To apply for grants under this program, interested parties must use the application materials that are found on http://e-grants.ed.gov/egPackages.asp?APP=EA (applications are listed numerically by the CFDA number. MEES is 84.214A). This competition requires an electronic application process. Applicants may NOT mail, e-mail, or hand-deliver applications to the Department without following the instructions to request an exception noted on page 15698 of the NIA.

Application Deadline: May 14, 2010

Notice inviting applications for the Migrant Education Even Start program. The notice provides general information about the requirements for the competition. (March 30, 2010)

The William F. Goodling Even Start Family Literacy Act (ESEA Title I, Part B, Subpart 3) specifies several required activities for Migrant Education Even Start that should enhance program delivery and assist families in meeting their individual education goals. MEES projects must:

1. Identify/recruit families that are most in need;
2. Ensure services to those families most in need;
3. Screen and prepare families for participation;
4. Accommodate participants' work schedules;
5. Design and implement strategies that ensure attendance and support success in achieving family's educational goals;
6. Operate year-round services;
7. Provide high-quality, intensive instruction;
8. Incorporate pre-school reading readiness activities;
9. Promote continuity of family literacy to improve educational outcomes;
10. Train project staff in family literacy constructs;
11. Provide instruction for adults and children that is grounded in scientifically based reading research;
12. Ensure that the majority of staff (paid through Even Start funds) who provide academic instruction are certified in the subject area they teach;
13. Conduct regular home-based services;
14. Coordinate with services provided under Title I, Part A; Workplace Investment Act; Individuals with Disabilities Act; Adult Education and Literacy; Head Start; and other local literacy councils, etc.; and
15. Conduct an independent local evaluation.

Applicants must plan carefully to develop a high-quality program that provides intensive services no matter where migrant families travel to live and work.

Instructional strategies build literacy and reading skills with parents and young children. Service models range from using distance learning and computer-based instruction, to instruction in creative arts, to providing life management skills. Grantees include State educational agencies, school districts, and faith-based or community-based organizations. Eligible applicants must be able to provide a comprehensive program of family literacy services that meets participant families' needs for adult basic education and ESL, early childhood education, parenting education, and interactive literacy activities with parents and children learning together. Project services must include instructional home visits, address parents' work schedules, and provide developmentally appropriate early childhood education that builds early reading skills.