Section 700.50  Program Specifications

a)         Grant funds awarded under this Part may be used only for the following purposes:

1)         to expand learning opportunities in grades K-12 to ensure that all students have access to computer science coursework that is aligned to rigorous State standards and emerging labor market needs;

2)         to train and retrain teachers of grades K-12 to be more proficient in the teaching of computer science by providing professional development opportunities;

3)         to supply classrooms with materials and equipment related to the teaching and learning of computer science;

4)         to more effectively recruit and better serve K-12 learners who are underrepresented in the computer science labor market for enrollment in computer science coursework (Section 2-3.196(b) of the School Code); and

5)         to fund initiatives in any of grades K-8 that are designed specifically to prepare students in those grades to participate successfully in secondary computer science coursework or future computer science careers.

b)         Allowable activities include, but are not limited to, curriculum development, educator training, or the purchase of equipment and instructional materials related to computer science coursework or programs designed to prepare students for enrollment and success in secondary computer science coursework or future careers in computer science.

c)            At a minimum, five percent of the grant funds awarded under this Part or $2,000, whichever is greater, must be used by the grantee to defray the cost of training for teachers, counselors, and principals that is aligned with or supportive of the other proposed uses of grant funds in the grantee's proposal. Training costs may include stipends for teachers participating in the training or professional learning and for substitute teachers.

d)         The first year of grant award funding may be considered a planning year with allowable expenses including reasonable costs associated with planning and preparation for implementation of new or enhanced computer science coursework or career preparation.

e)         The portion of funds used pursuant to subsection (a)(4) may include:

1)         the development and dissemination of promotional materials or other outreach to students and their families;

2)         counseling, enrichment activities, tutoring, or other assistance for students that will prepare them to succeed in these courses and on the culminating examinations; and

3)         tuition and associated fees (e.g., course fees or examination fees) for Illinois Virtual Course Catalog online coursework and advanced coursework in computer science (e.g., Dual credit, Advanced Placement, or International Baccalaureate).

f)          Grant funds shall not be used to pay for the services of teachers to teach computer science coursework during the normal school day.

g)         Grant funds shall not be used to supplant other efforts currently funded with local, State, or federal resources.