--The Secretary,
in convening such panel, shall appoint the following:
``(A)(i) One member, who has demonstrated
competency, as evidenced by training,
expertise, and experience, in early childhood
program accreditation.
``(ii) One member, who has demonstrated
competency (as so evidenced) in research on
early childhood development.
``(iii) One member, who has demonstrated
competency (as so evidenced) in governance and
finance of nonprofit organizations.
``(iv) One member, who has demonstrated
competency (as so evidenced) in delivery of
services to populations of children with
special needs and their families.
``(v) One member, who has demonstrated
competency (as so evidenced) in assessment and
evaluation of programs serving young children.
``(B) An employee from the Office of Head
Start.
``(C) An executive director of a Head Start
agency.
``(4) Expert panel report.--Within 9 months after
being convened by the Secretary, the expert panel shall
issue a report to the Secretary that provides
recommendations on a proposed system for designation
renewal that takes into account the criteria in
subparagraphs (A) through (E) of paragraph (1) to
evaluate whether a Head Start agency is fulfilling its
mission to deliver a high-quality and comprehensive
Head Start program, including adequately meeting its
governance, legal, and financial management
requirements.
``(5) Public comment and consideration.--Not later
than 3 months after receiving the report described in
paragraph (4), the Secretary shall publish a notice
describing a proposed system for designation renewal in
the Federal Register, including a proposal for the
transition to such system, providing at least 90 days
for public comment. The Secretary shall review and
consider public comments prior to finalizing the system
for designation renewal described in this subsection.
``(6) Designation renewal system.--Not later than
12 months after publishing a notice describing the
proposed system under paragraph (5), the Secretary
shall implement the system for designation renewal and
use that system to determine--
``(A) whether a Head Start grantee is
successfully delivering a high-quality and
comprehensive Head Start program; and
``(B) whether the grantee has any
unresolved deficiencies found during the last
triennial review under section 641A(c).
``(7) Implementation of the designation renewal
system.--
``(A) In general.--A grantee who is
determined under such system--
``(i) to be delivering a high-
quality and comprehensive Head Start
program shall be designated (consistent
with section 643) as a Head Start
agency for the period of 5 years
described in section 638;
``(ii) to not be delivering a high-
quality and comprehensive Head Start
program shall be subject to an open
competition as described in subsection
(d); and
``(iii) in the case of an Indian
Head Start agency, to not be delivering
a high-quality and comprehensive Head
Start program shall (notwithstanding
clause (ii)) be subject to the
requirements of subparagraph (B).
``(B) Tribal government consultation and
reevaluation.--On making a determination
described in subparagraph (A)(iii), the
Secretary shall engage in government-to-
government consultation with the appropriate
tribal government or governments for the
purpose of establishing a plan to improve the
quality of Head Start programs operated by the
Indian Head Start agency. Such plan shall be
established and implemented within 6 months
after the Secretary's determination. Not more
than 6 months after the implementation of that
plan, the Secretary shall reevaluate the
performance of the Indian Head Start agency. If
the Indian Head Start agency is still not
delivering a high-quality and comprehensive
Head Start program, the Secretary shall conduct
an open competition as described in subsection
(d), subject to the limitations described in
subsection (e).
``(8) Transparency, reliability, and validity.--The
Secretary shall ensure the system for designation
renewal is fair, consistent, and transparent and is
applied in a manner that renews designations, in a
timely manner, grantees as Head Start agencies for
periods of 5 years if such grantees are delivering
high-quality and comprehensive Head Start programs. The
Secretary shall periodically evaluate whether the
criteria of the system are being applied in a manner
that is transparent, reliable, and valid.
``(9) Transition.--
``(A) In general.--Each Head Start agency
shall be reviewed under the system for
designation renewal described in paragraph (6),
not later than 3 years after the implementation
of such system.
``(B) Limitation.--A Head Start agency
shall not be subject to the requirements of the
system for designation renewal prior to 18
months after the date of enactment of the
Improving Head Start for School Readiness Act
of 2007.
``(C) Schedule.--The Secretary shall
establish and implement a schedule for
reviewing each Head Start agency under the
system for designation renewal described in
paragraph (6), consistent with subparagraphs
(A) and (B).
``(10) Reports to congress.--The Secretary shall--
``(A) make available to the Committee on
Education and Labor of the House of
Representatives and the Committee on Health,
Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate
the report described in paragraph (4);
``(B) concurrently with publishing a notice
in the Federal Register as described in
paragraph (5), provide a report to the
Committee on Education and Labor of the House
of Representatives and the Committee on Health,
Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate
that provides a detailed description of the
proposed system described in paragraph (5),
including a clear rationale for any differences
between the proposed system and the
recommendations of the expert panel, if any
such differences exist; and
``(C) prior to implementing the system for
designation renewal, provide a report to the
Committee on Education and Labor of the House
of Representatives and the Committee on Health,
Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate--
``(i) summarizing the public
comment on the proposed system and the
Secretary's response to such comment;
and
``(ii) describing the final system
for designation renewal and the plans
for implementation of such system.
``(d) Designation When No Entity Is Renewed.--
``(1) In general.--If no entity in a community is
determined to be successfully delivering a high-quality
and comprehensive Head Start program, as specified in
subsection (c), the Secretary shall, after conducting
an open competition, designate for a 5-year period a
Head Start agency from among qualified applicants in
such community.
``(2) Considerations for designation.--In selecting
from among qualified applicants for designation as a
Head Start agency, the Secretary shall consider the
effectiveness of each such applicant to provide Head
Start services, based on--
``(A) any past performance of such
applicant in providing services comparable to
Head Start services, including how effectively
such applicant provided such comparable
services;
``(B) the plan of such applicant to provide
comprehensive health, educational, nutritional,
social, and other services needed to aid
participating children in attaining their full
potential, and to prepare children to succeed
in school;
``(C) the plan of such applicant to attract
and retain qualified staff capable of
delivering, including implementing, a high-
quality and comprehensive program, including
the ability to carry out a research based
curriculum aligned with the Head Start Child
Outcomes Framework and, as appropriate, State
early learning standards;
``(D) the ability of such applicant to
maintain child-to-teacher ratios and family
service worker caseloads that reflect best
practices and are tied to high-quality service
delivery;
``(E) the capacity of such applicant to
serve eligible children with--
``(i) curricula that are based on
scientifically valid research, that are
developmentally appropriate, and that
promote the school readiness of
children participating in the program
involved; and
``(ii) teaching practices that are
based, as appropriate, on
scientifically valid research, that are
developmentally appropriate, and that
promote the school readiness of
children participating in the program
involved;
``(F) the plan of such applicant to meet
standards described in section 641A(a)(1), with
particular attention to the standards described
in subparagraphs (A) and (B) of such section;
``(G) the proposed budget of the applicant
and plan of such applicant to maintain strong
fiscal controls and cost-effective fiscal
management;
``(H) the plan of such applicant to
coordinate and collaborate with other public or
private entities providing early childhood
education and development programs and services
for young children in the community involved,
including--
``(i) programs implementing grant
agreements under the Early Reading
First and Even Start programs under
subparts 2 and 3 of part B of title I
of the Elementary and Secondary
Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 6371
et seq., 6381 et seq.);
``(ii) other preschool programs
under title I of that Act (20 U.S.C.
6301 et seq.);
``(iii) programs under section 619
and part C of the Individuals with
Disabilities Education Act (20 U.S.C.
1419, 1431 et seq.);
``(iv) State prekindergarten
programs;
``(v) child care programs;
``(vi) the educational programs
that the children in the Head Start
program involved will enter at the age
of compulsory school attendance; and
``(vii) local entities, such as a
public or school library, for--
``(I) conducting reading
readiness programs;
``(II) developing
innovative programs to excite
children about the world of
books, including providing
fresh books in the Head Start
classroom;
``(III) assisting in
literacy training for Head
Start teachers; or
``(IV) supporting parents
and other caregivers in
literacy efforts;
``(I) the plan of such applicant to
coordinate the Head Start program that the
applicant proposes to carry out, with public
and private entities that are willing to commit
resources to assist the Head Start program in
meeting its program needs;
``(J) the plan of such applicant--
``(i) to facilitate the involvement
of parents (including grandparents and
kinship caregivers, as appropriate) of
children participating in the proposed
Head Start program, in activities (at
home and, if practicable, at the
location of the Head Start program)
designed to help such parents become
full partners in the education of their
children;
``(ii) to afford such parents the
opportunity to participate in the
development and overall conduct of the
program at the local level, including
transportation assistance, as
appropriate;
``(iii) to offer (directly or
through referral to local entities,
such as entities carrying out Even
Start programs under subpart 3 of part
B of title I of the Elementary and
Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20
U.S.C. 6381 et seq.), public and school
libraries, and entities carrying out
family support programs) to such
parents--
``(I) family literacy
services; and
``(II) parenting skills
training;
``(iv) to offer to parents of
participating children substance abuse
counseling (either directly or through
referral to local entities), if needed,
including information on the effect of
drug exposure on infants and fetal
alcohol syndrome;
``(v) at the option of such
applicant, to offer (directly or
through referral to local entities) to
such parents--
``(I) training in basic
child development (including
cognitive, social, and
emotional development);
``(II) assistance in
developing literacy and
communication skills;
``(III) opportunities to
share experiences with other
parents (including parent-
mentor relationships);
``(IV) regular in-home
visitation;
``(V) health services,
including information on
maternal depression; or
``(VI) any other activity
designed to help such parents
become full partners in the
education of their children;
``(vi) to provide, with respect to
each participating family, a family
needs assessment that includes
consultation with such parents
(including foster parents,
grandparents, and kinship caregivers,
where applicable), in a manner and
language that such parents can
understand, to the extent practicable,
about the benefits of parent
involvement and about the activities
described in this subparagraph in which
such parents may choose to become
involved (taking into consideration
their specific family needs, work
schedules, and other responsibilities);
and
``(vii) to extend outreach to
fathers (including father figures), in
appropriate cases, in order to
strengthen the role of those fathers in
families, in the education of young
children, and in the Head Start
program, by working directly with the
fathers through activities such as--
``(I) in appropriate cases,
including the fathers in home
visits and providing
opportunities for direct
father-child interactions; and
``(II) targeting increased
male participation in the
conduct of the program;
``(K) the plan of such applicant to meet
the needs of limited English proficient
children and their families, including
procedures to identify such children, plans to
provide trained personnel, and plans to provide
services to assist the children in making
progress toward the acquisition of the English
language, while making meaningful progress in
attaining the knowledge, skills, abilities, and
development described in section 641A(a)(1)(B);
``(L) the plan of such applicant to meet
the diverse needs of the population served;
``(M) the plan of such applicant who
chooses to assist younger siblings of children
who will participate in the Head Start program
to obtain health services from other sources;
``(N) the plan of such applicant to meet
the needs of children with disabilities,
including procedures to identify such children,
procedures for referral of such children for
evaluation to State or local agencies providing
services under section 619 or part C of the
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (20
U.S.C. 1419, 1431 et seq.), and plans for
collaboration with those State or local
agencies;
``(O) the plan of such applicant to meet
the needs of homeless children, including
transportation needs, and the needs of children
in foster care; and
``(P) other factors related to the
requirements of this subchapter.
``(3) Priority.--In selecting from among qualified
applicants for designation as a Head Start agency, the
Secretary shall give priority to applicants that have
demonstrated capacity in providing effective,
comprehensive, and well-coordinated early childhood
education and development services and programs to
children and their families.
``(e) Prohibition Against Non-Indian Head Start Agency
Receiving a Grant for an Indian Head Start Program.--
``(1) In general.--Notwithstanding any other
provision of law, except as provided in paragraph (2),
under no condition may a non-Indian Head Start agency
receive a grant to carry out an Indian Head Start
program.
``(2) Exception.--In a community in which there is
no Indian Head Start agency available for designation
to carry out an Indian Head Start program, a non-Indian
Head Start agency may receive a grant to carry out an
Indian Head Start program but only until such time as
an Indian Head Start agency in such community becomes
available and is designated pursuant to this section.
``(f) Interim Provider.--If no agency in a community is
designated under subsection (d), and there is no qualified
applicant in the community, the Secretary shall designate a
qualified agency to carry out the Head Start program in the
community on an interim basis until a qualified applicant from
the community is designated under subsection (d).
``(g) Parent and Community Participation.--The Secretary
shall require that the practice of significantly involving
parents and community residents in the area affected by the
program involved, in the selection of Head Start agencies, be
continued.
``(h) Community.--For purposes of this subchapter, a
community may be a city, county, or multicity or multicounty
unit within a State, an Indian reservation (including Indians
in any off-reservation area designated by an appropriate tribal
government in consultation with the Secretary), or a
neighborhood or other area (irrespective of boundaries or
political subdivisions) that provides a suitable organizational
base and possesses the commonality of interest needed to
operate a Head Start program.''.
SEC. 8. STANDARDS; MONITORING OF HEAD START AGENCIES AND PROGRAMS.
Section 641A of the Head Start Act (42 U.S.C. 9836a) is
amended to read as follows:
``SEC. 641A. STANDARDS; MONITORING OF HEAD START AGENCIES AND PROGRAMS.
``(a) Standards.--
``(1) Content of standards.--The Secretary shall
modify, as necessary, program performance standards by
regulation applicable to Head Start agencies and
programs under this subchapter, including--
``(A) performance standards with respect to
services required to be provided, including
health, parental involvement, nutritional, and
social services, transition activities
described in section 642A, and other services;
``(B) scientifically based and
developmentally appropriate education
performance standards related to school
readiness that are based on the Head Start
Child Outcomes Framework to ensure that the
children participating in the program, at a
minimum, develop and demonstrate--
``(i) language knowledge and
skills, including oral language and
listening comprehension;
``(ii) literacy knowledge and
skills, including phonological
awareness, print awareness and skills,
and alphabetic knowledge;
``(iii) mathematics knowledge and
skills;
``(iv) science knowledge and
skills;
``(v) cognitive abilities related
to academic achievement and child
development;
``(vi) approaches to learning
related to child development and early
learning;
``(vii) social and emotional
development related to early learning,
school success, and social
problemsolving;
``(viii) abilities in creative
arts;
``(ix) physical development; and
``(x) in the case of limited
English proficient children, progress
toward acquisition of the English
language while making meaningful
progress in attaining the knowledge,
skills, abilities, and development
described in clauses (i) through (ix),
including progress made through the use
of culturally and linguistically
appropriate instructional services;
``(C) administrative and financial
management standards;
``(D) standards relating to the condition
and location of facilities (including indoor
air quality assessment standards, where
appropriate) for such agencies, and programs,
including regulations that require that the
facilities used by Head Start agencies
(including Early Head Start agencies and any
delegate agencies) for regularly scheduled
center-based and combination program option
classroom activities--
``(i) shall meet or exceed State
and local requirements concerning
licensing for such facilities; and
``(ii) shall be accessible by State
and local authorities for purposes of
monitoring and ensuring compliance,
unless State or local laws prohibit
such access; and
``(E) such other standards as the Secretary
finds to be appropriate.
``(2) Considerations regarding standards.--In
developing any modifications to standards required
under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall--
``(A) consult with experts in the fields of
child development, early childhood education,
child health care, family services (including
linguistically and culturally appropriate
services to non-English speaking children and
their families), administration, and financial
management, and with persons with experience in
the operation of Head Start programs;
``(B) take into consideration--
``(i) past experience with use of
the standards in effect under this
subchapter on the date of enactment of
the Improving Head Start for School
Readiness Act of 2007;
``(ii) changes over the period
since October 27, 1998, in the
circumstances and problems typically
facing children and families served by
Head Start agencies;
``(iii) recommendations from the
study on Developmental Outcomes and
Assessments for Young Children by the
National Academy of Sciences,
consistent with section 649(j);
``(iv) developments concerning
research-based practices with respect
to early childhood education and
development, children with
disabilities, homeless children,
children in foster care, and family
services, and best practices with
respect to program administration and
financial management;
``(v) projected needs of an
expanding Head Start program;
``(vi) guidelines and standards
that promote child health services and
physical development, including
participation in outdoor activity that
supports children's motor development
and overall health and nutrition;
``(vii) changes in the
characteristics of the population of
children who are eligible to
participate in Head Start programs,
including country of origin, language
background, and family structure of
such children, and changes in the
population and number of such children
who are in foster care or are homeless
children;
``(viii) mechanisms to ensure that
children participating in Head Start
programs make a successful transition
to the schools that the children will
be attending;
``(ix) the need for Head Start
agencies to maintain regular
communications with parents, including
conducting periodic meetings to discuss
the progress of individual children in
Head Start programs; and
``(x) the unique challenges faced
by individual programs, including those
programs that are seasonal or short
term and those programs that serve
rural populations;
``(C)(i) review and revise as necessary the
standards in effect under this subsection; and
``(ii) ensure that any such revisions in
the standards will not result in the
elimination of or any reduction in quality,
scope, or types of health, educational,
parental involvement, nutritional, social, or
other services required to be provided under
such standards as in effect on the date of
enactment of the Improving Head Start for
School Readiness Act of 2007; and
``(D) consult with Indian tribes, including
Alaska Natives, experts in Indian, including
Alaska Native, early childhood education and
development, linguists, and the National Indian
Head Start Directors Association on the review
and promulgation of standards under paragraph
(1) (including standards for language
acquisition and school readiness).
``(3) Standards relating to obligations to delegate
agencies.--In developing any modifications to standards
under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall describe the
obligations of a Head Start agency to a delegate agency
to which the Head Start agency has delegated
responsibility for providing services under this
subchapter.
``(b) Measures.--
``(1) In general.--The Secretary, in consultation
with representatives of Head Start agencies and with
experts in the fields of early childhood education and
development, family services, and program management,
shall use the study on Developmental Outcomes and
Assessments for Young Children by the National Academy
of Sciences and other relevant research to inform,
revise, and provide guidance to Head Start agencies for
utilizing, scientifically based measures that support,
as appropriate--
``(A) classroom instructional practices;
``(B) identification of children with
special needs;
``(C) program evaluation; and
``(D) administrative and financial
management practices.
``(2) Characteristics of measures.--The measures
under this subsection shall--
``(A) be developmentally, linguistically,
and culturally appropriate for the population
served;
``(B) be reviewed periodically, based on
advances in the science of early childhood
development;
``(C) be consistent with relevant,
nationally recognized professional and
technical standards related to the assessment
of young children;
``(D) be valid and reliable in the language
in which they are administered;
``(E) be administered by staff with
appropriate training for such administration;
``(F) provide for appropriate
accommodations for children with disabilities
and children who are limited English
proficient;
``(G) be high-quality research-based
measures that have been demonstrated to assist
with the purposes for which they were devised;
and
``(H) be adaptable, as appropriate, for use
in the self-assessment of Head Start agencies,
including in the evaluation of administrative
and financial management practices.
``(3) Use of measures; limitations on use.--
``(A) Use.--The measures shall be designed,
as appropriate, for the purpose of--
``(i) helping to develop the
skills, knowledge, abilities, and
development described in subsection
(a)(1)(B) of children participating in
Head Start programs, with an emphasis
on measuring skills that scientifically
valid research has demonstrated are
related to children's school readiness
and later success in school;
``(ii) improving classroom
practices, including reviewing
children's strengths and weaknesses and
individualizing instruction to better
meet the needs of the children
involved;
``(iii) identifying the special
needs of children; and
``(iv) improving overall program
performance in order to help programs
identify problem areas that may require
additional training and technical
assistance resources.
``(B) Limitations.--Such measures shall not
be used to exclude children from Head Start
programs.
``(4) Confidentiality.--
``(A) In general.--The Secretary, through
regulation, shall ensure the confidentiality of
any personally identifiable data, information,
and records collected or maintained under this
subchapter by the Secretary and any Head Start
agency. Such regulations shall provide the
policies, protections, and rights equivalent to
those provided to a parent, student, or
educational agency or institution under section
444 of the General Education Provisions Act (20
U.S.C. 1232g).
``(B) Prohibition on nationwide database.--
Nothing in this subsection shall be construed
to authorize the development of a nationwide
database of personally identifiable data,
information, or records on children resulting
from the use of measures under this subsection.
``(5) Special rule.--
``(A) Prohibition.--The use of assessment
items and data on any assessment authorized
under this subchapter by any agent of the
Federal Government is prohibited for the
purposes of--
``(i) ranking, comparing, or
otherwise evaluating individual
children for purposes other than
research, training, or technical
assistance; and
``(ii) providing rewards or
sanctions for individual children or
teachers.
``(B) Results.--The Secretary shall not use
the results of a single assessment as the sole
method for assessing program effectiveness or
making agency funding determinations at the
national, regional, or local level under this
subchapter.
``(c) Monitoring of Local Agencies and Programs.--
``(1) In general.--To determine whether Head Start
agencies meet standards described in subsection (a)(1)
established under this subchapter with respect to
program, administrative, financial management, and
other requirements, and in order to help the programs
identify areas for improvement and areas of strength as
part of their ongoing self-assessment process, the
Secretary shall conduct the following reviews of Head
Start agencies, including the Head Start programs
operated by such agencies:
``(A) A full review, including the use of a
risk-based assessment approach, of each such
agency at least once during each 3-year period.
``(B) A review of each newly designated
Head Start agency immediately after the
completion of the first year such agency
carries out a Head Start program.
``(C) Followup reviews, including--
``(i) return visits to Head Start
agencies with 1 or more findings of
deficiencies, not later than 6 months
after the Secretary provides
notification of such findings, or not
later than 12 months after such
notification if the Secretary
determines that additional time is
necessary for an agency to address such
a deficiency prior to the review; and
``(ii) a review of Head Start
agencies with significant areas of
noncompliance.
``(D) Other reviews, including unannounced
site inspections of Head Start centers, as
appropriate.
``(2) Conduct of reviews.--The Secretary shall
ensure that reviews described in subparagraphs (A)
through (C) of paragraph (1)--
``(A) are conducted by review teams that--
``(i) include individuals who are
knowledgeable about Head Start programs
and, to the maximum extent practicable,
individuals who are knowledgeable
about--
``(I) other early childhood
education and development
programs, personnel management,
financial accountability, and
systems development and
monitoring; and
``(II) the diverse
(including linguistic and
cultural) needs of eligible
children (including children
with disabilities, homeless
children, children in foster
care, and limited English
proficient children) and their
families;
``(ii) include, to the maximum
extent practicable, current or former
employees of the Department of Health
and Human Services who are
knowledgeable about Head Start
programs; and
``(iii) shall receive periodic
training to ensure quality and
consistency across reviews;
``(B) include as part of the reviews, a
review and assessment of program strengths and
areas in need of improvement;
``(C) include as part of the reviews, a
review and assessment of whether programs have
adequately addressed population and community
needs (including those of limited English
proficient children and children of migrant or
seasonal farmworker families);
``(D) include as part of the reviews, an
assessment of the extent to which the programs
address the communitywide strategic planning
and needs assessment described in section
640(g)(1)(C);
``(E) include information on the innovative
and effective efforts of the Head Start
agencies to collaborate with the entities
providing early childhood and development
services or programs in the community and any
barriers to such collaboration that the
agencies encounter;
``(F) include as part of the reviews, a
valid and reliable research-based observational
instrument, implemented by qualified
individuals with demonstrated reliability, that
assesses classroom quality, including assessing
multiple dimensions of teacher-child
interactions that are linked to positive child
development and later achievement;
``(G) are conducted in a manner that
evaluates program performance, quality, and
overall operations with consistency and
objectivity, are based on a transparent and
reliable system of review, and are conducted in
a manner that includes periodic interrater
reliability checks, to ensure quality and
consistency, across and within regions, of the
reviews and of noncompliance and deficiency
determinations;
``(H) in the case of reviews of Early Head
Start agencies and programs, are conducted by a
review team that includes individuals who are
knowledgeable about the development of infants
and toddlers;
``(I) include as part of the reviews a
protocol for fiscal management that shall be
used to assess compliance with program
requirements for--
``(i) using Federal funds
appropriately;
``(ii) using Federal funds
specifically to purchase property
(consistent with section 644(f)) and to
compensate personnel;
``(iii) securing and using
qualified financial officer support;
and
``(iv) reporting financial
information and implementing
appropriate internal controls to
safeguard Federal funds;
``(J) include as part of the reviews of the
programs, a review and assessment of whether
the programs are in conformity with the
eligibility requirements under section
645(a)(1), including regulations promulgated
under such section and whether the programs
have met the requirements for the outreach and
enrollment policies and procedures, and
selection criteria, in such section, for the
participation of children in programs assisted
under this subchapter;
``(K) include as part of the reviews, a
review and assessment of whether agencies have
adequately addressed the needs of children with
disabilities, including whether the agencies
involved have met the 10 percent minimum
enrollment requirement specified in section
640(d) and whether the agencies have made
sufficient efforts to collaborate with State
and local agencies providing services under
section 619 or part C of the Individuals with
Disabilities Education Act (20 U.S.C. 1419,
1431 et seq.); and
``(L) include as part of the reviews, a
review and assessment of child outcomes and
performance as they relate to agency-determined
school readiness goals described in subsection
(g)(2), consistent with subsection (b)(5).
``(3) Standards relating to obligations to delegate
agencies.--In conducting a review described in
paragraph (1)(A) of a Head Start agency, the Secretary
shall determine whether the agency complies with the
obligations described in subsection (a)(3). The
Secretary shall consider such compliance in determining
whether to renew financial assistance to the Head Start
agency under this subchapter.
``(4) Use of review findings.--The findings of a
review described in paragraph (1) of a Head Start
agency shall, at a minimum--
``(A) be presented to the agency in a
timely, transparent, and uniform manner that
conveys information of program strengths and
weaknesses and assists with program
improvement; and
``(B) be used by the agency to inform the
development and implementation of its plan for
training and technical assistance.
``(d) Evaluations and Corrective Action for Delegate
Agencies.--
``(1) Procedures.--Each Head Start agency shall
establish, subject to paragraph (4), procedures
relating to its delegate agencies, including--
``(A) procedures for evaluating delegate
agencies;
``(B) procedures for defunding delegate
agencies; and
``(C) procedures for a delegate agency to
appeal a defunding decision.
``(2) Evaluation.--Each Head Start agency--
``(A) shall evaluate its delegate agencies
using the procedures established under this
subsection; and
``(B) shall inform the delegate agencies of
the deficiencies identified through the
evaluation that are required to be corrected.
``(3) Remedies to ensure corrective actions.--In
the event that the Head Start agency identifies a
deficiency for a delegate agency through the
evaluation, the Head Start agency shall take action,
which may include--
``(A) initiating procedures to terminate
the designation of the agency unless the agency
corrects the deficiency;
``(B) conducting monthly monitoring visits
to such delegate agency until all deficiencies
are corrected or the Head Start agency decides
to defund such delegate agency; and
``(C) releasing funds to such delegate
agency--
``(i) only as reimbursements except
that, upon receiving a request from the
delegate agency accompanied by
assurances satisfactory to the Head
Start agency that the funds will be
appropriately safeguarded, the Head
Start agency shall provide to the
delegate agency a working capital
advance in an amount sufficient to
cover the estimated expenses involved
during an agreed upon disbursing cycle;
and
``(ii) only if there is continuity
of services.
``(4) Termination.--The Head Start agency may not
terminate a delegate agency's contract or reduce a
delegate agency's service area without showing cause or
demonstrating the cost-effectiveness of such a
decision.
``(5) Rule of construction.--Nothing in this
subsection shall be construed to limit the powers,
duties, or functions of the Secretary with respect to
Head Start agencies or delegate agencies that receive
financial assistance under this subchapter.
``(e) Corrective Action for Head Start Agencies.--
``(1) Determination.--If the Secretary determines,
on the basis of a review pursuant to subsection (c),
that a Head Start agency designated pursuant to this
subchapter fails to meet the standards described in
subsection (a)(1) or fails to address the communitywide
strategic planning and needs assessment, the Secretary
shall--
``(A) inform the agency of the deficiencies
that shall be corrected and identify the
assistance to be provided consistent with
paragraph (3);
``(B) with respect to each identified
deficiency, require the agency--
``(i) to correct the deficiency
immediately, if the Secretary finds
that the deficiency threatens the
health or safety of staff or program
participants or poses a threat to the
integrity of Federal funds;
``(ii) to correct the deficiency
not later than 90 days after the
identification of the deficiency if the
Secretary finds, in the discretion of
the Secretary, that such a 90-day
period is reasonable, in light of the
nature and magnitude of the deficiency;
or
``(iii) in the discretion of the
Secretary (taking into consideration
the seriousness of the deficiency and
the time reasonably required to correct
the deficiency), to comply with the
requirements of paragraph (2)
concerning a quality improvement plan;
and
``(C) initiate proceedings to terminate the
designation of the agency unless the agency
corrects the deficiency.
``(2) Quality improvement plan.--
``(A) Agency and program
responsibilities.--To retain a designation as a
Head Start agency under this subchapter, or in
the case of a Head Start program to continue to
receive funds from such agency, a Head Start
agency that is the subject of a determination
described in paragraph (1), or a Head Start
program that is determined to have a deficiency
under subsection (d)(2) (excluding an agency
required to correct a deficiency immediately or
during a 90-day period under clause (i) or (ii)
of paragraph (1)(B)) shall--
``(i) develop in a timely manner, a
quality improvement plan that shall be
subject to the approval of the
Secretary, or in the case of a program,
the sponsoring agency, and that shall
specify--
``(I) the deficiencies to
be corrected;
``(II) the actions to be
taken to correct such
deficiencies; and
``(III) the timetable for
accomplishment of the
corrective actions specified;
and
``(ii) correct each deficiency
identified, not later than the date for
correction of such deficiency specified
in such plan (which shall not be later
than 1 year after the date the agency
or Head Start program that is
determined to have a deficiency
received notice of the determination
and of the specific deficiency to be
corrected).
``(B) Secretarial responsibility.--Not
later than 30 days after receiving from a Head
Start agency a proposed quality improvement
plan pursuant to subparagraph (A), the
Secretary shall either approve such proposed
plan or specify the reasons why the proposed
plan cannot be approved.
``(C) Agency responsibility.--Not later
than 30 days after receiving from a Head Start
program a proposed quality improvement plan
pursuant to subparagraph (A), the Head Start
agency involved shall either approve such
proposed plan or specify the reasons why the
proposed plan cannot be approved.
``(3) Training and technical assistance.--The
Secretary shall provide training and technical
assistance to Head Start agencies and programs with
respect to the development or implementation of such
quality improvement plans to the extent the Secretary
finds such provision to be feasible and appropriate
given available funding and other statutory
responsibilities.
``(f) Summaries of Monitoring Outcomes.--
``(1) In general.--Not later than 120 days after
the end of each fiscal year, the Secretary shall
publish a summary report on the findings of reviews
conducted under subsection (c) and on the outcomes of
quality improvement plans implemented under subsection
(e), during such fiscal year.
``(2) Report availability.--Such report shall be
made widely available to--
``(A) parents with children receiving
assistance under this subchapter--
``(i) in an understandable and
uniform format; and
``(ii) to the extent practicable,
in a language that the parents
understand; and
``(B) the public through means such as--
``(i) distribution through public
agencies; and
``(ii) posting such information on
the Internet.
``(3) Report information.--Such report shall
contain detailed data--
``(A) on compliance with specific standards
and measures; and
``(B) sufficient to allow Head Start
agencies to use such data to improve the
quality of their programs.
``(g) Self-Assessments.--
``(1) In general.--Not less frequently than once
each program year, with the consultation and
participation of policy councils and, as applicable,
policy committees and, as appropriate, other community
members, each Head Start agency, and each delegate
agency, that receives financial assistance under this
subchapter shall conduct a comprehensive self-
assessment of its effectiveness and progress in meeting
program goals and objectives and in implementing and
complying with standards described in subsection
(a)(1).
``(2) Goals, reports, and improvement plans.--
``(A) Goals.--An agency conducting a self-
assessment shall establish agency-determined
program goals for improving the school
readiness of children participating in a
program under this subchapter, including school
readiness goals that are aligned with the Head
Start Child Outcomes Framework, State early
learning standards as appropriate, and
requirements and expectations of the schools
the children will be attending.
``(B) Improvement plan.--The agency shall
develop, and submit to the Secretary a report
containing, an improvement plan approved by the
governing body of the agency to strengthen any
areas identified in the self-assessment as
weaknesses or in need of improvement.
``(3) Ongoing monitoring.--Each Head Start agency
(including each Early Head Start agency) and each
delegate agency shall establish and implement
procedures for the ongoing monitoring of their
respective programs, to ensure that the operations of
the programs work toward meeting program goals and
objectives and standards described in subsection
(a)(1).
``(h) Reduction of Grants and Redistribution of Funds in
Cases of Underenrollment.--
``(1) Definitions.--In this subsection:
``(A) Actual enrollment.--The term `actual
enrollment' means, with respect to the program
of a Head Start agency, the actual number of
children enrolled in such program and reported
by the agency (as required in paragraph (2)) in
a given month.
``(B) Base grant.--The term `base grant'
has the meaning given the term in section
640(a)(7).
``(C) Funded enrollment.--The term `funded
enrollment' means, with respect to the program
of a Head Start agency in a fiscal year, the
number of children that the agency is funded to
serve through a grant for the program during
such fiscal year, as indicated in the grant
agreement.
``(2) Enrollment reporting requirement.--Each
entity carrying out a Head Start program shall report
on a monthly basis to the Secretary and the relevant
Head Start agency--
``(A) the actual enrollment in such
program; and
``(B) if such actual enrollment is less
than the funded enrollment, any apparent reason
for such enrollment shortfall.
``(3) Secretarial review and plan.--The Secretary
shall--
``(A) on a semiannual basis, determine
which Head Start agencies are operating with an
actual enrollment that is less than the funded
enrollment based on not less than 4 consecutive
months of data;
``(B) for each such Head Start agency
operating a program with an actual enrollment
that is less than its funded enrollment, as
determined under subparagraph (A), develop, in
collaboration with such agency, a plan and
timetable for reducing or eliminating
underenrollment taking into consideration--
``(i) the quality and extent of the
outreach, recruitment, and
communitywide strategic planning and
needs assessment conducted by such
agency;
``(ii) changing demographics,
mobility of populations, and the
identification of new underserved low-
income populations;
``(iii) facilities-related issues
that may impact enrollment;
``(iv) the ability to provide full-
working-day programs, where needed,
through funds made available under this
subchapter or through collaboration
with entities carrying out other early
childhood education and development
programs, or programs with other
funding sources (where available);
``(v) the availability and use by
families of other early childhood
education and development options in
the community served; and
``(vi) agency management procedures
that may impact enrollment; and
``(C) provide timely and ongoing technical
assistance to each agency described in
subparagraph (B) for the purpose of assisting
the Head Start agency to implement the plan
described in such subparagraph.
``(4) Implementation.--Upon receipt of the
technical assistance described in paragraph (3)(C), a
Head Start agency shall immediately implement the plan
described in paragraph (3)(B). The Secretary shall,
where determined appropriate, continue to provide
technical assistance to such agency.
``(5) Secretarial review and adjustment for chronic
underenrollment.--
``(A) In general.--If, after receiving
technical assistance and developing and
implementing the plan as described in
paragraphs (3) and (4) for 12 months, a Head
Start agency is operating a program with an
actual enrollment that is less than 97 percent
of its funded enrollment, the Secretary may--
``(i) designate such agency as
chronically underenrolled; and
``(ii) recapture, withhold, or
reduce the base grant for the program
by a percentage equal to the percentage
difference between funded enrollment
and actual enrollment for the program
for the most recent year for which the
agency is determined to be
underenrolled under paragraph (3)(A).
``(B) Waiver or limitation of reductions.--
The Secretary may, as appropriate, waive or
reduce the percentage recapturing, withholding,
or reduction otherwise required by subparagraph
(A), if, after the implementation of the plan
described in paragraph (3)(B), the Secretary
finds that--
``(i) the causes of the enrollment
shortfall, or a portion of the
shortfall, are related to the agency's
serving significant numbers of highly
mobile children, or are other
significant causes as determined by the
Secretary;
``(ii) the shortfall can reasonably
be expected to be temporary; or
``(iii) the number of slots
allotted to the agency is small enough
that underenrollment does not create a
significant shortfall.
``(6) Redistribution of funds.--
``(A) In general.--Funds held by the
Secretary as a result of recapturing,
withholding, or reducing a base grant in a
fiscal year shall be redistributed by the end
of the following fiscal year as follows:
``(i) Indian head start programs.--
If such funds are derived from an
Indian Head Start program, then such
funds shall be redistributed to
increase enrollment by the end of the
following fiscal year in 1 or more
Indian Head Start programs.
``(ii) Migrant and seasonal head
start programs.--If such funds are
derived from a migrant or seasonal Head
Start program, then such funds shall be
redistributed to increase enrollment by
the end of the following fiscal year in
1 or more programs of the type from
which such funds are derived.
``(iii) Early head start
programs.--If such funds are derived
from an Early Head Start program in a
State, then such funds shall be
redistributed to increase enrollment by
the end of the following fiscal year in
1 or more Early Head Start programs in
that State. If such funds are derived
from an Indian Early Head Start
program, then such funds shall be
redistributed to increase enrollment by
the end of the following fiscal year in
1 or more Indian Early Head Start
programs.
``(iv) Other head start programs.--
If such funds are derived from a Head
Start program in a State (excluding
programs described in clauses (i)
through (iii)), then such funds shall
be redistributed to increase enrollment
by the end of the following fiscal year
in 1 or more Head Start programs
(excluding programs described in
clauses (i) through (iii)) that are
carried out in such State.
``(B) Adjustment to funded enrollment.--The
Secretary shall adjust as necessary the
requirements relating to funded enrollment
indicated in the grant agreement of a Head
Start agency receiving redistributed funds
under this paragraph.''.
SEC. 9. POWERS AND FUNCTIONS OF HEAD START AGENCIES.
Section 642 of the Head Start Act (42 U.S.C. 9837) is
amended to read as follows:
``SEC. 642. POWERS AND FUNCTIONS OF HEAD START AGENCIES.
``(a) Authority.--To be designated as a Head Start agency
under this subchapter, an agency shall have authority under its
charter or applicable law to receive and administer funds under
this subchapter, funds and contributions from private or local
public sources that may be used in support of a Head Start
program, and funds under any Federal or State assistance
program pursuant to which a public or private nonprofit or for-
profit agency (as the case may be) organized in accordance with
this subchapter, could act as grantee, contractor, or sponsor
of projects appropriate for inclusion in a Head Start program.
Such an agency shall also be empowered to transfer funds so
received, and to delegate powers to other agencies, subject to
the powers of its governing board and its overall program
responsibilities. The power to transfer funds and delegate
powers shall include the power to make transfers and
delegations covering component projects in all cases where this
will contribute to efficiency and effectiveness or otherwise
further program objectives.
``(b) Family and Community Involvement; Family Services.--
To be so designated, a Head Start agency shall, at a minimum,
do all the following to involve and serve families and
communities:
``(1) Provide for the regular and direct
participation of parents and community residents in the
implementation of the Head Start program, including
decisions that influence the character of such program,
consistent with paragraphs (2)(D) and (3)(C) of
subsection (c).
``(2) Seek the involvement of parents, community
residents, and local business in the design and
implementation of the program.
``(3) Establish effective procedures--
``(A) to facilitate and seek the
involvement of parents of participating
children in activities designed to help such
parents become full partners in the education
of their children; and
``(B) to afford such parents the
opportunity to participate in the development
and overall conduct of the program at the local
level, including transportation assistance as
appropriate.
``(4) Offer (directly or through referral to local
entities, such as entities carrying out Even Start
programs under subpart 3 of part B of title I of the
Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20
U.S.C. 6381 et seq.), public and school libraries, and
entities carrying out family support programs) to such
parents--
``(A) family literacy services; and
``(B) parenting skills training.
``(5) Offer to parents of participating children
substance abuse counseling (either directly or through
referral to local entities), if needed, including
information on the effect of drug exposure on infants
and fetal alcohol syndrome.
``(6) At the option of such agency, offer (directly
or through referral to local entities) to such
parents--
``(A) training in basic child development
(including cognitive, social, and emotional
development);
``(B) assistance in developing literacy and
communication skills;
``(C) opportunities to share experiences
with other parents (including parent-mentor
relationships);
``(D) health services, including
information on maternal depression;
``(E) regular in-home visitation; or
``(F) any other activity designed to help
such parents become full partners in the
education of their children.
``(7) Provide, with respect to each participating
family, a family needs assessment that includes
consultation with such parents (including foster
parents, grandparents, and kinship caregivers, where
applicable), in a manner and language that such parents
can understand (to the extent practicable), about the
benefits of parent involvement and about the activities
described in this subsection in which such parents may
choose to be involved (taking into consideration their
specific family needs, work schedules, and other
responsibilities).
``(8) Consider providing services to assist younger
siblings of children participating in its Head Start
program to obtain health services from other sources.
``(9) Perform community outreach to encourage
individuals previously unaffiliated with Head Start
programs to participate in its Head Start program as
volunteers.
``(10)(A) Inform custodial parents in single-parent
families that participate in programs, activities, or
services carried out or provided under this subchapter
about the availability of child support services for
purposes of establishing paternity and acquiring child
support.
``(B) Refer eligible parents to the child support
offices of State and local governments.
``(11) Provide to parents of limited English
proficient children outreach and information, in an
understandable and uniform format and, to the extent
practicable, in a language that the parents can
understand.
``(12) Provide technical and other support needed
to enable parents and community residents to secure, on
their own behalf, available assistance from public and
private sources.
``(13) Promote the continued involvement of the
parents (including foster parents, grandparents, and
kinship caregivers, as appropriate) of children that
participate in Head Start programs in the education of
their children upon transition of their children to
school, by working with the local educational agency--
``(A) to provide training to the parents--
``(i) to inform the parents about
their rights and responsibilities
concerning the education of their
children; and
``(ii) to enable the parents--
``(I) to understand and
work with schools in order to
communicate with teachers and
other school personnel;
``(II) to support the
schoolwork of their children;
and
``(III) to participate as
appropriate in decisions
relating to the education of
their children; and
``(B) to take other actions, as appropriate
and feasible, to support the active involvement
of the parents with schools, school personnel,
and school-related organizations.
``(14) Establish effective procedures for timely
referral of children with disabilities to the State or
local agency providing services under section 619 or
part C of the Individuals with Disabilities Education
Act (20 U.S.C. 1419, 1431 et seq.), and collaboration
with that agency, consistent with section 640(d)(3).
``(15) Establish effective procedures for providing
necessary early intervening services to children with
disabilities prior to an eligibility determination by
the State or local agency responsible for providing
services under section 619 or part C of such Act,
consistent with section 640(d)(2).
``(16) At the option of the Head Start agency,
partner with an institution of higher education and a
nonprofit organization to provide college students with
the opportunity to serve as mentors or reading partners
for Head Start participants.
``(c) Program Governance.--Upon receiving designation as a
Head Start agency, the agency shall establish and maintain a
formal structure for program governance, for the oversight of
quality services for Head Start children and families and for
making decisions related to program design and implementation.
Such structure shall include the following:
``(1) Governing body.--
``(A) In general.--The governing body shall
have legal and fiscal responsibility for the
Head Start agency.
``(B) Composition.--The governing body
shall be composed as follows:
``(i) Not less than 1 member shall
have a background and expertise in
fiscal management or accounting.
``(ii) Not less than 1 member shall
have a background and expertise in
early childhood education and
development.
``(iii) Not less than 1 member
shall be a licensed attorney familiar
with issues that come before the
governing body.
``(iv) Additional members shall--
``(I) reflect the community
to be served and include
parents of children who are
currently, or were formerly,
enrolled in Head Start
programs; and
``(II) are selected for
their expertise in education,
business administration, or
community affairs.
``(v) Exceptions shall be made to
the requirements of clauses (i) through
(iv) for members of a governing body
when those members oversee a public
entity and are selected to their
positions with the public entity by
public election or political
appointment.
``(vi) If a person described in
clause (i), (ii), or (iii) is not
available to serve as a member of the
governing body, the governing body
shall use a consultant, or an other
individual with relevant expertise,
with the qualifications described in
that clause, who shall work directly
with the governing body.
``(C) Conflict of interest.--Members of the
governing body shall--
``(i) not have a financial conflict
of interest with the Head Start agency
(including any delegate agency);
``(ii) not receive compensation for
serving on the governing body or for
providing services to the Head Start
agency;
``(iii) not be employed, nor shall
members of their immediate family be
employed, by the Head Start agency
(including any delegate agency); and
``(iv) operate as an entity
independent of staff employed by the
Head Start agency.
``(D) Exception.--If an individual holds a
position as a result of public election or
political appointment, and such position
carries with it a concurrent appointment to
serve as a member of a Head Start agency
governing body, and such individual has any
conflict of interest described in clause (ii)
or (iii) of subparagraph (C)--
``(i) such individual shall not be
prohibited from serving on such body
and the Head Start agency shall report
such conflict to the Secretary; and
``(ii) if the position held as a
result of public election or political
appointment provides compensation, such
individual shall not be prohibited from
receiving such compensation.
``(E) Responsibilities.--The governing body
shall--
``(i) have legal and fiscal
responsibility for administering and
overseeing programs under this
subchapter, including the safeguarding
of Federal funds;
``(ii) adopt practices that assure
active, independent, and informed
governance of the Head Start agency,
including practices consistent with
subsection (d)(1), and fully
participate in the development,
planning, and evaluation of the Head
Start programs involved;
``(iii) be responsible for ensuring
compliance with Federal laws (including
regulations) and applicable State,
tribal, and local laws (including
regulations); and
``(iv) be responsible for other
activities, including--
``(I) selecting delegate
agencies and the service areas
for such agencies;
``(II) establishing
procedures and criteria for
recruitment, selection, and
enrollment of children;
``(III) reviewing all
applications for funding and
amendments to applications for
funding for programs under this
subchapter;
``(IV) establishing
procedures and guidelines for
accessing and collecting
information described in
subsection (d)(2);
``(V) reviewing and
approving all major policies of
the agency, including--
``(aa) the annual
self-assessment and
financial audit;
``(bb) such
agency's progress in
carrying out the
programmatic and fiscal
provisions in such
agency's grant
application, including
implementation of
corrective actions; and
``(cc) personnel
policies of such
agencies regarding the
hiring, evaluation,
termination, and
compensation of agency
employees;
``(VI) developing
procedures for how members of
the policy council are
selected, consistent with
paragraph (2)(B);
``(VII) approving financial
management, accounting, and
reporting policies, and
compliance with laws and
regulations related to
financial statements, including
the--
``(aa) approval of
all major financial
expenditures of the
agency;
``(bb) annual
approval of the
operating budget of the
agency;
``(cc) selection
(except when a
financial auditor is
assigned by the State
under State law or is
assigned under local
law) of independent
financial auditors who
shall report all
critical accounting
policies and practices
to the governing body;
and
``(dd) monitoring
of the agency's actions
to correct any audit
findings and of other
action necessary to
comply with applicable
laws (including
regulations) governing
financial statement and
accounting practices;
``(VIII) reviewing results
from monitoring conducted under
section 641A(c), including
appropriate followup
activities;
``(IX) approving personnel
policies and procedures,
including policies and
procedures regarding the
hiring, evaluation,
compensation, and termination
of the Executive Director, Head
Start Director, Director of
Human Resources, Chief Fiscal
Officer, and any other person
in an equivalent position with
the agency;
``(X) establishing,
adopting, and periodically
updating written standards of
conduct that establish
standards and formal procedures
for disclosing, addressing, and
resolving--
``(aa) any conflict
of interest, and any
appearance of a
conflict of interest,
by members of the
governing body,
officers and employees
of the Head Start
agency, and consultants
and agents who provide
services or furnish
goods to the Head Start
agency; and
``(bb) complaints,
including
investigations, when
appropriate; and
``(XI) to the extent
practicable and appropriate, at
the discretion of the governing
body, establishing advisory
committees to oversee key
responsibilities related to
program governance and
improvement of the Head Start
program involved.
``(2) Policy council.--
``(A) In general.--Consistent with
paragraph (1)(E), each Head Start agency shall
have a policy council responsible for the
direction of the Head Start program, including
program design and operation, and long- and
short-term planning goals and objectives,
taking into account the annual communitywide
strategic planning and needs assessment and
self-assessment.
``(B) Composition and selection.--
``(i) The policy council shall be
elected by the parents of children who
are currently enrolled in the Head
Start program of the Head Start agency.
``(ii) The policy council shall be
composed of--
``(I) parents of children
who are currently enrolled in
the Head Start program of the
Head Start agency (including
any delegate agency), who shall
constitute a majority of the
members of the policy council;
and
``(II) members at large of
the community served by the
Head Start agency (including
any delegate agency), who may
include parents of children who
were formerly enrolled in the
Head Start program of the
agency.
``(C) Conflict of interest.--Members of the
policy council shall--
``(i) not have a conflict of
interest with the Head Start agency
(including any delegate agency); and
``(ii) not receive compensation for
serving on the policy council or for
providing services to the Head Start
agency.
``(D) Responsibilities.--The policy council
shall approve and submit to the governing body
decisions about each of the following
activities:
``(i) Activities to support the
active involvement of parents in
supporting program operations,
including policies to ensure that the
Head Start agency is responsive to
community and parent needs.
``(ii) Program recruitment,
selection, and enrollment priorities.
``(iii) Applications for funding
and amendments to applications for
funding for programs under this
subchapter, prior to submission of
applications described in this clause.
``(iv) Budget planning for program
expenditures, including policies for
reimbursement and participation in
policy council activities.
``(v) Bylaws for the operation of
the policy council.
``(vi) Program personnel policies
and decisions regarding the employment
of program staff, consistent with
paragraph (1)(E)(iv)(IX), including
standards of conduct for program staff,
contractors, and volunteers and
criteria for the employment and
dismissal of program staff.
``(vii) Developing procedures for
how members of the policy council of
the Head Start agency will be elected.
``(viii) Recommendations on the
selection of delegate agencies and the
service areas for such agencies.
``(3) Policy committees.--Each delegate agency
shall create a policy committee, which shall--
``(A) be elected and composed of members,
consistent with paragraph (2)(B) (with respect
to delegate agencies);
``(B) follow procedures to prohibit
conflict of interest, consistent with clauses
(i) and (ii) of paragraph (2)(C) (with respect
to delegate agencies); and
``(C) be responsible for approval and
submission of decisions about activities as
they relate to the delegate agency, consistent
with paragraph (2)(D) (with respect to delegate
agencies).
``(d) Program Governance Administration.--
``(1) Impasse policies.--The Secretary shall
develop policies, procedures, and guidance for Head
Start agencies concerning--
``(A) the resolution of internal disputes,
including any impasse in the governance of Head
Start programs; and
``(B) the facilitation of meaningful
consultation and collaboration about decisions
of the governing body and policy council.
``(2) Conduct of responsibilities.--Each Head Start
agency shall ensure the sharing of accurate and regular
information for use by the governing body and the
policy council, about program planning, policies, and
Head Start agency operations, including--
``(A) monthly financial statements,
including credit card expenditures;
``(B) monthly program information
summaries;
``(C) program enrollment reports, including
attendance reports for children whose care is
partially subsidized by another public agency;
``(D) monthly reports of meals and snacks
provided through programs of the Department of
Agriculture;
``(E) the financial audit;
``(F) the annual self-assessment, including
any findings related to such assessment;
``(G) the communitywide strategic planning
and needs assessment of the Head Start agency,
including any applicable updates;
``(H) communication and guidance from the
Secretary; and
``(I) the program information reports.
``(3) Training and technical assistance.--
Appropriate training and technical assistance shall be
provided to the members of the governing body and the
policy council to ensure that the members understand
the information the members receive and can effectively
oversee and participate in the programs of the Head
Start agency.
``(e) Collaboration and Coordination.--To be so designated,
a Head Start agency shall collaborate and coordinate with
public and private entities, to the maximum extent practicable,
to improve the availability and quality of services to Head
Start children and families, including carrying out the
following activities:
``(1) Conduct outreach to schools in which children
participating in the Head Start program will enroll
following the program, local educational agencies, the
local business community, community-based
organizations, faith-based organizations, museums, and
libraries to generate support and leverage the
resources of the entire local community in order to
improve school readiness.
``(2)(A) In communities where both a public
prekindergarten program and a Head Start program
operate, collaborate and coordinate activities with the
local educational agency or other public agency
responsible for the operation of the prekindergarten
program and providers of prekindergarten, including
outreach activities to identify eligible children.
``(B) With the permission of the parents of
children enrolled in the Head Start program, regularly
communicate with the schools in which the children will
enroll following the program, to--
``(i) share information about such
children;
``(ii) collaborate with the teachers in
such schools regarding professional development
and instructional strategies, as appropriate;
and
``(iii) ensure a smooth transition to
school for such children.
``(3) Coordinate activities and collaborate with
programs under the Child Care and Development Block
Grant Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 9858 et seq.), the
agencies responsible for administering section 106 of
the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act (42 U.S.C.
5106a) and parts B and E of title IV of the Social
Security Act (42 U.S.C. 621 et seq., 670 et seq.),
programs under subtitle B of title VII of the McKinney-
Vento Homeless Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 11431 et
seq.), Even Start programs under subpart 3 of part B of
title I of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act
of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 6381 et seq.), programs under
section 619 and part C of the Individuals with
Disabilities Education Act (20 U.S.C. 1419, 1431 et
seq.), and other entities providing early childhood
education and development programs or services, serving
the children and families served by the Head Start
agency.
``(4) Take steps to coordinate activities with the
local educational agency serving the community involved
and with schools in which children participating in the
Head Start program will enroll following the program,
including--
``(A) collaborating on the shared use of
transportation and facilities, in appropriate
cases;
``(B) collaborating to reduce the
duplication and enhance the efficiency of
services while increasing the program
participation of underserved populations of
eligible children; and
``(C) exchanging information on the
provision of noneducational services to such
children.
``(5) Enter into a memorandum of understanding, not
later than 1 year after the date of enactment of the
Improving Head Start for School Readiness Act of 2007,
with the appropriate local entity responsible for
managing publicly funded preschool programs in the
service area of the Head Start agency, that shall--
``(A)(i) provide for a review of each of
the activities described in clause (ii); and
``(ii) include plans to coordinate, as
appropriate, activities regarding--
``(I) educational activities,
curricular objectives, and instruction;
``(II) public information
dissemination and access to programs
for families contacting the Head Start
program or any of the preschool
programs;
``(III) selection priorities for
eligible children to be served by
programs;
``(IV) service areas;
``(V) staff training, including
opportunities for joint staff training
on topics such as academic content
standards, instructional methods,
curricula, and social and emotional
development;
``(VI) program technical
assistance;
``(VII) provision of additional
services to meet the needs of working
parents, as applicable;
``(VIII) communications and parent
outreach for smooth transitions to
kindergarten as required in paragraphs
(3) and (6) of section 642A(a);
``(IX) provision and use of
facilities, transportation, and other
program elements; and
``(X) other elements mutually
agreed to by the parties to such
memorandum;
``(B) be submitted to the Secretary and the
State Director of Head Start Collaboration not
later than 30 days after the parties enter into
such memorandum, except that--
``(i) where there is an absence of
publicly funded preschool programs in
the service area of a Head Start
agency, this paragraph shall not apply;
or
``(ii) where the appropriate local
entity responsible for managing the
publicly funded preschool programs is
unable or unwilling to enter into such
a memorandum, this paragraph shall not
apply and the Head Start agency shall
inform the Secretary and the State
Director of Head Start Collaboration of
such inability or unwillingness; and
``(C) be revised periodically and renewed
biennially by the parties to such memorandum,
in alignment with the beginning of the school
year.
``(f) Quality Standards, Curricula, and Assessment.--To be
so designated, each Head Start agency shall--
``(1) take steps to ensure, to the maximum extent
practicable, that children maintain the developmental
and educational gains achieved in Head Start programs
and build upon such gains in further schooling;
``(2) establish a program with the standards set
forth in section 641A(a)(1), with particular attention
to the standards set forth in subparagraphs (A) and (B)
of such section;
``(3) implement a research-based early childhood
curriculum that--
``(A) promotes young children's school
readiness in the areas of language and
cognitive development, early reading and
mathematics skills, socio-emotional
development, physical development, and
approaches to learning;
``(B) is based on scientifically valid
research and has standardized training
procedures and curriculum materials to support
implementation;
``(C) is comprehensive and linked to
ongoing assessment, with developmental and
learning goals and measurable objectives;
``(D) is focused on improving the learning
environment, teaching practices, family
involvement, and child outcomes across all
areas of development; and
``(E) is aligned with the Head Start Child
Outcomes Framework developed by the Secretary
and, as appropriate, State early learning
standards;
``(4) implement effective interventions and support
services that help promote the school readiness of
children participating in the program;
``(5) use research-based assessment methods that
reflect the characteristics described in section
641A(b)(2) in order to support the educational
instruction and school readiness of children in the
program;
``(6) use research-based developmental screening
tools that have been demonstrated to be standardized,
reliable, valid, and accurate for the child being
assessed, to the maximum extent practicable, for the
purpose of meeting the relevant standards described in
section 641A(a)(1);
``(7) adopt, in consultation with experts in child
development and with classroom teachers, an evaluation
to assess whether classroom teachers have mastered the
functions discussed in section 648A(a)(1);
``(8) use the information provided from the
assessment conducted under section 641A(c)(2)(F) to
inform professional development plans, as appropriate,
that lead to improved teacher effectiveness;
``(9) establish goals and measurable objectives for
the provision of health, educational, nutritional, and
social services provided under this subchapter and
related to the program mission and to promote school
readiness; and
``(10) develop procedures for identifying children
who are limited English proficient, and informing the
parents of such children about the instructional
services used to help children make progress towards
acquiring the knowledge and skills described in section
641A(a)(1)(B) and acquisition of the English language.
``(g) Funded Enrollment; Waiting List.--Each Head Start
agency shall enroll 100 percent of its funded enrollment and
maintain an active waiting list at all times with ongoing
outreach to the community and activities to identify
underserved populations.
``(h) Technical Assistance and Training Plan.--In order to
receive funds under this subchapter, a Head Start agency shall
develop an annual technical assistance and training plan. Such
plan shall be based on the agency's self-assessment, the
communitywide strategic planning and needs assessment, the
needs of parents and children to be served by such agency, and
the results of the reviews conducted under section 641A(c).
``(i) Financial Management.--In order to receive funds
under this subchapter, a Head Start agency shall document
strong fiscal controls, including the employment of well-
qualified fiscal staff with a history of successful management
of a public or private organization.''.
SEC. 10. HEAD START TRANSITION AND ALIGNMENT WITH K-12 EDUCATION.
Section 642A of the Head Start Act (42 U.S.C. 9837a) is
amended to read as follows:
``SEC. 642A. HEAD START TRANSITION AND ALIGNMENT WITH K-12 EDUCATION.
``(a) In General.--Each Head Start agency shall take steps
to coordinate with the local educational agency serving the
community involved and with schools in which children
participating in a Head Start program operated by such agency
will enroll following such program to promote continuity of
services and effective transitions, including--
``(1) developing and implementing a systematic
procedure for transferring, with parental consent, Head
Start program records for each participating child to
the school in which such child will enroll;
``(2) establishing ongoing channels of
communication between Head Start staff and their
counterparts in the schools (including teachers, social
workers, local educational agency liaisons designated
under section 722(g)(1)(J)(ii) of the McKinney-Vento
Homeless Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 11432(g)(1)(J)(ii)),
and health staff) to facilitate coordination of
programs;
``(3) establishing ongoing communications between
the Head Start agency and local educational agency for
developing continuity of developmentally appropriate
curricular objectives (which for the purpose of the
Head Start program shall be aligned with the Head Start
Child Outcomes Framework and, as appropriate, State
early learning standards) and for shared expectations
for children's learning and development as the children
transition to school;
``(4) organizing and participating in joint
training, including transition-related training for
school staff and Head Start staff;
``(5) establishing comprehensive transition
policies and procedures that support children
transitioning to school, including by engaging the
local educational agency in the establishment of such
policies;
``(6) conducting outreach to parents and elementary
school (such as kindergarten) teachers to discuss the
educational, developmental, and other needs of
individual children;
``(7) helping parents of limited English proficient
children understand--
``(A) the instructional and other services
provided by the school in which such child will
enroll after participation in Head Start; and
``(B) as appropriate, the information
provided to parents of limited English
proficient children under section 3302 of the
Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965
(20 U.S.C. 7012);
``(8) developing and implementing a family outreach
and support program, in cooperation with entities
carrying out parental involvement efforts under title I
of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965
(20 U.S.C. 6301 et seq.), and family outreach and
support efforts under subtitle B of title VII of the
McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 11431
et seq.), taking into consideration the language needs
of parents of limited English proficient children;
``(9) assisting families, administrators, and
teachers in enhancing educational and developmental
continuity and continuity of parental involvement in
activities between Head Start services and elementary
school classes;
``(10) linking the services provided in such Head
Start program with educational services, including
services relating to language, literacy, and numeracy,
provided by such local educational agency;
``(11) helping parents (including grandparents and
kinship caregivers, as appropriate) to understand the
importance of parental involvement in a child's
academic success while teaching them strategies for
maintaining parental involvement as their child moves
from Head Start to elementary school;
``(12) helping parents understand the instructional
and other services provided by the school in which
their child will enroll after participation in the Head
Start program;
``(13) developing and implementing a system to
increase program participation of underserved
populations of eligible children; and
``(14) coordinating activities and collaborating to
ensure that curricula used in the Head Start program
are aligned with--
``(A) the Head Start Child Outcomes
Framework, as developed by the Secretary; and
``(B) State early learning standards, as
appropriate, with regard to cognitive, social,
emotional, and physical competencies that
children entering kindergarten are expected to
demonstrate.
``(b) Construction.--In this section, a reference to a Head
Start agency, or its program, services, facility, or personnel,
shall not be construed to be a reference to an Early Head Start
agency, or its program, services, facility, or personnel.
``(c) Dissemination and Technical Assistance.--The
Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary of Education,
shall--
``(1) disseminate to Head Start agencies
information on effective policies and activities
relating to the transition of children from Head Start
programs to public schools; and
``(2) provide technical assistance to such agencies
to promote and assist such agencies to adopt and
implement such effective policies and activities.''.
SEC. 11. EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION, COORDINATION, AND IMPROVEMENT.
(a) Head Start Collaboration.--The Head Start Act (42
U.S.C. 9831 et seq.) is amended by inserting after section 642A
the following:
``HEAD START COLLABORATION; STATE EARLY EDUCATION AND CARE
``Sec. 642B. (a)(1) From amounts made available under
section 640(a)(2)(B)(vi), the Secretary shall award the
collaboration grants described in paragraphs (2), (3), and (4).
``(2)(A) The Secretary shall award, upon submission of a
written request, a collaboration grant to each State and to
each national administrative office serving Indian Head Start
programs and migrant or seasonal Head Start programs to
facilitate collaboration among Head Start agencies (including
Early Head Start agencies) and entities that carry out
activities designed to benefit low-income children from birth
to school entry, and their families. The national
administrative offices shall use the funds made available
through the grants to carry out the authorities and
responsibilities described in subparagraph (B) and paragraphs
(3) and (4), as appropriate.
``(B) Grants described in subparagraph (A) shall be used
to--
``(i) assist Head Start agencies to collaborate
with entities involved in State and local planning
processes to better meet the needs of low-income
children from birth to school entry, and their
families;
``(ii) assist Head Start agencies to coordinate
activities with the State agency responsible for
administering the State program carried out under the
Child Care and Development Block Grant Act of 1990 (42
U.S.C. 9858 et seq.) and entities providing resource
and referral services in the State, to make full-
working-day and full calendar year services available
to children;
``(iii) promote alignment of curricula used in Head
Start programs and continuity of services with the Head
Start Child Outcomes Framework and, as appropriate,
State early learning standards;
``(iv) promote better linkages between Head Start
agencies and other child and family agencies, including
agencies that provide health, mental health, or family
services, or other child or family supportive services,
such as services provided under section 619 or part C
of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (20
U.S.C. 1419, 1431 et seq.); and
``(v) carry out the activities of the State
Director of Head Start Collaboration authorized in
paragraph (4).
``(3) In order to improve coordination and delivery of
early childhood education and development to children in the
State, a State that receives a collaboration grant under
paragraph (2) shall--
``(A) appoint or designate an individual to serve
as, or carry out the responsibilities of, the State
Director of Head Start Collaboration;
``(B) ensure that the State Director of Head Start
Collaboration holds a position with sufficient
authority and access to ensure that the collaboration
described in paragraph (2) is effective and involves a
range of State agencies; and
``(C) involve the State Head Start Association in
the selection of the Director and involve the
Association in determinations relating to the ongoing
direction of the collaboration office involved.
``(4) The State Director of Head Start Collaboration
shall--
``(A) not later than 1 year after the State
receives a collaboration grant under paragraph (2),
conduct an assessment that--
``(i) addresses the needs of Head Start
agencies in the State with respect to
collaboration, coordination and alignment of
services, and alignment of curricula and
assessments used in Head Start programs with
the Head Start Child Outcomes Framework and, as
appropriate, State early learning standards;
``(ii) shall be updated on an annual basis;
and
``(iii) shall be made available to the
general public within the State;
``(B) develop a strategic plan that is based on the
assessment described in subparagraph (A) that will--
``(i) enhance collaboration and
coordination of Head Start services by Head
Start agencies with other entities providing
early childhood education and development (such
as child care or services offered by museums),
health care, mental health care, welfare, child
protective services, education and community
service activities, family literacy services,
reading readiness programs (including such
programs offered by public and school
libraries), services relating to children with
disabilities, other early childhood education
and development for limited English proficient
children and homeless children, and services
provided for children in foster care and
children referred to Head Start programs by
child welfare agencies, including agencies and
State officials responsible for services
described in this clause;
``(ii) assist Head Start agencies to
develop a plan for the provision of full
working-day, full calendar year services for
children enrolled in Head Start programs who
need such services;
``(iii) assist Head Start agencies to align
curricula and assessments used in Head Start
programs with the Head Start Child Outcomes
Framework and, as appropriate, State early
learning standards; and
``(iv) enable Head Start agencies to better
access professional development opportunities
for Head Start staff, such as by working with
Head Start agencies to enable the agencies to
meet the degree requirements described in
section 648A(a)(2)(A), including providing
distance learning opportunities for Head Start
staff, where needed to make higher education
more accessible to Head Start staff; and
``(v) enable the Head Start agencies to
better conduct outreach to eligible families;
``(C) promote partnerships between Head Start
agencies, State and local governments, and the private
sector to help ensure that children from low-income
families, who are in Head Start programs or are
preschool age, are receiving comprehensive services to
prepare the children for elementary school;
``(D) consult with the chief State school officer,
local educational agencies, and providers of early
childhood education and development, at both the State
and local levels;
``(E) promote partnerships between Head Start
agencies, schools, law enforcement, relevant community-
based organizations, and substance abuse and mental
health treatment agencies to strengthen family and
community environments and to reduce the impact on
child development of substance abuse, child abuse,
domestic violence, and other high-risk behaviors that
compromise healthy development;
``(F) promote partnerships between Head Start
agencies and other organizations in order to enhance
Head Start program quality, including partnerships to
promote inclusion of more books in Head Start
classrooms;
``(G) identify other resources and organizations
(both public and private) for the provision of in-kind
services to Head Start agencies in the State; and
``(H) serve on the State Advisory Council in order
to assist the efforts of Head Start agencies to engage
in effective coordination and collaboration.''.
(b) State Early Education and Care.--Section 642B of the
Head Start Act, as added by subsection (a), is amended by
adding at the end the following:
``(b)(1)(A) The Governor of the State shall--
``(i) designate or establish a council to serve as
the State Advisory Council on Early Childhood Education
and Care for children from birth to school entry (in
this subchapter referred to as the `State Advisory
Council'); and
``(ii) designate an individual to coordinate
activities of the State Advisory Council, as described
in subparagraph (D)(i).
``(B) The Governor may designate an existing entity in the
State to serve as the State Advisory Council, and shall appoint
representatives to the State Advisory Council at the Governor's
discretion. In designating an existing entity, the Governor
shall take steps to ensure that its membership includes, to the
extent possible, representatives consistent with subparagraph
(C).
``(C) Members of the State Advisory Council shall include,
to the maximum extent possible--
``(i) a representative of the State agency
responsible for child care;
``(ii) a representative of the State educational
agency;
``(iii) a representative of local educational
agencies;
``(iv) a representative of institutions of higher
education in the State;
``(v) a representative of local providers of early
childhood education and development services;
``(vi) a representative from Head Start agencies
located in the State, including migrant and seasonal
Head Start programs and Indian Head Start programs;
``(vii) the State Director of Head Start
Collaboration;
``(viii) a representative of the State agency
responsible for programs under section 619 or part C of
the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (20
U.S.C. 1419, 1431 et seq.);
``(ix) a representative of the State agency
responsible for health or mental health care; and
``(x) representatives of other entities determined
to be relevant by the Governor of the State.
``(D)(i) The State Advisory Council shall, in addition to
any responsibilities assigned to the Council by the Governor of
the State--
``(I) conduct a periodic statewide needs assessment
concerning the quality and availability of early
childhood education and development programs and
services for children from birth to school entry,
including an assessment of the availability of high-
quality pre-kindergarten services for low-income
children in the State;
``(II) identify opportunities for, and barriers to,
collaboration and coordination among Federally-funded
and State-funded child development, child care, and
early childhood education programs and services,
including collaboration and coordination among State
agencies responsible for administering such programs;
``(III) develop recommendations for increasing the
overall participation of children in existing Federal,
State, and local child care and early childhood
education programs, including outreach to
underrepresented and special populations;
``(IV) develop recommendations regarding the
establishment of a unified data collection system for
public early childhood education and development
programs and services throughout the State;
``(V) develop recommendations regarding statewide
professional development and career advancement plans
for early childhood educators in the State;
``(VI) assess the capacity and effectiveness of 2-
and 4-year public and private institutions of higher
education in the State toward supporting the
development of early childhood educators, including the
extent to which such institutions have in place
articulation agreements, professional development and
career advancement plans, and practice or internships
for students to spend time in a Head Start or
prekindergarten program; and
``(VII) make recommendations for improvements in
State early learning standards and undertake efforts to
develop high-quality comprehensive early learning
standards, as appropriate.
``(ii) The State Advisory Council shall hold public
hearings and provide an opportunity for public comment on the
activities described in clause (i). The State Advisory Council
shall submit a statewide strategic report addressing the
activities described in clause (i) to the State Director of
Head Start Collaboration and the Governor of the State.
``(iii) After submission of a statewide strategic report
under clause (ii), the State Advisory Council shall meet
periodically to review any implementation of the
recommendations in such report and any changes in State and
local needs.
``(2)(A) The Secretary shall use the portion reserved under
section 640(a)(4)(A)(iii) to award, on a competitive basis,
one-time startup grants of not less than $500,000 to eligible
States to enable such States to pay for the Federal share of
developing and implementing a plan pursuant to the
responsibilities included under paragraph (1)(D)(i). A State
that receives funds under this paragraph shall use such funds
to facilitate the development or enhancement of high-quality
systems of early childhood education and care designed to
improve school preparedness through one or more of the
following activities--
``(i) promoting school preparedness of children
from birth through school entry, including activities
to encourage families and caregivers to engage in
highly interactive, developmentally and age-appropriate
activities to improve children's early social,
emotional, and cognitive development, support the
transition of young children to school, and foster
parental and family involvement in the early education
of young children;
``(ii) supporting professional development,
recruitment, and retention initiatives for early
childhood educators;
``(iii) enhancing existing early childhood
education and development programs and services (in
existence on the date on which the grant involved is
awarded), including quality improvement activities
authorized under the Child Care and Development Block
Grant Act of 1990; and
``(iv) carrying out other activities consistent
with the State's plan and application, pursuant to
subparagraph (B).
``(B) To be eligible to receive a grant under this
paragraph, a State shall prepare and submit to the Secretary a
plan and application, for a 3-year period, at such time, in
such manner, and containing such information as the Secretary
shall require, including--
``(i) the statewide strategic report described in
paragraph (1)(D)(ii), including a description of the
State Advisory Council's responsibilities under
paragraph (1)(D)(i);
``(ii) a description, for each fiscal year, of how
the State will make effective use of funds available
under this paragraph, with funds described in
subparagraph (C), to create an early childhood
education and care system, by developing or enhancing
programs and activities consistent with the statewide
strategic report described in paragraph (1)(D)(i);
``(iii) a description of the State early learning
standards and the State's goals for increasing the
number of children entering kindergarten ready to
learn;
``(iv) information identifying the agency or joint
interagency office, and individual, designated to carry
out the activities under this paragraph, which may be
the individual designated under paragraph (1)(A)(ii);
and
``(v) a description of how the State plans to
sustain activities under this paragraph beyond the
grant period.
``(C) The Federal share of the cost of activities proposed
to be conducted under subparagraph (A) shall be 30 percent, and
the State shall provide the non-Federal share.
``(D) Funds made available under this paragraph shall be
used to supplement, and not supplant, other Federal, State, and
local funds expended to carry out activities related to early
childhood education and care in the State.
``(E) Not later than 18 months after the date a State
receives a grant under this paragraph, the State shall submit
an interim report to the Secretary. A State that receives a
grant under this paragraph shall submit a final report to the
Secretary at the end of the grant period. Each report shall
include--
``(i) a description of the activities and services
carried out under the grant, including the outcomes of
such activities and services in meeting the needs
described in the periodic needs assessment and
statewide strategic report;
``(ii) information about how the State used such
funds to meet the goals of this subsection through
activities to develop or enhance high-quality systems
of early childhood education and care, increase
effectiveness of delivery systems and use of funds, and
enhance existing programs and services;
``(iii) information regarding the remaining needs
described in the periodic statewide needs assessment
and statewide strategic report that have not yet been
addressed by the State; and
``(iv) any other information that the Secretary may
require.
``(F) Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to
provide the State Advisory Council with authority to modify,
supersede, or negate the requirements of this subchapter.''.
SEC. 12. SUBMISSION OF PLANS.
Section 643 of the Head Start Act (42 U.S.C. 9838) is
amended by adding at the end the following: ``This section
shall not apply to contracts, agreements, grants, loans, or
other assistance for Indian Head Start programs or migrant or
seasonal Head Start programs.''
SEC. 13. ADMINISTRATIVE REQUIREMENTS AND STANDARDS.
Section 644 of the Head Start Act (42 U.S.C. 9839) is
amended--
(1) by striking subsection (a) and inserting the
following:
``(a)(1) Each Head Start agency shall observe standards of
organization, management, and administration that will ensure,
so far as reasonably possible, that all program activities are
conducted in a manner consistent with the purposes of this
subchapter and the objective of providing assistance
effectively, efficiently, and free of any taint of partisan
political bias or personal or family favoritism. Each such
agency shall establish or adopt rules to carry out this
section, which shall include rules to assure full staff
accountability in matters governed by law, regulations, or
agency policy. Each agency shall also provide for reasonable
public access to information, including public hearings at the
request of appropriate community groups and reasonable public
access to books and records of the agency or other agencies
engaged in program activities or operations involving the use
of authority or funds for which it is responsible.
``(2) Each Head Start agency shall make available to the
public a report published at least once in each fiscal year
that discloses the following information from the most recently
concluded fiscal year, except that reporting such information
shall not reveal personally identifiable information about an
individual child or parent:
``(A) The total amount of public and private funds
received and the amount from each source.
``(B) An explanation of budgetary expenditures and
proposed budget for the fiscal year.
``(C) The total number of children and families
served, the average monthly enrollment (as a percentage
of funded enrollment), and the percentage of eligible
children served.
``(D) The results of the most recent review by the
Secretary and the financial audit.
``(E) The percentage of enrolled children that
received medical and dental exams.
``(F) Information about parent involvement
activities.
``(G) The agency's efforts to prepare children for
kindergarten.
``(H) Any other information required by the
Secretary.
``(3) Each such agency shall adopt for itself and other
agencies using funds or exercising authority for which it is
responsible, rules designed to--
``(A) establish specific standards governing
salaries, salary increases, travel and per diem
allowances, and other employee benefits;
``(B) assure that only persons capable of
discharging their duties with competence and integrity
are employed and that employees are promoted or
advanced under impartial procedures calculated to
improve agency performance and effectiveness;
``(C) guard against personal or financial conflicts
of interest; and
``(D) define employee duties in an appropriate
manner that will in any case preclude employees from
participating, in connection with the performance of
their duties, in any form of picketing, protest, or
other direct action that is in violation of law.''; and
(2) in subsection (f)--
(A) in paragraph (2)--
(i) by redesignating subparagraphs
(A) through (E) as subparagraphs (B)
through (F), respectively; and
(ii) by inserting before
subparagraph (B), as redesignated by
clause (i), the following:
``(A) a description of the efforts by the agency to
coordinate or collaborate with other providers in the
community to seek assistance, including financial
assistance, prior to the use of funds under this
section;''; and
(B) in paragraph (3), by striking ``, from
the amount reserved under section
640(a)(2)(A),''.
SEC. 14. PARTICIPATION IN HEAD START PROGRAMS.
Section 645 of the Head Start Act (42 U.S.C. 9840) is
amended--
(1) in subsection (a)--
(A) by striking paragraph (1) and inserting
the following:
``(a)(1)(A) The Secretary shall by regulation prescribe
eligibility for the participation of persons in Head Start
programs assisted under this subchapter.
``(B) Except as provided in paragraph (2), such regulation
shall provide--
``(i) that children from low-income families shall
be eligible for participation in programs assisted
under this subchapter if their families' incomes are
below the poverty line, or if their families are
eligible or, in the absence of child care, would
potentially be eligible for public assistance;
``(ii) that homeless children shall be deemed to be
eligible for such participation;
``(iii) that programs assisted under this
subchapter may include--
``(I) to a reasonable extent (but not to
exceed 10 percent of participants),
participation of children in the area served
who would benefit from such programs but who
are not eligible under clause (i) or (ii); and
``(II) from the area served, an additional
35 percent of participants who are not eligible
under clause (i) or (ii) and whose families
have incomes below 130 percent of the poverty
line, if--
``(aa) the Head Start agency
involved establishes and implements
outreach and enrollment policies and
procedures that ensure such agency is
meeting the needs of children eligible
under clause (i) or (ii) (or subclause
(I) if the child involved has a
disability) prior to meeting the needs
of children eligible under this
subclause; and
``(bb) in prioritizing the
selection of children to be served, the
Head Start agency establishes criteria
that provide that the agency will serve
children eligible under clause (i) or
(ii) prior to serving the children
eligible under this subclause;
``(iv) that any Head Start agency serving children
eligible under clause (iii)(II) shall report annually
to the Secretary information on--
``(I) how such agency is meeting the needs
of children eligible under clause (i) or (ii),
in the area served, including local demographic
data on families of children eligible under
clause (i) or (ii);
``(II) the outreach and enrollment policies
and procedures established by the agency that
ensure the agency is meeting the needs of
children eligible under clause (i) or (ii) (or
clause (iii)(I) if the child involved has a
disability) prior to meeting the needs of
children eligible under clause (iii)(II);
``(III) the efforts, including outreach
efforts (that are appropriate to the community
involved), of such agency to be fully enrolled
with children eligible under clause (i) or
(ii);
``(IV) the policies, procedures, and
selection criteria such agency is implementing
to serve eligible children, consistent with
clause (iii)(II);
``(V) the agency's enrollment level, and
enrollment level over the fiscal year prior to
the fiscal year in which the report is
submitted;
``(VI) the number of children served by the
agency, disaggregated by whether such children
are eligible under clause (i), clause (ii),
clause (iii)(I), or clause (iii)(II); and
``(VII) the eligibility criteria category
of the children on the agency's waiting list;
``(v) that a child who has been determined to meet
the eligibility criteria described in this subparagraph
and who is participating in a Head Start program in a
program year shall be considered to continue to meet
the eligibility criteria through the end of the
succeeding program year.
``(C) In determining, for purposes of this paragraph,
whether a child who has applied for enrollment in a Head Start
program meets the eligibility criteria, an entity may consider
evidence of family income during the 12 months preceding the
month in which the application is submitted, or during the
calendar year preceding the calendar year in which the
application is submitted, whichever more accurately reflects
the needs of the family at the time of application.''; and
(B) by adding at the end the following:
``(3)(A) In this paragraph:
``(i) The term `dependent' has the meaning given
the term in paragraphs (2)(A) and (4)(A)(i) of section
401(a) of title 37, United States Code.
``(ii) The terms `member' and `uniformed services'
have the meanings given the terms in paragraphs (23)
and (3), respectively, of section 101 of title 37,
United States Code.
``(B) The following amounts of pay and allowance of a
member of the uniformed services shall not be considered to be
income for purposes of determining the eligibility of a
dependent of such member for programs funded under this
subchapter:
``(i) The amount of any special pay payable under
section 310 of title 37, United States Code, relating
to duty subject to hostile fire or imminent danger.
``(ii) The amount of basic allowance payable under
section 403 of such title, including any such amount
that is provided on behalf of the member for housing
that is acquired or constructed under the alternative
authority for the acquisition and improvement of
military housing under subchapter IV of chapter 169 of
title 10, United States Code, or any other related
provision of law.
``(4) After demonstrating a need through a communitywide
strategic planning and needs assessment, a Head Start agency
may apply to the Secretary to convert part-day sessions,
particularly consecutive part-day sessions, into full-working-
day sessions.
``(5)(A) Upon written request and pursuant to the
requirements of this paragraph, a Head Start agency may use
funds that were awarded under this subchapter to serve children
age 3 to compulsory school age, in order to serve infants and
toddlers if the agency submits an application to the Secretary
containing, as specified in rules issued by the Secretary, all
of the following information:
``(i) The amount of such funds that are proposed to
be used in accordance with section 645A(b).
``(ii) A communitywide strategic planning and needs
assessment demonstrating how the use of such funds
would best meet the needs of the community.
``(iii) A description of how the needs of pregnant
women, and of infants and toddlers, will be addressed
in accordance with section 645A(b), and with
regulations prescribed by the Secretary pursuant to
section 641A in areas including the agency's approach
to child development and provision of health services,
approach to family and community partnerships, and
approach to program design and management.
``(iv) A description of how the needs of eligible
children will be met in the community.
``(v) Assurances that the agency will participate
in technical assistance activities (including planning,
start-up site visits, and national training activities)
in the same manner as recipients of grants under
section 645A.
``(vi) Evidence that the agency meets the same
eligibility criteria as recipients of grants under
section 645A.
``(B) An application that satisfies the requirements
specified in subparagraph (A) shall be approved by the
Secretary unless the Secretary finds that--
``(i) the agency lacks adequate capacity and
capability to carry out an effective Early Head Start
program; or
``(ii) the information provided under subparagraph
(A) is inadequate.
``(C) In approving such applications, the Secretary shall
take into account the costs of serving persons under section
645A.
``(D) Any Head Start agency with an application approved
under subparagraph (B) shall be considered to be an Early Head
Start agency and shall be subject to the same rules,
regulations, and conditions as apply to recipients of grants
under section 645A, with respect to activities carried out
under this paragraph.'';
(2) in the first sentence of subsection (c), by
striking ``(age 3 to compulsory school attendance)'';
and
(3) in subsection (d)--
(A) by striking paragraph (3); and
(B) by adding at the end the following:
``(3) Notwithstanding any other provision of this Act, an
Indian tribe or tribes that operates both an Early Head Start
program under section 645A and a Head Start program may, at its
discretion, at any time during the grant period involved,
reallocate funds between the Early Head Start program and the
Head Start program in order to address fluctuations in client
populations, including pregnant women and children from birth
to compulsory school age. The reallocation of such funds
between programs by an Indian tribe or tribes during a year
shall not serve as the basis for the Secretary to reduce a base
grant (as defined in section 640(a)(7)) for either program in
succeeding years.''.
SEC. 15. EARLY HEAD START PROGRAMS.
Section 645A of the Head Start Act (42 U.S.C. 9840a) is
amended--
(1) by striking the section heading and inserting
the following:
``SEC. 645A. EARLY HEAD START PROGRAMS.'';
(2) in subsection (a) by striking ``The Secretary''
and all that follows through ``for programs'' and
inserting ``The Secretary shall make grants to entities
(referred to in this subchapter as `Early Head Start
agencies') in accordance with this section for programs
(referred to in this subchapter as `Early Head Start
programs')'';
(3) in subsection (b)--
(A) by striking paragraph (4) and inserting
the following:
``(4) provide services to parents to support their
role as parents (including parenting skills training
and training in basic child development) and services
to help the families move toward self-sufficiency
(including educational and employment services, as
appropriate);'';
(B) by striking paragraph (5) and inserting
the following:
``(5) coordinate services with services provided by
programs in the State (including home-based services)
and programs in the community (including programs for
infants and toddlers with disabilities and programs for
homeless infants and toddlers) to ensure a
comprehensive array of services (such as health and
mental health services and family support services);'';
(C) by redesignating paragraphs (6), (7),
(8), and (9), as paragraphs (7), (10), (11),
and (12), respectively;
(D) by inserting after paragraph (5) the
following:
``(6) ensure that children with documented
behavioral problems, including problems involving
behavior related to prior or existing trauma, receive
appropriate screening and referral;'';
(E) by inserting after paragraph (7), as
redesignated by subparagraph (C), the
following:
``(8) develop and implement a systematic procedure
for transitioning children and parents from an Early
Head Start program to a Head Start program or other
local early childhood education and development
program;
``(9) establish channels of communication between
staff of the Early Head Start program, and staff of a
Head Start program or other local providers of early
childhood education and development programs, to
facilitate the coordination of programs;''; and
(F) by striking paragraph (11), as
redesignated by subparagraph (C), and inserting
the following:
``(11) ensure formal linkages with providers of
early intervention services for infants and toddlers
with disabilities under the Individuals with
Disabilities Education Act (20 U.S.C. 1400 et seq.),
with the State interagency coordinating council, as
established in part C of the Individuals with
Disabilities Education Act (20 U.S.C. 1431 et seq.),
and with the agency responsible for administering
section 106 of the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment
Act (42 U.S.C. 5106a);'';
(4) in subsection (c), by striking ``income
criteria specified for families in section 645(a)(1)''
and inserting ``eligibility criteria specified in
section 645(a)(1), including the criteria specified in
section 645(a)(1)(B)(ii)'';
(5) in subsection (d), by striking paragraphs (1)
and (2) and inserting the following:
``(1) entities operating Head Start programs under
this subchapter;
``(2) entities operating Indian Head Start programs
or migrant or seasonal Head Start programs; and
``(3) other public entities, and nonprofit or for-
profit private entities, including community-based and
faith-based organizations, capable of providing child
and family services that meet the standards for
participation in programs under this subchapter and
meet such other appropriate requirements relating to
the activities under this section as the Secretary may
establish.'';
(6) in subsection (e), by striking ``From'' and all
that follows through ``under this subsection'' and
inserting ``The Secretary shall award grants under this
section'';
(7) by striking subsection (g) and inserting the
following:
``(g) Monitoring, Training, Technical Assistance, and
Evaluation.--
``(1) Requirement.--In order to ensure the
successful operation of programs assisted under this
section, the Secretary shall use funds made available
under section 640(a)(2)(E) to monitor the operation of
such programs, and funds made available under section
640(a)(2)(C)(i)(I) to provide training and technical
assistance tailored to the particular needs of such
programs, consistent with section 640(c).
``(2) Training and technical assistance.--
``(A) Activities.--Of the portion set aside
under section 640(a)(2)(C)(i)(I)--
``(i) not less than 50 percent
shall be made available to Early Head
Start agencies to use directly, which
may include, at their discretion, the
establishment of local or regional
agreements with community experts,
institutions of higher education, or
private consultants, for training and
technical assistance activities in
order to make program improvements
identified by such agencies;
``(ii) not less than 25 percent
shall be available to the Secretary to
support a State-based training and
technical assistance system, or a
national system, described in section
648(e), including infant and toddler
specialists, to support Early Head
Start agencies, consistent with
subparagraph (B); and
``(iii) the remainder of such
amount shall be made available to the
Secretary to assist Early Head Start
agencies in meeting and exceeding the
standards described in section
641A(a)(1) (directly, or through
grants, contracts, or other agreements
or arrangements with an entity with
demonstrated expertise relating to
infants, toddlers, and families) by--
``(I) providing ongoing
training and technical
assistance to Early Head Start
agencies, including developing
training and technical
assistance materials and
resources to support program
development and improvement and
best practices in providing
services to children and
families served by Early Head
Start programs;
``(II) supporting a
national network of infant and
toddler specialists designed to
improve the quality of Early
Head Start programs;
``(III) providing ongoing
training and technical
assistance on Early Head Start
program development and
improvement for regional staff
charged with monitoring and
overseeing the administration
of the program carried out
under this section; and
``(IV) if funds remain
after the activities described
in subclauses (I), (II), and
(III) are carried out, carry
out 1 or more of the following
activities:
``(aa) Providing
support and program
planning and
implementation
assistance for new
Early Head Start
agencies, including for
agencies who want to
use funds as described
in section 645(a)(5) to
serve infants and
toddlers.
``(bb) Creating
special training and
technical assistance
initiatives targeted to
serving high-risk
populations, such as
children in the child
welfare system and
homeless children.
``(cc) Providing
professional
development designed to
increase program
participation for
underserved populations
of eligible children.
``(B) Contracts.--For the purposes of
supporting a State-based system, as described
in subparagraph (A)(ii), that will meet the
needs of Early Head Start agencies and provide
high-quality, sustained, and intensive training
and technical assistance on programming for
infants and toddlers to Early Head Start
agencies, and in order to help such agencies
meet or exceed the standards described in
section 641A(a)(1), the Secretary shall--
``(i) use funds reserved under
subparagraph (A)(ii) in combination
with funds reserved under section
640(a)(2)(C)(i)(II)(bb) to ensure the
contracts described in section
648(e)(1) provide for a minimum of 1
full-time specialist with demonstrated
expertise in the development of infants
and toddlers; and
``(ii) ensure that such contracts
and the services provided in the
contracts are integrated with and
augment the contracts awarded and
services provided under section
648(e);''; and
(8) by adding at the end the following:
``(h) Center-Based Staff.--The Secretary shall--
``(1) ensure that, not later than September 30,
2010, all teachers providing direct services to
children and families participating in Early Head Start
programs located in Early Head Start centers, have a
minimum of a child development associate credential,
and have been trained (or have equivalent coursework)
in early childhood development; and
``(2) establish staff qualification goals to ensure
that not later than September 30, 2012, all such
teachers have been trained (or have equivalent
coursework) in early childhood development with a focus
on infant and toddler development.
``(i) Staff Qualifications and Development.--
``(1) Home visitor staff standards.--In order to
further enhance the quality of home visiting services
provided to families of children participating in home-
based, center-based, or combination program options
under this subchapter, the Secretary shall establish
standards for training, qualifications, and the conduct
of home visits for home visitor staff in Early Head
Start programs.
``(2) Contents of standards.--The standards for
training, qualifications, and the conduct of home
visits shall include content related to--
``(A) structured child-focused home
visiting that promotes parents' ability to
support the child's cognitive, social,
emotional, and physical development;
``(B) effective strengths-based parent
education, including methods to encourage
parents as their child's first teachers;
``(C) early childhood development with
respect to children from birth through age 3;
``(D) methods to help parents promote
emergent literacy in their children from birth
through age 3, including use of research-based
strategies to support the development of
literacy and language skills for children who
are limited English proficient;
``(E) ascertaining what health and
developmental services the family receives and
working with providers of these services to
eliminate gaps in service by offering annual
health, vision, hearing, and developmental
screening for children from birth to entry into
kindergarten, when needed;
``(F) strategies for helping families
coping with crisis; and
``(G) the relationship of health and well-
being of pregnant women to prenatal and early
child development.''.
SEC. 16. APPEALS, NOTICE, AND HEARING.
Section 646(a) of the Head Start Act (42 U.S.C. 9841(a)) is
amended--
(1) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by
striking ``procedures to assure that'';
(2) in paragraphs (1) and (2), by inserting
``procedures to assure that'' after the paragraph
designation;
(3) by striking paragraphs (3) and (4) and
inserting the following:
``(3) procedures to assure that financial
assistance under this subchapter may be terminated or
reduced, and an application for refunding may be
denied, after the recipient has been afforded
reasonable notice and opportunity for a full and fair
hearing, including--
``(A) a right to file a notice of appeal of
a decision not later than 30 days after notice
of the decision from the Secretary; and
``(B) access to a full and fair hearing of
the appeal, not later than 120 days after
receipt by the Secretary of the notice of
appeal;
``(4) procedures (including mediation procedures)
are developed and published, to be used in order to--
``(A) resolve in a timely manner conflicts
potentially leading to an adverse action
between--
``(i) recipients of financial
assistance under this subchapter; and
``(ii) delegate agencies, or policy
councils of Head Start agencies;
``(B) avoid the need for an administrative
hearing on an adverse action; and
``(C) prohibit a Head Start agency from
expending financial assistance awarded under
this subchapter for the purpose of paying legal
fees, or other costs incurred, pursuant to an
appeal under paragraph (3);
``(5) procedures to assure that the Secretary may
suspend financial assistance to a recipient under this
subchapter--
``(A) except as provided in subparagraph
(B), for not more than 30 days; or
``(B) in the case of a recipient under this
subchapter that has multiple and recurring
deficiencies for 180 days or more and has not
made substantial and significant progress
toward meeting the goals of the grantee's
quality improvement plan or eliminating all
deficiencies identified by the Secretary,
during the hearing of an appeal described in
paragraph (3), for any amount of time; and
``(6) procedures to assure that in cases where a
Head Start agency prevails in a decision under
paragraph (4), the Secretary may determine and provide
a reimbursement to the Head Start agency for fees
deemed reasonable and customary.''.
SEC. 17. RECORDS AND AUDITS.
Section 647 of the Head Start Act (42 U.S.C. 9842) is
amended by adding at the end the following:
``(c) Each recipient of financial assistance under this
subchapter shall--
``(1) maintain, and annually submit to the
Secretary, a complete accounting of the recipient's
administrative expenses (including a detailed statement
identifying the amount of financial assistance provided
under this subchapter used to pay expenses for salaries
and compensation and the amount (if any) of other funds
used to pay such expenses);
``(2) not later than 30 days after the date of
completion of an audit conducted in the manner and to
the extent provided in chapter 75 of title 31, United
States Code (commonly known as the `Single Audit Act of
1984'), submit to the Secretary a copy of the audit
management letter and of any audit findings as they
relate to the Head Start program; and
``(3) provide such additional documentation as the
Secretary may require.''.
SEC. 18. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE AND TRAINING.
Section 648 of the of the Head Start Act (42 U.S.C. 9843)
is amended to read as follows:
``SEC. 648. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE AND TRAINING.
``(a) Secretarial Training and Technical Assistance.--
``(1) Authority.--From the funds provided under
section 640(a)(2)(C)(i), the Secretary shall provide,
directly or through grants, contracts, or other
agreements or arrangements as the Secretary considers
appropriate, technical assistance and training for Head
Start programs for the purposes of improving program
quality and helping prepare children to succeed in
school.
``(2) Process.--The process for determining the
technical assistance and training activities to be
carried out under this section shall--
``(A) ensure that the needs of local Head
Start agencies and programs relating to
improving program quality and to program
expansion are addressed to the maximum extent
practicable; and
``(B) incorporate mechanisms to ensure
responsiveness to local needs, including an
ongoing procedure for obtaining input from the
individuals and agencies carrying out Head
Start programs.
``(3) Activities.--In providing training and
technical assistance and for allocating resources for
such assistance under this section, the Secretary
shall--
``(A) give priority consideration to--
``(i) activities to correct program
and management deficiencies identified
through reviews carried out pursuant to
section 641A(c) (including the
provision of assistance to local
programs in the development of quality
improvement plans under section
641A(d)(2));
``(ii) assisting Head Start
agencies in ensuring the school
readiness of children; and
``(iii) activities that supplement
those funded with amounts provided
under section 640(a)(5)(B) to address
the training and career development
needs of classroom staff (including
instruction for providing services to
children with disabilities, and for
activities described in section 1222(d)
of the Elementary and Secondary
Education Act of 1965), and non-
classroom staff, including home
visitors and other staff working
directly with families, including
training relating to increasing parent
involvement and services designed to
increase family literacy and improve
parenting skills; and
``(B) to the maximum extent practicable--
``(i) assist Head Start agencies in
the development of collaborative
initiatives with States and other
entities within the States, to foster
effective professional development
systems for early childhood education
and development services;
``(ii) provide technical assistance
and training, either directly or
through a grant, contract, or
cooperative agreement with an entity
that has experience in the development
and operation of successful family
literacy services programs, for the
purpose of--
``(I) assisting Head Start
agencies providing family
literacy services, in order to
improve the quality of such
family literacy services; and
``(II) enabling those Head
Start agencies that demonstrate
effective provision of family
literacy services, based on
improved outcomes for children
and their parents, to provide
technical assistance and
training to other Head Start
agencies and to service
providers that work in
collaboration with such
agencies to provide family
literacy services;
``(iii) assist Head Start agencies
and programs in conducting and
participating in communitywide
strategic planning and needs
assessments, including the needs of
homeless children and their families,
and in conducting self-assessments;
``(iv) assist Head Start agencies
and programs in developing and
implementing full-working-day and full
calendar year programs where community
need is clearly identified and making
the transition to such programs, with
particular attention to involving
parents and programming for children
throughout the day, and assist the
agencies and programs in expediting the
sharing of information about innovative
models for providing full-working-day,
full calendar year services for
children;
``(v) assist Head Start agencies in
better serving the needs of families
with very young children, including
providing support and program planning
and implementation assistance for Head
Start agencies that apply to serve or
are serving additional infants and
toddlers, in accordance with section
645(a)(5);
``(vi) assist Head Start agencies
and programs in the development of
sound management practices, including
financial management procedures;
``(vii) assist in efforts to secure
and maintain adequate facilities for
Head Start programs;
``(viii) assist Head Start agencies
in developing innovative program
models, including mobile and home-based
programs;
``(ix) provide support for Head
Start agencies (including policy
councils and policy committees) that
meet the standards described in section
641A(a) but that have, as documented by
the Secretary through reviews conducted
pursuant to section 641A(c),
programmatic, quality, and fiscal
issues to address;
``(x) assist Head Start agencies
and programs in improving outreach to,
increasing program participation of,
and improving the quality of services
available to meet the unique needs of--
``(I) homeless children;
``(II) limited English
proficient children and their
families, particularly in
communities that have
experienced a large percentage
increase in the population of
limited English proficient
individuals, as measured by the
Bureau of the Census; and
``(III) children with
disabilities, particularly if
such program's enrollment
opportunities or funded
enrollment for children with
disabilities is less than 10
percent;
``(xi) assist Head Start agencies
and programs to increase the capacity
of classroom staff to meet the needs of
eligible children in Head Start
classrooms that are serving both
children with disabilities and children
without disabilities;
``(xii) assist Head Start agencies
and programs to address the unique
needs of programs located in rural
communities, including--
``(I) removing barriers
related to the recruitment and
retention of Head Start
teachers in rural communities;
``(II) developing
innovative and effective models
of professional development for
improving staff qualifications
and skills for staff living in
rural communities;
``(III) removing barriers
related to outreach efforts to
eligible families in rural
communities;
``(IV) removing barriers to
parent involvement in Head
Start programs in rural
communities;
``(V) removing barriers to
providing home visiting
services in rural communities;
and
``(VI) removing barriers to
obtaining health screenings for
Head Start participants in
rural communities;
``(xiii) provide training and
technical assistance to members of
governing bodies, policy councils, and,
as appropriate, policy committees, to
ensure that the members can fulfill
their functions;
``(xiv) provide activities that
help ensure that Head Start programs
have qualified staff who can promote
prevention of childhood obesity by
integrating developmentally appropriate
research-based initiatives that stress
the importance of physical activity and
healthy, nutritional choices in daily
classroom and family routines;
``(xv) assist Indian Head Start
agencies to provide on-site and off-
site training to staff, using
approaches that identify and enhance
the positive resources and strengths of
Indian children and families, to
improve parent and family engagement
and staff development, particularly
with regard to child and family
development; and
``(xvi) assisting Head Start
agencies in selecting and using the
measures described in section 641A(b).
``(b) Additional Support.--The Secretary shall provide,
either directly or through grants, contracts or other
arrangements, funds from section 640(a)(2)(C)(i)(II)(cc) to--
``(1) support an organization to administer a
centralized child development and national assessment
program leading to recognized credentials for personnel
working in early childhood education and development
programs; and
``(2) support training for personnel--
``(A) providing services to limited English
proficient children and their families
(including services to promote the acquisition
of the English language);
``(B) providing services to children
determined to be abused or neglected or
children referred by or receiving child welfare
services;
``(C) in helping children cope with
community violence;
``(D) to recognize common health, including
mental health, problems in children for
appropriate referral;
``(E) to address the needs of children with
disabilities and their families;
``(F) to address the needs of migrant and
seasonal farmworker families; and
``(G) to address the needs of homeless
families.
``(c) Outreach.--The Secretary shall develop and implement
a program of outreach to recruit and train professionals from
diverse backgrounds to become Head Start teachers in order to
reflect the communities in which Head Start children live and
to increase the provision of quality services and instruction
to children with diverse backgrounds.
``(d) Funds to Agencies.--Funds made available under
section 640(a)(2)(C)(i)(II)(aa) shall be used by a Head Start
agency to provide high-quality, sustained, and intensive
training and technical assistance as follows:
``(1) For 1 or more of the following:
``(A) Activities that ensure that Head
Start programs meet or exceed the standards
described in section 641A(a)(1).
``(B) Activities that ensure that Head
Start programs have adequate numbers of
trained, qualified staff who have skills in
working with children and families, including
children and families who are limited English
proficient and children with disabilities and
their families.
``(C) Activities to improve the management
and implementation of Head Start services and
systems, including direct training for expert
consultants working with staff.
``(D) Activities that help ensure that Head
Start programs have qualified staff who can
promote language skills and literacy growth of
children and who can provide children with a
variety of skills that have been identified as
predictive of later reading achievement, school
success, and the skills, knowledge, abilities,
development, and progress described in section
641A(a)(1)(B)(ii).
``(E) Activities to improve staff
qualifications and to assist with the
implementation of career development programs
and to encourage the staff to continually
improve their skills and expertise, including
developing partnerships with programs that
recruit, train, place, and support college
students in Head Start centers to deliver an
innovative early learning program to preschool
children.
``(F) Activities that help local programs
ensure that the arrangement, condition, and
implementation of the learning environments in
Head Start programs are conducive to providing
effective program services to children and
families.
``(G) Activities to provide training
necessary to improve the qualifications of Head
Start staff and to support staff training,
child counseling, health services, and other
services necessary to address the needs of
children enrolled in Head Start programs,
including children from families in crises,
children who experience chronic violence or
homelessness, children who experience substance
abuse in their families, and children under 3
years of age, where applicable.
``(H) Activities to provide classes or in-
service-type programs to improve or enhance
parenting skills, job skills, and adult and
family literacy, including financial literacy,
or training to become a classroom aide or bus
driver in a Head Start program.
``(I) Additional activities deemed
appropriate to the improvement of Head Start
programs, as determined by the technical
assistance and training plans of the Head Start
agencies.
``(2) To support enhanced early language and
literacy development of children in Head Start
programs, and to provide the children with high-quality
oral language skills and with environments that are
rich in literature in which to acquire language and
early literacy skills. Each Head Start agency, in
consultation with the State-based training and
technical assistance system, as appropriate, shall
ensure that--
``(A) all of the agency's Head Start
teachers receive ongoing training in language
and emergent literacy (referred to in this
subsection as `literacy training'), including
appropriate curricula and assessment to improve
instruction and learning;
``(B) such literacy training shall include
training in methods to promote vocabulary
development and phonological awareness
(including phonemic awareness) in a
developmentally, culturally, and linguistically
appropriate manner and support children's
development in their native language;
``(C) the literacy training shall include
training in how to work with parents to enhance
positive language and early literacy
development at home;
``(D) the literacy training shall include
specific methods to best address the needs of
children who are limited English proficient;
``(E) the literacy training shall include
training on how to best address the language
and literacy needs of children with
disabilities, including training on how to work
with specialists in language development; and
``(F) the literacy training shall be
tailored to the early childhood literacy
background and experience of the teachers
involved;
except that funds made available under section
640(a)(2)(C)(i) shall not be used for long-distance
travel expenses for training activities available
locally or regionally or for training activities
substantially similar to locally or regionally
available training activities.
``(e) State-Based Training and Technical Assistance
System.--For the purposes of delivering a State-based training
and technical assistance system (which may include a consortium
of 2 or more States within a region) or a national system in
the case of migrant or seasonal Head Start and Indian Head
Start programs, as described in section
640(a)(2)(C)(i)(II)(bb), that will meet the needs of local
grantees, as determined by such grantees, and provide high-
quality, sustained, and intensive training and technical
assistance to Head Start agencies and programs in order to
improve their capacity to deliver services that meet or exceed
the standards described in section 641A(a)(1), the Secretary
shall--
``(1) enter into contracts in each State with 1 or
more entities that have a demonstrated expertise in
supporting the delivery of high-quality early childhood
education and development programs, except that
contracts for a consortium of 2 or more States within a
geographic region may be entered into if such a system
is more appropriate to better meet the needs of local
grantees within a region, as determined by such
grantees;
``(2) ensure that the entities described in
subparagraph (1) determine the types of services to be
provided through consultation with--
``(A) local Head Start agencies (including
Indian Head Start agencies and migrant or
seasonal Head Start agencies, as appropriate);
``(B) the State Head Start collaboration
office; and
``(C) the State Head Start Association;
``(3) encourage States to supplement the funds
authorized in section 640(a)(2)(C)(i)(II)(bb) with
Federal, State, or local funds other than funds made
available under this subchapter, to expand training and
technical assistance activities beyond Head Start
agencies to include other providers of other early
childhood education and development programs within a
State;
``(4) provide a report to the Committee on
Education and Labor of the House of Representatives and
the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions
of the Senate, not later than 90 days after the end of
the fiscal year, summarizing the funding for such
contracts and the activities carried out thereunder;
``(5) periodically evaluate the effectiveness of
the delivery of services in each State in promoting
program quality; and
``(6) ensure that in entering into such contracts
as described in paragraph (1), such entities will
address the needs of grantees in both urban and rural
communities.
``(f) Indoor Air Quality.--The Secretary shall consult with
appropriate Federal agencies and other experts, as appropriate,
on issues of air quality related to children's health and
inform Head Start agencies of existing programs or combination
of programs that provide methods for improving indoor air
quality.
``(g) Career Advancement Partnership Program.--
``(1) Authority.--From amounts allocated under
section 640(a)(2)(C) the Secretary is authorized to
award demonstration grants, for a period of not less
than 5 years, to historically Black colleges and
universities, Hispanic-serving institutions, and Tribal
Colleges and Universities--
``(A) to implement education programs that
increase the number of associate,
baccalaureate, and graduate degrees in early
childhood education and related fields that are
earned by Head Start agency staff members,
parents of children served by such agencies,
and members of the communities involved;
``(B) to provide assistance for stipends
and costs related to tuition, fees, and books
for enrolling Head Start agency staff members,
parents of children served by such an agency,
and members of the communities involved in
courses required to complete the degree and
certification requirement to become teachers in
early childhood education and related fields;
``(C) to develop program curricula to
promote high-quality services and instruction
to children with diverse backgrounds,
including--
``(i) in the case of historically
Black colleges and universities, to
help Head Start Agency staff members
develop skills and expertise needed to
teach in programs serving large numbers
of African American children;
``(ii) in the case of Hispanic-
serving institutions, programs to help
Head Start Agency staff members develop
skills and expertise needed to teach in
programs serving large numbers of
Hispanic children, including programs
to develop the linguistic skills and
expertise needed to teach in programs
serving a large number of children with
limited English proficiency; and
``(iii) in the case of Tribal
Colleges and Universities, to help Head
Start Agency staff members develop
skills and expertise needed to teach in
programs serving large numbers of
Indian children, including programs
concerning tribal culture and language;
``(D) to provide other activities to
upgrade the skills and qualifications of
educational personnel to meet the professional
standards in subsection (a) to better promote
high-quality services and instruction to
children and parents from populations served by
historically Black colleges and universities,
Hispanic-serving institutions, or Tribal
Colleges and Universities;
``(E) to provide technology literacy
programs for Indian Head Start agency staff
members and families of children served by such
agency; and
``(F) to develop and implement the programs
described under subparagraph (A) in technology-
mediated formats, including through such means
as distance learning and use of advanced
technology, as appropriate.
``(2) Other assistance.--The Secretary shall, using
resources within the Department of Health and Human
Services--
``(A) provide appropriate technical
assistance to historically Black colleges and
universities, Hispanic-serving institutions,
and Tribal Colleges and Universities receiving
grants under this section, including
coordinating with the White House Initiative on
historically Black colleges and universities;
and
``(B) ensure that the American Indian
Programs Branch of the Office of Head Start of
the Administration for Children and Families of
the Department of Health and Human Services can
effectively administer the programs under this
section and provide appropriate technical
assistance to Tribal Colleges and Universities
under this section.
``(3) Application.--Each historically Black college
or university, Hispanic-serving institution, or Tribal
College or University desiring a grant under this
section shall submit an application, in partnership
with at least 1 Head Start agency enrolling large
numbers of students from the populations served by
historically Black colleges and universities, Hispanic-
serving institutions, or Tribal Colleges and
Universities, to the Secretary, at such time, in such
manner, and containing such information as the
Secretary may require, including a certification that
the institution of higher education has established a
formal partnership with 1 or more Head Start agencies
for the purposes of conducting the activities described
in paragraph (1).
``(4) Definitions.--In this subsection:
``(A) The term `Hispanic-serving
institution' has the meaning given such term in
section 502 of the Higher Education Act of 1965
(20 U.S.C. 1101a).
``(B) The term `historically Black college
or university' has the meaning given the term
`part B institution' in section 322(2) of the
Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C.
1061(2)).
``(C) The term `Tribal College or
University' has the meaning given such term in
section 316(b) of the Higher Education Act of
1965 (20 U.S.C. 1059c(b)).
``(5) Teaching requirement.--A student at an
institution receiving a grant under this subsection who
receives assistance under a program funded under this
subsection shall teach in a center-based Head Start
program for a period of time equivalent to the period
for which they received assistance or shall repay such
assistance.''.
SEC. 19. STAFF QUALIFICATIONS AND DEVELOPMENT.
Section 648A of the Head Start Act (42 U.S.C. 9843a) is
amended--
(1) by amending subsection (a) to read as follows:
``(a) Classroom Teachers.--
``(1) Professional requirements.--The Secretary
shall ensure that each Head Start classroom in a
center-based program is assigned 1 teacher who has
demonstrated competency to perform functions that
include--
``(A) planning and implementing learning
experiences that advance the intellectual and
physical development of children, including
improving the readiness of children for school
by developing their literacy, phonemic, and
print awareness, their understanding and use of
language, their understanding and use of
increasingly complex and varied vocabulary,
their appreciation of books, their
understanding of early math and early science,
their problem-solving abilities, and their
approaches to learning;
``(B) establishing and maintaining a safe,
healthy learning environment;
``(C) supporting the social and emotional
development of children; and
``(D) encouraging the involvement of the
families of the children in a Head Start
program and supporting the development of
relationships between children and their
families.
``(2) Degree requirements.--
``(A) Head start teachers.--The Secretary
shall ensure that not later than September 30,
2013, at least 50 percent of Head Start
teachers nationwide in center-based programs
have--
``(i) a baccalaureate or advanced
degree in early childhood education; or
``(ii) a baccalaureate or advanced
degree and coursework equivalent to a
major relating to early childhood
education, with experience teaching
preschool-age children.
``(B) Additional staff.--The Secretary
shall ensure that, not later than September 30,
2013, all--
``(i) Head Start education
coordinators, including those that
serve as curriculum specialists,
nationwide in center-based programs--
``(I) have the capacity to
offer assistance to other
teachers in the implementation
and adaptation of curricula to
the group and individual needs
of children in a Head Start
classroom; and
``(II) have--
``(aa) a
baccalaureate or
advanced degree in
early childhood
education; or
``(bb) a
baccalaureate or
advanced degree and
coursework equivalent
to a major relating to
early childhood
education, with
experience teaching
preschool-age children;
and
``(ii) Head Start teaching
assistants nationwide in center-based
programs have--
``(I) at least a child
development associate
credential;
``(II) enrolled in a
program leading to an associate
or baccalaureate degree; or
``(III) enrolled in a child
development associate
credential program to be
completed within 2 years.
``(C) Progress.--
``(i) Implementation.--The
Secretary shall--
``(I) require Head Start
agencies to--
``(aa) describe
continuing progress
each year toward
achieving the goals
described in
subparagraphs (A) and
(B); and
``(bb) annually
submit to the Secretary
a report indicating the
number and percentage
of classroom personnel
described in
subparagraphs (A) and
(B) in center-based
programs with child
development associate
credentials or
associate,
baccalaureate, or
advanced degrees;
``(II) compile and submit a
summary of all program reports
described in subclause (I)(bb)
to the Committee on Education
and Labor of the House of
Representatives and the
Committee on Health, Education,
Labor, and Pensions of the
Senate; and
``(III) not impose any
penalties or sanctions on any
individual Head Start agency,
program, or staff in the
monitoring of local agencies
and programs under this
subchapter not meeting the
requirements of subparagraph
(A) or (B).
``(D) Construction.--In this paragraph a
reference to a Head Start agency, or its
program, services, facility, or personnel,
shall not be considered to be a reference to an
Early Head Start agency, or its program,
services, facility, or personnel.
``(3) Alternative credentialing and degree
requirements.--The Secretary shall ensure that, for
center-based programs, each Head Start classroom that
does not have a teacher who meets the qualifications
described in clause (i) or (ii) of paragraph (2)(A) is
assigned one teacher who has the following during the
period specified:
``(A) Through September 30, 2011--
``(i) a child development associate
credential that is appropriate to the
age of children being served in center-
based programs;
``(ii) a State-awarded certificate
for preschool teachers that meets or
exceeds the requirements for a child
development associate credential;
``(iii) an associate degree in
early childhood education;
``(iv) an associate degree in a
related field and coursework equivalent
to a major relating to early childhood
education, with experience teaching
preschool-age children; or
``(v) a baccalaureate degree and
has been admitted into the Teach For
America program, passed a rigorous
early childhood content exam, such as
the Praxis II, participated in a Teach
For America summer training institute
that includes teaching preschool
children, and is receiving ongoing
professional development and support
from Teach For America's professional
staff.
``(B) As of October 1, 2011--
``(i) an associate degree in early
childhood education;
``(ii) an associate degree in a
related field and coursework equivalent
to a major relating to early childhood
education, with experience teaching
preschool-age children; or
``(iii) a baccalaureate degree and
has been admitted into the Teach For
America program, passed a rigorous
early childhood content exam, such as
the Praxis II, participated in a Teach
For America summer training institute
that includes teaching preschool
children, and is receiving ongoing
professional development and support
from Teach For America's professional
staff.
``(4) Waiver.--On request, the Secretary shall
grant--
``(A) through September 30, 2011, a 180-day
waiver ending on or before September 30, 2011,
of the requirements of paragraph (3)(A) for a
Head Start agency that can demonstrate that the
agency has attempted unsuccessfully to recruit
an individual who has the qualifications
described in any of clauses (i) through (iv) of
paragraph (3)(A) with respect to an individual
who--
``(i) is enrolled in a program that
grants a credential, certificate, or
degree described in clauses (i) through
(iv) of paragraph (3)(A); and
``(ii) will receive such
credential, certificate, or degree
under the terms of such program not
later than 180 days after beginning
employment as a teacher with such
agency; and
``(B) as of October 1, 2011, a 3-year
waiver of the requirements of paragraph (3)(B)
for a Head Start agency that can demonstrate
that--
``(i) the agency has attempted
unsuccessfully to recruit an individual
who has the qualifications described in
clause (i) or (ii) of such paragraph,
with respect to an individual who is
enrolled in a program that grants a
degree described in clause (i) or (ii)
of such paragraph and will receive such
degree in a reasonable time; and
``(ii) each Head Start classroom
has a teacher who has, at a minimum--
``(I) a child development
associate credential that is
appropriate to the age of
children being served in
center-based programs; or
``(II) a State-awarded
certificate for preschool
teachers that meets or exceeds
the requirements for a child
development associate
credential.
``(5) Teacher in-service requirement.--Each Head
Start teacher shall attend not less than 15 clock hours
of professional development per year. Such professional
development shall be high-quality, sustained,
intensive, and classroom-focused in order to have a
positive and lasting impact on classroom instruction
and the teacher's performance in the classroom, and
regularly evaluated by the program for effectiveness.
``(6) Service requirements.--The Secretary shall
establish requirements to ensure that, in order to
enable Head Start agencies to comply with the
requirements of paragraph (2)(A), individuals who
receive financial assistance under this subchapter to
pursue a degree described in paragraph (2)(A) shall--
``(A) teach or work in a Head Start program
for a minimum of 3 years after receiving the
degree; or
``(B) repay the total or a prorated amount
of the financial assistance received based on
the length of service completed after receiving
the degree.
``(7) Use of funds.--The Secretary shall require
that any Federal funds provided directly or indirectly
to comply with paragraph (2)(A) shall be used toward
degrees awarded by an institution of higher education,
as defined by section 101 or 102 of the Higher
Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1001, 1002).'';
(2) by amending subsection (c) to read as follows:
``(c) Family Service Workers.--To improve the quality and
effectiveness of staff providing in-home and other services
(including needs assessment, development of service plans,
family advocacy, and coordination of service delivery) to
families of children participating in Head Start programs, the
Secretary, in coordination with concerned public and private
agencies and organizations examining the issues of standards
and training for family service workers, shall--
``(1) review and, as necessary, revise or develop
new qualification standards for Head Start staff
providing such services;
``(2) review, and as necessary, revise or develop
maximum caseload requirements, as suggested by best
practices;
``(3) promote the development of model curricula
(on subjects including parenting training and family
literacy) designed to ensure the attainment of
appropriate competencies by individuals working or
planning to work in the field of early childhood and
family services;
``(4) promote the establishment of a credential
that indicates attainment of the competencies and that
is accepted nationwide; and
``(5) promote the use of appropriate strategies to
meet the needs of special populations (including
populations of limited English proficient children).'';
(3) in subsection (d)--
(A) in paragraph (3)(C), by inserting
``(including a center)'' after ``agency''; and
(B) in paragraph (6), by striking ``amounts
appropriated under this subchapter and allotted
under section 640(a)(2)(D)'' and inserting
``amounts made available under section
640(a)(2)(E)''; and
(4) by adding at the end the following:
``(f) Professional Development Plans.--Each Head Start
agency and program shall create, in consultation with an
employee, a professional development plan for all full-time
Head Start employees who provide direct services to children
and shall ensure that such plans are regularly evaluated for
their impact on teacher and staff effectiveness. The agency and
the employee shall implement the plan to the extent feasible
and practicable.
``(g) Staff Recruitment and Selection Procedures.--Before a
Head Start agency employs an individual, such agency shall--
``(1) conduct an interview of such individual;
``(2) verify the personal and employment references
provided by such individual; and
``(3) obtain--
``(A) a State, tribal, or Federal criminal
record check covering all jurisdictions where
the grantee provides Head Start services to
children;
``(B) a State, tribal, or Federal criminal
record check as required by the law of the
jurisdiction where the grantee provides Head
Start services; or
``(C) a criminal record check as otherwise
required by Federal law.''.
SEC. 20. RESEARCH, DEMONSTRATIONS, AND EVALUATION.
Section 649 of the Head Start Act (42 U.S.C. 9844) is
amended--
(1) by amending subsection (a)(1)(B) to read as
follows:
``(B) use the Head Start programs to
develop, test, and disseminate new ideas based
on existing scientifically valid research, for
addressing the needs of low-income preschool
children (including children with disabilities,
homeless children, children who have been
abused or neglected, and children in foster
care) and their families and communities
(including demonstrations of innovative non-
center-based program models such as home-based
and mobile programs), and otherwise to further
the purposes of this subchapter.'';
(2) in subsection (d)--
(A) in paragraph (8), by adding ``and'' at
the end;
(B) by striking paragraphs (9) and (10),
and inserting the following:
``(10)(A) contribute to understanding the impact of
Head Start services delivered in classrooms which
include both children with disabilities and children
without disabilities, on all of the children; and
``(B) disseminate promising practices for
increasing the availability and quality of such
services and such classrooms.'';
(C) in paragraph (5), by striking ``early
childhood education, or child development
services'' and inserting ``early childhood
education and development or services
programs'';
(D) by redesignating paragraphs (5) through
(8) as paragraphs (6) through (9),
respectively;
(E) by inserting after paragraph (4) the
following:
``(5)(A) identify successful strategies that
promote good oral health and provide effective linkages
to quality dental services through pediatric dental
referral networks, for infants and toddlers
participating in Early Head Start programs and children
participating in other Head Start programs; and
``(B) identify successful strategies that promote
good vision health through vision screenings for such
infants, toddlers, and children, and referrals for
appropriate followup care for those identified as
having a vision problem;''; and
(F) by striking the last sentence; and
(3) in subsection (e)(3), by striking ``child care,
early childhood education, or child development
services'' and inserting ``early childhood education
and development services or programs'';
(4) in subsection (g) by amending paragraph (7)(C)
to read as follows:
``(C) Transmittal of report to congress.--
Not later than September 30, 2009, the
Secretary shall transmit the final report to
the Committee on Education and Labor of the
House of Representatives and the Committee on
Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of the
Senate.''; and
(5) by striking subsection (h) and inserting the
following:
``(h) Limited English Proficient Children.--
``(1) Study.--Not later than 1 year after the date
of enactment of the Improving Head Start for School
Readiness Act of 2007, the Secretary shall conduct a
study on the status of limited English proficient
children and their families participating in Head Start
programs (including Early Head Start programs).
``(2) Report.--The Secretary shall prepare and
submit to the Committee on Education and Labor of the
House of Representatives and the Committee on Health,
Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate, not later
than September 30, 2010, a report containing the
results of the study, including information on--
``(A) the demographics of limited English
proficient children from birth through age 5,
including the number of such children receiving
Head Start services and Early Head Start
services, and the geographic distribution of
children described in this subparagraph;
``(B) the nature of the Head Start services
and of the Early Head Start services provided
to limited English proficient children and
their families, including the types, content,
duration, intensity, and costs of family
services, language assistance, and educational
services;
``(C) procedures in Head Start programs and
Early Head Start programs for the assessment of
language needs and the transition of limited
English proficient children to kindergarten,
including the extent to which such programs
meet the requirements of section 642A for
limited English proficient children;
``(D) the qualifications and training
provided to Head Start teachers and Early Head
Start teachers who serve limited English
proficient children and their families;
``(E) the languages in which Head Start
teachers and Early Head Start teachers are
fluent, in relation to the population, and
instructional needs, of the children served;
``(F) the rate of progress made by limited
English proficient children and their families
in Head Start programs and in Early Head Start
programs, including--
``(i) the rate of progress made by
limited English proficient children
toward meeting the additional
educational standards described in
section 641A(a)(1)(B)(ii) while
enrolled in such programs;
``(ii) a description of the type of
assessment or assessments used to
determine the rate of progress made by
limited English proficient children;
``(iii) the correlation between
such progress and the type and quality
of instruction and educational programs
provided to limited English proficient
children; and
``(iv) the correlation between such
progress and the health and family
services provided by such programs to
limited English proficient children and
their families; and
``(G) the extent to which Head Start
programs and Early Head Start programs make use
of funds under section 640(a)(2)(D) to improve
the quality of such services provided to
limited English proficient children and their
families.
``(i) Research and Evaluation Activities Relevant to
Diverse Communities.--For purposes of conducting the study
described in subsection (h), activities described in section
640(l)(5)(A), and other research and evaluation activities
relevant to limited English proficient children and their
families, migrant and seasonal farmworker families, and other
families from diverse populations served by Head Start
programs, the Secretary shall award, on a competitive basis,
funds from amounts made available under section 640(a)(2)(D) to
1 or more organizations with a demonstrated capacity for
serving and studying the populations involved.
``(j) Review of Assessments.--
``(1) Application of study.--When the study on
Developmental Outcomes and Assessments for Young
Children by the National Academy of Sciences is made
available to the Secretary, the Secretary shall--
``(A) integrate the results of the study,
as appropriate and in accordance with
paragraphs (2) and (3), into each assessment
used in Head Start programs; and
``(B) use the results of the study to
develop, inform, and revise as appropriate the
standards and measures described in section
641A, consistent with section
641A(a)(2)(C)(ii).
``(2) Inform and revise.--In informing and revising
any assessment used in the Head Start programs, the
Secretary shall--
``(A) receive recommendations from the
Panel on Developmental Outcomes and Assessments
for Young Children of the National Academy of
Sciences; and
``(B) with respect to the development or
refinement of such assessment, ensure--
``(i) consistency with relevant,
nationally recognized professional and
technical standards;
``(ii) validity and reliability for
all purposes for which assessments
under this subchapter are designed and
used;
``(iii) developmental and
linguistic appropriateness of such
assessments for children assessed,
including children who are limited
English proficient; and
``(iv) that the results can be used
to improve the quality of,
accountability of, and training and
technical assistance in, Head Start
programs.
``(3) Additional requirements.--The Secretary, in
carrying out the process described in paragraph (2),
shall ensure that--
``(A) staff administering any assessments
under this subchapter have received appropriate
training to administer such assessments;
``(B) appropriate accommodations for
children with disabilities and children who are
limited English proficient are made;
``(C) the English and Spanish (and any
other language, as appropriate) forms of such
assessments are valid and reliable in the
languages in which they are administered; and
``(D) such assessments are not used to
exclude children from Head Start programs.
``(4) Suspended implementation of national
reporting system.--The Secretary shall suspend
implementation and terminate further development and
use of the National Reporting System.
``(k) Indian Head Start Study.--The Secretary shall--
``(1) work in collaboration with the Head Start
agencies that carry out Indian Head Start programs, the
Indian Head Start collaboration director, and other
appropriate entities, including tribal governments and
the National Indian Head Start Directors Association--
``(A) to undertake a study or set of
studies designed to focus on the American
Indian and Alaska Native Head Start-eligible
population, with a focus on issues such as
curriculum development, availability and need
for services, appropriate research
methodologies and measures for these
populations, and best practices for teaching
and educating American Indian and Alaska Native
Head Start Children;
``(B) to accurately determine the number of
children nationwide who are eligible to
participate in Indian Head Start programs each
year;
``(C) to document how many of these
children are receiving Head Start services each
year;
``(D) to the extent practicable, to ensure
that access to Indian Head Start programs for
eligible children is comparable to access to
other Head Start programs for other eligible
children; and
``(E) to make the funding decisions
required in section 640(a)(4)(D)(ii), after
completion of the studies required in that
section, taking into account:
``(i) the Federal government's
unique trust responsibility to American
Indians and Alaska Natives;
``(ii) limitations faced by tribal
communities in accessing non-Federal
sources of funding to supplement
Federal funding for early childhood
programs; and
``(iii) other factors that uniquely
and adversely impact children in
American Indian and Alaska Native
communities such as highly elevated
poverty, unemployment and violent crime
rates, as well as depressed levels of
educational achievement and limited
access to non-Federal health, social
and educational resources;
``(2) in carrying out paragraph (1), consult with
the Secretary of Education about the Department of
Education's systems for collecting and reporting data
about, and maintaining records on, American Indian and
Alaska Native students;
``(3) not later than 9 months after the effective
date of this subsection, publish in the Federal
Register a notice of how the Secretary plans to carry
out paragraph (1) and shall provide a period for public
comment. To the extent practicable, the Secretary shall
consider comments received before submitting a report
to the Congress;
``(4) not later than 1 year after the effective
date of this subsection, submit a report to the
Committee on Education and Labor of the House of
Representatives and the Committee on Health, Education,
Labor, and Pensions of the Senate, detailing how the
Department of Health and Human Services plans to carry
out paragraph (1);
``(5) through regulation, ensure the
confidentiality of any personally identifiable data,
information, and records collected or maintained by the
Secretary, by Head Start agencies that carry out Indian
Head Start programs, and by State Directors of Head
Start Collaboration, by the Indian Head Start
Collaboration Project Director and by other appropriate
entities pursuant to this subsection (such regulations
shall provide the policies, protections, and rights
equivalent to those provided a parent, student, or
educational agency or institution under section 444 of
the General Education Provisions Act.); and
``(6) ensure that nothing in this subsection shall
be construed to authorize the development of a
nationwide database of personally identifiable
information on individuals involved in studies or other
collections of data under this subsection.
``(l) Migrant and Seasonal Head Start Program Study.--
``(1) Data.--In order to increase access to Head
Start services for children of migrant and seasonal
farmworkers, the Secretary shall work in collaboration
with providers of migrant and seasonal Head Start
programs, the Secretary of Agriculture, the Secretary
of Labor, the Bureau of Migrant Health, and the
Secretary of Education to--
``(A) collect, report, and share data,
within a coordinated system, on children of
migrant and seasonal farmworkers and their
families, including health records and
educational documents of such children, in
order to adequately account for the number of
children of migrant and seasonal farmworkers
who are eligible for Head Start services and
determine how many of such children receive the
services; and
``(B) identify barriers that prevent
children of migrant and seasonal farmworkers
who are eligible for Head Start services from
accessing Head Start services, and develop a
plan for eliminating such barriers, including
certain requirements relating to tracking,
health records, and educational documents, and
increasing enrollment.
``(2) Publication of plan.--Not later than 1 year
after the date of enactment of the Improving Head Start
for School Readiness Act of 2007, the Secretary shall
publish in the Federal Register a notice about how the
Secretary plans to implement the activities identified
in paragraph (1) and shall provide a period for public
comment. To the extent practicable, the Secretary shall
consider comments received before implementing any of
the activities identified in paragraph (1).
``(3) Report.--Not later than 18 months after the
date of enactment of the Improving Head Start for
School Readiness Act of 2007, and annually thereafter,
the Secretary shall submit a report to the Committee on
Education and Labor of the House of Representatives and
the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions
of the Senate detailing how the Secretary plans to
implement the activities identified in paragraph (1),
including the progress made in reaching out to and
serving eligible children of migrant and seasonal
farmworkers, and information on States where such
children are still underserved.
``(4) Protection of confidentiality.--The Secretary
shall, through regulation, ensure the protection of the
confidentiality of any personally identifiable data,
information, and records collected or maintained by the
Secretary, by Head Start agencies that carry out
migrant or seasonal Head Start programs, by the State
director of Head Start Collaboration, and by the
Migrant and Seasonal Farmworker Collaboration project
Director (such regulations shall provide the policies,
protections, and rights equivalent to those provided a
parent, student, or educational agency or institution
under section 444 of the General Education Provisions
Act (20 U.S.C. 1232g)).
``(5) Rule of construction.--Nothing in this
subsection shall be construed to authorize the
development of a nationwide database of personally
identifiable data, information, or records on
individuals involved in studies or other collections of
data under this subsection.
``(m) Program Emergency Preparedness.--
``(1) Purpose.--The purpose of this subsection is
to evaluate the emergency preparedness of the Head
Start programs, including Early Head Start programs,
and make recommendations for how Head Start shall
enhance its readiness to respond to an emergency.
``(2) Study.--The Secretary shall evaluate the
Federal, State, and local preparedness of Head Start
programs, including Early Head Start programs, to
respond appropriately in the event of a large-scale
emergency, such as the hurricanes Katrina, Rita, and
Wilma, the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, or
other incidents where assistance may be warranted under
the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency
Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5121 et seq.).
``(3) Report to congress.--Not later than 18 months
after the date of the enactment of the Improving Head
Start for School Readiness Act of 2007, the Secretary
shall prepare and submit to Committee on Education and
Labor of the House of Representatives and the Committee
on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate
a report containing the results of the evaluation
required under paragraph (2), including--
``(A) recommendations for improvements to
Federal, State, and local preparedness and
response capabilities to large-scale
emergencies, including those that were
developed in response to hurricanes Katrina,
Rita, and Wilma, as they relate to Head Start
programs, including Early Head Start programs,
and the Secretary's plan to implement such
recommendations;
``(B) an evaluation of the procedures for
informing families of children in Head Start
programs about the program protocols for
response to a large-scale emergency, including
procedures for communicating with such families
in the event of a large-scale emergency;
``(C) an evaluation of such procedures for
staff training on State and local evacuation
and emergency protocols; and
``(D) an evaluation of procedures for Head
Start agencies and the Secretary to coordinate
with appropriate Federal, State, and local
emergency management agencies in the event of a
large scale emergency and recommendations to
improve such procedures.''.
SEC. 21. REPORTS.
Section 650 of the Head Start Act (42 U.S.C. 9846) is
amended--
(1) in subsection (a)--
(A) in the matter preceding paragraph (1)--
(i) by striking ``Education and the
Workforce'' and inserting ``Education
and Labor'';
(ii) by striking ``Labor and Human
Resources'' and inserting ``Health,
Education, Labor, and Pensions''; and
(iii) by striking ``(including
disabled and non-English language
background children)'' and inserting
``(including children with
disabilities, limited English
proficient children, homeless children,
children in foster care, and children
participating in Indian Head Start
programs and migrant or seasonal Head
Start programs)'';
(B) in paragraph (2), by inserting before
the semicolon the following: ``, and
information on the number of children served
under this subsection, disaggregated by type of
eligibility criterion'';
(C) in paragraph (3), by striking ``funds
expended'' and all that follows through
``640(a)(3),'' and inserting ``funds made
available under section 640(a)'';
(D) in paragraph (8), by inserting
``homelessness, whether the child is in foster
care or was referred by a child welfare
agency,'' after ``background,'';
(E) in paragraph (12), by inserting
``vision care,'' after ``dental care,'';
(F) in paragraph (14)--
(i) by striking ``Alaskan Natives''
and inserting ``Alaska Natives''; and
(ii) by striking ``seasonal
farmworkers'' and inserting ``seasonal
farmworker families''; and
(G) in the flush matter at the end--
(i) by striking ``Education and the
Workforce'' and inserting ``Education
and Labor''; and
(ii) by striking ``Labor and Human
Resources'' and inserting ``Health,
Education, Labor, and Pensions'';
(2) in subsection (b)--
(A) by striking ``Education and the
Workforce'' and inserting ``Education and
Labor'';
(B) by striking ``Labor and Human
Resources'' and inserting ``Health, Education,
Labor, and Pensions''; and
(C) by striking ``Native Alaskan'' and
inserting ``Alaska Native''; and
(3) by adding at the end the following:
``(c) Fiscal Protocol.--
``(1) In general.--The Secretary shall conduct an
annual review to assess whether the design and
implementation of the triennial reviews described in
section 641A(c) include compliance procedures that
provide reasonable assurances that Head Start agencies
are complying with applicable fiscal laws and
regulations.
``(2) Report.--Not later than 30 days after the
date the Secretary completes the annual review under
paragraph (1), the Secretary shall report the findings
and conclusions of the annual review to the Committee
on Education and Labor of the House of Representatives
and the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and
Pensions of the Senate.
``(d) Disability-Related Services.--
``(1) In general.--The Secretary shall track the
provision of disability-related services for children,
in order to--
``(A) determine whether Head Start agencies
are making timely referrals to the State or
local agency responsible for providing services
under section 619 or part C of the Individuals
with Disabilities Education Act (20 U.S.C.
1419, 1431 et seq.);
``(B) identify barriers to timely
evaluations and eligibility determinations by
the State or local agency responsible for
providing services under section 619 or part C
of the Individuals with Disabilities Education
Act; and
``(C) determine under what circumstances
and for what length of time Head Start agencies
are providing disability-related services for
children who have not been determined under the
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (20
U.S.C. 1400 et seq.) to be children with
disabilities.
``(2) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date
of enactment of the Improving Head Start for School
Readiness Act of 2007, the Secretary shall provide a
report to the Committee on Education and Labor of the
House of Representatives and the Committee on Health,
Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate on the
activities described in paragraph (1).
``(e) Evaluation and Recommendations Regarding Obesity
Prevention.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment
of the Improving Head Start for School Readiness Act of 2007
the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Education and
Labor of the House of Representatives and the Committee on
Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate a report
on the Secretary's progress in assisting program efforts to
prevent and reduce obesity in children who participate in Head
Start programs, including progress on implementing initiatives
within the Head Start program to prevent and reduce obesity in
such children.''.
SEC. 22. COMPARABILITY OF WAGES.
Section 653 of the Head Start Act (42 U.S.C. 9848) is
amended--
(1) by striking ``The Secretary shall take'' and
inserting ``(a) Comparability of Wages.--The Secretary
shall take''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following:
``(b) Limitation.--
``(1) In general.--Notwithstanding any other
provision of law, no Federal funds may be used to pay
any part of the compensation of an individual employed
by a Head Start agency, if such compensation, including
non-Federal funds, exceeds an amount equal to the rate
payable for level II of the Executive Schedule under
section 5313 of title 5, United States Code.
``(2) Compensation.--In this subsection, the term
`compensation'--
``(A) includes salary, bonuses, periodic
payments, severance pay, the value of any
vacation time, the value of a compensatory or
paid leave benefit not excluded by subparagraph
(B), and the fair market value of any employee
perquisite or benefit not excluded by
subparagraph (B); and
``(B) excludes any Head Start agency
expenditure for a health, medical, life
insurance, disability, retirement, or any other
employee welfare or pension benefit.''.
SEC. 23. LIMITATION WITH RESPECT TO CERTAIN UNLAWFUL ACTIVITIES.
Section 655 of the Head Start Act (42 U.S.C. 9850) is
amended by inserting ``or in'' after ``assigned by''.
SEC. 24. POLITICAL ACTIVITIES.
Section 656 of the Head Start Act (42 U.S.C. 9851) is
amended--
(1) by striking all that precedes ``chapter 15''
and inserting the following:
``SEC. 656. POLITICAL ACTIVITIES.
``(a) State or Local Agency.--For purposes of''; and
(2) by striking subsection (b) and inserting the
following:
``(b) Restrictions.--
``(1) In general.--A program assisted under this
subchapter, and any individual employed by, or assigned
to or in, a program assisted under this subchapter
(during the hours in which such individual is working
on behalf of such program), shall not engage in--
``(A) any partisan or nonpartisan political
activity or any other political activity
associated with a candidate, or contending
faction or group, in an election for public or
party office; or
``(B) any activity to provide voters or
prospective voters with transportation to the
polls or similar assistance in connection with
any such election.
``(2) Registration.--No funds appropriated under
this subchapter may be used to conduct voter
registration activities. Nothing in this subchapter
prohibits the availability of Head Start facilities
during hours of operation for the use of any
nonpartisan organization to increase the number of
eligible citizens who register to vote in elections for
Federal office.
``(3) Rules and regulations.--The Secretary, after
consultation with the Director of the Office of
Personnel Management, may issue rules and regulations
to provide for the enforcement of this section, which
may include provisions for summary suspension of
assistance or other action necessary to permit
enforcement on an emergency basis.''.
SEC. 25. PARENTAL CONSENT REQUIREMENT FOR HEALTH SERVICES.
The Head Start Act (42 U.S.C. 9831 et seq.) is amended by
adding at the end the following:
``SEC. 657A. PARENTAL CONSENT REQUIREMENT FOR NONEMERGENCY INTRUSIVE
PHYSICAL EXAMINATIONS.
``(a) Definition.--The term `nonemergency intrusive
physical examination' means, with respect to a child, a
physical examination that--
``(1) is not immediately necessary to protect the
health or safety of the child involved or the health or
safety of another individual; and
``(2) requires incision or is otherwise invasive,
or involves exposure of private body parts.
``(b) Requirement.--A Head Start agency shall obtain
written parental consent before administration of any
nonemergency intrusive physical examination of a child in
connection with participation in a program under this
subchapter.
``(c) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in this section shall
be construed to prohibit agencies from using established
methods, for handling cases of suspected or known child abuse
and neglect, that are in compliance with applicable Federal,
State, or tribal law.''.
SEC. 26. CENTERS OF EXCELLENCE IN EARLY CHILDHOOD.
The Head Start Act (42 U.S.C. 9831 et seq.), as amended by
section 25, is further amended by adding at the end the
following:
``SEC. 657B. CENTERS OF EXCELLENCE IN EARLY CHILDHOOD.
``(a) Definition.--In this section, the term `center of
excellence' means a Center of Excellence in Early Childhood
designated under subsection (b).
``(b) Designation and Bonus Grants.--The Secretary shall,
subject to the availability of funds under this section,
establish a program under which the Secretary shall--
``(1) designate not more than 200 exemplary Head
Start agencies (including Early Head Start agencies,
Indian Head Start agencies, and migrant and seasonal
Head Start agencies) as Centers of Excellence in Early
Childhood; and
``(2) make bonus grants to the centers of
excellence to carry out the activities described in
subsection (d).
``(c) Application and Designation.--
``(1) Application.--
``(A) Nomination and submission.--
``(i) In general.--To be eligible
to receive a designation as a center of
excellence under subsection (b), except
as provided in clause (ii), a Head
Start agency in a State shall be
nominated by the Governor of the State,
after selection for nomination by such
Governor through a competitive process,
and shall submit an application to the
Secretary at such time, in such manner,
and containing such information as the
Secretary may require.
``(ii) Indian and migrant and
seasonal head start programs.--In the
case of an Indian Head Start agency or
a migrant or seasonal Head Start
agency, to be eligible to receive a
designation as a center of excellence
under subsection (b), such an agency
shall be nominated by the head of the
appropriate regional office of the
Department of Health and Human Services
and shall submit an application to the
Secretary in accordance with clause
(i).
``(B) Contents.--At a minimum, the
application shall include--
``(i) evidence that the Head Start
program carried out by the agency
involved has significantly improved the
school readiness of children who have
participated in the program;
``(ii) evidence that the program
meets or exceeds standards described in
section 641A(a)(1), as evidenced by the
results of monitoring reviews described
in section 641A(c), and has no findings
of deficiencies in the preceding 3
years;
``(iii) evidence that the program
is making progress toward meeting the
requirements described in section 648A;
``(iv) an assurance that the Head
Start agency will develop a
collaborative partnership with the
State (or a State agency) and other
providers of early childhood education
and development programs and services
in the local community involved to
conduct activities under subsection
(d);
``(v) a nomination letter from the
Governor, or appropriate regional
office, demonstrating the agency's
ability to provide the coordination,
transition, and training services of
the program to be carried out under the
bonus grant involved, including
coordination of activities with State
and local agencies that provide early
childhood education and development to
children and families in the community
served by the agency, and carry out the
activities described under subsection
(d)(1); and
``(vi) a description of how the
center involved, in order to expand
accessibility and continuity of quality
early childhood education and
development services and programs, will
coordinate activities, as appropriate,
assisted under this section with--
``(I) programs carried out
under the Child Care and
Development Block Grant Act of
1990 (42 U.S.C. 9858 et seq.);
``(II) the Early Head Start
programs carried out under
section 645A;
``(III) Early Reading First
and Even Start programs carried
out under subparts 2 and 3 of
part B of title I of the
Elementary and Secondary
Education Act of 1965 (20
U.S.C. 6371 et seq., 6381 et
seq.);
``(IV) other preschool
programs carried out under
title I of that Act (20 U.S.C.
6301 et seq.);
``(V) programs carried out
under section 619 and part C of
the Individuals with
Disabilities Education Act (20
U.S.C. 1419, 1431 et seq.);
``(VI) State
prekindergarten programs; and
``(VII) other programs of
early childhood education and
development.
``(2) Selection.--In selecting agencies to
designate as centers of excellence under subsection
(b), the Secretary shall designate not less than 1 from
each of the 50 States, the District of Columbia, an
Indian Head Start program, a migrant or seasonal Head
Start program, and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico.
``(3) Priority.--In making bonus grant
determinations under this section, the Secretary shall
give priority to agencies that, through their
applications, demonstrate that their programs are of
exceptional quality and would serve as exemplary models
for programs in the same geographic region. The
Secretary may also consider the populations served by
the applicants, such as agencies that serve large
proportions of families of limited English proficient
children or other underserved populations, and may make
bonus grants to agencies that do an exceptional job
meeting the needs of children in such populations.
``(4) Term of designation.--
``(A) In general.--Subject to subparagraph
(B), the Secretary shall designate a Head Start
agency as a center of excellence for a 5-year
term. During the period of that designation,
subject to the availability of appropriations,
the agency shall be eligible to receive a bonus
grant under subsection (b).
``(B) Revocation.--The Secretary may revoke
an agency's designation under subsection (b) if
the Secretary determines that the agency is not
demonstrating adequate performance or has had
findings of deficiencies described in paragraph
(1)(B)(ii).
``(5) Amount of bonus grant.--The Secretary shall
base the amount of funding provided through a bonus
grant made under subsection (b) to a center of
excellence on the number of children eligible for Head
Start services in the community involved. The Secretary
shall, subject to the availability of funding, make
such a bonus grant in an amount of not less than
$200,000 per year.
``(d) Use of Funds.--A center of excellence that receives a
bonus grant under subsection (b)--
``(1) shall use not less than 15 percent of the
funds made available through the bonus grant to
disseminate to other Head Start agencies in the State
involved, best practices for achieving early academic
success, including--
``(A) best practices for achieving school
readiness, including developing early literacy
and mathematics skills, for children at risk
for school difficulties;
``(B) best practices for achieving the
acquisition of the English language for limited
English proficient children, if appropriate to
the population served; and
``(C) best practices for providing high-
quality comprehensive services for eligible
children and their families;
``(2) may use the funds made available through the
bonus grant--
``(A) to provide Head Start services to
additional eligible children;
``(B) to better meet the needs of working
families in the community served by the center
by serving more children in existing Early Head
Start programs (existing as of the date the
center is designated under this section) or in
full-working-day, full calendar year Head Start
programs;
``(C) to further coordinate early childhood
education and development programs and services
and social services available in the community
served by the center for at-risk children
(birth through age 8), their families, and
pregnant women;
``(D) to provide professional development
for Head Start teachers and staff, including
joint training for Head Start teachers and
staff, child care providers, public and private
preschool and elementary school teachers, and
other providers of early childhood education
and development programs;
``(E) to provide effective transitions
between Head Start programs and elementary
schools and to facilitate ongoing communication
between Head Start and elementary school
teachers concerning children receiving Head
Start services to improve the teachers' ability
to work effectively with low-income, at-risk
children and their families;
``(F) to develop or maintain partnerships
with institutions of higher education and
nonprofit organizations, including community-
based organizations, that recruit, train,
place, and support college students to serve as
mentors and reading partners to preschool
children in Head Start programs; and
``(G) to carry out other activities
determined by the center to improve the overall
quality of the Head Start program carried out
by the agency and the program carried out under
the bonus grant involved.
``(e) Research and Reports.--
``(1) Research.--The Secretary shall, subject to
the availability of funds to carry out this subsection,
award a grant or contract to an independent
organization to conduct research on the ability of the
centers of excellence to use the funds received under
this section to improve the school readiness of
children receiving Head Start services, and to
positively impact school results in the earliest
grades. The organization shall also conduct research to
measure the success of the centers of excellence at
encouraging the center's delegate agencies, additional
Head Start agencies, and other providers of early
childhood education and development programs in the
communities involved to meet measurable improvement
goals, particularly in the area of school readiness.
``(2) Research report.--Not later than 48 months
after the date of enactment of the Improving Head Start
for School Readiness Act of 2007, the organization
shall prepare and submit to the Secretary and Congress
a report containing the results of the research
described in paragraph (1).
``(3) Reports to the secretary.--Each center of
excellence shall submit an annual report to the
Secretary, at such time and in such manner as the
Secretary may require, that contains a description of
the activities the center carried out with funds
received under this section, including a description of
how such funds improved services for children and
families.
``(f) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are
authorized to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary for
each of fiscal years 2008 through 2012 to make bonus grants to
centers of excellence under subsection (b) to carry out
activities described in subsection (d) and research and report
activities described in subsection (e).''.
SEC. 27. GENERAL PROVISIONS.
The Head Start Act (42 U.S.C. 9831 et seq.), as amended by
section 26, is further amended by adding at the end the
following:
``SEC. 657C. GENERAL PROVISIONS.
``(a) Limitation.--Nothing in this subchapter shall be
construed to authorize or permit the Secretary or any employee
or contractor of the Department of Health and Human Services to
mandate, direct, or control, the selection of a curriculum, a
program of instruction, or instructional materials, for a Head
Start program.
``(b) Special Rule.--Nothing in this subchapter shall be
construed to authorize a Head Start program or a local
educational agency to require the other to select or implement
a specific curriculum or program of instruction.
``(c) Definition.--In this subchapter, the term `health',
when used to refer to services or care provided to enrolled
children, their parents, or their siblings, shall be
interpreted to refer to both physical and mental health.''.
SEC. 28. COMPLIANCE WITH IMPROPER PAYMENTS INFORMATION ACT OF 2002.
(a) Definitions.--In this section, the term--
(1) ``appropriate committees'' means--
(A) the Committee on Health, Education,
Labor, and Pensions of the Senate; and
(B) the Committee on Education and Labor of
the House of Representatives; and
(2) ``improper payment'' has the meaning given that
term under section 2(d)(2) of the Improper Payments
Information Act of 2002 (31 U.S.C. 3321 note).
(b) Requirement for Compliance Certification and Report.--
The Secretary of Health and Human Services shall submit a
report to the appropriate committees that--
(1) contains a certification that the Department of
Health and Human Services has, for each program and
activity of the Administration for Children and
Families, performed and completed a risk assessment to
determine programs and activities that are at
significant risk of making improper payments; and
(2) describes the actions to be taken to reduce
improper payments for the programs and activities
determined to be at significant risk of making improper
payments.
SEC. 29. REFERENCES IN OTHER ACTS.
(a) Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965.--
Section 1112(c) of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act
of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 6312(c)) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (1)(G), by striking ``performance
standards established under section 641A(a) of the Head
Start Act'' and inserting ``education performance
standards in effect under section 641A(a)(1)(B) of the
Head Start Act''; and
(2) in paragraph (2)(B), by striking ``Head Start
performance standards as in effect under section
641A(a) of the Head Start Act'' and inserting
``education performance standards in effect under
section 641A(a)(1)(B) of the Head Start Act''.
(b) Early Learning Opportunities Act.--Section 810(b)(1) of
the Early Learning Opportunities Act (20 U.S.C. 9409(b)(1)) is
amended by striking ``entities funded under section 640(a)(5)
of the Head Start Act (42 U.S.C. 9835(a)(5))'' and inserting
``entities funded under section 640(a)(2)(B)(vi) of the Head
Start Act (42 U.S.C. 9835(a)(2)(B)(vi))''.
(c) Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act.--
(1) Section 9(b)(12)(A)(iii) of the Richard B.
Russell National School Lunch Act (42 U.S.C.
1758(b)(12)(A)(iii)) is amended by striking ``the child
is a member of a family that meets the low-income
criteria prescribed under section 645(a)(1)(A) of the
Head Start Act (42 U.S.C. 9840(a)(1)(A))'' and
inserting ``the child meets the eligibility criteria
prescribed under section 645(a)(1)(B) of the Head Start
Act (42 U.S.C. 9840(a)(1)(B))''.
(2) Section 17(c)(5) of such Act (42 U.S.C.
1766(c)(5)) is amended by striking ``the child is a
member of a family that meets the low-income criteria
prescribed under section 645(a)(1)(A) of the Head Start
Act (42 U.S.C. 9840(a)(1)(A))'' and inserting ``the
child meets the eligibility criteria prescribed under
section 645(a)(1)(B) of the Head Start Act (42 U.S.C.
9840(a)(1)(B))''.
And the Senate agree to the same.
George Miller,
Dale E. Kildee,
Lynn Woolsey,
Danny K. Davis,
Raul M. Grijalva,
Linda T. Sanchez,
John P. Sarbanes,
Joe Sestak,
David Loebsack,
Mazie K. Hirono,
Carol Shea-Porter,
Howard ``Buck'' McKeon,
Michael N. Castle,
Luis Fortuno,
Ric Keller,
Joe Wilson,
C. W. Boustany,
Dean Heller,
Managers on the Part of the House.
Ted Kennedy,
Chris Dodd,
Tom Harkin,
Barbara A. Mikulski,
Jeff Bingaman,
Patty Murray,
Jack Reed,
Hillary Rodham Clinton,
Barack Obama,
Bernard Sanders,
Sherrod Brown,
Michael B. Enzi,
Judd Gregg,
Lamar Alexander,
Richard Burr,
Johnny Isakson,
Lisa Murkowski,
Orrin Hatch,
Pat Roberts,
Wayne Allard,
Managers on the Part of the Senate.
JOINT EXPLANATORY STATEMENT OF THE COMMITTEE OF CONFERENCE
The managers on the part of the House and the Senate at
the conference on the disagreeing votes of the two Houses on
the amendment of the Senate to the bill (H.R. 1429), to
reauthorize the Head Start Act, to improve program quality, to
expand access, and for other purposes, submit the following
joint statement to the House and the Senate in explanation of
the effect of the action agreed upon by the managers and
recommended in the accompanying conference report:
The Senate amendment struck all of the House bill after
the enacting clause and inserted a substitute text.
The House recedes from its disagreement to the amendment
of the Senate with an amendment that is a substitute for the
House bill and the Senate amendment. The differences between
the House bill, the Senate amendment, and the substitute agreed
to in conference are noted below, except for clerical
corrections, conforming changes made necessary by agreements
reached by the Conferees, and minor drafting and clarifying
changes.
Section 1. Short title
1. The House bill and the Senate amendment have different
titles.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to insert
``Improving Head Start for School Readiness Act of 2007''.
2. The House bill and Senate amendment contain similar
tables of contents.
House recedes/Senate recedes.
3. The House bill includes a Sense of Congress. The
Senate amendment does not contain a similar provision.
House recedes.
Section 2. Statement of purpose
4. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. The Senate amendment refers to enhancing
children's cognitive and social development in the lead-in and
the House references cognitive, social and emotional
development in note 5.
House recedes with an amendment to strike ``and social''
and insert ``social, and emotional''.
5. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
Senate recedes with an amendment to strike ``by enhancing
their cognitive, social, and emotional development'' and insert
``creative arts'' before ``physical''.
6. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
identical provisions.
Section 3. Definitions
7. The Senate amendment makes changes to ``delegate
agency'' definition. The House bill maintains current law.
House recedes
8. The Senate amendment makes changes to ``family
literacy services'' definition. The House bill maintains
current law.
House recedes with an amendment to insert ``and financial
literacy.'' after ``self sufficiency'' in subparagraph (C).
9. The House bill uses ``significant''. The Senate
amendment uses ``substantial''.
House recedes.
10. The House bill references ``program governance''. The
Senate amendment references ``program operations''.
House recedes.
11. The House bill references sections with additional
performance standards.
House recedes with an amendment to insert ``(as
determined by the Secretary)'' after ``status''.
12. The Senate amendment adds additional clarification.
House recedes.
13. The House bill uses ``material failure''. The Senate
amendment uses ``systemic failure''.
House recedes with an amendment to insert ``or material''
after ``systematic''.
14. The Senate amendment has additional provisions (C),
(D), (E).
House recedes with an amendment to insert ``or;'' after
``responsibilities'' in (B) and to strike subparagraphs (C) and
(D), and to strike ``having'' in part (E).
15. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. The House bill defines ``homeless
children''. The Senate amendment defines ``homeless child''.
Senate recedes.
16. The House bill defines homeless family. The Senate
amendment refers to families of homeless children, but does not
contain a similar provision.
House recedes.
17. The House bill defines inclusive classroom. The
Senate amendment does not contain a similar provision.
House recedes.
18. The Senate amendment defines institution of higher
education. The House bill does not contain a similar provision.
House recedes.
19. The Senate amendment defines interrater reliability.
The House bill does not contain a similar provision.
House recedes.
20. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
House recedes with an amendment to strike subparagraph
``(A)''.
21. The Senate amendment defines unresolved area of
noncompliance. The House bill does not include a similar
provision.
House recedes.
22. The House bill defines professional development. The
Senate amendment does not contain a similar provision.
Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
``scientifically-based research'' and insert ``scientifically
valid research''.
23. The House bill defines scientifically based research.
The Senate amendment does not contain a similar provision.
Senate recedes with an amendment to strike and insert--
``(23) The term `principles of scientific research' means
principles of research that--
``(A) applies rigorous, systematic, and objective
methodology to obtain reliable and valid knowledge
relevant to education activities and programs;
``(B) presents findings and makes claims that are
appropriate to and supported by methods that have been
employed; and
``(C) includes, appropriate to the research being
conducted--
``(i) use of systematic, empirical methods
that draw on observation or experiment;
``(ii) use of data analyses that are
adequate to support the general findings;
``(iii) reliance on measurements or
observational methods that provide reliable and
generalizable findings;
``(iv) strong claims of causal
relationships only with research designs that
eliminate plausible competing explanations for
observed results, such as but not limited to
random assignment experiments;
``(v) presentation of studies and methods
in sufficient detail and clarity to allow for
replication or at a minimum, to offer the
opportunity to build systematically on the
findings of the research;
``(vi) acceptance by a peer-reviewed
journal or critique by a panel of independent
experts through a comparably rigorous,
objective, and scientific review; and
``(vii) consistency of findings across
multiple studies or sites to support the
generality of results and conclusions.
``(25) The term `scientifically valid research' includes
applied research, basic research, and field-initiated research
in which the rationale, design, and interpretation are soundly
developed in accordance with principles of scientific
research.''
24. The House bill and Senate amendment make similar
changes to the definition of a State.
Senate recedes.
Section 4. Financial assistance for Head Start programs
25. The Senate amendment requires grants terms continue
for a period of 5 years. The House bill does not contain a
similar provision in section 638 but makes a similar change in
section 641.
House recedes.
Section 5. Authorization of appropriations
26. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
different amounts authorized to be appropriated for Head Start.
House recedes.
27. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
identical language except the House bill uses parenthesis.
House recedes.
Section 6. Allotment of funds; limitations on assistance
28. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. The House bill adds a heading and strikes a
date from current law. The Senate amendment maintains current
law.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
subsection (a) and insert--
``(a) Allotment of Funds.--Section 640(a) of the Head
Start Act (42 U.S.C. 9835(a)) is amended to read as follows:
``(a)(1) Using the sums appropriated pursuant to section
639 for a fiscal year, the Secretary shall allocate such sums
in accordance with paragraphs (2) through (5).
``(2)(A) The Secretary shall determine an amount for each
fiscal year for each State that is equal to the amount received
through base grants for the prior fiscal year by the Head Start
agencies (including Early Head Start agencies) in the State
that are not described in clause (ii) or (iii) of subparagraph
(B).
``(B) The Secretary shall reserve for each fiscal year
such sums as are necessary--
``(i) to provide each amount determined for a State
under subparagraph (A) to the Head Start agencies
(including Early Head Start agencies) in the State that
are not described in clause (ii) or (iii), by allotting
to each agency described in this clause an amount equal
to that agency's base grant for the prior fiscal year;
``(ii) to provide an amount for the Indian Head
Start programs that is equal to the amount provided for
base grants for such programs under this subchapter for
the prior fiscal year, by allotting to each Head Start
agency (including each Early Head Start agency)
administering an Indian Head Start program an amount
equal to that agency's base grant for the prior fiscal
year;
``(iii) to provide an amount for the migrant and
seasonal Head Start programs on a nationwide basis that
is equal to the amount provided for base grants for
such programs nationwide under this subchapter for the
prior fiscal year, by allotting to each Head Start
agency administering a migrant or seasonal Head Start
program an amount equal to that agency's base grant for
the prior fiscal year;
``(iv) to provide an amount for each of Guam,
American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern
Mariana Islands, and the Virgin Islands of the United
States (for Head Start agencies (including Early Head
Start agencies) in the jurisdiction) that is equal to
the amount provided for base grants for such
jurisdiction under this subchapter for the prior fiscal
year, by allotting to each agency described in this
clause an amount equal to that agency's base grant for
the prior fiscal year;
``(v) to provide an amount for the Republic of
Palau (for Head Start agencies (including Early Head
Start agencies) in the jurisdiction) for each of fiscal
years 2008 and 2009, and (if legislation approving a
new agreement regarding United States assistance for
the Republic of Palau has not been enacted by September
30, 2009) for each of fiscal years 2010 through 2012,
that is equal to the amount provided for base grants
for such jurisdiction under this subchapter for the
prior fiscal year, by allotting to each agency
described in this clause an amount equal to that
agency's base grant for the prior fiscal year; and
``(vi) to provide an amount for a collaboration
grant under 642(B)(a) for each State, for the Indian
Head Start programs, and for the migrant and seasonal
Head Start programs, in the same amount as the
corresponding collaboration grant provided under this
subchapter for fiscal year 2007.
``(C)(i) The Secretary shall reserve for each fiscal year
an amount that is not less than 2.5 percent and not more than 3
percent of the sums appropriated pursuant to section 639 for
that fiscal year, to fund training and technical assistance
activities, from which reserved amount--
``(I) the Secretary shall set aside a portion, but
not less than 20 percent, to be used to fund training
and technical assistance activities for Early Head
Start programs, in accordance with section 645A(g)(2);
and
``(II) the Secretary shall set aside a portion,
equal to the rest of the reserved amount, to fund
training and technical assistance activities for other
Head Start programs, in accordance with section 648, of
which portion--
``(aa) not less than 50 percent shall be
made available to Head Start agencies to use
directly, which may include at their discretion
the establishment of local or regional
agreements with community experts, institutions
of higher education, or private consultants, to
make program improvements identified by such
agencies, by carrying out the training and
technical assistance activities described in
section 648(d);
``(bb) not less than 25 percent shall be
available to the Secretary to support a State-
based training and technical assistance system,
or a national system of training and technical
assistance in the case of Indian Head Start
programs and migrant and seasonal Head Start
programs, as described in section 648(e) for
supporting program quality; and
``(cc) the remainder of the portion set
aside under this subclause shall be available
to the Secretary to assist Head Start agencies
in meeting and exceeding the standards
described in section 641A(a)(1) by carrying out
activities described in subsections (a), (b),
(c), (f), and (g) of section 648, including
helping Head Start programs address weaknesses
identified by monitoring activities conducted
by the Secretary under section 641A(c), except
that not less than $3,000,000 of the remainder
shall be made available to carry out activities
described in section 648(a)(3)(B)(ii).
``(ii) In determining the portion set aside under clause
(i)(I) and the amount reserved under this subparagraph, the
Secretary shall consider the number of Early Head Start
programs newly funded for that fiscal year.
``(D) The Secretary shall reserve not more than
$20,000,000 to fund research, demonstration, and evaluation
activities under section 649.
``(E) The Secretary shall reserve not more than
$42,000,000 for discretionary payments by the Secretary,
including payments for all costs (other than compensation of
Federal employees) for activities carried out under subsection
(c) or (e) of section 641A.
``(F) If the sums appropriated under section 639 are not
sufficient to provide the amounts required to be reserved under
subparagraphs (B) through (E), the amounts shall be reduced
proportionately.
``(G) Nothing in this section shall be construed to deny
the Secretary the authority, consistent with sections 641,
641A, and 646 to terminate, suspend, or reduce funding to a
Head Start agency.
``(3)(A) From any amount remaining for a fiscal year
after the Secretary carries out paragraph (2) (referred to in
this paragraph as the `remaining amount'), the Secretary
shall--
``(i) subject to clause (ii)--
``(I) provide a cost of living increase for
each Head Start agency (including each Early
Head Start agency) funded under this subchapter
for that fiscal year, to maintain the level of
services provided during the prior year; and
``(II) subject to subparagraph (B), provide
$10,000,000 for Indian Head Start programs
(including Early Head Start programs) and
$10,000,000 for migrant and seasonal Head Start
programs, to increase enrollment in the
programs involved;
``(ii) subject to clause (iii), if the remaining
amount is not sufficient to carry out clause (i)--
``(I) for each of fiscal years 2008, 2009,
and 2010--
``(aa) subject to subparagraph (B),
provide 5 percent of that amount for
Indian Head Start programs (including
Early Head Start programs), and 5
percent of that amount for migrant and
seasonal Head Start programs, to
increase enrollment in the programs
involved; and
``(bb) use 90 percent of that
amount to provide, for each Head Start
agency (including each Early Head Start
agency) funded as described in clause
(i)(I), the same percentage (but not
less than 50 percent) of the cost of
living increase described in clause
(i); and
``(II) for fiscal year 2011 and each
subsequent fiscal year--
``(aa) provide, for each Head Start
agency (including each Early Head Start
agency) funded as described in clause
(i)(I), the cost of living increase
described in clause (i); and
``(bb) subject to subparagraph (B),
with any portion of the remaining
amount that is not used under item
(aa), provide equal amounts for Indian
Head Start programs, and for migrant
and seasonal Head Start programs, to
increase enrollment in the programs
involved (including Early Head Start
programs); and
``(iii) if the remaining amount is not sufficient
to carry out clause (ii) for the fiscal year involved,
use that amount to provide, for each Head Start agency
(including each Early Head Start agency) funded as
described in clause (i)(I), the same percentage of the
cost of living increase described in clause (i).
``(B)(i) Notwithstanding any other provision of this
paragraph, the Indian Head Start programs shall not receive
more than a total cumulative amount of $50,000,000 for all
fiscal years, and the migrant and seasonal Head Start programs
shall not receive more than a total cumulative amount of
$50,000,000 for all fiscal years, under clause (i)(II), and
subclauses (I)(aa) and (II)(bb) of clause (ii), of subparagraph
(A) (referred to in this subsection as the `special expansion
provisions'), to increase enrollment in the programs involved.
``(ii) Funds that are appropriated under section 639 for
a fiscal year, and made available to Indian Head Start programs
or migrant or seasonal Head Start programs under the special
expansion provisions, shall remain available until the end of
the following fiscal year.
``(iii) Of the funds made available as described in
clause (ii), the Secretary shall reallocate the portion that
the Secretary determines is unobligated 18 months after the
funds are made available. The Secretary shall add that portion
to the balance described in paragraph (4), and reallocate the
portion in accordance with paragraph (4), for the following
fiscal year referred to in clause (ii).
``(4)(A) Except as provided in subparagraph (B), from any
amount remaining for a fiscal year after the Secretary carries
out paragraphs (2) and (3) (referred to in this paragraph as
the `balance'), the Secretary shall--
``(i) reserve 40 percent to carry out subparagraph
(C) and paragraph (5);
``(ii) reserve 45 percent to carry out subparagraph
(D); and
``(iii) reserve 15 percent (which shall remain
available through the end of fiscal year 2012) to carry
out subparagraph (E).
``(B)(i) Under the circumstances described in clause
(ii), from the balance, the Secretary shall--
``(I) reserve 45 percent to carry out subparagraph
(C) and paragraph (5); and
``(II) reserve 55 percent to carry out subparagraph
(D).
``(ii) The Secretary shall make the reservations
described in clause (i) for a fiscal year if--
``(I) the total cumulative amount reserved under
subparagraph (A)(iii) for all preceding fiscal years
equals $100,000,000; or
``(II) if in the 2-year period preceding such
fiscal year funds were reserved under subparagraph
(A)(iii) in an amount that totals not less than
$15,000,000 and the Secretary received no approvable
applications from States for such funds.
``(C) The Secretary shall fund the quality improvement
activities described in paragraph (5) using the amount reserved
under subparagraph (A)(i) or subparagraph (B)(i)(I), as
appropriate, of which--
``(i) a portion that is less than 10 percent may be
reserved by the Secretary to provide funding to Head
Start agencies (including Early Head Start agencies)
that demonstrate the greatest need for additional
funding for such activities, as determined by the
Secretary; and
``(ii) a portion that is not less than 90 percent
shall be reserved by the Secretary to allot, to each
Head Start agency (including each Early Head Start
agency), an amount that bears the same ratio to such
portion as the number of enrolled children served by
the agency involved bears to the number of enrolled
children served by all the Head Start agencies
(including Early Head Start agencies), except that the
Secretary shall account for the additional costs of
serving children in Early Head Start programs and may
consider whether an agency is providing a part-day
program.
``(D) The Secretary shall fund expansion of Head Start
programs (including Early Head Start programs) using the amount
reserved under subparagraph (A)(ii) or subparagraph (B)(i)(II),
as appropriate, of which the Secretary shall--
``(i) use 0.2 percent for Head Start programs
funded under clause (iv) or (v) of paragraph (2)(B)
(other than Early Head Start programs);
``(ii) for any fiscal year after the last fiscal
year for which Indian Head Start programs receive funds
under the special expansion provisions, use 3 percent
for Head Start programs funded under paragraph
(2)(B)(ii) (other than Early Head Start programs),
except that the Secretary may increase that percentage
if the Secretary determines that the results of the
study conducted under section 649(k) indicate that the
percentage should be increased;
``(iii) for any fiscal year after the last fiscal
year for which migrant or seasonal Head Start programs
receive funds under the special expansion provisions,
use 4.5 percent for Head Start programs funded under
paragraph (2)(B)(iii) (other than Early Head Start
programs), except that the Secretary may increase that
percentage if the Secretary determines that the results
of the study conducted under section 649(l) indicate
that the percentage should be increased; and
``(iv) from the remainder of the reserved amount--
``(I) use 50 percent for Head Start
programs funded under paragraph (2)(B)(i)
(other than Early Head Start programs), of
which--
``(aa) the covered percentage shall
be allocated among the States serving
less than 60 percent (as determined by
the Secretary) of children who are 3 or
4 years of age from families whose
income is below the poverty line, by
allocating to each of those States an
amount that bears the same relationship
to that covered percentage as the
number of children who are less than 5
years of age from families whose income
is below the poverty line (referred to
in this subclause as `young low-income
children') in that State bears to the
number of young low-income children in
all those States; and
``(bb) the remainder shall be
allocated proportionately among the
States on the basis of the number of
young low-income children; and
``(II) use 50 percent for Early Head Start
programs.
``(E) In this paragraph, the term `covered percentage'
means--
``(i) for fiscal year 2008, 30 percent;
``(ii) for fiscal year 2009, 40 percent;
``(iii) for fiscal year 2010, 50 percent;
``(iv) for fiscal year 2011, 55 percent; and
``(v) for fiscal year 2012, 55 percent.
``(5)(A) Not less than 50 percent of the amount reserved
under subparagraph (A)(i) or subparagraph (B)(i)(I), as
appropriate, of paragraph (4) to carry out quality improvement
activities under paragraph (4)(C) and this paragraph shall be
used to improve the compensation (including benefits) of
educational personnel, family service workers, and child
counselors, as described in sections 644(a) and 653, in the
manner determined by the Head Start agencies (including Early
Head Start agencies) involved, to--
``(i) ensure that compensation is adequate to
attract and retain qualified staff for the programs
involved in order to enhance program quality;
``(ii) improve staff qualifications and assist with
the implementation of career development programs for
staff that support ongoing improvement of their skills
and expertise; and
``(iii) provide education and professional
development to enable teachers to be fully competent to
meet the professional standards established under
section 648A(a)(1), including--
``(I) providing assistance to complete
postsecondary course work;
``(II) improving the qualifications and
skills of educational personnel to become
certified and licensed as bilingual education
teachers, or as teachers of English as a second
language; and
``(III) improving the qualifications and
skills of educational personnel to teach and
provide services to children with disabilities.
``(B) Any remaining funds from the reserved amount
described in subparagraph (A) shall be used to carry out any of
the following activities:
``(i) Supporting staff training, child counseling,
and other services, necessary to address the challenges
of children from immigrant, refugee, and asylee
families, homeless children, children in foster care,
limited English proficient children, children of
migrant or seasonal farmworker families, children from
families in crisis, children referred to Head Start
programs (including Early Head Start programs) by child
welfare agencies, and children who are exposed to
chronic violence or substance abuse.
``(ii) Ensuring that the physical environments of
Head Start programs are conducive to providing
effective program services to children and families,
and are accessible to children with disabilities and
other individuals with disabilities.
``(iii) Employing additional qualified classroom
staff to reduce the child-to-teacher ratio in the
classroom and additional qualified family service
workers to reduce the family-to-staff ratio for those
workers.
``(iv) Ensuring that Head Start programs have
qualified staff that promote the language skills and
literacy growth of children and that provide children
with a variety of skills that have been identified,
through scientifically based reading research, as
predictive of later reading achievement.
``(v) Increasing hours of program operation,
including--
``(I) conversion of part-day programs to
full-working-day programs; and
``(II) increasing the number of weeks of
operation in a calendar year.
``(vi) Improving communitywide strategic planning
and needs assessments for Head Start programs and
collaboration efforts for such programs, including
outreach to children described in clause (i).
``(vii) Transporting children in Head Start
programs safely, except that not more than 10 percent
of funds made available to carry out this paragraph may
be used for such purposes.
``(viii) Improving the compensation and benefits of
staff of Head Start agencies, in order to improve the
quality of Head Start programs.
``(6) No sums appropriated under this subchapter may be
combined with funds appropriated under any provision other than
this subchapter if the purpose of combining funds is to make a
single discretionary grant or a single discretionary payment,
unless such sums appropriated under this subchapter are
separately identified in such grant or payment and are used for
the purposes of this subchapter.
``(7) In this subsection:
``(A) The term `base grant', used with respect to a
fiscal year, means the amount of permanent ongoing
funding (other than funding described in sections
645A(g)(2)(A)(i) and [paragraph (2)(C)(i)(II)(aa)])
provided to a Head Start agency (including an Early
Head Start agency) under this subchapter for that
fiscal year.
``(B) The term `cost-of-living increase', used with
respect to an agency for a fiscal year, means an
increase in the funding for that agency, based on the
percentage change in the Consumer Price Index for All
Urban Consumers (issued by the Bureau of Labor
Statistics) for the prior fiscal year, calculated on
the amount of the base grant for that agency for the
prior fiscal year.
``(C) For the purposes of [paragraphs (2)(B),
(4)(B)(ii), (4)(E), and (6)], the term `State' does not
include Guam, American Samoa, the Virgin Islands of the
United States, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana
Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, the
Republic of the Marshall Islands, and the Republic of
Palau.''.
The Conferees intend for the Secretary to work with the
Indian Head Start and migrant and seasonal Head Start
communities to enable the funds described in section
640(a)(3)(A)(i)(II) to be obligated to the maximum possible
extent. The Conferees intend for the Secretary to allow Indian
Head Start agencies, in using the funds described in section
640(a)(3)(A)(i)(II) to increase enrollment, to use such funds
for conversion of programs from part-day to full-day and from
home-based to center-based, and to allow Migrant and Seasonal
Head Start agencies, in using such funds, to increase services
to migrant and seasonal farmworker children from birth to age
three and to expand the length of the service day. The
Conferees encourage the Secretary to make available from the
funds described in section 640(a)(3)(A)(i)(II) for increasing
enrollment in Indian Head Start programs, significant portions
both for Indian Head Start programs and for provision of
services for additional infants and toddlers in Indian Early
Head Start programs. Wherever the term ``Migrant or Seasonal
Head Start'' occurs, it is the Conferees' intent that the
Migrant and Seasonal Head Start program preserve its name in
its entirety. Nowhere in the bill shall the language be
interpreted that the Migrant and Seasonal Head Start program's
name has been changed. Moreover, the Conferees urge the
Secretary to maintain ``Migrant and Seasonal Head Start'' as
the name of that program.
29. The House bill adds a heading to current law. Senate
amendment maintains current law.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, into note 28.
30. The House bill and the Senate amendment require
differing amounts for Indian Head Start programs.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, into note 28.
31. The House bill sunsets payments to Palau at FY2009.
The House bill strikes reference to Federal States of
Micronesia and Republic of Marshall Islands from current law.
The House bill adds a heading.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, into note 28.
32. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. The House bill references ``program
quality''; the Senate amendment references ``program
expansion''.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, into note 28.
33. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. The Senate amendment requires specific
activities for the use of training and technical assistance
funds in section 640. The House bill activities are listed in
section 648(j). See note 405.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, into note 28.
34. The Senate amendment allocates 50 percent to locals.
The House bill allocates not less than 50 percent.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, into note 28.
35. The House bill reserves not less than 30 percent of
training and technical assistance funds for a State-based
system. The Senate amendment reserves 50 percent of funds for
such efforts plus additional Secretary activities.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, into note 28.
36. The House bill reserves a remaining amount for the
Secretary to assist local agencies address weaknesses. The
Senate amendment reserves such funds in note 35.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, into note 28.
37. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, into note 28.
38. The Senate amendment does not include a similar
provision. The House bill reserves $5 million for State
councils. The Senate amendment funds councils differently. See
note 340.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, into note 28.
39. The House bill adds a heading and makes grammatical
change to lead-in to current law. The Senate amendment
maintains current law with technical correction and does not
add a heading.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, into note 28.
40. House bill adds a heading to current law. Senate
amendment maintains current law but does not add a heading.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, into note 28.
41. House bill maintains current law and the Senate
amendment maintains and adds conditions to the MSHS and Indian
set-asides.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, into note 28.
42. The House bill reserves 60 percent of excess funds
for quality improvement activities, for each fiscal year 2008-
2012. The Senate amendment reserves 30 percent of excess funds
for quality improvement activities, and increases such amount
to 40 percent for fiscal years 2009-2012. The House bill adds
headings.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, into note 28.
43. The House bill strikes current subparagraph (B) on
quality improvement goals. The Senate amendment maintains this
subparagraph and makes modifications.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, into note 28.
44. The Senate amendment adds reference to language and
literacy, and expands to additional subgroups. The House bill
strikes paragraph.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, into note 28.
45. The Senate amendment adds reference to salary and
benefit requirements. The House bill strikes paragraph.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, into note 28.
46. The Senate amendment adds reference to language and
literacy skills. The House bill strikes paragraph.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, into note 28.
47. The Senate amendment adds reference to highly mobile
children. The House bill strikes paragraph.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, into note 28.
48. The Senate amendment and House bill make different
modifications to current law.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, into note 28.
49. The House bill adds a heading. The House bill and the
Senate amendment maintain current law of subparagraph.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, into note 28.
50. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. House bill adds a heading. The House bill
and the Senate amendment make identical changes to date.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, into note 28.
51. House bill maintains a formula under current law.
Senate amendment makes changes to formula.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, into note 28.
52. The House bill and the Senate amendment both maintain
current law.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, into note 28.
53. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. The House bill and Senate amendment make
conforming changes to existing law. House bill adds a heading.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, into note 28.
54. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. The House bill requires a submission from
States prior to the awarding of a collaboration grant.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, into note 28.
55. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, into note 28.
56. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. The House bill refers to early education
services. The Senate amendment refers to early childhood
education and care (throughout collaboration section).
Senate recedes with an amendment to strike ``services''
and insert ``and development services or programs''.
The Conferees intend for the terminology ``early
childhood education and development services or programs'' to
encompass the diverse range of child care and early education
and learning programs, recognizing that these settings
contribute to children's development and growth, regardless of
setting or program label.
57. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
House recedes with an amendment to--
use House (i)(I) with ``used in Head Start
Programs'' after ``assessments''
strike ``and care'' and insert ``and development
services or programs'' in both places it appears
58. The House bill refers to curricula and assessments.
The Senate amendment refers to services.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, into note 28.
59. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
identical provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, into note 28.
60. The House bill makes reference to succeed. The Senate
amendment makes reference to learn. House bill references
children in Head Start programs and Senate amendment references
a broader population of children.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, into note 28.
61. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. The Senate amendment includes a reference
to the Free to Grow Initiative.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, into note 28.
62. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. The Senate amendment makes reference to
curriculum in Head Start programs, and references the Ready to
Learn program. The House bill references program quality.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, into note 28.
63. The House bill requires the collaboration office to
work with the State Early Learning Council. The Senate
amendment does not include a similar provision.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, into note 28.
64. The Senate amendment includes conforming language.
The House bill does not contain a similar provision.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, into note 28.
65. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions and the House bill adds a heading.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, into note 28.
66. The Senate amendment strikes subparagraph (B). The
House bill maintains current law and adds a heading.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, into note 28.
67. The Senate amendment makes changes to the hold
harmless. The House bill does not include similar provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, into note 28.
68. The House bill includes technical conforming
language. The Senate amendment does not include a similar
provision.
Senate recedes.
69. The Senate amendment makes changes to 640(d). The
House bill maintains current law.
House recedes with an amendment to strike section 640(d)
and insert:
``(d)(1) The Secretary shall establish policies and
procedures to assure that, for fiscal year 2009 and thereafter,
not less than 10 percent of the total number of children
actually enrolled by each Head Start agency and each delegate
agency will be children with disabilities who are determined to
be eligible for special education and related services, or
early intervention services, as appropriate, as determined
under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (20
U.S.C. 1400 et seq.), by the State or local agency providing
services under section 619 or part C of Individuals with
Disabilities Education Act (20 U.S.C. 1419, 1431 et seq.).
``(2) Such policies and procedures shall ensure the
provision of early intervening services, such as educational
and behavioral services and supports, to meet the needs of
children with disabilities, prior to an eligibility
determination under the Individuals with Disabilities Education
Act.
``(3) Such policies and procedures shall require Head
Start agencies to provide timely referral to and collaborate
with the State or local agency providing services under section
619 or part C of the Individuals with Disabilities Education
Act to ensure the provision of special education and related
services and early intervention services, and the coordination
of programmatic efforts, to meet the special needs of such
children.
``(4) The Secretary shall establish policies and
procedures to provide Head Start agencies with waivers to the
requirements under paragraph (1) for not more than 3 years.
Such policies and procedures shall require Head Start agencies,
in order to receive such waivers, to provide evidence
demonstrating that the Head Start agencies are making
reasonable efforts on an annual basis to comply with the
requirements of this paragraph.
``(5) Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to
limit or create a right to a free appropriate public education
under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.''
Since 1972, Head Start has supported the access and
participation of children with disabilities in Head Start
programs by requiring that 10 percent of enrollment
opportunities be provided to these children. The Conferees
recognize the need to build on that foundation by ensuring that
children with disabilities also receive appropriate screening
and identification in order to serve them properly. For this
reason the Conferees have included provisions to strengthen and
support Head Start agencies and delegate agencies in referring
children in a timely and efficient manner to Individuals with
Disabilities Education Act entities for evaluation. The
Conferees have included these provisions in order to ensure the
appropriate evaluations and services are available for this
vulnerable population.
The Conferees further intend to ensure Head Start
agencies and delegate agencies receive the support and
assistance needed to meet the requirements of the Individuals
with Disabilities Education Act section. Local education
agencies and States are strongly encouraged to improve their
coordination with Head Start agencies and delegate agencies to
ensure that children are evaluated appropriately and in a
timely manner, and that children with disabilities enrolled in
Head Start programs are receiving appropriate services as
required by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.
It is not the intention of the Conferees to compel or
constrain Head Start agencies or delegate agencies in ways that
may lead to inappropriate over-identification or may cause
programs to provide inappropriate services to children with
disabilities in order to meet the requirements of this section.
Rather, the Conferees recognize and support the tremendous
efforts made by Head Start agencies to coordinate with local
education agencies and States in order to best serve children
with disabilities.
The report requires that 10 percent of the children
served by Head Start agencies be children with disabilities.
Head Start agencies are encouraged to meet this requirement by
improving their efforts to identify and serve children with
disabilities. Due to shifting populations, competing providers
of services for children with disabilities, and parental
decisions on where to enroll their child, Conferees recognize
that it may not be possible for every agency to meet this
requirement every year. The reporting requirements included in
the report are intended to ensure that agencies are making
serious and practical efforts to fully comply with this
requirement so that no children with disabilities are excluded
from being able to participate in a Head Start program, but
also so that Head Start agencies acting in good faith will not
be penalized.
69b. The House and Senate contain similar provisions.
House recedes with an amendment to strike ``and care''
and insert ``and development services or programs''.
70. The House bill deletes qualification on program
expansion for fund allocation. Senate amendment does not
include a similar provision.
House recedes.
71. Senate amendment and the House bill include similar
modifications to needs assessment criteria.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to--
(1) insert ``, (3),'' after ``by striking paragraphs
(1)''
(2) strike subparagraph (C) and inserting the following:
``(C) the extent to which the applicant has undertaken
communitywide strategic planning and needs assessments
involving other entities including community organizations and
Federal, State, and local public agencies (including the local
educational agency liaison designated under section
722(g)(1)(J)(ii) of the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act
(42 U.S.C. 11432(g)(1)(J)(ii)), that provide services to
children and families, such as--
``(i) family support services;
``(ii) child abuse prevention services;
``(iii) protective services;
``(iv) foster care;
``(v) services for families in whose homes English is not
the language customarily spoken;
``(vi) services for children with disabilities; and
``(vii) services for homeless children;''
(3) in subparagraph (D)--
(A) strike ``community'' and insert ``communitywide'';
and
(B) strike ``other local'' and insert ``the State and
local'';
72. House bill and Senate amendment contain similar
provisions.
Senate recedes with an amendment to insert ``as described
in clause (i) or (ii) of section 645(a)(1)(B)'' after
``children,'' insert ``by striking ``early childhood program''
and insert ``publicly funded early childhood education and
development program''.
73. House bill and Senate amendment maintain current law.
74. House bill and Senate amendment contain similar
modifications to current law.
Senate recedes.
75. House bill adds new provision on administrative
expenses. Senate amendment does not include a similar
provision.
House recedes.
76. House bill contains provision allowing programs to
negotiate with the Secretary if funding is inadequate to
provide COLA. Senate amendment does not contain a similar
provision.
Senate recedes with an amendment to strike and insert--
``(3)(A) In the event that the amount appropriated to
carry out the program under this subchapter for a fiscal year
does not exceed the amount appropriated for the prior fiscal
year, or is not sufficient to maintain services comparable to
the services provided under this subchapter during the prior
fiscal year, a Head Start agency may negotiate with the
Secretary a reduced funded enrollment level without a reduction
in the amount of the grant received by the agency under this
subchapter, if such agency can reasonably demonstrate that such
reduced funded enrollment level is necessary to maintain the
quality of services.
``(B) In accordance with this paragraph, the Secretary
shall set up a process for Head Start agencies to negotiate the
reduced funded enrollment levels referred to in subparagraph
(A) for the fiscal year involved.
``(C) In the event described in subparagraph (A), the
Secretary shall be required to notify Head Start agencies of
their ability to negotiate the reduced funded enrollment levels
if such an agency can reasonably demonstrate that such reduced
funded enrollment level is necessary to maintain the quality of
services.''
77. House bill and Senate amendment contain different
modifications to transportation safety requirements.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert at the end of 640(i)--
``The regulations shall also establish requirements to
ensure the appropriate supervision of, and appropriate
background checks for, individuals whom the agencies contact to
transport those children.''
The Conferees believe that providing transportation to
children enrolled in Head Start is central to many agencies'
efforts to ensuring children's participation in Head Start. The
Conferees strongly encourage the Secretary to continue to work
with grantees to support their efforts to provide safe
transportation that meets all Head Start and applicable
regulations. The Conferees also encourage the Secretary to
continue the decision to allow Head Start agencies to annually
request a good cause exception to the requirements of
regulations promulgated under Section 640(i) if the waiver is
in the best interest of the children involved, if such
requirements pertain to child restraint systems (45 CFR
1310.11, 1310.15(a)) or bus monitors (45 CFR 1310.15(c)), and
if the agency demonstrates that compliance with such
requirements will result in a significant disruption to the
Head Start program or Early Head Start program.
78. The House bill and Senate amendment contain similar
provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to do the
following:
Senate recedes on (1)(1).
House recedes on (1)(3) with an amendment to strike
``that appropriate funding is provided to meet such needs
including funding for'' and insert ``the provision of''.
House recedes on (4)(A).
Senate recedes on (4)(B) with an amendment to strike
``children and children of'' and insert ``including'' and to
insert ``children'' after ``Alaskan Natives,'' and to strike
``subsections (a), (b), and (c) of section 641,'' and insert
``this subchapter''.
Senate recedes on (4)(C).
House recedes on (4)(D) with an amendment to insert ``The
Secretary shall insure that'' after ``(D)'' and to strike ``on
a timely basis'' and insert ``within 90 days of the annual
consultation''.
79. The House bill and Senate amendment contain similar
provisions.
Senate recedes.
It is the intent of the Conferees that Head Start
agencies, in carrying out the requirements of paragraph (1),
employ a variety of strategies to help remove barriers to the
enrollment and participation of homeless children in Head
Start, including conducting targeted recruitment of homeless
children, including homelessness as a priority criterion in
selection policies, reserving slots for homeless children,
filling vacancies with homeless children, and other activities
as determined necessary by the community-wide needs assessment.
In addition to these strategies, Head Start agencies may find
it appropriate, in some instances, to place a homeless child
ahead of other eligible children on waiting lists in order to
address their mobility and special needs. In general, when a
grantee works on its community-wide needs assessment, it should
ensure that it accounts for homeless families. Grantees are
encouraged to engage school district homeless liaisons, private
and public shelter providers, HUD Continuums of Care, and other
homeless service agencies in the community-wide needs
assessment.
80. House bill and Senate amendment contain similar
provisions.
Senate recedes with an amendment to strike ``early
education for children'' and all that follows through
``school,'' and insert ``early childhood education and
development or to require any child to participate in such a
publicly funded program, including a state-funded preschool
program,''
81. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. The House bill includes instructional
materials, and the Senate amendment is limited to curricula.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert--
``(o) All curricula funded under this subchapter shall be
based on scientifically valid research, and be age and
developmentally appropriate. The curricula shall reflect all
areas of child development and learning and be aligned with the
Head Start Child Outcomes Framework. Parents shall have the
opportunity to examine any such curricula or instructional
materials funded under this subchapter.''
Section 7. Designation of Head Start agencies
82. The House bill includes faith-based organizations in
the description of agencies eligible for designation. The
Senate amendment does not include a similar provision.
Senate recedes.
83. The House bill requires the Secretary to develop and
implement a system of application review. The Senate amendment
does not include a similar provision.
Senate recedes.
84. The House bill includes specifications for a grant
application. The Senate amendment does not include a similar
provision.
Senate recedes.
85. The House bill requires the Secretary to develop and
implement a system of application review for designation of
Head Start agencies. The Senate amendment requires an agency to
establish goals for improving the school readiness of children
as a condition of designation.
Senate recedes with an amendment to--
insert ``high'' before ``quality''
insert ``and'' after ``quality''
strike ``early learning'' and insert ``Head Start''
insert ``and fiscal management'' after ``annual
budget''
strike ``(H); and'' in (D) and insert ``(E);''
86. The House bill establishes an expert panel to advise
the Secretary on a system for the renewal of Head Start
agencies. The Senate amendment does not include a similar
provision.
Senate recedes with an amendment to strike ``No later
than 6'' and insert ``Not later than 3''.
87. The House bill specifies the composition of an expert
panel. The Senate amendment does not include a similar
provision.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert--
``(3) Composition of expert panel.--The Secretary, in
convening such panel, shall appoint the following:
``(A)(i) One member, who has demonstrated
competency, as evidence by training, expertise, and
experience, in early childhood program accreditation.
``(ii) One member, who has demonstrated competency
(as so evidenced) in research on early childhood
development.
``(iii) One member, who has demonstrated competency
(as so evidenced) in governance and finance of
nonprofit organizations.
``(iv) One member, who has demonstrated competency
(as so evidenced) in delivery of services to
populations of children with special needs and their
families.
``(v) One member, who has demonstrated competency
(as so evidenced) in assessment and evaluation of
programs serving young children.
``(B) An employee from the Office of Head Start.
``(C) An executive director of a Head Start
agency.''
88. The House bill requires the expert panel provide a
report to the Secretary. The Senate amendment does not contain
a similar provision.
Senate recedes with an amendment to--
strike ``12'' and insert ``9''
strike ``high quality'' and insert ``high-quality''
insert ``and'' after ``quality''
strike ``early education'' and insert ``Head
Start''
insert ``, legal and'' after governance
89. The House bill requires the Secretary publish in the
Federal Register a report on the proposed grant renewal system.
The Senate amendment does not contain a similar provision.
Senate recedes with an amendment to--
strike ``No later than 6'' and insert ``Not later
than 3''
strike ``proposed system of application review''
and insert ``notice describing a proposed system for
designation renewal including a proposal for the
transition of such system,''
insert ``The Secretary shall review and consider
public comments prior to finalizing the system for
designation renewal described in this subsection.''
after ``exist.''
90. The House bill requires an application review system
for the redesignation of Head Start agencies. The Senate
amendment delineates specific criteria for redesignation. Both
the House bill and the Senate amendment create 5-year grant
terms except the Senate amendment amends Section 643 (see note
25).
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert--
``(6) Designation renewal system.--Not later than 12
months after publishing a notice describing the proposed system
under paragraph (5), the Secretary shall implement the system
for designation renewal and use that system to determine--
``(A) whether a Head Start grantee is successfully
delivering a high-quality and comprehensive Head Start
program; and
``(B) whether the grantee has any unresolved
deficiencies found during the last triennial review
under section 641A(c).
``(7) Implementation of the designation renewal system.--
``(A) In general.--A grantee who is determined
under such system--
``(i) to be delivering a high-quality and
comprehensive Head Start program shall be
designated (consistent with section 643) as a
Head Start agency for a period of 5 years
described in section 638;
``(ii) to not be delivering a high-quality
and comprehensive Head Start program shall be
subject to an open competition as described in
subsection (d); and
``(iii) in the case of an Indian Head Start
agency, to not be delivering a high-quality and
comprehensive Head Start program shall
(notwithstanding clause (ii)) be subject to the
requirements of subparagraph (B).
``(B) Tribal government consultation and
reevaluation.--On making a determination described in
subparagraph (A)(iii), the Secretary shall engage in
government-to-government consultation with the
appropriate tribal government or governments for the
purpose of establishing a plan to improve the quality
of Head Start programs operated by such agency. Such
plan is to be established and implemented within 6
months of the Secretary's determination. Not more than
6 months after implementation of that plan, the
Secretary shall reevaluate the performance of the
Indian Head Start agency. If the Indian Head Start
agency is still not delivering a high-quality and
comprehensive Head Start program, the Secretary shall
conduct an open competition as described in subsection
(d), subject to the limitations, in subsection (e).''
The Conferees create a new system for designation
renewal. This system is meant to facilitate the designation of
programs that are in good standing and are providing a high-
quality comprehensive early childhood program, for a period of
5 years. The Conferees believe that other programs not
providing a high-quality comprehensive early childhood program
should not receive a designation renewal without first entering
into an open competition. Furthermore, the Conferees believe
that the policy to limit open competition to under-performing
Head Start agencies will improve overall program performance.
The Conferees strongly believe the majority of Head Start
programs are delivering high quality services, and therefore do
not intend for this new designation system to result in
competition for designation for the majority of Head Start
programs. Furthermore, competing high quality programs could
undermine overall program quality. The Conferees believe that
in most instances, stability and continuity within Head Start
promotes better quality and greater efficiency. It helps the
organization become trusted within the community it is serving,
thereby creating better community relations and better outreach
to eligible children and families. Continuity and stability
provided by high-quality grantees helps programs to recruit and
retain better teachers and to plan appropriately for
professional development. Lack of continuity and stability can
also have a significant impact on cost effective resource
allocation by affecting a program's ability to leverage funds
in its community and negotiate lower facility costs and
business loans. The continuity of high-quality grantees better
ensures that taxpayer monies spent on professional development
and facilities are investments that have ongoing benefit to
children served by Head Start. In developing the designation
renewal system, the Conferees intend for the Secretary to give
due consideration to the involvement of outside experts and
take the public comment on the proposed system seriously.
91. The House bill requires a periodic evaluation of
criteria used to evaluate Head Start agencies and ensures
grants for a 5 year period. The Senate amendment does not
include a similar provision.
Senate recedes with an amendment to--
insert ``and'' after ``quality'' and to strike
``early education'' and insert ``Head Start''
insert after (8)--
``(9) Transition.--
``(A) In general.--Each Head Start agency shall be
reviewed under the system for designation renewal
described in paragraph (6), not later than 3 years
after implementation of such system.
``(B) Limitation.--A Head Start agency shall not be
subject to the requirements of the system for
designation renewal prior to 18 months after the date
of enactment of the Improving Head Start for School
Readiness Act of 2007.
``(C) Schedule.--The Secretary shall establish and
implement a schedule for reviewing each Head Start
agency under the system for designation renewal
described in paragraph (6), consistent with
subparagraphs (A) and (B).
``(10) Reports to congress.--The Secretary shall--
``(A) make available to the Committee on Education
and Labor of the House of Representatives and the
Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of
the Senate the report described in paragraph (4);
``(B) concurrent with publishing a notice in the
Federal Register as described in paragraph (5), provide
a report to the Committee on Education and Labor of the
House of Representatives and the Committee on Health,
Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate that
provides a detailed description of such proposed
system, including a clear rationale for any differences
between the proposed system and the recommendations of
the expert panel, if any such differences exist; and
``(C) prior to implementing the system for
evaluating designation renewal applications, provide a
report to the Committee on Education and Labor of the
House of Representatives and the Committee on Health,
Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate--
``(i) summarizing the public comment on the
proposed system and the Secretary's response to
such comment; and
``(ii) describing the final system for
evaluating designation renewal application and
the plans for implementation of such system.''
92. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
Senate recedes with an amendment to--
strike ``Has Priority'' and insert ``is
redesignated''
insert ``and'' after ``quality''
strike ``early education'' and insert ``Head
Start''
93. The House bill and Senate amendment contain identical
text but different headings.
Senate recedes.
94. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
identical provisions.
95. The House bill includes mental and behavioral health
in the description of comprehensive health services. The Senate
amendment references attaining full potential.
House recedes.
96. The House bill includes additional requirements in
the plan for recruitment and retention of staff. The Senate
amendment does not include a similar provision.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert--
``(C) the plan of such applicant to attract and retain
qualified staff capable of delivering and implementing a high
quality program, including the ability to carry out a research
based curricula aligned with the Head Start Child Outcomes
Framework and, as appropriate State early learning standards.''
97. The House bill includes additional staff
requirements. The Senate amendment does not include a similar
provision.
Senate recedes.
98. The House bill refers to curriculum and teaching
practices in programs. The Senate amendment does not include a
similar reference.
Senate recedes with an amendment to strike and insert--
``(E) the capacity of such applicant to serve eligible
children with--
``(i) curricula that are based on scientifically
valid research and teaching practices that are based on
scientifically valid research as appropriate, are
developmentally appropriate and that promote the school
readiness of children participating in the program
involved; and
``(ii) teaching practices that are based, as
appropriate, on scientifically valid research, that are
developmentally appropriate, and that promote the
school readiness of children participating in the
program involved;''
99. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
identical provisions.
100. The House bill includes budgetary requirements. The
Senate amendment does not contain similar provisions.
Senate recedes.
101. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. The Senate amendment includes coordination
with reading readiness programs.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert--
``(H) the plan of such applicant to coordinate and
collaborate with other public or private entities providing
early learning programs and services for young children in the
community involved, including--
``(i) programs implementing grant agreements under
the Early Reading First and Even Start programs under
subparts 2 and 3 of part B of title I of the Elementary
and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 6371 et
seq., 6381 et seq.);
``(ii) other preschool program under title I of
that Act (20 U.S.C. 6301 et seq.);
``(iii) programs under section 619 and part C of
the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (20
U.S.C. 1419, 1431 et seq.);
``(iv) State prekindergarten programs;
``(v) child care programs;
``(vi) the educational programs that the children
in the Head Start program involved will enter at the
age of compulsory school attendance; and
``(vii) local entities, such as a public or school
library, for--
``(I) conducting reading readiness programs
``(II) developing innovative programs to
excite children about the world of books,
including providing fresh books in the Head
Start classroom
``(III) assisting in literacy training for
Head Start teachers; or
``(IV) supporting parents and other
caregivers in literacy efforts.''
102. The Senate amendment refers to the ability of the
applicant to provide services, meet program standards, and
coordinate with other preschool programs. The House bill does
not contain a similar provision.
Senate recedes.
103. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
identical provisions.
104. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. The House bill includes grandparents and
kinship caregivers in the involvement of Head Start activities.
Senate recedes with an amendment to strike ``seek'' and
insert ``facilitate''.
105. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. The Senate amendment includes a provision
for transportation costs to facilitate parent participation.
House recedes with an amendment to strike ``through
providing transportation cost'' and to insert ``transportation
assistance, as appropriate;''.
106. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
identical provisions.
107. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. The House bill includes mental health
services for parents.
House recedes
108. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. The House bill includes training on social
and emotional child development. The House bill includes
provisions to facilitate mental and behavioral health services
for parents. The Senate amendment does not contain similar
provisions.
Senate recedes with an amendment to strike ``(v)'' and
insert ``(v) health services, including information on maternal
depression; or''
109. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. The Senate amendment includes foster
parents and grandparents in the family needs assessment, as
applicable.
House recedes with an amendment to insert ``, in a manner
and language that such parents can understand, to the extent
practicable,'' after ``such parents'' and strike
``subparagraphs (C), (D), and (E)'' and insert ``this
subparagraph''.
110. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. The House bill delineates culturally
appropriate opportunities for father-child interactions.
House recedes.
111. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. The House bill requires progress in English
while also meeting the requirements of 641 A(a)(I )(B).
Senate recedes.
112. The House bill includes a provision for meeting the
diverse cultural needs of the population served. The Senate
amendment does not contain a similar provision.
Senate recedes with an amendment to strike and insert
``(L) the plan of such applicant to meet the diverse needs of
the population served.''
113. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. The Senate amendment includes additional
procedures and plans to meet the needs of children with
disabilities.
House recedes
114. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. The House bill includes mental health
services in the applicant plan.
House recedes.
115. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike.
116. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. The House bill includes children and
families experiencing toxic stress.
Senate recedes with an amendment to strike ``and children
and families experiencing toxic stress''.
117. The House bill includes a provision to maintain
qualified staff. The Senate amendment does not contain a
similar provision.
House recedes.
118. The House bill includes a provision to enter into
memoranda of understanding with local school districts. The
Senate amendment does not contain a similar provision.
House recedes.
119. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
identical provisions.
120. The Senate amendment includes a provision to
collaborate with a local library. The House bill does not
contain a similar provision.
Senate recedes.
121. The Senate amendment includes a priority for
qualified applicants with demonstrated capacity. The House bill
does not contain a similar provision.
House recedes with an amendment to strike ``and care''
and insert ``development services or programs''.
122. The Senate amendment includes a prohibition against
transferring Indian Head Start programs to non-Indian Head
Start agencies, similar to the House bill 641(c)(6)(C).
House recedes to insert as (e) in section 641.
123. The House bill includes a provision to provide
continued eligibility to faith-based and community-based
agencies. The Senate amendment does not contain a similar
provision.
House recedes.
124. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
Senate recedes.
125. The Senate amendment requires progress of a Head
Start agency toward its goals as a condition of re-designation
for subsequent grants. The House bill does not contain a
similar provision.
Senate recedes.
126. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
Senate recedes.
127. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
identical provisions.
Section 8. Standards; monitoring of Head Start agencies and programs
128. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
Senate recedes.
129. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. The House bill makes changes to the lead-
in.
Senate recedes.
130. The House bill requires any new early learning
standards to be based on the Head Start Child Outcomes
Framework. The Senate amendment does not contain a similar
provision, but modifies the Head Start Act to refer to
educational performance standards.
Senate recedes with an amendment to strike ``early
learning standards'' and insert ``education performance
standards''.
131. The House bill and Senate amendment require the
Secretary to consider NAS study in development of standards
(House bill places later--see note 147).
Senate recedes.
132. The House bill and Senate amendment contain similar
provisions.
Senate recedes.
133. The House bill includes more specific requirements
and refers to prereading. The Senate amendment refers to pre-
literacy.
Senate recedes with an amendment to strike ``(ii)'' and
insert--
``(ii) literacy knowledge and skills, including
phonological awareness, print awareness and skills, and
alphabetic knowledge;''
134. The House bill includes more specific requirements
and refers to mathematics. The Senate amendment refers to
premathematics.
House recedes with an amendment to strike ``pre''.
135. The House bill includes more specific requirements
and refers to science. The Senate amendment refers to
scientific abilities.
Senate recedes with an amendment to strike ``including
measurement''.
The Conferees recognize the importance of mathematics and
science knowledge and skills to prepare young children for
school readiness, especially through the use of educational
experiences and experiments. Children participating in Head
Start programs should, at a minimum, develop and demonstrate
knowledge and skills that include number concepts such as
counting and seriation; number operations; geometric and
spatial concepts; classification; and time and measurement
concepts. Children participating in Head Start programs should
have access to educational experiences which include observing
with senses, predicting, inferring, defining and controlling
variables, working in teams, and communicating discoveries.
136. The House bill refers to general knowledge, and
includes approaches to learning and early learning. The Senate
amendment refers to general cognitive abilities, and does not
contain a provision on approaches to learning.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to read:
``(v) cognitive abilities related to academic achievement
and child development;
``(vi) approaches to learning related to child
development and early learning;''
137. The House bill includes social problem- solving and
overall well-being. The Senate amendment does not contain
similar provisions.
Senate recedes with an amendment to strike ``(vi)'' and
insert ``(vii)'' and to strike ``, and overall well-being'' and
to insert ``and'' after ``success,''.
138. The House bill includes creative arts. The Senate
amendment does not contain similar provisions.
Senate recedes.
139. The Senate amendment includes physical development.
The House bill does not contain a similar provision.
House recedes.
140. The House bill requires progress through culturally
and linguistically appropriate instruction. The Senate
amendment requires progress, which may include the use of
linguistically appropriate instruction.
Senate recedes.
141. The House bill and Senate amendment contain
identical provisions.
142. The Senate amendment includes provisions for the
licensing and accessibility of Head Start programs. The House
bill maintains current law.
House recedes with an amendment to--
strike ``be in compliance with'' and insert ``meet
or exceed''
insert at the end of `(ii)' the following--``unless
State or local laws prohibit such access.''
insert after ``location of facilities'' the
following ``, including indoor air quality assessments
where appropriate,''
143. The House bill and Senate amendment contain
identical provisions.
144. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
145. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. The House bill maintains current law with
conforming amendment on LEP.
House recedes with an amendment to make conforming change
to ``non-English speaking child''.
146. The House bill maintains experience and changes with
standards since 1998. The Senate amendment updates such
experience and changes consistent with the pending Head Start
reauthorization.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert--
``(i) past experience with use of the standards in effect
under this subchapter on the date of enactment of the Improving
Head Start for School Readiness Act of 2007;
``(ii) changes over the period since October 27, 1998, in
the circumstances and problems typically facing children and
families served by Head Start agencies;''
147. The House bill and Senate amendment contain similar
provisions but in different locations (see note 131).
Senate recedes with an amendment to strike ``when it
becomes available'' and to insert ``, consistent with section
649(j);''.
148. The House bill refers to early childhood education
and development. The Senate amendment refers to early childhood
education and care, and includes homeless children and children
in foster care.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
``(iv)'' and insert--
``(iv) developments concerning research-based practices
with respect to early childhood education and development,
children with disabilities, homeless children, children in
foster care, and family services, and best practices with
respect to program administration, and financial management;''
149. The House bill and Senate amendment contain
identical provisions.
150. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. The House bill requires standards
addressing physical development.
Senate recedes with an amendment to strike ``currently in
effect or under consideration''.
151. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. The House bill includes the cultural
background of children. The Senate amendment includes changes
in the number of homeless or foster care children.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert--
``changes in the characteristics population of children who are
eligible to participate in Head Start programs, including the
country of origin, the language background, and family
structure of such children, and changes in the population and
numbers of such children who are in foster care or are homeless
children''
152. The House bill requires mechanisms for transition of
Head Start children to school. The Senate amendment does not
contain a similar provision.
Senate recedes.
153. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
House recedes with an amendment to strike ``close and
frequent'' and insert ``regular'' and to insert ``Indian,
including Alaska Native,'' after ``experts in''.
154. House bill requires performance standards not be
more narrow than those in existence in 1998. The Senate
amendment ties date to enactment of current bill. The House
bill adds reference to quality.
Senate recedes with an amendment to strike ``October 27,
1998'' and insert ``the date of enactment of the Improving Head
Start for School Readiness Act of 2007.''
155. The Senate amendment requires consultation with
Indian tribes in the development of program standards and
measures. The House bill does not contain a similar provision.
House recedes with an amendment to--
strike ``American Indian and Alaska Native'' and
insert ``including Alaska Natives,''
insert ``Indian and Alaska Native'' after ``experts
in''
156. House bill adds heading to current law and both the
House bill and the Senate amendment maintain current law.
157. The House bill re-names the heading. The House bill
modifies requirements regarding consultation with outside
individuals in the development of Head Start's measures.
Senate recedes with an amendment to--
insert ``family services, and program management,''
after ``development''
insert ``and other relevant research'' after
``Sciences''
insert ``inform, revise and'' before ``provide
guidance''
158. The House bill modifies requirements to measure the
quality and effectiveness of Head Start programs annually, and
provides for the use of measures for the identification of
special needs as well as classroom instructional practices. The
Senate amendment does not include a similar provision.
Senate recedes with an amendment to insert ``children
with'' after ``identification of' and insert a new subparagraph
``(D) administrative and financial management practices''.
159. The Senate amendment maintains (A)-(C) from current
law with noted modifications and the House bill strikes (A)-(C)
from current law.
Senate recedes.
160. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. The House bill requires developmental,
linguistic, and cultural appropriateness.
Senate recedes.
161. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
identical provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
``not less then every 4 years'' and insert ``periodically''.
162. The House bill requires consistency with technical
standards. The Senate amendment does not include a similar
provision.
Senate recedes.
163. The House bill requires validity and reliability,
including in Spanish and other languages. The Senate amendment
does not include a similar provision.
Senate recedes with an amendment to strike ``(in English,
Spanish, and any other language, as appropriate)'' and insert
``in the language in which it is administered;''
164. The House bill requires administration of measures
by trained staff. The Senate amendment does not include a
similar provision.
Senate recedes.
165. The House bill requires appropriate accommodations
in measures. The Senate amendment does not include a similar
provision.
Senate recedes.
166. The House bill requires measures to be used for the
purposes for which they were derived. The Senate amendment does
not include a similar provision.
Senate recedes with an amendment to insert new
subparagraph to read ``(H) be adaptable, as appropriate, for
use in the self-assessment of Head Start agencies, including in
the evaluation of administrative and financial management
practices''.
167. The Senate amendment directs the Secretary to issue
performance measures by regulation. The House bill does not
contain a similar provision.
Senate recedes.
168. The House bill strikes current law and inserts new
use and design of measures. The Senate amendment does not
include similar provisions, and adds a new rule related to
curriculum and instructional materials.
Senate recedes with an amendment to--
in clause (i) strike ``promoting'' and insert
``helping to develop''
insert ``as appropriate'' after ``designed'' in (A)
insert ``and individualizing instruction to better
meet the needs of children involved;''
after ``weaknesses''
insert ``the'' after ``identifying''
insert ``of children;'' after ``needs''
strike ``scientifically-based'' and insert
``scientifically valid''
168a. The Senate amendment includes a Rules of
Construction related to the selection of curriculum for program
instruction. The House bill does not include a similar
provision.
House recedes with an amendment to create a Section 657B
and move this paragraph to Section 657B, and to strike ``or
suggest'' and insert ``or'' after ``direct''.
169. The House bill and Senate amendment contain similar
provisions except the Senate amendment places in Section
649(h).
House recedes with an amendment to strike ``under
paragraph (2)(A)'' and insert ``from the study on Developmental
Outcomes and Assessments for Young Children by the National
Academy of Sciences''.
170. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. The Senate amendment is placed in section
649 and prohibits the ranking, comparison, or evaluation of
individual children or teachers.
House recedes with an amendment to--
strike ``(i)'' and insert ``(5)''
insert ``(A) Prohibition.--'' before ``The use of
assessment''
strike ``to rank, compare'' and insert ``is
prohibited for the purposes of--
``(i) ranking, comparing''
strike ``or teachers, or to'' and insert ``for
purposes other than research, training, or technical
assistance; and
(ii)''
strike ``or to provide'' and insert ``providing''
strike ``is prohibited'' and insert ``(B)
Results.--''
The Conferees do not intend for this provision to
similarly limit local employees of a Head Start agency to use
assessments that may rank, compare, or individually evaluate
information on individual children. Local use of assessments
shall be consistent with section 640A(b)(I) through (3). The
use of such assessment when used to provide training or
technical assistance to teachers for program improvement is
allowed.
171. The House bill contains confidentiality
requirements. The Senate amendment does not include a similar
provision.
Senate recedes.
172. The House bill modifies current law to include the
identification of program strengths and weaknesses and the
risk-based assessment system. The Senate amendment does not
contain a similar provision.
Senate recedes with an amendment to--
strike ``develop and use a risk-based assessment
system to''
strike ``strengths as part of an'' and insert
``strength as part of their''
173. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
identical provisions.
Senate recedes with an amendment to insert ``, including
the use of a risk based assessment approach,'' after
``review''.
174. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
identical provisions.
175. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. The Senate amendment includes additional
requirements for follow-up reviews, and stipulates the
conditions for unannounced reviews.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert--
``(C) Followup reviews, including--
``(i) return visits to Head Start agencies with one
or more findings of deficiencies not later than 6
months after the Secretary provides notification of
such findings, or not later than 12 months after such
notification if the Secretary determines that
additional time is necessary for an agency to address
such a deficiency prior to the review; and
``(ii) a review of Head Start agencies with
significant areas of noncompliance;
``(D) Other reviews, including unannounced site
inspections of Head Start centers, as appropriate.''
176. The House bill does not require unannounced site
inspections under the heading and section describing reviews.
Senate recedes.
177. The Senate amendment includes additional individuals
with expertise as part of the review team, and ensures
expertise in personnel management, financial accountability,
and systems development and monitoring. The House bill does not
contain similar provisions.
Senate recedes with an amendment to strike and insert--
``(A) are conducted by review teams that--
``(i) include individuals who are knowledgeable
about Head Start programs and, to the maximum extent
practicable, individuals who are knowledgeable about--
``(I) other early childhood education and
development programs, personnel management,
financial accountability, and systems
development and monitoring; and
``(II) the diverse (including linguistic
and cultural) needs of eligible children
(including children with disabilities, homeless
children, children in foster care, and limited
English proficient children) and their
families.''
178. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. The House bill includes former employees of
HHS.
Senate recedes with an amendment to insert a new
subsection clause to read ``(iii) shall receive periodic
training to ensure quality and consistency across reviews;''.
179. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. The Senate amendment directs the Secretary
to conduct reviews in accordance with results-based performance
measures.
Senate recedes
180. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
House recedes with an amendment to strike ``needs of
populations'' and insert ``those''.
181. The House bill addresses the community needs and
strategic plans as part of the review. The Senate amendment
refers more broadly to collecting information regarding
collaboration with others in the community providing early
education and care.
Senate recedes.
181a. The Senate amendment includes a provision on
collection of information on the innovative and effective
efforts of Head Start agencies to collaborate with the
entities. The House bill does not include a similar provision.
House recedes with an amendment to strike and insert
``(E) include information on the innovative and effective
efforts of the Head Start agencies to collaborate with the
entities providing early childhood and development services and
programs in the community and any barriers to such
collaboration that the agencies encounter.''
182. The House bill includes a new classroom quality
observational instrument as part of Head Start reviews. The
Senate amendment does not contain a similar provision.
Senate recedes with an amendment to--
strike ``review the implementation by qualified
individuals with demonstrated reliability,'' and
insert ``reviews,''
insert ``implemented by qualified individuals with
demonstrated reliability,'' after ``instrument''
The Conferees intend for the Secretary to integrate into
the triennial review a valid and reliable research-based
observational instrument that assesses classroom quality
through observation of multiple dimensions of teacher-child
interactions that are linked to positive child development and
later achievement. The Conferees encourage the Secretary to
consider using existing research-based methods such as the
Classroom Assessment Scoring System (CLASS) for this purpose.
The Conferees also believe it is logistically and fiscally
impractical to implement such an instrument in every classroom
and recommend the Secretary develop appropriate sampling
techniques for the implementation.
183. The House bill requires reviews to ensure
consistency, objectivity, and reliability. The Senate amendment
stipulates training for reviewers, and ensures consistency
across programs and regions through interrater reliability
checks.
Senate recedes with an amendment to insert ``, and are
conducted in a manner that includes periodic interrater
reliability checks, to ensure quality and consistency across
and within regions, of the reviews and non-compliance and
deficiency determinations'' after ``review''.
184. The House bill and Senate amendment contain similar
provisions.
House recedes.
185. The House bill includes a protocol for fiscal
management. The Senate amendment does not contain similar
provisions.
Senate recedes with an amendment to insert ``(consistent
with section 644(f))'' after ``property''.
186. The Senate amendment includes a review and
assessment of whether programs are in conformity with
eligibility requirements. The House bill does not contain
similar provisions.
House recedes.
187. The Senate amendment includes a review of whether
programs have adequately addressed the needs of children with
disabilities. The House bill does not contain similar
provisions.
House recedes.
188. The Senate amendment requires the use of outcome
data from child assessments in reviews. The House bill does not
contain similar provisions.
House recedes with an amendment to strike and insert--
``(L) include as part of the reviews, a review and
assessment of child outcomes and performance as they relate to
agency-determined school readiness goals described in
subsection (g)(2), consistent with subsection (b)(5);''
189. The House bill has new requirements to present
findings to the grantee. The Senate amendment does not contain
a similar provision.
Senate recedes.
190. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions but in different locations.
Senate recedes with an amendment to--
insert ``, subject to paragraph (4),'' after
``establish''
strike in `(C)' ``appealing'' and insert ``a
delegate agency to appeal'' and to strike ``relating to
a delegate agency''
191. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
Senate recedes.
192. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. The Senate amendment includes additional
conditions regarding funding provided to deficient Head Start
agencies.
House recedes with an amendment to strike ``(iii)'' and
insert--
``(iii) releasing funds to such delegate agency--
``(I) only as reimbursements except that, upon
receiving a request from the delegate agency
accompanied by assurances satisfactory to the grantee
that the funds will be appropriately safeguarded, the
Head Start agency shall provide to the delegate agency
a working capital advance in an amount sufficient to
cover the estimated expenses during an agreed upon
disbursing cycle; and
``(II) only if there is continuity of services''
193. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
Senate recedes with an amendment to strike ``modify,
supersede, or affect'' and insert ``limit''.
194. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
House recedes with an amendment to strike ``pursuant to
section 641'' and insert ``under this subchapter'' and to
strike from (d)(1) ``or results based performance measures
developed by the Secretary under subsection (b)''.
195. The Senate amendment requires conditions for the
termination of a delegate agency. The House bill does not
contain a similar provision.
See note 190.
196. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
Senate recedes.
197. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
identical provisions.
198. The House bill requires approval of program
improvement plans. The Senate amendment does not contain a
similar provision.
Senate recedes with an amendment to strike ``,'' after
``program''.
199. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
Senate recedes.
200. The House and the Senate amendment contain similar
provisions. House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to
strike and insert--
``(f) Summaries of Monitoring Outcomes.--
``(1) In general.--Not later than 120 days after
the end of each fiscal year, the Secretary shall
publish a summary report on the findings of reviews
conducted under subsection (c) and on the outcomes of
quality improvement plans implemented under subsection
(e), during such fiscal year.
``(2) Report availability.--Such report shall be
made widely available to--
``(A) parents with children receiving
assistance under this subchapter--
``(i) in an understandable and
uniform format; and
``(ii) to the extent practicable,
provided in a language that the parents
understand;
``(B) the public through means such as--
``(i) distribution through public
agencies;
``(ii) posting such information on
the Internet;
``(3) Report information.--Such report shall
contain detailed data--
``(A) on compliance with specific standards
and measures; and
``(B) sufficient to allow Head Start
agencies to use such data to improve quality of
their programs.''
201. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. The House bill refers to each Head Start
agency and delegate agency, and includes professional
development plans.
Senate recedes with an amendment to strike ``(including
professional development plans)''.
202. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. The Senate amendment requires reports to be
submitted to the HHS regional offices. The House bill requires
reports to be submitted to the Secretary.
Senate recedes with an amendment to insert--
A new header for paragraph (2) that reads ``Goals,
Reports, and Improvement Plans'' and insert ``(A) Goals.--An
agency conducting a self-assessment shall establish agency-
determined program goals for improving the school readiness of
children participating in a program under this subchapter,
including school readiness goals that are aligned with the Head
Start Child Outcomes Framework, State early learning standards
as appropriate, and requirements and expectations for the
schools the children will be attending.''.
203. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. The Senate amendment requires improvement
plans to be reported to the HHS regional offices. The House
bill requires plans to be reported to the Secretary.
Senate recedes.
204. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
Senate recedes.
205. The Senate amendment allows training funds to be
made available for assistance in conducting self-assessments.
The House bill does not contain similar provisions.
House recedes with an amendment to move paragraph to
Section 648.
206. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert--
``(h) Reduction of Grants and Redistribution of Funds in
Cases of Under-Enrollment.--
``(1) Definitions.--In this subsection--
``(A) Actual enrollment.--The term `actual
enrollment' means, with respect to the program
of a Head Start agency, the actual number of
children enrolled in such program and reported
by the agency (as required in paragraph (2)) in
a given month.
``(B) Base grant.--The term `base grant'
has the meaning given the term in section
649(a)(7).
``(C) Funded enrollment.--The term `funded
enrollment' means, with respect to the program
of a Head Start agency in a fiscal year, the
number of children that the agency is funded to
serve through a grant for the program during
such fiscal year, as indicated in the grant
award.
``(2) Enrollment reporting requirement.--Each
entity carrying out a Head Start program shall report
on a monthly basis to the Secretary and the relevant
Head Start agency--
``(A) the actual enrollment in such
program; and
``(B) if such actual enrollment is less
than the funded enrollment, any apparent reason
for such enrollment shortfall.
``(3) Secretarial review and plan.--The Secretary
shall--
``(A) on a semiannual basis, determine
which Head Start agencies are operating with an
actual enrollment that is less than the funded
enrollment based on not less than 4 consecutive
months of data;
``(B) for each such Head Start agency
operating a program with an actual enrollment
that is less than its funded enrollment, as
determined under subparagraph (A), develop, in
collaboration with such agency, a plan and
timetable for reducing or eliminating under-
enrollment taking into consideration--
``(i) the quality and extent of the
outreach, recruitment, and
communitywide needs assessment
conducted by such agency;
``(ii) changing demographics,
mobility of populations, and the
identification of new underserved low-
income populations;
``(iii) facilities-related issues
that may impact enrollment;
``(iv) the ability to provide full-
day programs, where needed, through
funds made available under this
subchapter or through collaboration
with entities carrying out other
preschool or child care programs, or
programs with other funding sources
(where available);
``(v) the availability and use by
families of other preschool and child
care options (including parental care)
in the community served; and
``(vi) agency management procedures
that may impact enrollment; and
``(C) provide timely and ongoing technical
assistance to each agency described in
subparagraph (B) for the purpose of
implementing the plan described in such
subparagraph.
``(4) Implementation.--Upon receipt of the
technical assistance described in paragraph (3)(C), a
Head Start agency shall immediately implement the plan
described in paragraph (3)(B) and the Secretary shall,
where determined appropriate, continue to provide
technical assistance to such agency.
``(5) Secretarial review and adjustment for chronic
underenrollment.--
``(A) In general.--If, after receiving
technical assistance and developing and
implementing the plan as described in
paragraphs (3) and (4) for 12 months, a Head
Start agency is still operating a program with
an actual enrollment that is less than 97
percent of its funded enrollment, the Secretary
may--
``(i) designate such agency as
chronically under-enrolled; and
``(ii) recapture, withhold, or
reduce the base grant for the program
by a percentage equal to the percentage
difference between funded enrollment
and actual enrollment for the program
for the most recent year in which the
agency is determined to be under-
enrolled under paragraph (3)(A).
``(B) Waiver or limitation of reductions.--
The Secretary may, as appropriate, waive or
reduce the percentage recapturing, withholding,
or reduction otherwise required by subparagraph
(A), if, after the implementation of the plan
described in paragraph (3)(B), the Secretary
finds that--
``(i) the causes of the enrollment
shortfall, or a portion of the
shortfall, are related to the agency
serving significant numbers of highly
mobile children, or other significant
causes as determined by the Secretary;
``(ii) the shortfall can reasonably
be expected to be temporary; or
``(iii) the number of slots
allotted to the agency is small enough
that under enrollment does not
constitute a significant shortfall.
``(6) Redistribution of funds.--
``(A) In general.--Funds held by the
Secretary as a result of recapturing,
withholding, or reducing a base grant in a
fiscal year shall be redistributed by the end
of the following fiscal year as follows:
``(i) Indian head start programs.--
If such funds are derived from an
Indian Head Start program, then such
funds shall be redistributed to
increase enrollment by the end of the
following fiscal year in 1 or more
Indian Head Start programs.
``(ii) Migrant and seasonal head
start programs.--If such funds are
derived from the operation of a migrant
and seasonal Head Start program, then
such funds shall be redistributed to
increase enrollment by the end of the
following fiscal year in 1 or more
migrant and seasonal Head Start
programs.
``(iii) Early head start
programs.--If such funds are derived
from an Early Head Start program in a
State, then such funds shall be
redistributed to increase enrollment by
the end of the following fiscal year in
1 or more Early Head Start programs. If
such funds are derived from an Indian
Early Head Start program, then such
funds shall be redistributed to
increase enrollment by the end of the
following fiscal year in 1 or more
Indian Early Head Start programs.
``(iv) Other head start programs.--
If such funds are derived from the
operation of a Head Start program in a
State (excluding Indian Head Start
program and migrant and seasonal Head
Start programs), then such funds shall
be redistributed to increase enrollment
by the end of the following fiscal year
in 1 or more Head Start programs
(excluding Indian Head Start programs
and migrant and seasonal Head Start
programs) that are carried out in such
State.''
207. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. The Senate amendment directs the Secretary
to consider consecutive months of data in the determination.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 206.
208. The Senate amendment requires a plan and timetable
for reducing or eliminating underenrollment in agencies with
less than 95 percent of funded enrollment. The House bill does
not include similar provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 206.
209. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 206.
210. The Senate amendment creates a designation of
chronic under-enrollment, and provides for the re-capturing of
funds from such agencies. The House bill does not include
comparable provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 206.
211. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 206.
212. The House bill reserves funds re-captured from
under-enrolled programs for certain populations of eligible
Head Start children. The Senate amendment re-directs funds to
programs in the same State.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 206.
213. The Senate amendment requires a re-adjustment of
program grant agreements as funds are re-distributed under this
section. The House bill does not contain a similar provision.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 206.
214. The Senate amendment includes a provision allowing
the Head Start agency to contract with non-profit organizations
to improve management. The House bill does not contain a
similar provision.
Senate recedes.
Section 9. Powers and functions of Head Start agencies
215. The House bill and the Senate amendment add
different headers to subsection (a), make identical changes to
lead-in and otherwise maintain current law.
Senate recedes with an amendment to strike ``legal'' from
the heading.
216. The Senate amendment contains a technical provision.
The House bill does not contain a similar provision.
217. The House bill and the Senate amendment have
different headers and lead in.
Senate recedes.
218. The House bill and the Senate amendment have similar
provisions. House bill maintains current law.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert--
``(1) provide for the regular and direct participation of
parents and community residents in the implementation of the
Head Start program, including decisions that influence the
character of such programs, consistent with paragraphs (2)(D)
and (3)(C) of subsection (c).''
219. The House bill and the Senate amendment have
identical provisions.
220. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. (Comparable provision cross-references with
641(f)(8)(A)).
Senate recedes with an amendment to--
insert ``(A)'' after ``procedures''
strike ``their children, and'' after ``education
of'' and insert ``the children; and (B)''
strike everything that follows ``local level'' and
insert ``, including transportation assistance as
appropriate.''
221. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
House recedes.
222. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
House recedes.
223. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
Senate recedes with an amendment to strike ``(v)'' and
insert ``(D) health services, including information on maternal
depression;''
224. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
Senate recedes with an amendment to--
insert ``to the extent practicable,'' after
``understand'' and
insert ``(including foster parents, grandparents
and kinship caregivers where applicable)'' after ``such
parents,''
strike ``(5) through'' and insert ``(5), (6), and''
225. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
House recedes with an amendment to add the following text
into section 658--
``Under this subchapter the term ``health'', when used to
refer to services or care provided to enrolled children, their
parents or siblings, shall be interpreted to refer to both
physical and mental health.''
226. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
identical provisions.
227. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
identical provisions.
228. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
House recedes.
229. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. The Senate amendment provision adds the
word ``such'' before parents and the House bill does not.
Senate recedes.
230. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. The Senate amendment includes a heading.
Senate recedes.
231. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
House recedes with an amendment to insert ``, consistent
with 640(d)(3);'' after ``agencies''.
232. The House bill does not include this provision. The
Senate amendment concerns providing services for children with
disabilities.
House recedes with an amendment to insert ``, consistent
with 640(d)(2);'' after ``Act''.
233. The House bill does not include this provision. The
Senate amendment concerns each delegate agency creating a
policy committee.
House recedes/Senate recedes to strike and insert as
amended in note 236.
234. The Senate amendment adds cross reference for
641(f)(8)(B) that the House bill does not contain.
House recedes with an amendment to strike and insert--
``(B) establish effective procedures to afford such
parents the opportunity to participate in the development and
overall conduct of the program at the local level, including
transportation assistance, as appropriate;''
235. The Senate amendment allows for an agency to partner
with an institute of higher education or a non-profit
organization. The House bill does not include this provision.
House recedes.
236. The House bill and Senate amendment establish
governing bodies and policy councils. The House bill requires
shared governance between the policy council and the governing
body. The Senate amendment does not contain a similar
requirement. The Senate provisions are located in Section
641(a)(3) through Section 641(a)(7).
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert--
``(c) Program Governance.--Upon receiving designation as
a Head Start agency, the agency shall establish and maintain a
formal structure of program governance for the oversight of
quality services for Head Start children and families and for
making decisions related to program design and implementation.
Such structure shall include the following:
``(1) Governing body.--
``(A) In general.--The governing body shall
have legal and fiscal responsibility for the
Head Start agency.
``(B) Composition.--The governing body
shall be composed as follows:
``(i) Not less than 1 member shall
have background and expertise in fiscal
management or accounting.
``(ii) Not less than 1 member shall
have background and expertise in early
childhood education and development.
``(iii) Not less than 1 member
shall be a licensed attorney familiar
with issues that come before the
governing body.
``(iv) Additional members shall--
``(I) reflect the community
to be served, and include
parents of children who are
currently, or were formerly,
enrolled in Head Start
programs; and
``(II) are selected for
their background and expertise
in education, business
administration, and community
affairs.
``(v) Exceptions shall be made to
the requirements of clauses (i) through
(iv) for members of a governing body
when those members oversee a public
entity and are selected to their
positions with the public entity by
public election political appointment.
``(vi) if a person described in
clause (i), (ii), or (iii) is not
available to serve as a member of the
governing body, the governing body
shall use a consultant, or another
individual with relevant expertise,
with the qualifications described in
the clause, who shall work directly
with the governing body.
``(C) Conflict of interest.--Members of the
governing body shall--
``(i) not have a financial conflict
of interest with the Head Start
(including any delegate agency);
``(ii) not receive compensation for
serving on the governing body or for
providing services to the Head Start
agency;
``(iii) not be employed nor shall
members of their immediate family be
employed by the Head Start agency
(including any delegate agency); and
``(iv) operate as an entity
independent of staff employed by the
Head Start agency.
``(D) Exception.--If an individual holds a
position as a result of public election or
political appointment, and such position
carries with it a concurrent appointment to
serve as a member of a Head Start agency
governing body, and such individual has any
conflict of interest described in clause (ii)
or (iii) of subparagraph (C)--
``(i) such individual shall not be
prohibited from serving on such body
and the Head Start agency shall report
such conflict to the Secretary; and
``(ii) if the position held as a
result of public election or political
appointment provides compensation, such
individual shall not be prohibited from
receiving such compensation.
``(E) Responsibilities.--The governing body
shall--
``(i) have legal and fiscal
responsibility for administering and
overseeing programs under this
subchapter, including the safeguarding
of Federal funds;
``(ii) adopt practices that assure
active, independent and informed the
Head Start agency, including practices
consistent with subsection (d)(1), and
fully participate in the development,
planning, and evaluation of the Head
Start programs involved;
``(iii) be responsible for ensuring
compliance with Federal laws (including
regulations) and applicable State,
tribal, and local laws (including
regulations); and
``(iv) be responsible for other
activities, including--
``(I) the selecting
delegate agencies and the
service areas of such agencies;
``(II) establishing
procedures and criteria for
recruitment, selection, and
enrollment of children;
``(III) reviewing all
applications for funding and
amendments to applications for
funding for programs under this
subchapter;
``(IV) establishing
procedures and guidelines for
accessing and collecting
information described in
subsection (d)(2);
``(V) reviewing and
approving all major policies of
the agency, including--
``(aa) the annual
self-assessment and
financial audit;
``(bb) such
agency's progress in
carrying out the
programmatic and fiscal
provisions in such
agency's grant
application, including
implementation of
corrective actions; and
``(cc) personnel
policies of such
agencies regarding the
hiring, evaluation,
termination, and
compensation of agency
employees;
``(VI) developing
procedures for how members of
the policy council are
selected, consistent with
paragraph (2)(B);
``(VII) approving financial
management, accounting, and
reporting policies and
compliance with laws and
regulations related to
financial statements, including
the--
``(aa) approval of
all major financial
expenditures of the
agency;
``(bb) annual
approval of the
operating budget of the
agency;
``(cc) selection
(except when a
financial auditor is
assigned by the State
under State law or is
assigned under local
law) of independent
financial auditors who
shall report all
critical accounting
policies and practices
to the governing body;
and
``(dd) monitoring
of the agency's actions
to correct any audit
findings and of other
action necessary to
comply with applicable
laws (including
regulations) government
financial statement and
accounting practices;
``(VII) reviewing results
from monitoring conducted under
section 641A(c), including
appropriate follow-up
activities;
``(IX) approving personnel
policies and procedures,
including policies and
procedures regarding the
hiring, evaluation,
compensation and termination of
the Executive Director, Head
Start Director, Director of
Human Resources, Chief Fiscal
Officer, and any other person
in an equivalent position with
the agency;
``(X) establishing,
adopting and periodically
updating written standards of
conduct that establish
standards and formal procedures
for disclosing, addressing, and
resolving--
``(aa) any conflict
of interest, and any
appearance of a
conflict of interest,
by members of the
governing body,
officers, employees of
the Head Start agency,
and consultants and
agents who provide
services or furnish
goods to the Head Start
agency; and
``(bb) complaints,
including
investigations, when
appropriate.
``(XI) to the extent
practicable and appropriate, at
the discretion of the governing
body, establishing advisory
committees to oversee key
responsibilities related to
program governance and
improvement of the Head Start
program involved.
``(2) Policy council.--
``(A) In general.--Each Head Start agency
shall have a policy council responsible for the
direction of the Head Start program, including
program design and operation, and long- and
short-term planning goals and objectives taking
into account the annual communitywide strategic
planning and needs assessment and self-
assessment.
``(B) Composition and selection.--
``(i) The policy council shall be
elected by parents of children who are
currently enrolled in the Head Start
program of the Head Start agency.
``(ii) The policy council shall be
composed of--
``(I) parents of children
who are currently enrolled in
the Head Start program of the
Head Start agency (including
any delegate agency), who shall
constitute a majority of the
members of the council; and
``(II) members at large of
the community served by the
Head Start agency (including
any delegate agency), who may
include parents of children who
were formerly enrolled in the
Head Start program of the
agency.
``(C) Conflict of interest.--Members of the
policy council shall--
``(i) not have a conflict of
interest with the Head Start agency
(including any delegate agency); and
``(ii) not receive compensation for
serving on the policy council or for
providing services to the Head Start
agency.
``(D) Responsibilities.--The policy council
shall approve and submit to the governing body
decisions about the following activities--
``(i) Activities to support the
active involvement of parents in
supporting program operations,
including policies to ensure that the
Head Start agency is responsive to
community and parent needs;
``(ii) Program recruitment,
selection, and enrollment priorities;
``(iii) Applications for funding
and amendments to applications for
funding for programs under this
subchapter, prior to the submission of
such applications described in this
clause.
``(iv) Budget planning for program
expenditures, including policies for
reimbursement and participation in
policy council activities;
``(v) Bylaws for the operation of
the policy council;
``(vi) Program personnel policies
and decisions regarding employment of
program staff, consistent with
paragraph (l)(E)(iv)(IX), including
standards of conduct for program staff,
contractors, and volunteers and
criteria for the employment and
dismissal of program staff.
``(vii) Developing procedures for
how members of the policy council of
the Head Start agency will be elected.
``(viii) Recommendations on the
selection of delegate agencies and the
service areas of such agencies.
``(3) Policy committees.--Each delegate agency
shall create a policy committee, which shall--
``(A) be elected and comprised of members
consistent with paragraph (2)(B) (with respect
to delegate agencies);
``(B) follow procedures to prohibit
conflict of interest, consistent with clauses
(i) and (ii) of paragraph (2)(C) (with respect
to delegate agencies); and
``(C) be responsible for approval and
submission of decisions about activities as
they relate to the delegate agency, consistent
with paragraph (2)(D) (with respect to delegate
agencies).
``(d) Program Governance Administration.--
``(1) Impasse policy.--The Secretary shall develop
policies, procedures, and guidance for Head Start
agencies concerning--
``(A) the resolution of internal disputes,
including any impasse in the governance of Head
Start programs; and
``(B) the facilitation of meaningful
consultation and collaboration about decisions
of the governing body and policy council
``(2) Conduct of responsibilities.--Each Head Start
agency shall ensure the sharing of accurate and regular
information for use by the governing body and the
policy council about program planning, policies, and
Head Start agency operations, including--
``(A) monthly financial statements,
including credit card expenditures;
``(B) monthly program information
summaries;
``(C) program enrollment reports, including
attendance reports for children whose care is
partially subsidized by another public agency;
``(D) monthly reports of meals and snacks
provided through programs of the Department of
Agriculture;
``(E) the financial audit;
``(F) the annual self-assessment, including
any findings related to such assessment;
``(G) the communitywide strategic planning
and needs assessment of the Head Start agency,
including any applicable updates;
``(H) communication and guidance from the
Secretary; and
``(I) the program information reports.
``(3) Training and technical assistance.--
Appropriate training and technical assistance shall be
provided to the members of the governing body and the
policy council to ensure that the members understand
the information the members receive and can effectively
oversee and participate in the programs of the Head
Start agency.''
The Conference Report prohibits members of the Policy
Council from receiving compensation for their role in serving
on the Policy Council, as well as prohibits such members from
receiving compensation for providing such services. In
implementing this provision, the Conferees recognize the
regular practice of Head Start agencies to reimburse members of
the Policy Council for reasonable costs (such as transportation
or child care) associated with their full participation in the
operation of such agencies, and for their roles and
responsibilities consistent with duties on the Policy Council.
In promulgating regulations under this section, the Conferees
urge the Secretary to continue to provide for such
reimbursements and recognize the necessity of such
reimbursements for the effective operation of Head Start
agencies. Moreover, the Conferees intend for individuals
serving on governing bodies as a result of elected office or
political appointment to be able to continue to receive
compensation directly related to that elected office or
political appointment.
237. The House bill includes accounting experience. The
Senate amendment does not contain similar provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 236.
238. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 236.
239. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 236.
240. The House bill requires selection of members based
on expertise in education, business administration and
community affairs. The Senate amendment requires selection of
additional members to reflect the community served, and
includes parents.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 236.
241. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 236.
242. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. The House bill includes additional
requirements.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 236.
243. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 236.
244. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. The Senate amendment consolidates training
and technical assistance for both governing bodies and policy
councils. See note 281.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 236.
245. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 236.
246. The House bill requires activities to ensure
independent and informed governance. The Senate amendment does
not contain a similar provision.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 236.
247. The House bill requires oversight to ensure that the
Head Start agency is under the direction of the executive
director. The Senate amendment does not contain a similar
provision.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 236.
248. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. The House bill provides for specific audit
and financing issues and creates a separate committee within
the governing body for these functions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 236.
249. The House bill requires approval of all major
policies of the agency.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 236.
250. The Senate amendment refers to policies and
procedures regarding hiring, firing, and salaries of management
personnel.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 236.
251. The House bill refers to all major financial
expenditures.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 236.
252. The House bill requires approval of the hiring or
firing of the Head Start Director.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 236.
253. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 236.
254. The House bill requires the governing body to
oversee the program planning of the Head Start agency. Senate
amendment does not contain a similar provision.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 236.
255. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 236.
256. The Senate amendment requires approval of self-
assessments, financial audits, and reviews. The House bill does
not contain a similar amendment.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 236.
257. The House bill requires the establishment and
revision of written standards of conduct. The Senate amendment
does not contain a similar provision.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 236.
258. The Senate amendment requires the governing body to
select delegate agencies and service areas. The House bill does
not contain a similar provision.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 236.
259. The Senate amendment requires the governing body to
establish procedures and criteria for recruitment, selection,
and enrollment. The House bill does not contain a similar
provision.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 236.
260. The Senate amendment requires the governing body to
establish procedures for gathering information related to
program governance. The House bill does not contain a similar
provision.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 236.
261. The Senate amendment requires review and approval of
the community assessment by the governing body. The House bill
does not contain a similar provision.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 236.
262. The Senate amendment requires an internal control
structure to facilitate responsibilities of Head Start's
governance structure. The House bill does not contain a similar
provision.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 236.
263. The Senate amendment provides for the establishment
of a Committee to assist with the governance of Head Start
programs. The House bill does not contain a similar provision.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 236.
264. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 236.
265. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 236.
266. The House bill and Senate amendment require parents
to represent proportional components of programs. The Senate
amendment stipulates a process for selecting parents to serve
on the policy council.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 236.
267. The Senate amendment includes members at large in
policy councils. The House bill does not contain a similar
provision.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 236.
268. The House bill establishes terms for policy council
members. The Senate amendment does not contain a similar
provision.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 236.
269. The Senate amendment prohibits conflicts of interest
within the policy council. The House bill does not contain
similar provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 236.
270. The House bill provides for the approval of
decisions. The Senate amendment does not contain similar
language.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 236.
271. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 236.
272. The House bill requires delegate agencies to be
selected by the policy council. The Senate amendment does not
contain a similar provision.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 236.
273. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 236.
274. The House bill provides authority to the policy
council for funding applications. The Senate amendment does not
contain a similar provision.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 236.
275. The House bill and Senate amendment contain similar
provisions. The Senate amendment provides greater detail
regarding responsibilities.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 236.
276. The House bill provides authority for bylaws to the
policy council. The Senate amendment does not contain similar
provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 236.
277. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 236.
278. The House bill provides authority for decisions
regarding employment to the policy council. The Senate
amendment does not contain similar provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 236.
279. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 236.
280. The House bill provides authority for program
responsiveness to the policy council. The Senate amendment does
not contain a similar provision.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 236.
281. House bill requires training for the policy council.
Senate amendment addresses training in same provision as for
governing body. See note 244.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 236.
282. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. The House bill includes an impasse policy.
The Senate amendment requires procedures for agencies under
section 641(a)(2)(B)(iv).
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 236.
283. The Senate amendment requires information sharing.
The House bill does not contain similar provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 236.
284. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions leading to collaboration. Senate amendment
lists specific programs that the House bill does not.
Senate recedes with an amendment to--
strike ``must'' and insert ``shall''
insert ``, to the maximum extent practicable,''
after ``entities''
strike ``available'' and insert ``availability and
quality of''
285. House bill and Senate amendment contain similar
provisions but Senate amendment provision is located in
subsection (b).
Senate recedes.
286. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
House recedes with an amendment to strike headings.
287. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. The Senate amendment includes an additional
requirement to collaborate with elementary school teachers.
House recedes with an amendment to strike the heading and
to strike ``teaching strategies and options'' and insert
``professional development and instructional strategies, as
appropriate''.
288. The Senate amendment lists specific programs that
the Head Start agency must coordinate with. The House bill does
not include similar provisions.
House recedes with an amendment to strike and insert--
``(3) Coordinate activities and collaborate with programs
under the Child Care and Development Block Grant Act of 1990
(42 U.S.C. 9858 et seq.), the agencies responsible for
administering section 106 of the Child Abuse Prevention and
Treatment Act (42 U.S.C. 5106a), parts B and E of title IV of
the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 621 et seq. and 670 et
seq.), programs under subtitle B of title VII of the McKinney-
Vento Homeless Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 11431 et seq.), Even
Start programs under subpart 3 of part B of title I of the
Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 6381
et seq.), and programs under section 619 and part C of the
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (20 U.S.C. 1419,
1431 et seq.), and other entities providing early childhood
education and development services, serving the children and
families served by the Head Start agency.''
289. House bill and Senate amendment contain similar
provisions. The House bill requires efforts to enhance
efficiency. The Senate amendment focuses on reducing
duplication of services.
House recedes with an amendment to insert ``and enhance
the efficiency'' after ``duplication of services''.
290. The House bill maintains current law of a provision
requiring the Secretary of Health and Human Services to consult
with the Secretary of Education to evaluate the effectiveness
of programs, disseminate effective policies and activities, and
provide technical assistance. The Senate amendment does not
include a similar provision.
Senate recedes with an amendment to strike (A), and
strike the parenthesis in subparagraph (B) and to move
paragraph to new subsection at the end of section 642A.
291. The House bill adds new heading. The Senate
amendment does not contain a similar provision.
Senate recedes.
292. The House bill maintains current law on maintaining
gains. The Senate amendment does not include this provision.
Senate recedes.
293. The House bill and Senate amendment contain similar
language but Senate amendment language is located in subsection
(b).
Senate recedes with an amendment to insert ``the'' before
``standards''.
294. The House bill and Senate amendment contain similar
provisions but the Senate amendment provision is located in
subsection (b).
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert--
``(3) implement a research-based early childhood
curriculum that--
``(A) promotes young children's school readiness in
the areas of language and cognitive development, early
reading and mathematics skills, socio-emotional
development, physical development, and approaches to
learning.
``(B) is based on scientifically valid research and
has standardized training procedures and curriculum
materials to support implementation;
``(C) is comprehensive and linked to ongoing
assessment, with developmental and learning goals and
measurable objectives;
``(D) is focused on improving the learning
environment, teaching practices, family involvement,
and child outcomes across all areas of development; and
``(E) is aligned to the Head Start Child Outcomes
Framework developed by the Secretary and, as
appropriate, to State early learning standards;
(4) implement effective interventions and support
services that help promote the school readiness of children
participating in the program;''
295. The House bill calls for research-based assessment
methods and the Senate amendment does not include this
provision.
Senate recedes with an amendment to strike and insert--
``(5) use research-based assessment methods that reflect
the characteristics described in section 641A(b)(2) in order to
support the educational instruction and school readiness of
children in the program.''
296. The House bill and Senate amendment contain similar
provisions but the Senate amendment provision is located in
subsection (b).
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert--
``use research-based developmental screening tools that
have been demonstrated to be standardized, reliable, valid, and
accurate for the child being assessed, to the maximum extent
practicable, for the purpose of meeting the relevant standards
described in section 641(a)(1);''.
297. The House bill and Senate amendment have similar
provisions but the Senate amendment includes a heading and is
located in a different subsection.
House recedes with an amendment to strike and insert--
``adopt, in consultation with experts in child
development and with classroom teachers, an evaluation to
assess whether classroom teachers have mastered the functions
described in section 648A(a)(1),''
298. The House bill calls for professional development
plans to improve teacher effectiveness. The Senate amendment
does not include this provision.
Senate recedes with an amendment to strike ``adopt a''
and insert ``inform''; strike ``plan that leads'' and insert
``plans'' and insert ``, as appropriate.'' after ``plans''.
299. House bill calls for measurable objectives. The
Senate amendment does not include this provision.
Senate recedes with an amendment to strike and insert--
``establish goals and measurable objectives for the
provision of health, educational, nutritional, and social
services provided under this subchapter and related to the
program mission and to promote school readiness; and''.
300. The House bill calls for the development of
procedures for identifying children as limited English
proficient. The Senate amendment does not include this
provision.
Senate recedes with an amendment to strike ``as'' and
insert ``who are''.
301. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
identical provisions.
302. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. The House bill includes children to be
serviced by such agency, and the results of the reviews
conducted under section 641A(c).
Senate recedes.
303. The House bill contains a provision on financial
management. The Senate amendment does not contain a similar
provision.
Senate recedes.
Section 10. Head Start transition and alignment with K-12 education
304. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. The House bill focuses on promoting
continuity of services.
Senate recedes with an amendment to insert ``(a) In
General.--''
305. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
identical provisions.
306. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
Senate recedes.
307. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
Senate recedes with an amendment to strike and insert--
``establishing on-going communications between the Head
Start agency and local education agency for developing
continuity of developmentally appropriate curricular objectives
(which for the purpose of the Head Start program shall be
aligned to the Head Start Child Outcomes Framework and, as
appropriate, State early learning standards) and for shared
expectations for children's learning and development as they
transition to school;''
And to insert new subsection into section 657C--
``(c) Special Rule.--Nothing in this subchapter shall
authorize a Head Start program or a local education agency to
require the other to select or implement a specific curriculum
or program of instruction.''
308. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
identical provisions.
309. The Senate amendment requires the establishment of
comprehensive transition policies. The House bill does not
contain a similar provision.
House recedes.
310. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
House recedes.
311. The House bill includes a provision on assistance to
parents of LEP students. The Senate amendment does not contain
a similar provision.
Senate recedes with an amendment to--
strike ``method of instruction'' and insert ``(A)
instructional''
insert ``(B)'' before ``as appropriate''
insert ``the'' after ``appropriate,''
312. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. The Senate amendment also requires that the
language needs of parents of limited English proficient
children be considered.
House recedes.
313. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
House recedes.
314. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
Senate recedes with an amendment to strike ``the
education'' and insert ``educational''.
315. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. The House bill includes grandparents and
kinship caregivers.
Senate recedes.
316. The Senate amendment provides for helping parents
understand the school in which their child will enroll. The
House bill does not contain a similar provision.
House recedes.
317. The House bill provides for increasing participation
of underserved populations. The Senate amendment does not
contain a similar provision.
Senate recedes.
318. The Senate amendment includes language, pre-
literacy, and premathematics competencies. The House bill does
not contain similar provisions.
Senate recedes.
319. The Senate amendment includes a technical
clarification. The House bill does not contain a similar
provision.
House recedes.
Section 11. Early childhood education, coordination, and improvement
320. The House bill includes local and State integration
requirements and a memorandum of understanding for each Head
Start agency at the local level. The Senate amendment does not
contain a similar provision.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to move to
section 642(d) with instructions and to strike and insert the
following:
``(5) Entering into a memorandum of understanding, not
later than 1 year after the effective date of this section,
with the appropriate local entity responsible for managing
publicly funded preschool programs in the service area of the
Head Start agency, that shall--
``(A) review each of the following activities and
include plans to coordinate the activities as
appropriate, regarding--
``(i) Educational activities, curricula,
and instruction.
``(ii) Public information dissemination and
access to programs for families contacting any
of the early childhood programs.
``(iii) Selection priorities for eligible
children to be served by programs.
``(iv) Service delivery areas.
``(v) Staff training, including
opportunities for joint staff training on
topics such as academic content standards,
instructional methods, curricula, and social
and emotional development.
``(vi) Program technical assistance.
``(vii) Provision of additional services to
meet the needs of working parents, as
applicable.
``(viii) Planning and parent education for
smooth transitions to kindergarten as required
in section 642A(3) and 642A(6).
``(ix) Provision and use of facilities,
transportation, and other program elements.
``(x) Other elements mutually agreed to by
the parties to such memorandum;
``(B) be submitted to the Secretary and the State
Director of Head Start Collaboration not later than 30
days after entering into such memorandum, except where
there is an absence of publicly funded preschool in the
service area of a Head Start agency or where the
appropriate entity responsible for managing the state-
funded preschool is unable or unwilling to enter into
such a memorandum, the Head Start agency shall submit
such information to the Secretary and the State
Director of Head Start Collaboration; and
``(C) shall be revised periodically and renewed
biennially by the parties to such memorandum, in
alignment with the beginning of the school year.''
321. House bill and Senate amendment each create State
Councils. The House bill places councils in section 642B and
the Senate amendment places councils in section 640(a)(5)(E).
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and inserts the following new section 642B--
``(a) Head Start Collaboration.--
``(1) From amounts made available under section
640(a)(2)(B)(vi), the Secretary shall award the
collaboration grants described in paragraphs (2), (3),
and (4).
``(2)(A) The Secretary shall award, upon submission
of a written request, a collaboration grant to each
State and to each national administrative office
serving Indian Head Start programs and migrant or
seasonal Head Start programs to facilitate
collaboration among Head Start agencies (including
Early Head Start agencies) and entities that carry out
activities designed to benefit low-income children from
birth to school entry, and their families. The national
administrative offices shall use the funds made
available through the grants to carry out the
authorities and responsibilities described in
subparagraph (B) and paragraphs (3) and (4), as
appropriate.
``(B) Grants described in subparagraph (A) shall be
used to--
``(i) assist Head Start agencies to
collaborate with entities involved in
State and local planning processes to
better meet the needs of low-income
children from birth to school entry,
and their families;
``(ii) assist Head Start agencies
to coordinate activities with the State
agency responsible for administering
the State program carried out under the
Child Care and Development Block Grant
Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 9858 et seq.)
and entities providing resource and
referral services in the State, to make
full-working-day and full calendar year
services available to children;
``(iii) promote alignment of
curricula used in Head Start programs
and continuity of services with the
Head Start Child Outcomes Framework
and, as appropriate, State early
learning standards;
``(iv) promote better linkages
between Head Start agencies and other
child and family agencies, including
agencies that provide health, mental
health, or family services, or other
child or family supportive services,
such as services provided under section
619 or part C of the Individuals with
Disabilities Education Act (20 U.S.C.
1419, 1431 et seq.); and
``(v) carry out the activities of
the State Director of Head Start
Collaboration authorized in paragraph
(4).
``(3) In order to improve coordination and delivery
of early childhood education and development to
children in the State, a State that receives a
collaboration grant under paragraph (2) shall--
``(A) appoint or designate an individual to
serve as, or carry out the responsibilities of,
the State Director of Head Start Collaboration;
``(B) ensure that the State Director of
Head Start Collaboration holds a position with
sufficient authority and access to ensure that
the collaboration described in paragraph (2) is
effective and involves a range of State
agencies; and
``(C) involve the State Head Start
Association in the selection of the Director
and involve the Association in determinations
relating to the ongoing direction of the
collaboration office involved.
``(4) The State Director of Head Start
Collaboration shall--
``(A) not later than 1 year after the State
receives a collaboration grant under paragraph
(2), conduct an assessment that--
``(i) addresses the needs of Head
Start agencies in the State with
respect to collaboration, coordination
and alignment of services, and
alignment of curricula and assessments
used in Head Start programs with the
Head Start Child Outcomes Framework
and, as appropriate, State early
learning standards;
``(ii) shall be updated on an
annual basis; and
``(iii) shall be made available to
the general public within the State;
``(B) develop a strategic plan that is
based on the assessment described in paragraph
(A) that will--
``(i) enhance collaboration and
coordination of Head Start services by
Head Start agencies with other entities
providing early childhood education and
development (such as child care or
services offered by museums), health
care, mental health care, welfare,
child protective services, education
and community service activities,
family literacy services, reading
readiness programs (including such
programs offered by public and school
libraries), services relating to
children with disabilities, other early
childhood education and development for
limited English proficient children and
homeless children, and services
provided for children in foster care
and children referred to Head Start
programs by child welfare agencies,
including agencies and State officials
responsible for services described in
this clause;
``(ii) assist Head Start agencies
to develop a plan for the provision of
full working-day, full calendar year
services for children enrolled in Head
Start programs who need such services;
``(iii) assist Head Start agencies
to align curricula and assessments used
in Head Start programs with the Head
Start Child Outcomes Framework and, as
appropriate, State early learning
standards; and
``(iv) enable Head Start agencies
to better access professional
development opportunities for Head
Start staff, such as by working with
Head Start agencies to enable the
agencies to meet the degree
requirements described in section
648A(a)(2)(A), including providing
distance learning opportunities for
Head Start staff, where needed to make
higher education more accessible to
Head Start staff; and
``(v) enable the Head Start
agencies to better conduct outreach to
eligible families;
``(C) promote partnerships between Head
Start agencies, State and local governments,
and the private sector to help ensure that
children from low-income families, who are in
Head Start programs or are preschool age, are
receiving comprehensive services to prepare the
children for elementary school;
``(D) consult with the chief State school
officer, local educational agencies, and
providers of early childhood education and
development, at both the State and local
levels;
``(E) promote partnerships between Head
Start agencies, schools, law enforcement,
relevant community-based organizations, and
substance abuse and mental health treatment
agencies to strengthen family and community
environments and to reduce the impact on child
development of substance abuse, child abuse,
domestic violence, and other high-risk
behaviors that compromise healthy development;
``(F) promote partnerships between Head
Start agencies and other organizations in order
to enhance Head Start program quality,
including partnerships to promote inclusion of
more books in Head Start classrooms;
``(G) identify other resources and
organizations (both public and private) for the
provision of in-kind services to Head Start
agencies in the State; and
``(H) serve on the State Advisory Council
in order to assist the efforts of Head Start
agencies to engage in effective coordination
and collaboration.
``(b) State Early Education and Care.--
``(1)(A) The Governor of the State shall--
``(i) designate or establish a council to
serve as the State Advisory Council on Early
Childhood Education and Care for children from
birth to school entry (in this subchapter
referred to as the ``State Advisory Council'');
and
``(ii) designate an individual to
coordinate activities of the State Advisory
Council, as described in subparagraph (D)(i).
``(B) The Governor may designate an existing entity
in the state to serve as the State Advisory Council,
and shall appoint such representatives to the State
Advisory Council at the Governor's discretion. In
designating an existing entity, the Governor shall take
steps to ensure that membership includes, to the extent
possible, representatives consistent with subparagraph
(C).
``(C) Members of the State Advisory Council shall
include, to the maximum extent possible--
``(I) a representative of the state
agency responsible for child care;
``(II) a representative of the
State educational agency;
``(III) a representative of local
educational agencies;
``(IV) a representative of
institutions of higher education in the
state;
``(V) a representative of local
providers of early childhood education
and care;
``(VI) a representative from Head
Start agencies located in the State,
including migrant and seasonal Head
Start programs and Indian Head Start
programs;
``(VII) the State Director of Head
Start Collaboration
``(VIII) a representative of the
State agency responsible for programs
under section 619 or part C of the
Individuals with Disabilities Education
Act (20 U.S.C. 1419, 1431 et seq.);
``(IX) a representative of the
State agency responsible for health or
mental health care; and
``(X) representatives of other
entities determined to be relevant by
the Governor of the state.
``(D) The State Advisory Council shall, in addition
to any responsibilities assigned to the Council by the
Governor of the State
``(I) conduct a periodic statewide
needs assessment concerning the quality
and availability of early childhood
education and care for children from
birth to school entry, including an
assessment of the availability of high
quality pre-kindergarten services for
low-income children in the state;
``(II) identify opportunities for,
and barriers to, collaboration and
coordination among federally-funded and
State-funded child development, child
care, and early childhood education and
care programs, including collaboration
and coordination among state agencies
responsible for administering such
programs;
``(III) develop recommendations for
increasing the overall participation of
children in existing federal, state,
and local early childhood education and
child care programs, including outreach
to underrepresented and special
populations;
``(IV) develop recommendations
regarding the establishment of a
unified data collection system for
public early childhood education and
care throughout the State;
``(V) develop recommendations
regarding a statewide professional
development and career advancement plan
for early childhood educators in the
State;
``(VI) assess the capacity and
effectiveness of 2- and 4-year public
and private institutions of higher
education in the State toward
supporting the development of early
childhood educators, including the
extent to which such institutions have
in place articulation agreements,
professional development and career
advancement plans, and practica or
internships for students to spend time
in a Head Start or prekindergarten
program; and
``(VII) make recommendations for
improvements in State early learning
standards and undertake efforts to
develop high quality comprehensive
early learning standards, as
appropriate.
``(ii) The State Advisory Council shall
hold public hearings and provide an opportunity
for public comment on the activities described
in clause (iv). The State Advisory Council
shall submit a statewide strategic report
addressing the activities described in clause
(iv) to the State Director of Head Start
Collaboration and the Governor of the State.
``(iii) After submission of a statewide
strategic report under subclause (II), the
State Advisory Council shall meet periodically
to review any implementation of the
recommendations in such report and any changes
in State and local needs.
``(2)(A) The Secretary shall use the portion
reserved under clause (i) to award, on a competitive
basis, one-time startup grants of not less than 500,000
to eligible States to enable such States to pay for the
Federal share of developing and implementing a plan
pursuant to the responsibilities included under
subparagraph (E)(iv)(I). A State that receives funds
under (i) shall use such funds to facilitate the
development of high-quality systems of early childhood
education and care designed to improve school
preparedness through one or more of the following
activities--
``(i) promoting school preparedness of
children from birth through school entry,
including activities to encourage families and
caregivers to engage in highly interactive,
developmentally and age-appropriate activities
to improve children's early social, emotional,
and cognitive development, support the
transition of young children to school, and
foster parental and family involvement in the
early education of young children;
``(ii) supporting professional development,
recruitment, and retention initiatives for
early childhood educators;
``(iii) enhancing existing early childhood
education and care programs and projects (in
existence on the date on which the grant
involved is awarded), including quality
improvement activities authorized under the
Child Care and Development Block Grant Act of
1990; and
``(iv) carrying out other activities
consistent with the State's Early Education and
Care plan, pursuant to paragraph (iii).
``(B) To be eligible to receive a grant under this
subparagraph, a State shall prepare and submit to the
Secretary a plan and application, for a 3-year period,
at such time, in such manner, and containing such
information as the Secretary shall require, including--
``(i) the statewide strategic report
described in subparagraph (E)(iv)(II),
including a description of the Advisory
Council's responsibilities under subparagraph
(E)(iv)(I);
``(ii) a description, for each fiscal year,
of how the State will make effective use of
funds available under this subparagraph, with
funds described in clause (iv), to create an
early childhood education and care system, by
developing or enhancing programs and activities
consistent with the strategic report described
in subparagraph (E)(iv)(II);
``(iii) a description of the State early
learning standards and the State's goals for
increasing the number of children entering
kindergarten ready to learn;
``(iv) information identifying the agency
or joint interagency office and individual
designated to carry out the activities under
this subparagraph, which may be the individual
designated under subparagraph (E)(i)(II); and
``(v) a description of how the State plans
to sustain activities under this subparagraph
beyond the grant period.
``(C) The Federal share of the cost of activities
proposed to be conducted under clause (ii) shall be 30
percent, and the State shall provide the non-Federal
share.
``(D) Funds made available under this subparagraph
shall be used to supplement, and not supplant, other
Federal, State, and local funds expended to carry out
activities related to early childhood education and
care in the State.
``(E) Not later than 18 months after the date a
State receives a grant under this subparagraph, the
State shall submit an interim report to the Secretary.
A State that receives a grant under this subparagraph
shall submit a final report to the Secretary at the end
of the grant period. Each report shall include--
``(i) a description of the activities and
services carried out under the grant, including
the outcomes of such activities and services in
meeting the needs described in the periodic
needs assessment and statewide strategic
report;
``(ii) information about how the State used
such funds to meet the goals of this subsection
through activities to develop or enhance high
quality systems of early childhood education,
increase effectiveness of delivery systems and
use of funds, and enhance existing programs and
services;
``(iii) information regarding the remaining
needs described in the periodic needs
assessment and statewide strategic report that
have not yet been addressed by the State; and
``(iv) any other information that the
Secretary may require.
``(F) Nothing in this subsection shall be construed
to provide the State Advisory Council with authority to
modify, supersede, or negate the requirements of this
subchapter.''
Section 643 should be amended by inserting at the end--
``This section shall not apply to contracts, agreements,
grants, loans, or other assistance for Indian Head Start
programs or migrant or seasonal Head Start programs.''
322. The House bill and the Senate amendment require
different membership of the State council.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 321.
323. The House bill and Senate amendment contain similar
provisions for when an entity already exists.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 321.
324. The House bill requires a 50 percent match and the
Senate amendment requires a 30 percent match.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 321.
325. The Senate amendment specifies that the Governor can
give council additional responsibility. The House bill does not
have a similar provision.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 321.
326. The House bill and Senate amendment have similar
provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 321.
327. The House bill references working with State
agencies. The Senate amendment does not have a similar
provision.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 321.
328. The House bill and Senate amendment contain similar
provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 321.
329. The House bill and Senate amendment contain similar
provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 321.
330. The House bill references identification of
barriers. The Senate amendment does not have a similar
provision.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 321.
331. The House bill and Senate amendment have similar
provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 321.
332. The House bill references coordination with health
care and other services. The Senate amendment does not have a
similar provision.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 321.
333. The House bill references system of training and
technical assistance. The Senate amendment does not have a
similar provision.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 321.
334. The House bill references a plan for increased
participation of underrepresented children. The Senate
amendment does not have a similar provision.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 321.
335. The House bill and Senate amendment have similar
provisions
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 321.
336. The House bill and Senate amendment have similar
provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 321.
337. The House bill clarifies the role of the State
council in relation to the Head Start program. The Senate
amendment does not have a similar provision.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 321.
338. The House bill and Senate amendment have similar
provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 321.
339. Senate amendment provides for public hearings on the
activities of the State council, and requires submission and
subsequent revision of the State council's plan. The House bill
does not include similar provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 321.
340. The Senate amendment reserves $100 million from
appropriations in FY2008 to establish a competitive grant
program for States to further develop and implement plans
established by State Advisory Council on Early Childhood
Education and Care. The House bill reserves money from training
and technical assistance for ELC (see note 38).
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 321.
341. The Senate amendment provides for one-time startup
grants to States, for the purposes of developing systems of
early childhood education and care and enhancing quality in
early childhood programs. The House bill does not contain a
similar provision.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 321.
342. The Senate amendment stipulates conditions for
eligibility for discretionary grants under this subparagraph.
The House bill does not include similar provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 321.
343. The Senate amendment includes requirements for an
interim report to the Secretary. The House bill does not
include a similar provision.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 321.
Section 12. Submission of plans
344. Senate amendment provides for the submission of
plans to Governors instead of Chief Executive Officer of the
State and shortens time for approval. House bill maintains
current law.
House recedes with an amendment to strike (1)(B)
Section 13. Administrative requirements and standards
345. The House bill adds headers to subsection (a),
reconstructs current law, and includes requirement of a public
report. The Senate amendment maintains current law.
Senate recedes.
346. The Senate amendment includes a 10-program pilot
project on administrative costs in Head Start programs. The
House bill does not contain similar provisions.
Senate recedes.
347. The House bill adds a new requirement for facilities
plans and adds a heading to this subsection. The Senate
amendment maintains current law.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and replace (f)(2)(A) with--
``(A) a description of the efforts by the agency to
coordinate or collaborate with other providers in the community
to seek assistance, including financial assistance, prior to
the use of funds under this section;''.
Section 14. Participation in Head Start programs
348. The House bill allows programs to apply to the
Secretary to increase their income eligibility to 130 percent.
The Senate amendment replaces the current threshold of 100
percent of poverty with 130 percent, with assurances from the
agency that families below the poverty line are prioritized.
House recedes/Senate recedes to strike and insert--
``(a)(1)(A) The Secretary shall by regulation prescribe
eligibility for the participation of persons in Head Start
programs assisted under this subchapter.
``(B) Except as provided in paragraph (2), such regulation
shall provide--
``(i) that children from low income families shall
be eligible for participation in programs assisted
under this subchapter if their families' incomes are
below the poverty line, or if their families are
eligible or, in the absence of child care, would
potentially be eligible for public assistance;
``(ii) that homeless children shall be deemed to be
eligible for such participation;
``(iii) that programs assisted under this
subchapter may include--
``(I) to a reasonable extent (but not to
exceed ten percent of participants)
participation of children in the area served
who would benefit from such programs but who
are not eligible under clause (i) or (ii); and
``(II) from the area served, an additional
35 percent of participants who are not eligible
under clause (i) or (ii) and whose families
have incomes below 130 percent of the poverty
line, if--
``(aa) the Head Start agency
involved establishes and implements
outreach and enrollment policies and
procedures that ensure such agency is
meeting the needs of children eligible
under clause (i) or (ii) (or subclause
(I) if the child involved has a
disability) prior to meeting the needs
of children eligible under this
subclause; and
``(bb) in prioritizing the
selection of children and families to
be served, the Head Start agency
establishes criteria that provide that
the agency will serve children under
clause (i) or (ii) prior to serving the
children who meet the criteria in this
subclause.
``(iv) that any Head Start agency serving children
eligible under clause (iii)(II) shall report annually
to the Secretary the following information on--
``(I) how such agency is meeting the needs
children eligible under clause (i) or (ii), in
the area served, including local demographic
data on families of children eligible under
clause (i) or (ii);
``(II) the outreach and enrollment policies
and procedures established by the agency that
ensure the agency is meeting the needs of
children eligible under clause (i) or (ii) (or
clause (iii)(I) if the child involved has a
disability) prior to meeting the needs of
children eligible under clause (iii)(II);
``(III) the efforts, including outreach
efforts (that are appropriate to the community
involved), of such agency to be fully enrolled
with children eligible under clause (i) or
(ii);
``(IV) the policies, procedures, and
selection criteria such agency is implementing
to serve eligible children, consistent with
clause (iii)(II);
``(V) the agency's enrollment level and
enrollment level over fiscal year prior to the
fiscal year in which the report is submitted;
``(VI) the number of children served by the
agency, disaggregated by whether such children
are eligible under clause (i), clause (ii),
clause (iii)(I), or clause (iii)(II); and
``(VII) the eligibility criteria category
of children on the agency's waiting list;
``(VIII) that a child who has been
determined to meet the eligibility criteria
described in this subparagraph and who is
participating in a Head Start program in a
program year shall be considered to continue to
meet the eligibility criteria through the end
of the succeeding program year.
``(C) In determining, for purposes of this paragraph,
whether a child who has applied for enrollment in a Head Start
program meets the eligibility criteria, an entity may consider
evidence of family income during the 12 months preceding the
month in which the application is submitted, or during the
calendar year preceding the calendar year in which the
application is submitted, whichever more accurately reflects
the needs of the family at the time of application.''
Amend section 640(g) by inserting new paragraph--
``(2) Notwithstanding paragraph (1), in using funds
made available for expansion under subsection
(a)(4)(D), the Secretary shall first allocate the funds
to qualified applicants proposing to use such funds to
serve children from families with incomes below the
poverty line. Agencies that receive such funds are
subject to the eligibility and enrollment requirements
under section 645(a)(1).''
Amend Section 650(a)(2) by adding at the end before the
period--
``and information on the number of children served
under this subsection, disaggregated by type of
eligibility criterion.''
The Conferees recognize that children from low-income
families just above the Federal poverty line would benefit from
participation in Head Start programs. Accordingly the Conferees
agreed that Head Start programs should have additional
flexibility to serve some children in families up to 130
percent of the Federal poverty level. To ensure that children
at or below the 100 percent threshold receive priority, the
Conferees intend for Head Start grantees to comply with the new
reporting requirements to provide greater accountability under
this provision. Additionally, the Conferees direct the
Secretary to coordinate these additional reporting requirements
with other existing reporting requirements so as not to impose
any additional burden on Head Start grantees. The Conferees
also intend that these reporting requirements not be construed
as requiring an application by the Head Start grantee or to
give additional authority to the Secretary to approve or
disapprove a plan by a Head Start grantee to make use of this
flexibility.
349. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
``(A homeless child shall be deemed to meet the low income
criteria)'' and insert a new clause to read ``(iii) a homeless
child shall be deemed to be eligible for Head Start services;
and''
350. The House bill and the Senate amendment include
language pertaining to military families.
House recedes.
351. The Senate amendment provides for conversion of Head
Start programs from part-day to full-day sessions. The House
bill does not contain a similar provision.
House recedes.
352. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
different provisions regarding serving additional infants and
toddlers.
Senate recedes with an amendment to include the Senate
subparagraph (B) as a new subparagraph (C) and to strike
``entity that receives assistance under section 645A, and such
funds under (i)'' in the House (C) and insert ``Early Head
Start Agency and'' and to insert in (i) ``such'' after ``The
amount of''.
353. The House bill and Senate amendment contain similar
provisions.
Senate recedes.
The intent of the Conferees in striking the language in
this provision is to provide agencies reasonable flexibility on
an eligible child's age of entry into a program. For many
years, programs have been allowed to enroll children who will
turn three by the date used by the local school system to
determine kindergarten eligibility. For example, a school
system could require a child to be five by November 1 to be
enrolled in kindergarten. A Head Start child turning three by
November 1 has always been considered age eligible and, in this
example, that child would be enrolled in Head Start for two
years before going on to kindergarten. The Conferees have
learned that the underlying provision is being interpreted to
mean the child must have reached his/her third birthday to be
Head Start eligible so this child could not be enrolled in Head
Start when it opened in late August but rather, would have to
wait to be enrolled on or after November 1, if there were a
vacancy. In making a change to this provision, the Conferees
intend to continue eligibility for children ages three through
school entry and provide appropriate flexibility to local Head
Start agencies as to exactly when a child turning three years
old may begin. But the change to this provision should not be
interpreted to permit Head Start agencies to enroll children
under three years of age as a common practice.
354. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
House recedes with an amendment to strike ``tribe'' in
both places it appears and insert ``tribe or tribes''.
Section 15. Early Head Start programs
355. Both the House bill and the Senate amend the section
title but contain different titles. The House bill amends the
general purpose regarding Early Head Start. The Senate
amendment maintains current law.
House recedes.
356. The House bill and the Senate amendment maintain
current law.
357. The House bill and the Senate amendment maintain
current law.
358. The House bill and the Senate amendment maintain
current law.
359. The Senate amendment makes technical and conforming
changes. The House bill does not contain a similar provision.
House recedes.
360. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
Senate recedes with an amendment to insert ``services''
after ``development) and''.
361. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
Senate recedes.
362. The House bill and Senate amendment maintain current
law.
363. The House bill and Senate amendment maintain current
law.
364. The Senate amendment includes requirements for
screening and referral for children exposed to trauma. The
House bill does not contain a similar provision.
House recedes.
365. The House bill and Senate amendment have similar
provisions.
Senate recedes.
366. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
Senate recedes with an amendment to insert ``and
development'' after ``education''.
367. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
House recedes with an amendment to strike ``care'' and
insert ``development programs''.
368. The House bill and Senate amendment maintain current
law.
369. The House bill and the Senate amendment maintain
current law.
370. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
Senate recedes with an amendment to insert in paragraph
``(2)'' ``and Migrant and Seasonal Head Start Programs'' after
``programs''.
371. The House bill and the Senate amendment maintain
current law.
372. The House bill and the Senate amendment maintain
current law.
373. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert:
``(g) Monitoring, Training, Technical Assistance, and
Evaluation.--
``(1) Requirement.--In order to ensure the
successful operation of programs assisted under this
section, the Secretary shall use funds made available
under section 640(a)(2)(E) to monitor the operation of
such programs, and funds made available under section
640(a)(2)(C)(i)(1) to provide training and technical
assistance tailored to the particular needs of such
programs, consistent with section 640(c).
``(2) Training and technical assistance.--
``(A) Activities.--Of the portion set aside
under section 640(a)(2)(C)(i)(I)--
``(i) not less than 50 percent
shall be made available to Early Head
Start programs to use directly, which
may include, at their discretion, the
establishment of local or regional
agreements with community experts,
institutions of higher education, or
private consultants, for training and
technical assistance activities in
order to make program improvements
identified by such agencies;
``(ii) not less than 25 percent
shall be made available to the
Secretary to support the State-based
training and technical assistance
system described in section 648(e),
including infant and toddler
specialists, to support Early Head
Start agencies, consistent with
subparagraph (B); and
``(iii) the remainder of such
amount shall be made available to the
Secretary to assist Early Head Start
agencies in meeting and exceeding the
standards described in section
641A(a)(1) (directly, or through
grants, contracts, or other agreements
or arrangements with an entity with
demonstrated expertise relating to
infants, toddlers, and families) by--
``(I) providing on-going
training and technical
assistance to Early Head Start
agencies, including developing
training and technical
assistance materials and
resources to support program
development and improvement and
best practices in providing
services to children and
families served by Early Head
Start programs;
``(II) supporting a
national network of infant and
toddler specialists designed to
improve the quality of Early
Head Start programs;
``(III) providing on-going
training and technical
assistance on Early Head Start
program development and
improvement for regional staff
charged with monitoring and
overseeing the administration
of the program carried out
under this section; and
``(VI) if funds remain
after the activities described
in subclauses (I), (II), and
(III) are carried out, carry
out 1 more of the following
activities:
``(aa) Providing
support and program
planning and
implementation
assistance for new
Early Head Start
agencies, including for
agencies who want to
use funds to serve
infants and toddlers as
described in section
645(a)(5).
``(bb) Creating
special training and
technical assistance
initiatives targeted to
serving high risk
populations, such as
children in the child
welfare system and
homeless children; and
``(cc) Providing
professional
development designed to
increase program
participation for
underserved populations
of eligible children.
``(B) Contracts.--For the purposes of
delivering a State-based training and technical
assistance system, as described in subparagraph
(A)(ii), that will meet the needs of Early Head
Start agencies and provide high quality,
sustained, and intensive training and technical
assistance on programming for infants and
toddlers to Early Head Start agencies, and in
order to help such agencies meet or exceed the
standards described in section 641A(a)(1), the
Secretary shall--
``(i) use funds reserved under
subparagraph (A)(ii) in combination
with funds reserved in section
640(a)(2)(C)(i)(II)(bb) to ensure such
contracts described in section
648(e)(1) provide for a minimum of 1
full-time specialist with demonstrated
expertise in the development of infants
and toddlers; and
``(ii) ensure that such contracts
and the services provided in the
contracts are integrated with and
augment the contracts awarded and
services provided under section
648(e);''; and''
374. The House bill and the Senate amendment have
differing timelines for establishing staff qualifications in
Early Head Start programs.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to read:
``(h) Center-Based Staff.--The Secretary shall--
``(1) ensure that, not later than September 30,
2010, all teachers providing direct services to
children and families participating in Early Head Start
programs located in Early Head Start centers, have a
minimum of a child development associate credential,
and have been trained (or have equivalent course work)
in early childhood development; and
``(2) establish staff qualification goals to ensure
that not later than September 30, 2012, all such
teachers have been trained (or have equivalent course
work) in early childhood development with a focus on
infant and toddler development.''
375. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
376. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. The Senate amendment includes additional
language concerning the use of research-based strategies.
Senate recedes with an amendment to strike subparagraph
(D) and insert--
``(D) methods to help parents promote emergent literacy
in their children from birth though age 3, including use of
research-based strategies to support the development of
literacy and language skills for children who are limited
English proficient;''.
377. The House bill and the Senate amendment have
different language concerning health and developmental
services.
Senate recedes.
Section 16. Appeals, notice, and hearing
378. The House bill amends current law to require that if
financial assistance is terminated or reduced, there shall be
the opportunity to appeal the action.
House recedes.
379. The Senate amendment amends current law to provide
permissive authority to the Secretary for the termination or
reduction of financial assistance, including appeal procedures.
The House bill does not include a similar provision.
House recedes with an amendment to strike in paragraph
(4)(C) ``except that such fees shall be reimbursed by the
Secretary if the agency prevails in such decision'' and insert
in paragraph (4)(C) after ``legal fees'', ``or other costs
incurred'' and to insert new paragraph ``(6) In cases where a
Head Start agency prevails in a decision under (4), the
Secretary may determine and provide a reimbursement to the Head
Start agency for fees deemed reasonable and customary.''.
Section 17. Records and audits
380. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. The Senate amendment refers to financial
audit throughout the bill.
Senate recedes.
381. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. The House bill includes additional
requirements.
Senate recedes.
Section 18. Technical assistance and training
382. The House bill and Senate amendment maintain current
law for current subsections (a) and (b) except the Senate
amendment makes minor language changes.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert the following--
Amend section 648 to read as follows:
``SEC. 648. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE AND TRAINING.
``(a) Secretarial Training and Technical Assistance.--
``(1) Authority.--From the funds provided under
section 640(a)(2)(C)(i)(II)(cc), the Secretary shall
provide, directly or through grants, contracts, or
other agreements or arrangements as the Secretary
considers appropriate, technical assistance and
training for Head Start programs for the purposes of
improving program quality and helping prepare children
to succeed in school.
``(2) Process.--The process for determining the
technical assistance and training activities to be
carried out under this section shall--
``(A) ensure that the needs of local Head
Start agencies and programs relating to
improving program quality and to program
expansion are addressed to the maximum extent
practicable; and
``(B) incorporate mechanisms to ensure
responsiveness to local needs, including an
ongoing procedure for obtaining input from the
individuals and agencies carrying out Head
Start programs;
``(3) Activities.--In providing training and
technical assistance and for allocating resources for
such assistance under this section, the Secretary
shall--
``(A) give priority consideration to--
``(i) activities to correct program
and management deficiencies identified
through reviews carried out pursuant to
section 641A(c) (including the
provision of assistance to local
programs in the development of quality
improvement plans under section
641A(d)(2));
``(ii) assisting Head Start
agencies in ensuring the school
readiness of children; and
``(iii) activities that supplement
those funded with amounts provided
under section 640(a)(2)(C)(i)(II)(bb)
to address the training and career
development needs of classroom staff
(including instruction for providing
services to children with disabilities,
and for activities described in section
1222(d) of the Elementary and Secondary
Education Act of 1965), and non-
classroom staff, including home
visitors and other staff working
directly with families, including
training relating to increasing parent
involvement and services designed to
increase family literacy and improve
parenting skills; and
``(B) to the maximum extent practicable--
``(i) assist Head Start agencies in
the development of collaborative
initiatives with States and other
entities within the States, to foster
effective professional development
systems for early childhood education
and development services;
``(ii) provide technical assistance
and training, either directly or
through a grant, contract, or
cooperative agreement with an entity
that has experience in the development
and operation of successful family
literacy services programs, for the
purpose of--
``(I) assisting Head Start
agencies providing family
literacy services, in order to
improve the quality of such
family literacy services; and
``(II) enabling those Head
Start agencies that demonstrate
effective provision of family
literacy services, based on
improved outcomes for children
and their parents, to provide
technical assistance and
training to other Head Start
agencies and to service
providers that work in
collaboration with such
agencies to provide family
literacy services;
``(iii) assist Head Start agencies
and programs in conducting and
participating in community-wide
strategic planning and needs
assessments, including the needs of
homeless children and their families,
and in conducting self-assessments;
``(iv) assist Head Start agencies
and programs in developing and
implementing full-working-day and full-
calendar-year programs where community
need is clearly identified and making
the transition to such programs, with
particular attention to involving
parents and programming for children
throughout the day, and assist the
agencies and programs in expediting the
sharing of information about innovative
models for providing full-working-day,
full calendar year services for
children;
``(v) assist Head Start agencies in
better serving the needs of families
with very young children, including
providing support and program planning
and implementation assistance for Head
Start agencies that apply to serve or
are serving additional infants and
toddlers, in accordance with section
645(a)(5);
``(vi) assist Head Start agencies
and programs in the development of
sound management practices, including
financial management procedures;
``(vii) assist in efforts to secure
and maintain adequate facilities for
Head Start programs;
``(viii) assist Head Start agencies
in developing innovative program
models, including mobile and home-based
programs;
``(ix) provide support for Head
Start agencies (including policy
councils and policy committees) that
meet the standards described in section
641A(a) but that have, as documented by
the Secretary through reviews conducted
pursuant to section 641A(c),
programmatic, quality, and fiscal
issues to address;
``(x) assist Head Start agencies
and programs in improving outreach to,
increasing program participation of,
and improving the quality of services
available to meet the unique needs of--
``(I) homeless children;
``(II) limited English
proficient children and their
families, particularly in
communities that have
experienced a large percentage
increase in the population of
limited English proficient
individuals, as measured by the
Bureau of the Census;
``(III) children with
disabilities, particularly if
such program's enrollment
opportunities or funded
enrollment for children with
disabilities is less than 10
percent;
``(xi) assist Head Start agencies
and programs to increase the capacity
of classroom staff to meet the needs of
eligible children in Head Start
classrooms that are serving both
children with disabilities and children
without disabilities;
``(xii) assist Head Start agencies
and programs to address the unique
needs of programs located in rural
communities, including--
``(I) removing barriers
related to the recruitment and
retention of Head Start
teachers in rural communities;
``(II) developing
innovative and effective models
of professional development for
improving staff qualifications
and skills for staff living in
rural communities;
``(III) removing barriers
related to outreach efforts to
eligible families in rural
communities;
``(IV) removing barriers to
parent involvement in Head
Start programs in rural
communities;
``(V) removing barriers to
providing home visiting
services in rural communities;
and
``(VI) removing barriers to
obtaining health screenings for
Head Start participants in
rural communities;
``(xiii) provide training and
technical assistance to members of
governing bodies, policy councils, and,
as appropriate, policy committees, to
ensure that the members can fulfill
their functions;
``(xiv) provide activities that
help ensure that Head Start programs
have qualified staff who can promote
prevention of childhood obesity by
integrating developmentally appropriate
research-based initiatives that stress
the importance of physical activity and
healthy, nutritional choices in daily
classroom and family routines;
``(xv) assist Indian Head Start
agencies to provide on-site and off-
site training to staff, using
approaches that identify and enhance
the positive resources and strengths of
Indian children and families, to
improve parent and family engagement
and staff development, particularly
with regard to child and family
development.''; and
``(xvi) assisting Head Start
agencies in selecting and using the
measures described in section 641A(b).
``(b) Additional Support.--The Secretary shall provide,
either directly or through grants, contracts or other
arrangements, funds from section 640(a)(2)(C)(i)(II)(cc) to--
``(1) support an organization to administer a
centralized child development and national assessment
program leading to recognized credentials for personnel
working in early childhood development and child care
programs; and
``(2) support training for personnel--
``(A) providing services to limited English
proficient children and their families
(including services to promote the acquisition
of the English language);
``(B) providing services to children
determined to be abused or neglected or
children referred by or receiving child welfare
services;
``(C) in helping children cope with
community violence;
``(D) to recognize common health, including
mental health, problems in children for
appropriate referral;
``(E) to address the needs of children with
disabilities and their families;
``(F) to address the needs of migrant and
seasonal farmworker families; and
``(G) to address the needs of homeless
families.
``(c) Outreach.--The Secretary shall develop and
implement a program of outreach to recruit and train
professionals from diverse backgrounds to become Head Start
teachers in order to reflect the communities in which Head
Start children live and to increase the provision of quality
services and instruction to children with diverse backgrounds.
``(d) Funds to Agencies.--Funds made available under
section 640(a)(2)(C)(i)(II)(aa) shall be used by a Head Start
agency to provide high quality, sustained, and intensive
training and technical assistance as follows:
``(1) For 1 or more of the following:
``(A) Activities that ensure that Head
Start programs meet or exceed the standards
described in section 641A(a)(1).
``(B) Activities that ensure that Head
Start programs have adequate numbers of
trained, qualified staff who have skills in
working with children and families, including
children and families who are limited English
proficient and children with disabilities and
their families.
``(C) Activities to improve the management
and implementation of Head Start services and
systems, including direct training for expert
consultants working with staff.
``(D) Activities that help ensure that Head
Start programs have qualified staff who can
promote language skills and literacy growth of
children and who can provide children with a
variety of skills that have been identified as
predictive of later reading achievement, school
success, and the skills, knowledge, abilities,
development, and progress described in section
641A(a)(1)(B)(ii).
``(E) Activities to improve staff
qualifications and to assist with the
implementation of career development programs
and to encourage the staff to continually
improve their skills and expertise, including
developing partnerships with programs that
recruit, train, place, and support college
students in Head Start centers to deliver an
innovative early learning program to preschool
children.
``(F) Activities that help local programs
ensure that the arrangement, condition, and
implementation of the learning environments in
Head Start programs are conducive to providing
effective program services to children and
families.
``(G) Activities to provide training
necessary to improve the qualifications of Head
Start staff and to support staff training,
child counseling, health services, and other
services necessary to address the needs of
children enrolled in Head Start programs,
including children from families in crises,
children who experience chronic violence or
homelessness, children who experience substance
abuse in their families, and children under 3
years of age, where applicable.
``(H) Activities to provide classes or in-
service-type programs to improve or enhance
parenting skills, job skills, adult and family
literacy, including financial literacy, or
training to become a classroom aide or bus
driver in a Head Start program.
``(I) Additional activities deemed
appropriate to the improvement of Head Start
agencies' programs, as determined by the
agencies' technical assistance and training
plans.
``(2) To support enhanced early language and
literacy development of children in Head Start
programs, and to provide the children with high-quality
oral language skills, and with environments that are
rich in literature in which to acquire language and
early literacy skills, each Head Start agency, in
consultation with the State-based training and
technical assistance system, as appropriate, shall
ensure that--
``(A) all of the agency's Head Start
teachers receive ongoing training in language
and emergent literacy (referred to in this
subsection as `literacy training'), and
including appropriate curricula and assessment
to improve instruction and learning;
``(B) such literacy training shall include
training in methods to promote vocabulary
development and phonological awareness
(including phonemic awareness) in a
developmentally, culturally, and linguistically
appropriate manner and support children's
development in their native language;
``(C) the literacy training shall include
training in how to work with parents to enhance
positive language and early literacy
development at home;
``(D) the literacy training shall include
specific methods to best address the needs of
children who are limited English proficient;
``(E) the literacy training shall include
training on how to best address the language
and literacy needs of children with
disabilities, including training on how to work
with specialists in language development; and
``(F) the literacy training shall be
tailored to the early childhood literacy
background and experience of the teachers
involved.
``except that funds made available under section
640(a)(2)(C)(i)(II)(aa) shall not be used for long-distance
travel expenses for training activities available locally or
regionally or for training activities substantially similar to
locally or regionally available training activities.
``(e) State-Based Training and Technical Assistance
System.--For the purposes of delivering a State-based training
and technical assistance system (which may include a consortium
of 2 or more states within a region), as described in section
640(a)(C)(i)(II)(bb), that will meet the needs of local
grantees, as determined by such grantees, and provide high
quality, sustained, and intensive training and technical
assistance to Head Start programs in order to improve their
capacity to deliver services that meet or exceed the program
performance standards described in section 641A(a)(1), the
Secretary shall--
``(1) enter into contracts in each State with 1 or
more entities who have a demonstrated expertise in
supporting the delivery of high quality early childhood
education and development programs, except that
contracts for a consortium of 2 or more States within a
geographic region may be entered into if such a system
is more appropriate to better meet the needs of local
grantees within a region, as determined by such
grantees;
``(2) ensure that the entities described in
subparagraph (1) determine the types of services to be
provided through consultation with--
``(A) local Head Start agencies (including
Indian Head Start agencies and migrant or
seasonal Head Start agencies, as appropriate);
``(B) the State Head Start collaboration
office; and
``(C) the State Head Start Association;
``(3) encourage States to supplement the funds
authorized in section 640(a)(2)(C)(i)(II)(bb) with
Federal, State, or local funds other than funds made
available under this subchapter, to expand training and
technical assistance activities beyond Head Start
agencies to include other providers of other early
childhood education and development within a State;
``(4) provide a report to the Committee on
Education and Labor of the House of Representatives and
the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions
of the Senate, not later than 90 days after the end of
the fiscal year, summarizing the funding for such
contracts and the activities carried out thereunder;
``(5) periodically evaluate the effectiveness of
the delivery of services in each State in promoting
program quality; and
``(6) ensure that in entering into such contracts
as described in paragraph (1), such entities will
address the needs of grantees in both urban and rural
communities.
``(f) Indoor Air Quality.--The Secretary shall consult
with appropriate Federal agencies and other experts, as
appropriate, on issues of air quality related to children's
health and inform Head Start agencies of existing programs or
combination of programs that provide methods for improving
indoor air quality.
``(g) Career Advancement Partnership Program.--
``(1) Authority.--From amounts allocated under
section 640(a)(2)(C)(i)(II)(cc) the Secretary is
authorized to award demonstration grants, for a period
of not less than 5 years, to historically Black
colleges and universities, Hispanic-serving
institutions, and Tribal Colleges and Universities--
``(A) implement education programs that
increase the number of associate,
baccalaureate, and graduate degrees in early
childhood education and related fields that are
earned by Head Start agency staff members,
parents of children served by such agencies,
and members of the communities involved;
``(B) provide assistance for stipends and
costs related to tuition, fees, and books for
enrolling Head Start agency staff members,
parents of children served by such an agency,
and members of the communities involved in
courses required to complete the degree and
certification requirement to become teachers in
early childhood education and related fields;
``(C) develop program curricula to promote
high quality services and instruction to
children with diverse backgrounds, including--
``(i) in the case of historically
Black colleges and universities, to
help Head Start Agency staff members
develop skills and expertise needed to
teach in programs serving large numbers
of African American children;
``(ii) in the case of Hispanic-
serving institutions, programs to help
Head Start Agency staff members develop
skills and expertise needed to teach in
programs serving large numbers of
Hispanic students, including programs
to develop the linguistic skills and
expertise needed to teach in programs
serving a large number of children with
limited English proficiency; and
``(iii) in the case of Tribal
Colleges and Universities, to help Head
Start Agency staff members develop
skills and expertise needed to teach in
programs serving large numbers of
Indian students, including programs
concerning tribal culture and language;
``(D) provide other activities to upgrade
the skills and qualifications of educational
personnel to meet the professional standards in
subsection (a) to better promote high quality
services and instruction to students and
parents from populations served by historically
Black colleges and universities, Hispanic-
serving institutions, or Tribal Colleges and
Universities;
``(E) to provide technology literacy
programs for Indian Head Start agency staff
members and families of children served by such
agency; and
``(F) to develop and implement the programs
described under subparagraph (A) in technology-
mediated formats, including through such means
as distance learning and use of advanced
technology, as appropriate.
``(2) Other assistance.--The Secretary shall, using
resources within the Department of Health and Human
Services--
``(A) provide appropriate technical
assistance to historically Black colleges and
universities, Hispanic-serving institutions,
and Tribal Colleges or Universities receiving
grants under this section, including
coordinating with the White House Initiative on
historically Black colleges and universities;
and
``(B) ensure that the American Indian
Programs Branch of the Office of Head Start of
the Administration for Children and Families of
the Department of Health and Human Services can
effectively administer the programs under this
section and provide appropriate technical
assistance to Tribal Colleges and Universities
under this section.
``(3) Application.--Each historically Black college
or university, Hispanic-serving institution, or Tribal
College or University desiring a grant under this
section shall submit an application, in partnership
with at least 1 Head Start agency enrolling large
numbers of students from the populations served by
historically Black colleges or universities, Hispanic-
serving institutions, or Tribal Colleges and
Universities, to the Secretary, at such time, in such
manner, and containing such information as the
Secretary may require, including a certification that
the institution of higher education has established a
formal partnership with 1 or more Head Start agencies
for the purposes of conducting the activities described
in paragraph (1).
``(4) Definitions.--In this subsection:
``(A) The term `Hispanic-serving
institution' has the meaning given such term in
section 502 of the Higher Education Act of 1965
(20 U.S.C. 1101a).
``(B) The term `historically Black college
or university' has the meaning given the term
`part B institution' in section 322(2) of the
Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C.
1061(2)).
``(C) The term `Tribal College or
University' has the meaning given such term in
section 312b of the Higher Education Act of
1965 (20 U.S.C. 1059c(b)).
``(5) Teaching requirement.--A student at an
institution receiving a grant under this subsection who
receives assistance under a program funded under this
subsection shall teach in a center-based Head Start
program for a period of time equivalent to the period
for which they received assistance or shall repay such
assistance.''.
Head Start offers a supportive educational setting for
many homeless children; yet barriers may limit homeless
children's access to, and participation in, this valuable
program. The Conferees have included provisions to enhance
services for homeless children and increase their participation
in Head Start programs. The Conferees encourage the Secretary,
in developing and implementing the training and technical
assistance system required under this Act, to support
activities designed to improve services for homeless children.
In providing such services, the Conferees encourage the
Secretary to work with organizations specializing in improving
services to homeless children in early education programs.
383. The Senate amendment makes changes to paragraph (2)
and the House bill maintains current law.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 382.
384. The Senate amendment makes changes to (3) and the
House bill maintains current law.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 382.
385. The House bill and Senate amendment make similar
modifications to (5) and maintain current law for (6).
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 382.
386. Senate amendment makes modifications to (7) to
include support in program planning for agencies serving
infants and toddlers. House bill and Senate amendment maintain
current law for (8)-(11).
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 382.
387. The House bill and Senate amendment contain similar
provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 382.
388. The House bill and Senate amendment contain similar
provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 382.
389. House bill adds provision relating to toxic stress.
Senate amendment does not contain a similar provision.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 382.
390. The House bill and Senate amendment contain similar
provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 382.
391. House bill contains provision related to rural
communities. Senate amendment does not contain a similar
provision.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 382.
395a. The House bill and Senate amendment contain similar
provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 382.
392. The Senate amendment contains provision regarding
training for governing bodies. The House bill does not contain
similar provision.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 382.
393. The Senate amendment contains a provision for self-
assessments. The House bill does not contain a similar
provision.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 382.
394. The Senate amendment contains provision on childhood
obesity. The House bill does not contain a similar provision.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 382.
395. The Senate amendment contains a provision on Indian
Head Start agencies. The House bill does not contain a similar
provision.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 382.
396. The House bill maintains current law and the Senate
amendment adds language on CBO's.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 382.
397. The Senate amendment makes change in referencing
child care programs. The House bill and Senate amendment
contain similar provisions adding language about child welfare
services.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 382.
398. The House bill and Senate amendment contain similar
provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 382.
399. The House bill and Senate amendment contain similar
provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 382.
400. The House bill contains an outreach program for male
Head Start teachers of color. The Senate amendment does not
include a similar provision.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 382.
401. The House bill and Senate amendment contain similar
provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 382.
402. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 382.
403. The House bill contains requirement for Secretary to
work with tribal colleges. The Senate amendment does not
contain similar provision.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to insert
into section 649.
404. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions except the Senate amendment places in
Section 640(1) and the House bill places in Section 648.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to insert
into section 649.
405. House bill contains provision on eligible entities.
Senate amendment does not contain a similar provision.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 382.
406. The House bill and Senate amendment both add
specifications for the State-based TA system.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 382.
407. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 382.
408. The House bill includes provisions to develop an on-
line, graduate professional development program. The Senate
amendment does not contain similar provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 382.
409. The House bill includes requirements regarding air
quality in Head Start agencies. The Senate amendment does not
contain similar provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 382.
410. The House bill and Senate amendment contain similar
provisions except the Senate language is in section 648B.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 382.
411. The House bill contains a new demonstration program
with HSIs. The Senate amendment does not include a similar
provision.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 382.
412. The House bill requires partnerships with HBCUs. The
Senate amendment does not contain similar provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert, as amended, in note 382.
Section 19. Staff qualifications and development
413. The House bill and Senate amendment maintain current
law except House bill adds language about math and science.
Senate recedes.
414. The House bill sets a national average requirement
for teacher's qualifications and the Senate amendment sets a
goal for teacher qualifications in each State.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert--
``(2) Degree requirements.--
``(A) Head start teachers.--The Secretary
shall ensure that not later than September 30,
2013 at least 50 percent of Head Start teachers
nationwide in center-based programs have--
``(i) a baccalaureate or advanced
degree in early childhood education; or
``(ii) a baccalaureate or advanced
degree and coursework equivalent to a
major relating to early childhood
education, with experience teaching
preschool-age children.
``(B) Additional staff.--The Secretary
shall ensure that, not later than September 30,
2013, all--
``(i) Head Start education
coordinators, including those that
serve as curriculum specialists,
nationwide in center-based programs--
``(I) have the capacity to
offer assistance to other
teachers in the implementation
and adaptation of curricula to
the group and individual needs
of children in a Head Start
classroom; and
``(II) have--
``(aa) a
baccalaureate or
advanced degree in
early childhood
education; or
``(bb) a
baccalaureate or
advanced degree and
coursework equivalent
to a major relating to
early childhood
education, with
experience in teaching
preschool-age children;
and
``(ii) Head Start teaching
assistants nationwide in center-based
programs have--
``(I) at least a child
development associate
credential;
``(II) enrolled in a program
leading to an associate or
baccalaureate degree; or
``(III) enrolled in a child
development associate
credential program to be
completed within 2 years.
``(C) Progress.--
``(i) Implementation.--The
Secretary shall--
``(I) Require Head Start
agencies to--
``(aa) describe
continuing progress
each year toward
achieving the goals
described in (A) and
(B); and
``(bb) annually
submit to the Secretary
a report indicating the
number and percentage
of personnel described
in subparagraphs (A)
and (B) in center-based
programs with child
development associate
credentials or
associate,
baccalaureate, or
advanced degrees;
``(II) Compile and submit a
summary of all program reports
described in subclause (I)(bb)
to the Committee on Education
and Labor of the House of
Representatives and the
Committee on Health, Education,
Labor, and Pensions of the
Senate; and
``(III) Not impose any
penalties or sanctions on any
individual Head Start agency,
program or staff in the
monitoring of local agencies
and programs under this
subchapter not meeting the
requirements of subparagraph
(A) or (B).
``(D) Construction.--In this paragraph a
reference to a Head Start agency, or its
program, services, facility, or personnel,
shall not be considered to be a reference to an
Early Head Start agency, or its program,
services, facility, or personnel.
``(3) Alternative credentialing requirements.--The
Secretary shall ensure that, for center-based programs,
each Head Start classroom that does not have a teacher
that meets the qualifications described in clause (i)
or (ii) of paragraph (2)(A) is assigned one teacher who
has the following during the period specified;
``(A) Through September 30, 2011--
``(i) a child development associate
credential that is appropriate to the
age of children being served in center-
based programs;
``(ii) a State-awarded certificate
for preschool teachers that meets or
exceeds the requirements for a child
development associate credential;
``(iii) an associate degree in
early childhood education;
``(iv) an associate degree in a
related field and coursework equivalent
to a major relating to early childhood
education, with experience teaching
preschool-age children;
``(v) a baccalaureate degree and
has been admitted into the Teach For
America program, passed a rigorous
early childhood content exam such as
the Praxis II, participated in a Teach
For America summer training institute
that includes teaching preschool
children, and is receiving ongoing
professional development and support
from Teach For America's professional
staff.
``(B) As of October 1, 2011--
``(i) an associate degree in early
childhood education;
``(ii) an associate degree in a
related field and coursework equivalent
to a major relating to early childhood
education, with experience teaching
preschool-age children; or
``(iii) a baccalaureate degree and
has been admitted into the Teach For
America program, passed a rigorous
early childhood content exam, such as
the Praxis II, participated in a Teach
For America's professional staff.
``(4) Waiver.--On request, the Secretary shall
grant--
``(A) through September 30, 2011, a 180-day
waiver ending on or before September 30, 2011,
of the requirements of paragraph (3)(A) for a
Head Start agency that can demonstrate that the
agency has attempted unsuccessfully to recruit
an individual who has the qualifications
described in clauses (i) through (iv) of
paragraph (3)(A) with respect to an individual
who--
``(i) is enrolled in a program that
grants a credential, certificate, or
degree described in clauses (i) through
(iv) of paragraph (3)(A); and
``(ii) will receive such
credential, certificate, or degree
under the terms of such program not
later than 180 days after beginning
employment as a teacher with such
agency; and
``(B) as of October 1, 2011, a 3-year
waiver of the requirements of paragraph (3)(B)
for a Head Start agency that can demonstrate
that--
``(i) the agency has attempted
unsuccessfully to recruit an individual
who has the qualifications described in
clause (i) or (ii) of such paragraph,
with respect to an individual who is
enrolled in a program that grants a
degree described in clause (i) or (ii)
of such paragraph and will receive such
degree in a reasonable time; and
``(ii) each Head Start classroom
has a teacher who has, at a minimum--
``(I) a child development
associate credential that is
appropriate to the age of
children being served in
center-based programs; or
``(II) a State-awarded
certificate for preschool
teachers that meets or exceeds
the requirements for a child
development associate
credential.''
415. The Senate amendment includes qualification
requirements for curriculum specialists and education
coordinators. The House bill does not have a similar provision.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike.
416. The Senate amendment includes qualifications for
teaching assistants. The House bill does not include a similar
provision.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike.
417. The Senate amendment contains a requirement for
professional development. The House bill does not contain a
similar provision.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to insert
``by the program'' after the word ``evaluated''.
418. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike.
419. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
minimum degree requirement for teachers but have different
dates of enactment and different populations of teachers.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike.
424a. The House bill and the Senate amendment both
contain service requirements in exchange for financial
assistance from Head Start programs.
House recedes.
424b. Senate amendment includes Head Start centers in
addition to Head Start agencies. The House bill does not
include a similar provision.
House recedes.
425. The House bill includes provisions prohibiting funds
being used at diploma mills. The Senate amendment does not
contain a similar provision.
Senate recedes.
426. The House bill includes provisions for Teach for
America while the Senate amendment does not include a similar
provision.
Senate recedes.
427. The House bill and the Senate amendment make changes
to current requirements for family service workers.
Senate recedes with an amendment to insert a new
paragraph (5) to read:
``(5) promote the use of appropriate strategies to
meet the needs of special populations (including
populations of limited English proficient children);''.
428. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
Senate recedes with an amendment to insert at the end:
``The agency and the employee shall implement the plan to the
extent feasible and practicable.''
429. The House bill requires procedures prior to the hire
of an individual in Head Start programs. The Senate amendment
does not include a similar provision.
Senate recedes.
430. The House bill contains a loan forgiveness program
for Head Start teachers. The Senate amendment does not include
a similar provision.
House recedes.
Section 20. Research, demonstrations, and evaluation
431. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. The House bill requires ideas to be based
on scientifically-based research.
Senate recedes with an amendment to strike ``based
research'' and insert ``valid research''.
432. The House bill and the Senate amendment make
technical conforming changes.
433. The Senate amendment includes provisions to promote
good oral health and vision. The House bill does not include
similar provisions.
House recedes.
434. The Senate amendment makes this technical and
conforming change, similar throughout the bill. The House bill
does not include similar provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with and amendment to use
``early childhood education and development services or
programs''.
435. The Senate amendment makes a technical change to
redesignate paragraphs. The House bill does not include a
similar provision.
436. The House bill strikes the use of SIPP, NLSY, and
SPD for gathering data and conducting analysis on Head Start.
The Senate amendment does not include similar provisions.
Senate recedes.
437. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
Senate recedes with amendment to strike and insert--
``(10)(A) contribute to understanding the impact of
Head Start services delivered in classrooms which
include both children with disabilities and children
without disabilities on all of the children; and
(B) disseminate promising practices for increasing
the availability and quality of such services and such
classrooms.'';
438. The Senate amendment makes technical changes to
redesignate paragraphs. The House bill does not contain a
similar provision.
439. The Senate amendment makes conforming changes,
similar throughout the bill. The House bill does not contain a
similar provision.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to use
``early childhood education and development services or
programs''.
440. The Senate amendment makes conforming changes,
similar throughout the bill. The House bill does not contain a
similar provision.
Senate recedes.
441. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
identical provisions.
442. The Senate amendment makes conforming changes,
similar throughout the bill. The House bill does not contain
similar provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to use
term ``early childhood education and development services and
programs''.
443. The House bill and the Senate amendment include
similar provisions.
Senate recedes.
444. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. The House bill provides for the study not
less than one year after the date of enactment.
Senate recedes.
445. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. The Senate amendment modifies the issue
date for the report, from 2008 to 2011.
House recedes with an amendment to strike ``2011'' and
insert ``2010''.
446. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
Senate recedes.
447. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
House recedes.
448. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
Senate recedes.
449. The House bill includes a provision to address home
languages. The Senate amendment does not include a similar
provision.
Senate recedes with an amendment to strike and insert--
``the languages in which Head Start and Early Head Start
teachers are fluent, in relation to the population, and
instructional needs, of the children served''
450. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
Senate recedes.
451. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
identical provisions.
452. The Senate amendment provides for a research study
of diverse populations in Head Start programs. The House bill
does not contain a similar amendment.
House recedes.
453. The Senate amendment requires the Secretary to base
any revisions or development of assessments on the NAS panel
study. The House bill does not contain similar provisions.
House recedes with an amendment to--
in (j)(1)(A) to strike ``the'' before ``Head
Start''
in (j)(1)(B) to strike ``develop as necessary'' and
to insert
``, consistent with section 641(a)(2)(C)(ii)'' after
``described in section 641A'' in (j)(2) strike the
header ``DEVELOPMENT AND REFINEMENT'' and insert
``INFORM AND REVISE'' and strike ``developing and
revising'' and insert ``informing and revising''
454. The House bill includes provisions to address
hurricanes Katrina and Rita. The Senate amendment does not
contain similar provisions.
Senate recedes with amendment to strike and insert--
``(m) Program Emergency Preparedness.--
``(1) Purpose.--The purpose of this subsection is
to evaluate the emergency preparedness of the Head
Start, including Early Head Start programs and make
recommendations for how Head Start shall enhance its
readiness to respond to an emergency.
``(2) Study.--The Secretary shall evaluate the
preparedness of the Head Start, Early Head Start
programs to respond appropriately in the event of a
large-scale emergency, such as the hurricanes Katrina,
Rita, and Wilma, the terrorist attacks of September
11th, 2001 or other incidents where assistance may be
warranted under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief
and Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5121 et seq.).
``(3) Report to Congress.--Not later than 18 months
after the date of the enactment of the Improving Head
Start for School Readiness Act of 2007, the Secretary
shall prepare and submit to Committee on Education and
Labor of the House of Representatives and the Committee
on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate
a report containing the results of the evaluation
required under paragraph (2), including--
``(A) recommendations for improvements to
Federal, state, and local preparedness and
response capabilities to large-scale
emergencies, including those that were
developed in response to hurricanes Katrina,
Rita, and Wilma, as they relate to Head Start
and Early Head Start programs, and the
Secretary's plans to implement such
recommendations;
``(B) an evaluation of Head Start
procedures for informing families of children
in Head Start about the program protocols for
response to a large-scale emergency, including
procedures for communicating with such families
in the event of a large-scale emergency;
``(C) an evaluation of such procedures for
staff training on state and local evacuation
and emergency protocols; and
``(D) an evaluation of procedures for Head
Start agencies and the Secretary to coordinate
with appropriate Federal, state, and local
emergency management agencies in the event of a
large scale emergency and recommendations to
improve such procedures.''
Section 21. Reports
455. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
House recedes with an amendment to insert ``, homeless
children, children in foster care'' after ``proficient
children''.
456. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
Senate recedes.
457. The Senate amendment includes vision care. The House
bill does not contain a similar provision.
House recedes.
458. The Senate amendment makes conforming changes. The
House bill does not contain a similar provision.
House recedes with an amendment to strike modification to
(D)(ii).
459. The Senate amendment makes conforming changes. The
House bill does not include a similar provision.
460. The House bill includes a report on the expenditures
of HHS, under section 640(a)(2). The Senate amendment does not
contain a similar provision.
House recedes.
461. The House bill includes a report on fiscal protocol.
The Senate amendment does not contain a similar provision.
Senate recedes.
462. The House bill includes a report on the use of IEPs.
The Senate amendment does not contain similar provisions.
House recedes/Senate recedes with an amendment to strike
and insert--
``(e) Disability-Related Services.--
``(1) In general.--The Secretary shall track the
provision of disability-related services for children,
in order to--
``(A) determine whether Head Start agencies
are making timely referrals to the State or
local agency responsible for providing services
under Section 619 or Part C of the Individuals
with Disabilities Education Act (20 U.S.C.
1419, 1431 et seq.);
``(B) identify barriers to timely
evaluations and eligibility determination by
the State and local agency responsible for
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act;
and
``(C) determine under what circumstances
and for what length of time Head Start agencies
are providing disability-related services for
children who have not been determined to be
eligible children with disabilities under the
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (20
U.S.C. 1400 et seq.).
``(2) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date
of the enactment of the Improving Head Start for School
Readiness Act of 2007, the Secretary shall provide a
report to the Committee on Education and Labor of the
House of Representatives and the Committee on Health,
Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate on the
activities described in paragraph (1).
463. The House bill includes a report on obesity
prevention. The Senate amendment does not contain a similar
provision.
Senate recedes with an amendment to strike and insert--
``(f) Evaluation and Recommendations Regarding Obesity
Prevention.--Not later than 1 year after the date of the
Improving Head Start for School Readiness Act of 2007 the
Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Education and Labor
of the House of Representatives, and the Committee on Health,
Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate a report on the
Secretary's progress on assisting program efforts to prevent
and reduce obesity in children who participate in Head Start
programs, including progress on implementing initiatives within
the Head Start program to prevent and reduce obesity in such
children.''
Section 22. Comparability of wages
464. The House bill and the Senate amendment change
section structure and House bill adds a heading.
House recedes with an amendment to insert a heading for
subsection (a) to read ``Comparability of Wages''.
465. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. The House bill adds a heading.
Senate recedes with an amendment to strike and insert--
``(b) Limitation.--
``(1) In general.--Notwithstanding any other
provision of law, no Federal funds may be used to pay
any part of the compensation of an individual employed
by a Head Start agency, if such compensation, including
non-Federal funds, exceeds an amount equal to the rate
payable for level II of the Executive Schedule under
section 5313 of title 5, United States Code.
``(2) Compensation.--In this subsection, the term
`compensation'--
``(A) includes salary, bonuses, periodic
payments, severance pay, the value of any
vacation time, the value of a compensatory or
paid leave benefit not excluded by subparagraph
(B), and the fair market of any employee
perquisite or benefit not excluded by
subparagraph (B); and
``(B) excludes any Head Start agency
expenditure for a health, medical, life
insurance, disability, retirement, or any other
employee welfare or pension benefit.''.
466. The House bill includes a limitation on Head Start
funds. The Senate amendment does not contain a similar
provision.
House recedes.
Section 23. Limitation with respect to certain unlawful activities
467. The Senate amendment makes a technical change. The
House bill does not include a similar provision.
House recedes.
Section 24. Political activities
468. The Senate amendment permits voter registration in
Head Start agencies. The House bill does not include a similar
provision.
House recedes with an amendment to insert at the end of
(b)--
``No funds appropriated under this subchapter may be used
to conduct voter registration activities. Nothing in this
subchapter prohibits the availability of Head Start facilities
during hours of operation for the use of any non-partisan
organization do increase the number of eligible citizens who
register to vote in elections for Federal office.''
The Conferees intend to continue the prohibition against
Head Start teachers, employees and administrators from
conducting voter registration activity on-site during hours of
operation. Although they may participate in civic activities on
their own time, the Conferees believe that the focus of Head
Start employees during work hours should remain on improving
the school readiness of Head Start children. Outside,
nonpartisan organizations, however, are permitted under this
section to use Head Start facilities non-intrusively to conduct
voter registration.
469. The Senate amendment makes a conforming change to
the Children's Health Act. The House bill does not include a
similar provision.
Senate recedes.
Section 25. Parental consent requirement for health services
470. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions.
House recedes.
Section 26. Centers of excellence in early childhood
471. The Senate amendment includes an authorization for
the creation of Centers of Excellence for Head Start centers to
be nominated by the Governor and designated by the Secretary to
serve as model Head Start programs. The House bill does not
include similar provisions.
House recedes with an amendment to--
insert ``(other than section 657B)'' after
``subchapter'' in Section 639; and
strike and insert into a new section as follows:
``SEC. 657B. CENTERS OF EXCELLENCE IN EARLY CHILDHOOD.
``(a) Definition.--In this section, the term `center of
excellence' means a Center of Excellence in Early Childhood
designated under subsection (b).
``(b) Designation and Bonus Grants.--The Secretary shall,
subject to the availability of funds under this section,
establish a program under which the Secretary shall--
``(1) designate not more than 200 exemplary Head
Start agencies (including Early Head Start agencies,
Indian Head Start agencies, and migrant and seasonal
Head Start agencies) as Centers of Excellence in Early
Childhood; and
``(2) make bonus grants to the centers of
excellence to carry out the activities described in
subsection (d).
``(c) Application and Designation.--
``(1) Application.--
``(A) Nomination and submission.--
``(i) In general.--To be eligible
to receive a designation as a center of
excellence under subsection (b), except
as provided in clause (ii), a Head
Start agency in a State shall be
nominated by the Governor of the State,
after selection for nomination by such
Governor through a competitive process,
and shall submit an application to the
Secretary at such time, in such manner,
and containing such information as the
Secretary may require.
``(ii) Indian and migrant and
seasonal head start programs.--In the
case of an Indian Head Start agency or
a migrant or seasonal Head Start
agency, to be eligible to receive a
designation as a center of excellence
under subsection (b), such an agency
shall be nominated by the head of the
appropriate regional office of the
Department of Health and Human Services
and shall submit an application to the
Secretary in accordance with clause
(i).
``(B) Contents.--At a minimum, the
application shall include--
``(i) evidence that the Head Start
program carried out by the agency
involved has significantly improved the
school readiness of children who have
participated in the program;
``(ii) evidence that the program
meets or exceeds standards described
section 641A(a)(I), as evidenced by the
results of monitoring reviews described
in section 641A(c), and has no findings
of deficiencies in the preceding three
years;
``(iii) evidence that the program
is making progress toward meeting the
requirements described in section 648A;
``(iv) An assurance that the Head
Start agency will develop a
collaborative partnership with the
State (or a State agency) and other
providers of early childhood education
and development programs and services
in the local community involved to
conduct activities under (d)(1);
``(v) a nomination letter from the
Governor, or appropriate regional
office, demonstrating the agency's
ability to provide the coordination,
transition, and training services of
the program to be carried out under the
bonus grant involved, including
coordination of activities with State
and local agencies that provide early
childhood education and development to
children and families in the community
served by the agency, and carry out the
activities described under subsection
(d)(1)(A); and
``(vi) a description of how the
center involved, in order to expand
accessibility and continuity of quality
early childhood education and
development services and programs, will
coordinate activities, as appropriate,
assisted under this section with--
``(I) programs carried out
under the Child Care and
Development Block Grant Act of
1990 (42 U.S.C. 9858 et seq.);
``(II) the Early Head Start
programs carried out under
section 645A;
``(III) Early Reading First
and Even Start programs carried
out under subparts 2 and 3 of
part B of title I of the
Elementary and Secondary
Education Act of 1965 (20
U.S.C. 6371 et seq., 6381 et
seq.);
``(IV) other preschool
programs carried out under
title I of that Act (20 U.S.C.
6301 et seq.);
``(V) programs carried out
under section 619 and part C of
the Individuals with
Disabilities Education Act (20
U.S.C. 1419, 1431 et seq.);
``(VI) State
prekindergarten programs; and
``(VII) other programs of
early childhood education and
development.
``(2) Selection.--In selecting agencies to
designate as centers of excellence under subsection
(b), the Secretary shall designate not less than 1 from
each of the 50 States, the District of Columbia, an
Indian Head Start program, a migrant or seasonal Head
Start program, and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico.
``(3) Priority.--In making bonus grant
determinations under this section, the Secretary shall
give priority to agencies that, through their
applications, demonstrate that their programs are of
exceptional quality and would serve as exemplary models
for programs in the same geographic region. The
Secretary may also consider the populations served by
the applicants, such as agencies that serve large
proportions of limited English proficient children or
other underserved populations, and may make bonus
grants to agencies that do an exceptional job meeting
the needs of children in such populations.
``(4) Term of designation.--
``(A) In general.--Subject to subparagraph
(B), the Secretary shall designate a Head Start
agency as a center of excellence for a 5-year
term. During the period of that designation,
subject to the availability of appropriations,
the agency shall be eligible to receive a bonus
grant under subsection (b).
``(B) Revocation.--The Secretary may revoke
an agency's designation under subsection (b) if
the Secretary determines that the agency is not
demonstrating adequate performance or has had
findings of deficiencies described in paragraph
(l)(B)(ii).
``(5) Amount of bonus grant.--The Secretary shall
base the amount of funding provided through a bonus
grant made under subsection (b) to a center of
excellence on the number of children eligible for Head
Start services in the community involved. The Secretary
shall, subject to the availability of funding, make
such a bonus grant in an amount of not less than
$200,000 per year.
``(d) Use of Funds.--
``(1) Activities.--A center of excellence that
receives a bonus grant under subsection (b)--
``(A) shall use no less than 15% of the
funds made available through the bonus grant to
disseminate to other Head Start agencies in the
State involved, best practices for achieving
early academic success, including--
``(i) best practices for achieving
school readiness, including developing
early literacy and mathematics skills,
for children at risk for school
difficulties;
``(ii) best practices for achieving
the acquisition of the English language
for limited English proficient
children, if appropriate to the
population served; and
``(iii) best practices for
providing high-quality comprehensive
services for eligible children and
their families;
``(B) may use the funds made available
through the bonus grant--
``(i) to provide Head Start
services to additional eligible
children;
``(ii) to better meet the needs of
working families in the community
served by the center by serving more
children in existing Early Head Start
programs (existing as of the date the
center is designated under this
section) or in full-working-day, full
calendar year Head Start programs;
``(iii) to further coordinate early
childhood education and development
programs and services and social
services available in the community
served by the center for at-risk
children (birth through age 8), their
families, and pregnant women;
``(iv) to provide professional
development for Head Start teachers and
staff, including joint training, for
Head Start teachers and staff, child
care providers, public and private
preschool and elementary school
teachers, and other providers of early
childhood education and development
programs;
``(v) to provide effective
transitions between Head Start programs
and elementary schools and to
facilitate ongoing communication
between Head Start and elementary
school teachers concerning children
receiving Head Start services to
improve their ability to work
effectively with low-income, at-risk
children and their families;
`` (vi) to develop or maintain
partnerships with institutions of
higher education and nonprofit
organizations, including community-
based organizations, that recruit,
train, place, and support college
students to serve as mentors and
reading partners to preschool children
in Head Start programs; and
``(vii) to carry out other
activities determined by the center to
improve the overall quality of the Head
Start program carried out by the agency
and the program carried out under the
bonus grant involved.
``(e) Research and Reports.--
``(1) Research.--The Secretary shall, subject to
the availability of funds to carry out this subsection,
award a grant or contract to an independent
organization to conduct research on the ability of the
centers of excellence to use the funds received under
this section to improve the school readiness of
children receiving Head Start services, and to
positively impact school results in the earliest
grades. The organization shall also conduct research to
measure the success of the centers of excellence at
encouraging the center's delegate agencies, additional
Head Start agencies, and other providers of early
childhood education and development programs in the
communities involved to meet measurable improvement
goals, particularly in the area of school readiness.
``(2) Research report.--Not later than 48 months
after the date of enactment of the Head Start for
School Readiness Act, the organization shall prepare
and submit to the Secretary and Congress a report
containing the results of the research described in
paragraph (1).
``(3) Reports to the secretary.--Centers of
excellence shall annually submit to the Secretary, at
such time and in such manner as the Secretary may
require, a report containing a description of the
activities the center carried out with funds received
under this section, including a description of how such
funds improved services for children and families.
``(f) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are
authorized to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary for
each of fiscal years 2008 through 2012 to make bonus grants to
centers of excellence under subsection (b) to carry out
activities described in subsection (d) and research activities
described in subsection (e).''
Section 27. General provisions
472. The House bill and the Senate amendment contain
similar provisions. The House bill requires written consent for
each specific health care service. The Senate amendment also
requires consent for referral to services.
House recedes with an amendment to strike ``Rule of
Construction'' and insert ``General Provisions''.
473. The House bill requires consent for any health care
services. The Senate amendment does not include similar
provisions.
House recedes.
Section 28. Compliance with Improper Payments Information Act of 2002
474. The Senate amendment includes a provision on
improper payments. The House bill does not include a similar
provision.
House recedes.
COMPLIANCE WITH HOUSE RULE XXI
Pursuant to clause 9 of rule XXI of the Rules of the
House of Representatives, this conference report contains no
congressional earmarks, limited tax benefits, or limited tariff
benefits as defined in clause 9(d), 9(e), or 9(f) of rule XXI.
George Miller,
Dale E. Kildee,
Lynn Woolsey,
Danny K. Davis,
Raul M. Grijalva,
Linda T. Sanchez,
John P. Sarbanes,
Joe Sestak,
David Loebsack,
Mazie K. Hirono,
Carol Shea-Porter,
Howard ``Buck'' McKeon,
Michael N. Castle,
Luis Fortuno,
Ric Keller,
Joe Wilson,
C. W. Boustany,
Dean Heller,
Managers on the Part of the House.
Ted Kennedy,
Chris Dodd,
Tom Harkin,
Barbara A. Mikulski,
Jeff Bingaman,
Patty Murray,
Jack Reed,
Hillary Rodham Clinton,
Barack Obama,
Bernard Sanders,
Sherrod Brown,
Michael B. Enzi,
Judd Gregg,
Lamar Alexander,
Richard Burr,
Johnny Isakson,
Lisa Murkowski,
Orrin Hatch,
Pat Roberts,
Wayne Allard,
Managers on the Part of the Senate.
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