OSSE Key Points of Contact for LEAs

As of June 2024

The purpose of this directory is for LEA leaders to find the right OSSE staff for support. It is organized by content area and offers examples of commonly asked questions under each area. OSSE will continue to update this resource quarterly. For questions not addressed in this resource, please contact OSSE Communications at osse.communications.gov.

Content Areas

Assessments

ACCESS for ELLs/Alternate ACCESS for ELLs Assessment Test Administration and Policy
Stephanie Snyder | [email protected] | (202) 765-7158

What are the ACCESS for ELLs and Alternate ACCESS for ELLs assessments?
What is the WIDA Consortium and how does DC participate?
Who must administer ACCESS for ELLs/Alternate ACCESS for ELLs?
Who must take ACCESS for ELLs/Alternate ACCESS for ELLs?
How do I determine if a student is eligible to take ACCESS for ELLs/Alternate ACCESS for ELLs?
When does my school administer ACCESS for ELLs/Alternate ACCESS for ELLs?
How do I register my students for ACCESS for ELLs/Alternate ACCESS for ELLs?
How do my staff and I get training to administer ACCESS for ELLs/Alternate ACCESS for ELLs?
What are the technology requirements for administering ACCESS for ELLs/Alternate ACCESS for ELLs on computers?
How are ACCESS for ELLs/Alternate ACCESS for ELLs results reported to students, parents, and schools?
Where can I find out more about ACCESS for ELLs/Alternate ACCESS for ELLs?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/service/wida-access-ells-20

Dynamic Learning Maps (DLM) Science Alternate Assessment Test Administration and Policy
Chelsea Charland | [email protected] | (202) 765-7202

What is the DC Science Alt Assessment?
Who must administer the DC Science Alt Assessment?
Who must take the DC Science Alt Assessment?
How do I determine if a student is eligible to take the DC Science Alt Assessment?
When does my school administer the DC Science Alt Assessment?
How do I register my students for the DC Science Alt Assessment?
How do my staff and I get training to administer the DC Science Alt Assessment?
What are the technology requirements for administering the DC Science Alt Assessment on computers?
How are DC Science Alt Assessment results reported to students, parents and schools?
Where can I find out more about the DC Science Alt Assessment?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/service/alternate-assessments

DC CAPE (Science) Test Administration and Policy
Chelsea Charland | [email protected] | (202) 765-7202

What is the DC Science Assessment?
Who should administer/take the DC Science Assessment?
When does my school administer the DC Science Assessment?
How do I register my students for the DC Science Assessment?
How do my staff and I get training to administer the DC Science Assessment?
What are the technology requirements for administering the DC Science Assessment on computers?
How are DC Science Assessment results reported to students, parents and schools?
Where can I find more information on the DC Science Assessment?

For online resources, please visit o sse.dc.gov/science.

Districtwide/Statewide Assessments
Stephanie Snyder | [email protected] | (202) 765-7158

What are the Districtwide assessments?
What policies and guidance exist related to Districtwide assessments?
Which Districtwide assessments are required for LEAs to administer? For students to take?
When do the Districtwide assessments take place this year?
Who should I contact about assessment-specific questions?
Where can I get more information about each of the Districtwide assessments?
What kind of Districtwide assessment data is available?
How can I find out more about Districtwide assessments?
Who are our vendors for the Districtwide assessments?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/assessments

Districtwide/Statewide Assessment Accommodations For Special Populations
Stephanie Snyder | [email protected] | (202) 765-7158

What accommodations are available to students with Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), 504 Plans, and English Language Learners on Districtwide assessments?
How do I determine which accommodations are appropriate for each student?
Where can I find more information about how to implement accommodations on Districtwide assessments?
What are the technology requirements for implementing accommodations on Districtwide assessments?
What training is available on assignment and implementation of accommodations?
How do I ensure that students receive the accommodations to which they are entitled on the Districtwide assessments?
Where can I find more guidance on accommodations?
Where do I find more information about ACCESS, the assessment for English Language Learners that determines English language proficiency?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/service/testing-accommodations

Districtwide/Statewide Assessment Test Development
Yolanda Barber | [email protected] | (202) 531-6879

Which standards do the Districtwide assessments measure?
Where can I find more information on the standards?
How do the Districtwide assessments measure DC’s standards?
How were the Districtwide assessments developed?
Where can I find the test blueprints for the Districtwide assessments?
Who writes the Districtwide assessment items?
Who scores the Districtwide assessments?
Where can I find more information about the construction and analysis of Districtwide assessments?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/service/dc-state-assessments-new and osse.dc.gov/service/dc-educational-standards

Districtwide/Statewide Assessment Test Integrity and Security

To report test integrity or security concerns, please contact the OSSE Service Desk at (202) 719-6500 or [email protected]. For program questions, contact ↓

Rohini Ramnath | [email protected]

What are the laws, regulations and rules around Districtwide assessment test security?
How can I make sure my LEA and school are compliant with the Testing Integrity Act of 2013?
What training and technical assistance is available to me around testing integrity and security?
What happens if my LEA, school or student are involved in a test security incident?
What, where and when do I need to report a potential test security incident?
How do I report an alleged test security violation?
What happens in the event of a test security incident or violation?
Where can I find historical test security data and reports?
What happens during a state test integrity investigation?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/service/test-security-and-incident-forms

Multi-state Alternate Assessment (MSAA) - ELA and Math Alternate Assessment Test Administration and Policy
Stephanie Snyder | [email protected] | (202) 765-7158

What is the MSAA assessment?
What is the MSAA Consortium and how does DC participate?
Who must administer the MSAA?
Who must take the MSAA?
How do I determine if a student is eligible to take the MSAA?
When does my school administer the MSAA?
How do I register my students for the MSAA?
How do my staff and I get training to administer the MSAA?
What are the technology requirements for administering the MSAA on computers?
How are MSAA results reported to students, parents and schools?
Where can I find out more about MSAA?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/service/alternate-assessments

National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP)
Cassidy Schenley | [email protected] | (202) 316-6500

What is the NAEP?
Who must administer the NAEP?
Who must take the NAEP?
When does my school administer the NAEP?
How do I register my students for the NAEP?
How do my staff and I get training to administer the NAEP?
What are the technology requirements for administering the NAEP on computers?
How are NAEP results reported to students, parents, and schools?
How can NAEP data be used?
Are there NAEP resources can I use?
Where can I find out more about the NAEP?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/service/national-assessment-educational-progress-naep

DC CAPE (ELA and Math) Test Administration and Policy

For technology questions related to DC CAPE testing, please contact the OSSE Service Desk at (202) 719-6500 or [email protected]. For program questions, contact ↓

Yolanda Barber | [email protected] | (202) 531-6879

What are the DC CAPE Assessments and how are results reported to students, parents, and schools?
Who must take the DC CAPE Assessments?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/assessments and osse.dc.gov/d cape

DC CAPE (ELA and Math) Test Administration
Stephanie Snyder | [email protected] | (202) 765-7158

When does my school administer the DC CAPE?
How do I register my students for DC CAPE?
How do my staff and I get training to administer DC CAPE?
What are the technology requirements for administering DC CAPE on computers?
How do I add my staff to the contact list for LEA Assessment Coordinators?
Where can I find additional information about DC CAPE?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/assessments and osse.dc.gov/d ccape

Acronym Key

NAEP	National Assessment of Educational Progress
MSAA	Multi-State Alternative Assessment
ELA	English Language Arts
DC CAPE	DC Comprehensive Assessments of Progress in Education

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Data and Reporting

Accountability Data
Kelley Scholl | [email protected] | (202) 756-7197

How are schools rated in the accountability system?
How are school scores and ratings calculated?
How do I access accountability data, including student group and metric scores?

For online resources, please visit dcschoolreportcard.org

Adjusted Cohort Graduation Rate (ACGR)

For Non-Public “SEATS” application questions, please contact the OSSE Service Desk at (202) 719-6500 or [email protected]. For program questions, contact ↓

Jane Clark | [email protected]

What is the four-year adjusted cohort graduation rate (ACGR)?
How is the rate calculated?
What are the implications of the ACGR?
How are cohorts defined?
When a student transfers into our school, which cohort will OSSE assign the student?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/service/high-school-graduation-rates-0

Assessment Data
Stephanie Snyder | [email protected] | (202) 765-7158

How are performance levels calculated?
Where can I find assessment data by sector and year?
How do I access historical scores?

For online resources, please visit results.osse.dc.gov

Attendance Reporting
Melissa Amos | [email protected]

What type of attendance information should each school maintain?
How do I report attendance?
Who is responsible for attendance reporting?
How long should a school record a student’s attendance?

Online resources will be available at osse.dc.gov/page/data-and-reports-0#attendance

Automated Data Transfer (ADT)

For "ADT” application or feed-related questions, please contact the OSSE Service Desk at (202) 719-6500 or [email protected]. For program questions, contact ↓

Stephanie Davis | [email protected] | (202) 322-0546

What is ADT, and how does the process work?
What’s the path of my data from my LEA’s SIS to OSSE?
Do I need a SIF (School Interoperability Framework)?
Who should I contact for ADT technical assistance and support?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/service/automated-data-transfer-adt

Data Privacy, Security, and Confidentiality
Gwen Rubinstein | [email protected] | (202) 374-3723

What are best practices to protect sensitive information?
What policies and practices does OSSE have in place to protect its information?
How does OSSE govern its information?
What supports are available to LEAs?

DC School Report Card Data
Kelley Scholl | [email protected] | (202) 756-7197

What information and data are included in the school report card?
Can I get a paper copy of a school’s report card?
How can I access school report card data for all schools?
How are report card metrics calculated?
Can my LEA/school review the report card data before they are released?

For online resources, please visit dcschoolreportcard.org

Acronym Key

ACGR	Adjusted Cohort Graduation Rate
ADT	Automated Data Transfer
SIF	School Interoperability Framework
YRBS	Youth Risk Behavior Survey
SEDS	Special Education Data System
SLED	Statewide Longitudinal Education Data System

Enrollment Audit Data
Stephanie Davis | [email protected] | (202) 322-0546

How can I correct a data error?
How is the at-risk designation calculated?
Where can I find enrollment projections?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/enrollment

Enrollment Audit Responsibilities

Inquiries regarding the enrollment audit should be sent to [email protected].

Toni Lemons| [email protected] | (202) 714-9968

Where can I find past enrollment audit data reports?
What is the purpose of the student enrollment audit?
Who is counted in the audit?
How is the enrollment audit conducted?
When is the student enrollment audit conducted?
Where can I learn more information about the audit?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/service/enrollment-and-residency-verification

Entry and Exit Codes
Stephanie Davis | [email protected] | (202) 322-0546  

What are the stages of the entry process?
How do I code a withdrawal?
What are the expectations for coding special population students?
What should I do if I receive an error report?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/service/entry-codes-exit-codes-and-enrollment

LEA Reporting Calendar, Collection, and Verification Process
Stephanie Davis | [email protected] | (202) 322-0546  

Where is the comprehensive LEA reporting calendar located?
How far in advance should I expect notice of data requests?
What is the timeline for collections?
What’s the format for data submissions?
Who can I contact for system challenges?

For online resources, please visit sled.osse.dc.gov

Non-Resident Tuition Payments
Veita Clark | [email protected] | (202) 727-7224

How do you set up a payment?
What payment options are available?
What happens if a payment is missed?

Reporting a Potential Non-Resident
[email protected]

What do I do if I think a non-resident is attending a DC public school?
What is the process for reporting potential non-residents?

To share information regarding potential non-residents, please visit our online tip report form.

Residency Verification
Toni Lemons | [email protected] | (202) 714-9968

What types of documents are schools required to maintain for each student to verify residency?
When must residency be established?
What can a primary caregiver show a school official to establish District of Columbia residency?
What is the process for reporting potential non-residents?
What are the residency responsibilities for an LEA that places a special education student into a non-public school?
Where can I find more information?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/service/enrollment-and-residency-verification

Special Education Data System (SEDS)
Shenee Akinmolayan | [email protected] | (202) 545-7244

How do I gain access to SEDS?
What reports are available to LEAs to assist in the delivery of special education services?
Where do I go for SEDS training and other special education resources?
Will OSSE request special education records from another LEA on my behalf?
Who should I contact if I am not able to access a student’s IEP in SEDS?

For online resources, please visit sites.google.com/a/dc.gov/seds-help-resources

Statewide Longitudinal Education Data System (SLED)

For “SLED” application-related questions, please contact the OSSE Service Desk at (202) 719-6500 or [email protected]. For program questions, contact ↓

Stephanie Davis | [email protected] | (202) 322-0546  

What is Statewide Longitudinal Education Data System (SLED)?
How do I access SLED?
What type of student information is available via SLED?
Who should I contact for SLED technical assistance and support?
How can SLED help our LEA?
Where can I receive SLED training?

For online resources, please visit sled.osse.dc.gov

Who do I notify if a student has accumulated 10 or more unexcused absences?
What type of student information is required for reporting?
What interventions occur on the school level before external reporting?
Who is responsible for reporting educational neglect?
What are the common causes of truancy and how can our school work to prevent them?
What are DC’s laws and regulations that prescribe truancy reporting requirements?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/publication/truancy-guide

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Early Learning

Tommy Totten | [email protected] | (202) 442-5860

How do I get a child development facility licensed?
What are the licensing requirements and health and safety standards?
What are the types of child development facilities?
How do I make a complaint about a child development facility or provider?
How can I locate child care for my family?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/service/licensing-and-compliance

Early Intervention: Part C and Part B-619

How do I get early intervention support services?
Who do I contact if I have concerns about my child’s development?
How do I refer a child for early intervention services?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/service/strong-start-dc-early-intervention-program-dc-eip

State Activities, Part B-619
Dawn Hilton | [email protected] | (202) 545-7222

Where can I obtain training and technical assistance for serving preschool-aged children with special needs?
How do I access the Child Outcomes Summary data system?

State Activities, Part C
Andres Alvarado | [email protected] | (202) 727-5853

Where can I obtain Part C policies and regulations?
How do I obtain Part C reports?

Child Care Subsidy Program
Carolyn Taylor | [email protected] | (202) 727-8140
Toya Thompson | [email protected] | (202) 727-8137

Where can providers submit subsidy renewal applications?
How do I know if I am eligible to receive a child care subsidy?
How do I locate a child care provider that accepts subsidy?
How do I obtain a child care admission form?
How can I become a Level II provider?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/service/child-care-subsidyvoucher-program

Pre-K Enhancement and Expansion Program
Christina Crayton | [email protected] | (202) 442-4716

How do I learn more about the Pre- K Enhancement Program?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/service/early-learning

Quality Initiatives
Kathryn Kigera | [email protected] | (202) 481-3763
Michele Reid | [email protected] | (202) 545-7221

What resources are available to enhance my early learning program?
How do I receive training and technical assistance for my early learning facility?
As an early learning professional, how do I obtain professional development training?
How do I register for the Professional Development Information System (PDIS)?
How do I enroll my child into the Quality Improvement Network?
How do I learn more about Capital Quality, DC’s redesigned Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS)?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/service/early-learning-services-providers-professional-development or osse.dc.gov/page/capital-quality-qris

State Early Childhood Development Coordinating Council (SECDCC)
Michelle Price | [email protected] | (202) 957-7432

What is the role of the State Early Childhood Development Coordinating Council (SECDCC)?
Who is on the SECDCC?
When does the SECDCC hold meetings open to the public?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/service/state-early-childhood-development-coordinating-council-secdcc

General DEL Information

Where can we find more resources and information regarding grants?
Where do I find general information about early learning policies in the District of Columbia?
How do I refer a child to strong start?

For general DEL information, email [email protected].

Refer a child to strong start here.

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Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA)

Interventions for Low-Performing Schools
Renu Oliver | [email protected] | (202) 741-5251

How are low-performing schools identified under the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA)?
What are an LEA’s responsibilities with regard to low-performing schools in the current school year?
What technical and financial assistance does OSSE offer low-performing schools?
How does OSSE monitor the implementation of interventions within low-performing schools?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/investmentinschools

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Funding and Grants Management

Acronym Key

DCTAG	DC Tuition Assistance Grant
EGMS	Enterprise Grant Management System
IDEA Part C	Early Intervention Program
Title I, Part A	Improving Basic Programs
Title I, Part D	Neglected and Delinquent
Title 1003 (G) - SIG	School Improvement Grant
Title II, Part A	Teacher and Principal Training and Recruiting
Title II, Part B (MSP)	Math and Science Partnership
Title III, Part A	English Language Acquisition
Title IV, Part A	Student Support and Academic Enrichment
Title IV, Part B	21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) – Out of School Time
Title V, Part B	Charter School Planning
McKinney-Vento (MKV)	Education of Homeless Children and Youth Act
ESSER	Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief
CARES	Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act
CRRSA	Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations
ARP	American Rescue Plan

Career Academies Certification Fund

For EGMS application-related questions, please contact the OSSE Service Desk at (202) 719-6500 or [email protected]. For program questions, contact ↓

Richard Kincaid | [email protected] | (202) 442-4008

What are Career Academies?
Which schools are eligible?
How can schools apply?
What are the reporting requirements?
What certifications will OSSE support?
How can schools apply?
How are funds dispersed?

For current school year information and online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/service/career-education-development

Carl D. Perkins Grant

For EGMS application-related questions, please contact the OSSE Service Desk at (202) 719-6500 or [email protected]. For program questions, contact ↓

Richard Kincaid | [email protected] | (202) 442-4008

What is the purpose of the Carl D. Perkins grant and how does it support Career and Technical Education (CTE)?
Who is eligible for Perkins funds?
What are the permissible uses of Perkins funds?
What are the reporting requirements?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/service/career-and-technical-education-cte

Charter Schools Program (CSP)

For EGMS application-related questions, please contact the OSSE Service Desk at (202) 719-6500 or [email protected]. For program questions, contact ↓

Stacy Kirk | [email protected] | (202) 714-6019

What is the purpose of the CSP?
Who is eligible for a CSP subgrant?
How do I apply for a CSP subgrant?
What are permissible uses of CSP funds?
What are the fiscal responsibilities of a charter school receiving CSP funds?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/service/charter-school-programs-grant-title-v-part-b

Community Schools Incentive Initiative Grant
Sylvelt Walker | [email protected] | (202) 478-2409

What is a community school?
How can my school become a community school?
What related grant opportunities currently exist at OSSE?
What is OSSE’s Community Schools Advisory Committee? How can I get involved?
What is OSSE’s Community Schools Community of Practice (CoP)? How can I learn more about the CoP?

For an online resource, please visit osse.dc.gov/service/community-schools-incentive-initiative

DC Tuition Assistance Grant (DCTAG)

For EGMS application-related questions, please contact the OSSE Service Desk at (202) 719-6500 or [email protected]. For program questions, contact ↓

Kenneth McGhee | [email protected] | (202) 481-3946

What is DCTAG?
Who is eligible for DCTAG?
How do students apply for DCTAG?
When is the application deadline?
What is the disbursement process for DCTAG?
How can my school support students in the DCTAG process?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/service/dc-tuition-assistance-grant-dc-tag

Enterprise Grant Management System (EGMS)

For EGMS application-related questions, please contact the OSSE Service Desk at (202) 719-6500 or [email protected]. For program questions, contact ↓

Nancy Mahon | [email protected] | (202) 741-1886

What is the Enterprise Grant Management System?
How do I apply for a grant using EGMS?
How do I submit reimbursement requests?
Who can I contact for system challenges or technical assistance?
How do I find out about available grants?

For online resources, please visit egmsfe.osse.dc.gov

Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and ARP IDEA

For EGMS application-related questions, please contact the OSSE Service Desk at (202) 719-6500 or [email protected]. For program questions, contact ↓

Megan Williams | [email protected] | (202) 741-0477

What is the purpose of IDEA funding?
When should my school receive its IDEA determination and allocation?
What is the difference between IDEA Part B and IDEA Part C?
Who is eligible to receive IDEA grant funds?
What are the required set-asides?
When are LEAs required to allocate Part B funds to Coordinated Early Intervening Services (CEIS)?
What are allowable costs for IDEA, Part B funds?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/service/specialized-education-fiscal-policy-and-grants-management

McKinney-Vento (MKV)

For EGMS application-related questions, please contact the OSSE Service Desk at (202) 719-6500 or [email protected]. For program questions, contact ↓

Nicole Lee-Mwandha | [email protected] | (202) 654-6123

Who is considered homeless under the McKinney-Vento Act?
Are LEAs required to have a homeless liaison?
What are permissible uses of McKinney-Vento funds?
Can funds be used to pay for things such as transportation and school uniforms?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/service/homeless-education-program

Medicaid Claiming for School-Based Health Services
Yvonne S. Smith | [email protected] | (202) 741-5996

How do LEAs apply for Medicaid reimbursement?
What services qualify for reimbursement?
What constitutes an allowable claim?
What is the Random Moment Time Study required for claiming?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/service/medicaid-recovery-unit

Nonpublic Special Education School Payments
Yvonne S. Smith | [email protected] | (202) 741-5996

How are rates established for nonpublic schools?
How do schools set up the payment process?
What regulations govern nonpublic schools and payments?
What are the requirements for billing?
What are the LEA obligations related to documentation authorizing payments?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/service/nonpublic-invoice-verification

Public Charter School Facility Financing

For EGMS application-related questions, please contact the OSSE Service Desk at (202) 719-6500 or [email protected]. For program questions, contact ↓

Darryl Brantley | [email protected] | (202) 258-3541

What financing is available to construct, acquire or renovate my school?
Can OSSE guarantee lease payments for public charter schools?
My bank wants a credit enhancement before they will give me financing for my school. Where can I get a credit enhancement?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/service/facilities-financing-dc-public-charter-schools

Scholarships for Opportunity and Results (SOAR) Act - Charter Sector

For EGMS application-related questions, please contact the OSSE Service Desk at (202) 719-6500 or [email protected]. For program questions, contact ↓

Linda Sun | [email protected] | (202) 230-1166

Brianna Griffin | [email protected] | (202) 355-8194

Who is eligible to apply for SOAR Act funds?
What are allowable costs for SOAR funds?
What are the fiscal responsibilities of an entity that receives SOAR Act funds?
How will entities that receive SOAR Act funds be monitored?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/service/scholarships-opportunity-and-results-soar-act-grant

School Nutrition Grants

For EGMS application-related questions, please contact the OSSE Service Desk at (202) 719-6500 or [email protected]. For program questions, contact ↓

Elizabeth Leach | [email protected] | (202) 531-2680

What nutritional grants are offered through OSSE’s Division of Health and Wellness?
Who is eligible to participate in the National School Breakfast and Lunch Program?
What are the nutritional requirements for school meals supported by federal grants?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/service/nutrition-services

Special Education Enhancement Fund (SEEF) Competitive Grant
Kieran Bowen | [email protected] | (202) 481-3938

What is the purpose of the SEEF competitive grant?
Who is eligible to apply for a SEEF competitive grant?
How do I apply for SEEF funding?
What are permissible uses of SEEF funds?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/page/special-education-enhancement-fund-seef-competitive-grant

Scholarships for Opportunity and Results (SOAR) Act – Teacher Pipeline Grants

For EGMS application-related questions, please contact the OSSE Service Desk at (202) 719-6500 or [email protected]. For program questions, contact ↓

Linda Sun | [email protected] | (202) 230-1166

Brianna Griffin | [email protected] | (202) 355-8194

What type of organizations are eligible to apply for a SOAR Teacher Pipeline Grant?
What are allowable uses for of SOAR Teacher Pipeline Grant?
What types of projects are eligible for a SOAR Teacher Pipeline Grant?
When will the next grant competition be held?
What are the fiscal responsibilities of an entity that receives a SOAR Teacher Pipeline Grant?

For online resources, please visit the SOAR Act Grant page.

Scholarships for Opportunity and Results (SOAR) Act – Third Party Grants

For EGMS application-related questions, please contact the OSSE Service Desk at (202) 719-6500 or [email protected]. For program questions, contact ↓

Linda Sun | [email protected] | (202) 230-1166

Brianna Griffin | [email protected] | (202) 355-8194

What type of organizations are eligible to apply for a SOAR Third Party Grant?
What are allowable uses for of SOAR Third Party Grant?
What types of projects are eligible for a SOAR Third Party Grant?
When will the next grant competition be held?
What are the fiscal responsibilities of an entity that receives a SOAR Third Party Grant?

For online resources, please visit the SOAR Act Grant page.

Title I, Part A and Title II, Part A

For EGMS application-related questions, please contact the OSSE Service Desk at (202) 719-6500 or [email protected]. For program questions, contact ↓

Bonnie Bacon | [email protected] | (202) 545-7224

How does OSSE determine eligibility for Title I and Title II funding?
When does OSSE release allocation amounts?
How do I apply for funding?
What is the monitoring cycle?
What are permissible uses of Title I-A and Title II-A funds?
What are the required set-asides?
What is the difference between a targeted assistance program and School Wide Program (SWP)?
How do I notify OSSE that my program is new or significantly expanding?
Who is the grants management specialist assigned to my LEA?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/service/consolidated-application

Title I, Section 1003 – Investment in Schools

For EGMS application-related questions, please contact the OSSE Service Desk at (202) 719-6500 or [email protected]. For program questions, contact ↓

Renu Oliver | [email protected] | (202) 741-5251

How does OSSE determine eligibility for the Investment in Schools grant?
When is the Investment in Schools application due, and what is required?
What are permissible uses of these funds?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/investmentinschools

Title I, Part D

For EGMS application-related questions, please contact the OSSE Service Desk at (202) 719-6500 or [email protected]. For program questions, contact ↓

Alison Losey | [email protected] | (202) 654-6110

How does OSSE determine eligibility for Title I-D funding?
What are the goals of Title I, Part D?
How do I apply for funding?
What is the monitoring cycle?
What are permissible uses of Title I-D funds?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/service/neglected-and-delinquent-youth-title-i-part-d

Title III, Part A

For EGMS application-related questions, please contact the OSSE Service Desk at (202) 719-6500 or [email protected]. For program questions, contact ↓

Bonnie Bacon | [email protected] | (202) 545-7224

What is the definition of “immigrant children and youth” in ESEA Title III?
How does OSSE determine eligibility for Title III funding?
How does OSSE allocate funds to LEAs with substantial increases in the percentage or number of immigrant children and youth?
What are the required activities for LEAs that receive Title III grants?
What are permissible uses of Title III funds?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/page/consolidated-application

Title IV, Part A

For EGMS application-related questions, please contact the OSSE Service Desk at (202) 719-6500 or [email protected]. For program questions, contact ↓

Bonnie Bacon | [email protected] | (202) 545-7224

What are the categories of spending required by ESEA Title IV-A?
How does OSSE determine eligibility for Title IV-A funding?
What are the required activities for LEAs that receive Title IV-A grants?
What are permissible uses of Title IV-A funds?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/page/consolidated-application.

Title IV, Part B: 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) Programs

Kelly Rudd Safran | [email protected] | (202) 215-3235

What is 21st Century?
Who can apply for 21st Century Community Learning Center (CCLC) funds?
Can an outside agency work with an individual school within a 21st CCLC awarded LEA?
Can 21st CCLC activities take place during the regular school day?
What are the permissible uses of 21st CCLC program funds?
Can I use grant funds to purchase food for the program?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/service/title-iv-part-b-21st-century-community-learning-centers-cclc

ESSER Recovery Funding Grants

For EGMS application-related questions, please contact the OSSE Service Desk at (202) 719-6500 or [email protected]. For program questions, contact ↓

Linda Sun | [email protected] | (202) 230-1166

What are the ESSER Recovery Funding Grants?
Who is eligible for ESSER funds?
What are the requirements of the grant program?
What are the permissible uses of ESSER funds?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/recoveryfunding.

ARP Homeless Children and Youth Grants

For EGMS application-related questions, please contact the OSSE Service Desk at (202) 719-6500 or [email protected]. For program questions, contact ↓

Danielle Rollins | [email protected] | (202) 741-0255

What are the ARP Homeless Grants?
Who is eligible for ARP Homeless funds?
What are the requirements of the grant program?
What are the permissible uses of ARP Homeless funds?

For online resources, please visit  osse.dc.gov/service/homeless-education-program.

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Health and Wellness

Early Childhood Health and Wellness
Amelia Peterson-Kosecki | [email protected] | (202) 718-3631

What health and wellness supports are available to early learning centers and homes?
What is the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP)?
What type of organizations and businesses can participate in the CACFP? What are the rules and regulations to participate?
Who is eligible to receive meals through the CACFP? Do families pay for meals under the CACFP?
What are the nutritional and meal pattern requirements for the CACFP?
What is the Healthy Tots Act (HTA)?
How can I receive Healthy Tots meal reimbursements?
What is the Healthy Tots Wellness Grant? How can I participate?

For online resources on CACFP, please visit osse.dc.gov/service/child-and-adult-care-food-program-cacfp

For online resources on HTA, please visit osse.dc.gov/page/healthy-tots-act

Healthy Schools and Wellness Programs
Rachel Sadlon | [email protected] | (202) 765-7209
Jes Duncan | [email protected] | (202) 322-8694

What resources are available for aligning health curricula to health and physical education standards, or integrating health and nutrition education into the classroom?
Where do I find a copy of the health or physical education standards?
Where do I refer students for sexual health services?
How do I receive professional development trainings on health and physical education topics?
What mental and behavioral health supports are available for District schools? How do I access them?
How do I get more information on recycling, composting and other areas related to environmental literacy in schools?
What grants are available to support health, physical and nutrition education and programming?
What is the Whole School, Whole Community, Whole Child (WSCC) model? How could I consider it as a resource to support achieving my school’s academic goals?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/service/health-programming-and-services

Health and Wellness Data Collection and Reporting
Aimee McLaughlin | [email protected] | (202) 704-5774

I am confused about a question on the School Health Profile. How can I receive technical assistance?
What is the Health and Physical Education Assessment (HPEA), and when and how do I administer it in my school?
When and how is the Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS) survey administered?
What resources are available for students who need support related to the risk behaviors identified in the YRBS?
What are the youth risk behavior indicators and trends my school should consider as we make programmatic decisions?

For online resources, please visit the School Health Profiles, HPEA, or YRBS pages on the OSSE website.

Health and Wellness Policy and Compliance
David Esquith | [email protected] | (202) 899-6078

Where can I find information about COVID-19-related health and safety guidance for schools and childcare providers?
Where can I find information about the Healthy Schools Act and what is required of schools?
What resources are available to help LEAs and schools meet the requirements of the Healthy Schools Act?
Where can I find information about developing and implementing my LEA’s Local Wellness Policy?
Where can I find information about the Healthy Youth & Schools Commission?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/service/healthy-schools-act

School Food Program Requirements
Alex Dobbs | [email protected] | (202) 322-1713
Elizabeth Leach | [email protected] | (202) 531-2680

What federal and local meal programs can District schools participate in?
What are the steps schools must take to apply to participate in federal and local meal programs?
What type of training should a School Food Authority provide?
What type of notification is required for food services?
What are the requirements of a Food Safety Plan?
What are the requirements for food sanitation inspections?
How long should nutrition-related records be maintained?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/service/nutrition-services

Strategic Health and Wellness Partnerships
Melissa Smith | [email protected] | (202) 724-7627

I’m a health and wellness organization looking to work with schools or child development facilities. How do I start?
I’m a school or child development facility looking for a partner to support a health and wellness programmatic need. How do I start?
I have a health and wellness partnership and want support to increase the effectiveness of programming. What resources are available?

School Health Services, Safety, and Immunizations
Kyle Flood | [email protected] | (202) 741-5252

How do I order and maintain undesignated epinephrine auto-injectors and automated external defibrillators (AEDs)?
What are the requirements for staff trained as administration of medication and undesignated epinephrine auto-injector designees?
What are the requirements for sexual misconduct prevention policies for schools?
I am interested in securing a DC Health school nurse. Where do I start?
What are the mandatory immunization requirements for all students?
Where can I learn more about student health forms, including the Universal Health Certificate and Oral Health Assessment?

DC Summer Meals Program
Shaneka King | [email protected] | (202) 899-6118
Amelia Peterson-Kosecki | [email protected] | (202)- 718-3631

What is the DC Summer Meals Program (Summer Food Service Program)?
Who is eligible to receive free summer meals?
How can I find a meal site near me?
How does an organization and/or school participate in the program? Are there eligibility requirements?
What kinds of meals are served?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/dcyouthmeals

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IT Help Desk

OSSE Application Service Desk
OSSE Technology Service Desk | [email protected] | (202) 719-6500
The OSSE Application Service Desk provides technical support for the following applications and topics:

ATS, BITSEE, Data Privacy, DEL Licensing, EGMS, HomeSchool, OATS, ORCHARD, SARA, SEATS, SLED, and Test Integrity.

For technical assistance, please submit an OSSE Help Desk ticket via ossehelp.dc.gov

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Office of Dispute Resolution

Office of Dispute Resolution
Pamela Brown | [email protected] | (202) 698-3819

How can I file a due process complaint?
What is a due process hearing?
How can I request a due process hearing?
What’s the difference between Mediation and a Due Process Hearing?
How can I request mediation?
Will I need an attorney?
Do you provide attorneys or can you assist me in finding one?
Who will preside over the hearing?
How are the cases assigned?
What is an Hearing Officer Determination (HOD)?
Will I receive a copy of the HOD?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/service/office-dispute-resolution-odr

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Postsecondary and Career Education

For “FAFSA” application related questions, please contact the OSSE Service Desk at (202) 719-6500 or [email protected]. For program questions, contact ↓

College and Career Readiness
Christina Beal | [email protected] | (202) 727-8805

What are the responsibilities of the Office of College and Career Readiness in the Division of Postsecondary and Career Education?
Who can I contact about Dual Enrollment, Advanced Placement Testing, and the OSSE Scholars Program?
Are my students eligible for SAT and ACT funding through the Office of College and Career Readiness?
What is the College and Credential Completion Network (C3N)?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/page/college-and-career-education

DC ReEngagement Center
Veronica Simmons | [email protected] | (202) 698-3532

What is the ReEngagment Center?
How old are eligible students?
What type of support does the ReEngagement Center provide?
Where is the ReEngagement Center located?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/service/dc-reengagement-center

GED Program Office
Philip PremDas | [email protected] | (202) 274-7173

What is the General Education Development (GED) Test?
How is the GED administered?
Where can I go to take the GED in DC?
Is the GED offered in non-English languages?
Who is eligible for the GED?
Are there prep materials available?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/service/general-education-development-tests-ged

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Special Populations and Community Support

Change in Placement
Katie Reda | [email protected] | (202) 481-3926

What is the OSSE Policies and Procedures for Placement Review, Revised (PPPR)?
What is a change in placement (CIP)?
How do LEAs initiate a CIP request?
How is OSSE’s role during the CIP process articulated?
What happens if the IEP team moves forward with placement to a more restrictive environment (a nonpublic school placement)?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/service/placement-oversight-unit

DC Homeschooling Requirements
Stephanie Thomas | [email protected] | (202) 654-6122

Who can home school?
Are there regulations that govern home schooling in the District?
Do parents need permission from their child’s school to home school?
What is the notification process for home schooling in the District of Columbia?
Can my homeschooled child take the citywide assessment?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/service/dc-homeschooling-program

Homeless Children and Youth Support
Nicole Lee-Mwandha | [email protected] | (202) 654-6123

What is the function of the Education of Homeless Children and Youth Program?
Who must designate a homeless liaison?
Is there a time limit on how long a child or youth can be considered homeless?
Who is defined as a homeless child or youth under McKinney-Vento?
What ages does the McKinney-Vento Act cover?
Are immigrant students covered by the McKinney-Vento Act?
What are the responsibilities of the homeless liaison?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/service/education-homeless-children-and-youth-program

Non-Public Placement
Katie Reda | [email protected] | (202) 481-3926

What is the difference between a private school and a nonpublic school?
What if a parent requests for their child to attend a nonpublic school or program?
Who makes the final decision about nonpublic placement for a student?
What are my LEA’s roles and responsibilities for students placed in nonpublic schools or programs?
Can students receive transportation services to nonpublic schools?

For an online resource, please visit osse.dc.gov/publication/nonpublic-toolkit

Private School Requirements and Emergency Assistance to Non-Public Schools (EANS)
Edgar Stewart | E [email protected]
Cameron Martin | [email protected]

What are the requirements for operating a private school in the District?
Are private schools subject to record keeping requirements?
How can private schools request and receive approval from OSSE?
What testing requirements apply to private schools in the District of Columbia?
What financial assistance is available to support private education?

Special Education Monitoring and Compliance
Karen Morgan-Donaldson | [email protected] | (202) 724-7803

Who monitors compliance for special education in the District of Columbia?
How is compliance tracked in the District of Columbia?
What are annual LEA determinations?
What is OSSE looking for when they monitor my LEA?
How do I find out more about the monitoring process for my LEA?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/page/special-education-monitoring-compliance-and-reports

Special Education Policy
Christie Weaver-Harris | [email protected] | (202) 741-0470

Where can I access special education policies?
What if I have a question about federal or local special education requirements?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/service/special-education-laws-and-regulations

Special Education Procedural Safeguards and Parent Resources under IDEA
Jasmine Fleming | [email protected] | (202) 481-3783

What information are LEAs required to provide to parents of students with disabilities?
How often must LEAs provide the Notice of Procedural Safeguards to parents?
What resources are available to support parents and families of students with disabilities?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/publication/rights-parents-students-disabilities-idea-part-b-notice-procedural-safeguards

Special Education State Complaints
Kirstin Hansen | [email protected] | (202) 741-0274

By when must an LEA reply when an individual or organization files a State complaint?
How is a State complaint different from a request for a due process hearing?
What are my LEA’s options for resolving the State Complaint?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/service/specialized-education-state-complaints

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Student Transportation

General Information
Division of Student Transportation | [email protected] | (202) 724-8600

How do I find general information regarding student transportation services?
Which unit handles complaints regarding student transportation?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/service/student-transportation

Parent Resource Center
Parent Resource Center | (202) 576-5000

What is the Parent Resource Center and how can I contact them?
As an LEA representative, who specifically can I contact for questions or concerns about transportation?
What if a parent has a concern/complaint regarding transportation services?
When do Customer Service Representatives inform parents/guardians of bus delays?
Where can parents and stakeholders sign up to receive notifications and updates?
When are representatives available to take calls?
What is the inclement weather policy for student transportation?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/service/student-transportation

Technical Support for LEAs and Schools
Division of Student Transportation | [email protected] | (202) 576-5520

Where can I access the policy regarding student transportation?
When do I submit transportation requests for eligible students with disabilities enrolled in my school?
What is the Transportation Online Tool for Education (TOTE)?
How do I access TOTE?
How do I submit a transportation request?
What information is required to submit a transportation request?
How do I submit school calendar and bell time information?
How do we request an address change for a student or any other type of route change?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/service/student-transportation

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Teaching and Learning

English Learners Support
Lucia Cuomo | [email protected] | (202) 431-3161

Do all LEAs have to comply with the use of a Home Language Survey (HLS)?
Who are students with limited English proficiency (LEPs)?
Do all LEAs have to develop and implement an English Language Program Plan (also known as ELL plan)?
Do all students with limited English Proficiency (LEPs) have to participate in the state assessment test?
Are all LEAs required to administer annual assessments to measure LEP students' language proficiency and progress?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/page/english-learners-els

Instructional Supports (General Education)
Celina Ketelsen | [email protected] | (202) 481-3835

What are best practices in teaching and learning?
How can I plan standards–based lessons that engage all learners?
What resources support quality instructional planning?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/service/specialized-education-training-and-technical-assistance or osse.dc.gov/service/k-12-teaching-and-learning-resources

Least Restrictive Environment
Angela Awonaike | [email protected] | (202) 481-3870

What is the difference between least restrictive environment (LRE) and inclusion?
Is placement the same thing as location of services?
How do I know if a student is in his or her least restrictive environment?
What does it mean for my school to provide a full continuum of educational services?
How can I make my school a more inclusion focused school?

For an online resource, please visit osse.dc.gov/publication/least-restrictive-environment-toolkit

Positive Behavior Support
Jessica Dulay | [email protected] | (202) 654-6101

What is Positive Behavior Support (PBS)?
What does PBS have to do with the Law?
What are some examples of positive behavior supports?
What is a manifestation determination review and when is it needed?
How can our school begin utilizing restorative justice?

For an online resource, please visit osse.dc.gov/publication/positive-behavior-support-pbs-toolkit

Secondary Transition Process
Kalecia Baity | [email protected] | (202) 716-7254

What is a secondary transition plan?
When does planning for secondary transition start?
Do I have to use assessments when writing a secondary transition plan in the IEP?
Who should I invite to a secondary transition planning meeting for a student?
How is a transition plan written?
How can I ensure that secondary transition planning is focused on what’s best for the student?
I’m new to this process. What resources are available to help me get up to speed?

For an online resource, please visit osse.dc.gov/publication/secondary-transition-process-toolkit

Special Education Guidance
Angela Awonaike | [email protected] | (202) 481-3870

What is the difference between a traditional IEP and a standards-based IEP?
Are the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) the same thing as DC’s learning standards?
What does it mean to differentiate instruction?
Can I write a standards-based IEP for a student who is not on grade-level?
How can I ensure that I always write standards-based IEPs for students?
Are all LEAs required to administer annual assessments to measure LEPs language proficiency and progress?

For an online resource, please visit osse.dc.gov/publication/standards-based-individualized-education-program-iep-resource-guide

Teacher Licensure Requirements
[email protected] (For questions regarding educator credentialing requirements)
[email protected] (For support using the online application system)

What are the criteria for licensure for teachers, administrators, and related service providers in the District?
What are the required exams for licensure in one’s respective discipline?
Are LEAs required to notify parents regarding teacher and paraprofessional quality?

For online resources, please visit osse.dc.gov/ed-credentials

Acronym Key

ELL	English Language Learner
HQT	Highly Qualified Teacher
LRE	Least Restrictive Environment
PBS	Positive Behavior Support
IEP	Individualized Education Program
SLO	Student Learning Objective
UDL	Universal Design for Learning

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