The purpose of the Grant Accountability and Transparency Act (GATA) is to increase accountability and transparency in the use of grant funds while reducing the administrative burden on both state agencies and grantees. The law provides for the development of a coordinated, non-redundant process to establish effective and efficient oversight of the selection and monitoring of grant recipients, ensuring quality programs; limiting fraud, waste, and abuse; and defining the purpose, scope, applicability, and responsibilities in the life cycle of a grant. (Illinois State Board of Education, 2021)

 

The American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARP) includes new requirements for states and Local Education Agencies (LEAs) receiving Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) funds. These requirements, known as Maintenance of Equity (MOEquity), protect certain high-poverty schools from disproportionate reductions in state and local funding and staffing in fiscal years 2022 and 2023. The Illinois State Board of Education will use this page to provide guidance and resources to help LEAs understand and implement MOEquity requirements. Due to the timing of distribution of funds, states were granted the option of offering an exemption.  In order to qualify for the exemption, the district had to fill out the survey, and then submit a letter.  Below you will find the Signed Certificate of Exception that was submitted to ISBE on 12/1/21.