172.00.08 Ark. Code R. 005
________________ Robert P. Trevino |
(Signature)(Typed Name of Signatory) |
__________________ Commissioner, Arkansas Rehabilitation Services |
(Date)(Title) |
The designated state agency, prior to the adoption of any substantive policies or procedures governing the provision of vocational rehabilitation services under the State Plan and supported employment services under the supplement to the State Plan, including making any substantive amendments to the policies and procedures, conducts public meetings throughout the state to provide the public, including individuals with disabilities, an opportunity to comment on the policies or procedures.
The designated state agency, prior to conducting the public meetings, provides appropriate and sufficient notice throughout the state of the meetings in accordance with state law governing public meetings or, in the absence of state law governing public meetings, procedures developed by the state agency in consultation with the State Rehabilitation Council, if the agency has a council.
The state agency actively consults with the director of the Client Assistance Program, the State Rehabilitation Council, if the agency has a council and, as appropriate, Indian tribes, tribal organizations and native Hawaiian organizations on its policies and procedures governing the provision of vocational rehabilitation services under the State Plan and supported employment services under the supplement to the State Plan.
The State Plan must contain one of the following assurances.
or
The designated state agency takes into account, in connection with matters of general policy arising in the administration of the plan and its supplement, the views of:
The nonfederal share of the cost of carrying out this State Plan is 21.3 percent and is provided through the financial participation by the state or, if the state elects, by the state and local agencies.
The State Plan provides for the administration of the plan by a local agency. Yes No X
If "Yes", the designated state agency:
The State Plan provides for the state agency to share funding and administrative responsibility with another state agency or local public agency to carry out a joint program to provide services to individuals with disabilities. Yes No X
If "Yes", the designated state agency submits to the commissioner for approval a plan that describes its shared funding and administrative arrangement. The plan must include:
The designated state agency or the designated state unit has cooperative agreements with other entities that are components of the statewide work force investment system and replicates those agreements at the local level between individual offices of the designated state unit and local entities carrying out the One-Stop service delivery system or other activities through the statewide work force investment system.
The designated state unit, the Statewide Independent Living Council established under Section 705 of the Rehabilitation Act and 34 CFR 364, and the independent living centers described in Part C of Title VII of the Rehabilitation Act and 34 CFR 366 have developed working relationships and coordinate their activities.
Yes No X
The state agency employs methods of administration, including procedures to ensure accurate data collection and financial accountability, found by the commissioner to be necessary for the proper and efficient administration of the plan and for carrying out all the functions for which the state is responsible under the plan and 34 CFR 361.
The designated state agency and entities carrying out community rehabilitation programs in the state, who are in receipt of assistance under Part B, of Title I of the Rehabilitation Act and this State Plan, take affirmative action to employ and advance in employment qualified individuals with disabilities covered under and on the same terms and conditions as set forth in Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act.
Any facility used in connection with the delivery of services assisted under this State Plan meets program accessibility requirements consistent with the provisions, as applicable, of the Architectural Barriers Rehabilitation Act of 1968, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and the regulations implementing these laws.
Attachment 4.10 describes the designated state agency's procedures and activities to establish and maintain a comprehensive system of personnel development designed to ensure an adequate supply of qualified state rehabilitation professional and paraprofessional personnel for the designated state unit. The description includes the following:
Development and maintenance of a system for collecting and analyzing on an annual basis data on qualified personnel needs and personnel development with respect to:
Development, updating on an annual basis, and implementation of a plan to address the current and projected needs for qualified personnel based on the data collection and analysis system described in paragraph (a) of this subsection and that provides for the coordination and facilitation of efforts between the designated state unit and institutions of higher education and professional associations to recruit, prepare and retain personnel who are qualified in accordance with paragraph (c) of this subsection, including personnel from minority backgrounds and personnel who are individuals with disabilities.
Policies and procedures for the establishment and maintenance of personnel standards to ensure that designated state unit professional and paraprofessional personnel are appropriately and adequately prepared and trained, including:
Policies, procedures and activities to ensure that all personnel employed by the designated state unit receive appropriate and adequate training. The narrative describes the following:
Availability of personnel within the designated state unit or obtaining the services of other individuals who are able to communicate in the native language of applicants or eligible individuals who have limited English speaking ability or in appropriate modes of communication with applicants or eligible individuals.
Procedures and activities to coordinate the designated state unit's comprehensive system of personnel development with personnel development under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.
Attachment 4.11(b) identifies on an annual basis state estimates of the:
If the state agency implements an order of selection, consistent with subparagraph 5.3(b)(2) of the State Plan, Attachment 4.11(c)(3):
Attachment 4.11(c)(4) specifies, consistent with subsection 6.4 of the State Plan supplement, the state's goals and priorities with respect to the distribution of funds received under Section 622 of the Rehabilitation Act for the provision of supported employment services.
The designated state agency has implemented an information and referral system that is adequate to ensure that individuals with disabilities, including individuals who do not meet the agency's order of selection criteria for receiving vocational rehabilitation services if the agency is operating on an order of selection, are provided accurate vocational rehabilitation information and guidance, including counseling and referral for job placement, using appropriate modes of communication, to assist such individuals in preparing for, securing, retaining or regaining employment, and are referred to other appropriate federal and state programs, including other components of the statewide work force investment system in the state.
The designated state unit imposes no duration of residence requirement as part of determining an individual's eligibility for vocational rehabilitation services or that excludes from services under the plan any individual who is present in the state.
Yes No X
Applicants and eligible individuals or, as appropriate, their representatives are provided information and support services to assist in exercising informed choice throughout the rehabilitation process, consistent with the provisions of Section 102(d) of the Rehabilitation Act and 34 CFR 361.52.
The designated state unit provides vocational rehabilitation services to American Indians who are individuals with disabilities residing in the state to the same extent as the designated state agency provides such services to other significant populations of individuals with disabilities residing in the state.
If the state elects to construct, under special circumstances, facilities for community rehabilitation programs, the following requirements are met:
The designated state agency has the authority to enter into contracts with for-profit organizations for the purpose of providing, as vocational rehabilitation services, on-the-job training and related programs for individuals with disabilities under Part A of Title VI of the Rehabilitation Act, upon the determination by the designated state agency that for-profit organizations are better qualified to provide vocational rehabilitation services than nonprofit agencies and organizations.
Attachment 4.8(b)(3) describes the manner in which the designated state agency establishes cooperative agreements with private nonprofit vocational rehabilitation service providers.
STATE PLAN SUPPLEMENT FOR THE STATE SUPPORTED EMPLOYMENT SERVICES PROGRAM
The designated state agency for vocational rehabilitation services identified in paragraph 1.2 of the Title I State Plan is the state agency designated to administer the State Supported Employment Services Program authorized under Title VI, Part B, of the Rehabilitation Act.
Attachment 4.11(a) describes the results of the comprehensive, statewide needs assessment conducted under Section 101(a)(15)(a)(1) of the Rehabilitation Act and subparagraph 4.11(a)(1) of the Title I State Plan with respect to the rehabilitation needs of individuals with most significant disabilities and their need for supported employment services, including needs related to coordination.
Attachment 6.3 describes the quality, scope and extent of supported employment services to be provided to individuals with the most significant disabilities who are eligible to receive supported employment services. The description also addresses the timing of the transition to extended services to be provided by relevant state agencies, private nonprofit organizations or other sources following the cessation of supported employment service provided by the designated state agency.
Attachment 4.11(c)(4) identifies the state's goals and plans with respect to the distribution of funds received under Section 622 of the Rehabilitation Act.
Attachment 4.8(b)(4) describes the efforts of the designated state agency to identify and make arrangements, including entering into cooperative agreements, with other state agencies and other appropriate entities to assist in the provision of supported employment services and other public or nonprofit agencies or organizations within the state, employers, natural supports, and other entities with respect to the provision of extended services.
Attachment 4.11(d) includes a description of the designated state agency's outreach procedures for identifying and serving individuals with the most significant disabilities who are minorities.
The designated state agency submits reports in such form and in accordance with such procedures as the commissioner may require and collects the information required by Section 101(a)(10) of the Rehabilitation Act separately for individuals receiving supported employment services under Part B, of Title VI and individuals receiving supported employment services under Title I of the Rehabilitation Act.
The designated state agency expends no more than five percent of the state's allotment under Section 622 of the Rehabilitation Act for administrative costs in carrying out the State Supported Employment Services Program.
The comprehensive assessment of individuals with significant disabilities conducted under Section 102(b)(1) of the Rehabilitation Act and funded under Title I of the Rehabilitation Act includes consideration of supported employment as an appropriate employment outcome.
Attachment 4.2(c): Summary of Input and Recommendations of the State Rehabilitation Council; Response of the Designated State Unit; and Explanations for Rejection of Input or Recommendations
The State Rehabilitation Council (SRC) partners with ARS by reviewing, collaborating and providing input and recommendations to the VR State Plan, all ARS policies and procedures through the SRC Policy and State Plan Committee (Committee). The goals of the Committee are to review and provide input to ARS state plan; collaborate with ARS on state needs assessments; and to review and provide input on ARS policies for services.
* Response of ARS to SRC recommendations is made through the process of committee responses to their respective activities. This is an ongoing process that involves collaboration and cooperation between ARS and the SRC. There were no instances of rejection by ARS of input or recommendations by the SRC.
* The Deputy Commissioner for Field Operations provided a draft copy of the State Plan Update to the SRC Committee. The SRC reviewed and approved the Plan with no additions or recommendations.
* The SRC recommended that ARS request additional funding for Title I through the reallotment process. Other SRC goals and recommendations are to enhance communication with state and federal legislatures; for the SRC to participate in the Arkansas Workforce One-Stop Centers to improve accessibility; and to explore community outreach projects to learn needs of people with disabilities.
* The SRC provided input regarding a new innovative program, the Arkansas Leadership for Minorities with Disabilities, was initiated to expand and improve VR services to traditionally unserved and underserved populations.
* ARS staff conducted a town meeting in Hot Springs, AR, on May 16, 2007 to obtain public input on the State Plan. One member of the SRC attended the meeting. Also attending were some of the RSA personnel who were in the state at the time for the On Site 107 Review.
* The SRC provided input regarding ARS' participation in the Statewide Transition Task Force. The Special Education Department worked closely with ARS and the Statewide Transition Task Force as a participant in the first Statewide Transition Summit. There were over 200 representatives from school districts, parent groups, Vocational Rehabilitation and the Department of Education that after a three-day conference emerged with a comprehensive plan to address the needs of Arkansas students in transition programs.
ARS Evaluation and Progress
ARS collaborates and coordinates services with federal, state and local agencies that contribute to the vocational rehabilitation and independent living of Arkansans with disabilities. ARS cooperates with agencies in carrying out activities such as planning and coordinating services to people with disabilities to build capacity in communities, improving the quality and quantity of services, and avoiding the duplication of services. Agencies that ARS collaborates and coordinates services with include:
* Arkansas Department of Workforce Education
* Arkansas Department of Higher Education
* Arkansas Department of General Education, Special Education-Transition
* Centers for Independent Living
* Community Rehabilitation Programs
* Developmental Disability Providers
* Supported Employment Vendors
* A-Win Project Benefits Planning Project
* Social Security Administration Ticket to Work
* DHS - Division of Aging and Adult Services
* DHS - Working Disabled Medicaid Program
* DHS - Division of Behavioral Health Services
* DHS - Division of Developmental Disabilities
* Spinal Cord Commission
* Arkansas Work Force Centers
ARS maintains an active presence on numerous councils and committees, including:
* The Arkansas Independent Living Council
* The Governor's Commission on People with Disabilities
* AR Mental Health Planning and Advisory Council
* Governor's Developmental Disabilities Council
* Arkansas Youth Development Collaborative
* Arkansas Transition Taskforce
* Governor's Taskforce on Integrated Services and Supported Housing
* Youth Leadership Forum
* Arkansas Workforce Investment Board
ARS does not have any cooperative agreements regarding programs carried out by the Under Secretary for Rural Development of the United States Department of Agriculture, or State use contracting programs.
ARS Evaluation and Progress
ARS maintains cooperative agreements with the Arkansas Department of Higher Education regarding the continuity of provision of vocational rehabilitation services and access to higher education. ARS maintains interagency agreements with the Arkansas Department of Education - Special Education, regarding transition services to students in public schools. ARS participates in the state level Arkansas Interagency Transition Partnership (AITP). The AITP is a taskforce made-up of representatives of state agencies including ARS, DHHS-Division of Services for the Blind, Arkansas Department of Higher Education, Special Education-Transition, the Arkansas Workforce Investment Board, DHHS-Division of Mental Health, and parent advocates.
The ARS Policy and Procedures Manual under the Arkansas Transition Program Section, Page B-17 states "The ARS counselor must determine eligibility for services and ensure the development and approval of the IPE by the time the student leaves the school setting." ARS will revise the Policy Manual to include the wording "or, if ARS is operating on an order of selection, before each eligible student able to be served under the order leaves the school setting."
The current Transition agreement generally provides for this with the wording "The aforementioned parties have a common and concurrent interest in working cooperatively to ensure that individuals with disabilities have access to the skill, training and necessary supports to transition success fully form school to the world of work". ARS is a member of the Arkansas Interagency Transition Partnership (AITP) that includes the agencies involved in transition in the state. The current transition agreement will be revised to include "Consultation and technical assistance to assist educational agencies in planning for the transition of students with disabilities from school to post-school activities, including VR services".
ARS is a member of the Arkansas Interagency Transition Partnership (AITP) that includes the agencies involved in transition in the state. The current transition agreement will be revised to include "Transition planning by personnel by the designated state agency and educational agency that facilitates the development and completion of their individualized education programs".
ARS is a member of the Arkansas Interagency Transition Partnership (AITP) that includes the agencies involved in transition in the state. The current transition agreement will be revised to include "Procedures for outreach to and identification of students with disabilities who need transition services".
ARS has cooperative agreements with Community Rehabilitation Programs throughout the state and has established a fee-for-service system for provided services. ARS has written cooperative agreements with a statewide network of private non-profit agencies providing supported employment (SE) services and extended services to individuals with the most significant disabilities.
ARS Evaluation and Progress
ARS is in the process of renewing required written cooperative agreements with all private non-profit agencies providing supported employment (SE) services and extended services to individuals with the most significant disabilities. All providers of SE services to consumers of ARS must have a written agreement on file stating that they will provide extended services for the client as long as the consumer is employed.
IHE | Type of Program | Total Students | Disability | Minority |
ASU | Masters RC | 13 | 2 | 3 |
UAF | Masters RC | 11 | 6 | 5 |
UALR | Masters RC | 210 | 13 | 40 |
Arkansas Rehabilitation Services has implemented the following plan to address the requirements of the CSPD. The initial phase of the plan had focused on rehabilitation counselors. The agency has been working diligently with the Arkansas Legislature, Arkansas Office of Personnel Management and Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration for approval to address the requirements of CSPD to include all Arkansas Rehabilitation Services staff. On September 5, 2006, clarification of our CSPD plan was given by the Director of Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration to include all staff training in the ARS Vocational Rehabilitation In-Service Training Program Grant. Also during the 2007 Legislative Session, Special Language was authorized to ARS for a general waiver of the Financial Management Guide on Continuing Professional Education, which prohibits state agencies to pay for college training for employees. This waiver allows ARS to provide college level coursework in degree programs for eligible employees selected by the agency. This Special Language will assist the agency in assuring that qualified professional personnel are in place to provide quality rehabilitation services to disabled Arkansans.
Coordination And Facilitation Of Efforts Between The Designated State Unit And Institutions Of Higher Education
The Human Resources Development Administrator is actively involved on the advisory council for the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville and the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. This involvement gives the agency first hand information on students who will be graduating from the MRC programs and where they would be willing to live. The HRD Administrator also presents to the graduating class the employment opportunities with the agency that are forth coming. All three universities: The University of Arkansas at Fayetteville, The University of Arkansas at Little Rock and Arkansas State University are invited to the agency's annual training conference where the students are treated to an open forum with the agency. The commissioner along with the senior management team discusses the agency progress and job opportunities. A reception is held in their honor where they have the opportunity to talk with VR counselors in the agency to discuss their work situations. All students including minority students are encouraged to join the professional rehabilitation organizations, The National Rehabilitation Association (NRA) and The National Association of Multicultural Rehabilitation Concerns (NAMRC). The agency actively recruits minorities and students with disabilities at these universities. Three of our professional organizations provide scholarship opportunities to those individuals with disabilities that major in the field of rehabilitation. A scholarship is also provided for minority individuals that major in the field of rehabilitation. During the 2007 Legislative Session, Special Language provided a Forgiveness of Student Loan Program that allows newly hired VR counselors up to $2,000 per year payment on their student loans to the counselor's student loan creditors. This Special Language along with the Special Entry Rates and Reclassification Study Language assists the agency in recruiting and retaining qualified VR counselors and qualified support staff.
Priority 1: Counselors with related bachelor's degrees that have completed graduate hours in a rehabilitation-counseling program and/or are currently enrolled or accepted into a program. (7 counselors)
Priority 2. Counselors who have between 16-25 years of career service with the state and are not eligible to sit for CRC or involved in a learning program. (7 counselors)
Priority 3: Counselors who have 25 or more years of career service with the state and are not eligible to sit for CRC or involved in a learning program. (5 counselors)
In all priority categories, counselors who receive educational assistance would be expected to comply with the provisions of the ARS Educational Leave Policy and agree to continue working with the agency for two years for every 9 credit hours completed. When there is not an applicant with the master's degree, ARS will permit the hiring of a bachelors degreed counselor in a Counselor II position with a condition of employment that the person will seek and obtain a masters degree within three years of employment.
Time Period By Which Existing State Unit Personnel Will Meet The Standards
ARS has 7 counselors that are not eligible to sit for CRC or involved in a CSPD program. Effective September 30, 2007 all ARS employees in the classification of Rehabilitation Counselor II, III or Senior Counselor should meet the standard of having a master's degree and either be CRC certified, or eligible to sit for CRC certification. After September 30, 2007 all ARS employees in the position classified as Rehabilitation Counselor III or Senior Counselor, who do not meet the standard of having a master's degree and either CRC certification, or eligibility to sit for CRC certification, will be cross-graded in classification to the position of Rehabilitation Counselor II. The counselors who do not meet CSPD requirement and are cross-graded in classification to the position of Rehabilitation Counselor II will be required to have prior approval on cases where paid for services are planned on their IPE. Counselors under prior approval must have approval under of a qualified rehabilitation counselor in order to:
* Make an eligibility determination.
* Approve an Individual Plan for Employment (IPE) and any amendments to the IPE (including no cost services).
* Make the determination, in consultation with the individual, that the record of service of an individual who has achieved an employment outcome can be closed.
ARS will continue to employ personnel who are able to communicate in the native languages of applicants for service and clients who have limited English speaking ability. ARS also provides special communication modes such as interpreters, captioned videos, specialized telecommunications services and materials for individuals who are deaf and deaf-blind, as well as other specialized media systems for individuals with disabilities. Staff with language skills is hired and special equipment is provided as needed. Interpreters are provided in training settings when needed. Sign language skills are included as a minimum qualification for positions providing services to persons who are deaf or hard or hearing. Special entry rates are offered to persons who possess special language or communication skills. ARS also is providing training opportunities in Spanish. Arkansas continues to experience a large influx of Spanish speaking citizens into the state and these citizens are requesting our services. The agency is providing assistance to our employees in order to help them accommodate these needs.
IDEA updates and changes are forwarded to all direct service support personnel through correspondence and memorandums. Changes and updates are coordinated in our comprehensive system of personnel development that allow us to develop adequate training for all staff. ARS provides training opportunities for our direct service support personnel in the areas of transition. Key VR counselors are involved with state transition coordinators that are provided by the State Department of Education, Special Education within the state. ARS VR counselors are involved in regional transition coordination meetings. A statewide annual Transition Summit is held with ARS being one of the co-sponsors. ARS is also a member of the statewide Transition Advisory Committee. Information on IDEA is forwarded to all ARS employees including the latest IDEA reauthorization updates. The annual Transition Summit has been very helpful in bringing all the stakeholders together that work with our high schools in transitioning disabled student from school to the world of work. ARS is presently looking at restructuring the field program in order to effectively utilize personnel that are working with our partners in the region and area schools. ARS is fully committed to providing transition services through our agency with collaboration and cooperation with the public schools and the State Department of Education, Special Education.
Attachment 4.11 Assessments; Estimates; Goals and Priorities; Strategies; and Progress Reports
Attachment 4.11(b) Annual Estimates of Individuals to be Served and Costs of Services
Estimates Of The Number Of Individuals In The State To Be Served Under Part B, Sec. 110 Of Title I - FY 2009
The U.S. Census Bureau indicates 230,031 individuals with an employment disability in Arkansas ages 16-64. (Source U.S. Census Bureau, Census 2000 Summary File 3.)
Priority Category I: | Eligible individuals who are most significantly disabled. | COST | |
Number to be Served | - 2,712 | Number to be Rehabilitated - 366 | $ 1,890,000.00 |
Priority Category II: Number to be Served | - 16,192 | Eligible individuals who are significantly disabled. Number to be Rehabilitated - 1,844 | $ 11,610,000.00 |
TOTAL TO BE SERVED | 18,904 | TOTAL TO BE REHABILITATED 2,210 | TOTAL COST $13,500,000.00 |
Estimates Of The Number Of Individuals In The State To Be Served Under Part B Of Title VI -FY 2009
Disability of Individuals | Number to be Served | % | Number to be Rehabilitated | Supported Employment Model | Projected Funding |
Mental Illness | 55 | 19% | 21 | Job Coach/Mobile Crew Transition Employment | $ 50,350.00 |
Mental Retardation | 112 | 38% | 28 | Job Coach/Mobile Crew | $100,700.00 |
Traumatic Head Injury | 7 | 2% | 2 | Job Coach/Mobile Crew | $ 5,300.00 |
Other | 120 | 41% | 32 | Job Coach/Mobile Crew | $ 108,650.00 |
TOTAL | 294 | 100% | 83 | $265,000.00 |
Attachment 4.11(c)(3): Order of Selection
Under the Vocational Rehabilitation Act (Title IV of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998) certain state Vocational Rehabilitation agencies are required to have an order of selection. An order of selection requires that a priority be given to individuals with the most significant disabilities in the provision of vocational rehabilitation services. The order of selection is required when a state determines that there are not sufficient funds to serve all the individuals with disabilities within the state including those with disabilities that are considered non-significant.
The current ARS Order of Selection assures the highest priority in provision of services to clients with the most significant disabilities. Services and expenditures are closely monitored to enable the ARS Commissioner to close or open priority categories as deemed appropriate. This will assure services are continued for cases determined eligible and receiving services under an Individualized Plan for Employment. Adequate funds will be conserved to provide diagnostic services for all applicants to determine eligibility and category placement.
The Order of Selection priority categories, justification for each, outcome and service goals are listed below:
ORDER OF SELECTION
ARS will provide services based on an Order of Selection on a statewide basis. The ARS Order of Selection assures clients in Priority I and II will have first priority for the provision of services. If funds become available, individuals in Priority III and IV may receive services.
Rehabilitation clients who have an Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE) for vocational rehabilitation (VR) services or extended evaluation (EE) services in place prior to the implementation of the Order of Selection policy will receive services as recorded in their IPE.
Priority Category I - Most Significantly Disabled
An individual with a most significant disability is defined as one who has a significant physical or mental impairment which:
Priority Category II - Significantly Disabled
An individual with a significant disability is defined as one who has a significant physical or mental impairment which:
Priority Category III - Non-Significantly Disabled Needing Multiple Services
An individual with a non-significant disability who is expected to require multiple VR services*.
Priority Category IV - Non-Significantly Disabled
An individual with a non-significant disability not classified in a higher priority.
Definitions:
* Two (2) or more major VR services, i.e. counseling, guidance, assistive technology, physical or mental restoration, training, and placement.
** 90 days or more from the date services are initiated.
*** One or more physical or mental disabilities resulting from: amputation, arthritis, autism, blindness, burn injury, cancer, cerebral palsy, cystic fibrosis, deafness, head injury, heart disease, hemiplegia, hemophilia, respiratory or pulmonary dysfunction, mental retardation, mental illness, multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, musculo-skeletal disorders, neurological disorders (including stroke and epilepsy), spinal cord conditions (including paraplegia and quadriplegia), sickle cell anemia, specific learning disability, end-stage renal disease, or another disability or combination of disabilities determined on the basis of an assessment for determining eligibility and vocational rehabilitation needs to cause comparable substantial functional limitation.
Services And Outcome Goals, And Timelines
The services and outcome goals, and the timelines for individuals served in each priority category within the ARS Order of Selection are as follows: Priority Category I to serve a total of 2,712 consumers with 366 rehabilitated during FY 2009; and, Priority Category II to serve a total of 16,192 consumers with 1,844 rehabilitated during FY 2009. Priority Category III, Non-Significantly Disabled, has no services planned since sufficient funds are not available during FY 2009.
Attachment 4.11(c)(4) Goals and Plans for Distribution of Title VI, Part B Funds
Estimates Of The Number Of Individuals In The State To Be Served Under Part B Of Title VI -FY 2009
Disability of Individuals | Number to be Served | % | Number to be Rehabilitated | Supported Employment Model | Projected Funding |
Mental Illness | 55 | 19% | 21 | Job Coach/Mobile Crew Transition Employment | $ 50,350.00 |
Mental Retardation | 112 | 38% | 28 | Job Coach/Mobile Crew | $100,700.00 |
Traumatic Head Injury | 7 | 2% | 2 | Job Coach/Mobile Crew | $ 5,300.00 |
Other | 120 | 41% | 32 | Job Coach/Mobile Crew | $ 108,650.00 |
TOTAL | 294 | 100% | 83 | $265,000.00 |
Attachment 4.11(e)(2) Evaluation and Report of Progress in Achieving Identified Goals and Priorities and Use Of Title I Funds for Innovation and Expansion Activities
Introduction
Department of Workforce Education, Arkansas Rehabilitation Services (ARS) Division is the program within the state of Arkansas (along with the DHS-Division of Services for the Blind) that provides vocational rehabilitation services to assist individuals with significant disabilities in becoming employed and living independently. The state Vocational Rehabilitation programs are funded through the Vocational Rehabilitation Act of 1973, 1998 Amendments (Title IV of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998) and are provided through federal and state matching funds. Federal funding is received through the Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA), Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services, U.S. Department of Education.
Goal 1
To successfully meet or exceed the RSA requirements for performance.
ARS Evaluation and Progress
ARS exceeded all RSA requirements for performance on the standards and indicators except 1.1. ARS performance is listed below.
ARS Performance FY 2006 on the Standards And Indicators Established Pursuant To Section 106
Standard 1: Employment Outcomes
Performance Indicator 1.1
The data indicates that the number of individuals in Arkansas who achieved an employment outcome decreased during FY 2007 the last year that data is available - from 2,502 in FY 2006 to 2,323 in FY 2007.
Performance Indicator 1.2
The data indicates that 58.1% of the individuals in Arkansas who exited the VR program after receiving services achieved an employment outcome that exceeds the federal benchmark of 55.8%.
Performance Indicator 1.3
The data indicates that the percentage of individuals determined to have achieved an employment outcome, which exited the VR program in competitive, self-, or BEP employment with earnings equivalent to at least the minimum wage was 100% in Arkansas, which exceeds the federal benchmark of 72.6%.
Performance Indicator 1.4
The data indicates that of all individuals who exited the VR program in competitive, self-, or BEP employment with earnings equivalent to at least the minimum wage, the percentage that were individuals with significant disabilities in Arkansas was 84.5% which exceeds the federal benchmark of 62.4%.
Performance Indicator 1.5
The data indicates that preliminary results for Performance Indicator 1.5 in Arkansas, the ratio was 0.63, which exceeds the federal benchmark of 0.52.
Performance Indicator 1.6
The data indicates that in Performance Indicator 1.6, the mathematical difference between the percentage that reported their own income as the largest single source of economic support at exit and the percentage that reported their own income as the largest single source of economic support at application was 57.3 in Arkansas that exceeds the federal benchmark of 53.0.
Standard 2: Equal Access to Services
Performance Indicator 2.1
The data indicates that in Performance Indicator 2.1, the service rate for all individuals with disabilities from minority backgrounds, as a ratio to the service rate for all non-minority individuals with disabilities was 0.93 in Arkansas, which exceeds the federal benchmark of 0.80.
Goal 2
Enhance the availability and utility of job development and placement services through a comprehensive study and analysis by a Task Force to recommend future action (establish benchmarks) as recommended in the Comprehensive Assessment on page 36.
Strategy
As follow up to the Needs Assessment the Agency will collaborate with the SRC to convene a placement Task Force by October 31, 2006, that will evaluate current practices, and provide recommendations for enhancing job development/placement services for customers.
ARS Evaluation and Progress
After analysis ARS initiated a fee-for-service system for job development/placement services for customers. The new system will be implemented July 1, 2008.
Goal 3
Increase public awareness and knowledge of Vocational Rehabilitation programs and services by 10%.
Strategy
Agency will establish a public relations and outreach work group by October 31, 2006, to evaluate current practices, assess agency needs, and provide recommendations to increase public awareness of rehabilitation programs.
ARS Evaluation and Progress
With the assistance of our umbrella agency, the Department of Workforce Education, ARS has significantly improved the monthly newsletter, adopted new promotional brochures, and increased outreach to the community. New PSA's are being developed. Also, a new video presentation is being developed on the Hot Springs Rehabilitation Center's (HSRC) services.
Goal 4
Increase number of CSPD participants by 8%.
Strategy
Agency will continue providing Comprehensive System of Personnel Development training opportunities and support throughout FY 07 to assure development of qualified staff and seamless succession.
ARS Evaluation and Progress
ARS has 10 VR counselors actively involved in CSPD working on a master's degree. ARS hired 5 VR counselors with CRC last year. This is an increase of 10% of qualified staff under CSPD requirements.
Goal 5
Reduce systemic barriers that may inhibit counselor interaction with consumers to increase counselor/client contact by 10%.
Strategy
* Agency will implement an updated policy manual beginning October 1, 2006 to meet RSA 107 recommendations.
* Agency will implement on October 1, 2006, a revised version of the Arkansas Rehabilitation Integrated Management Information System (ARIMIS) that will include the Standard of Occupational Codes, and edits that enhance the reporting requirements.
ARS Evaluation and Progress
The above strategies have been completed. ARS has also implemented a follow-up process for consumers exiting HSRC increasing counselor contact and leading to increased employment outcomes for this population.
Goal 6
Increase collaboration and partnerships with Centers for Independent Living (CIL) including referrals, marketing and public information.
Strategy
Agency will implement strategies to strengthen collaboration with Independent Living Centers.
ARS Evaluation and Progress
An IL work group was formed including representatives of ARS, the Division of Services for the Blind, the CIL directors, and the Director of the SILC. The purpose of the IL workgroup is to encourage cooperation and collaboration among the partners, improve services delivery, and work towards completing SPIL objectives and activities. The IL workgroup meets quarterly.
Goal 7
Increase number of students served with transition programs by 10%.
Strategy
The agency will continue participation throughout FY 07 in the state Transition Task Force to assure collaboration and increase referrals.
ARS Evaluation and Progress
ARS continues to participate in the Transition Task Force. ARS has hired a full-time Transition Coordinator, two additional full-time counselors as Transition specialists and reassigned three counselors to serve as full-time Transition specialists.
Goal 8
Increase availability of assistive technology (AT) for consumers by 5%.
Strategy
* Field Services will continue to utilize the Successful Employment through Assistive Technology (S.E.A.T.) program throughout FY 07 to increase the assessments and application of technology equipment and devices for consumers.
* Agency will continue collaboration and referrals to the Increasing Capabilities Access Network (ICAN) to increase awareness and utility of assistive technology.
ARS Evaluation and Progress
ARS continues to pursue the strategies above and assistive technology referrals continue to rise.
Goal 9
Reserve and use a portion of the funds under Sec. 110 for the development and implementation of innovative approaches to expand and improve vocational rehabilitation services to individuals with disabilities under the state plan and for the support of the SRC and/or the SILC.
Strategy
Earmark funds from Title 1, Sec. 110 to support the SRC and the SILC.
ARS Evaluation and Progress
Title Ifunds for Innovation and Expansion were reserved and used to support the SRC in the annual resource plan and, along with funds from the Division of Services for the Blind, the SILC in the annual budget. On July 1, 2007, the beginning of the state fiscal year, I & E funds were earmarked for a new innovative program, the Arkansas Leadership for Minorities with Disabilities Program. This is an outreach program to expand and improve VR services to traditionally unserved and underserved populations.
Goal 10
To increase the availability of Supported Employment (SE) Services to consumers by providing technical assistance to CRPs and other vendors and increasing the number of referrals for SE services.
Strategy
The agency will provide technical assistance and develop incentives to SE providers including CRPs to increase the availability of SE services to consumers. At the same time, the agency will place greater emphasis will on supported employment outcomes and traditional sheltered employment outcomes will be de-emphasized.
ARS Evaluation and Progress
The agency is developing goals and strategies for SEP as a result of the FY 2007 RSA On-Site Review completed August 2007. The outcome of the SE goals for FY 2007, the most recent complete data that is available, is outlined in the charts below. Strategy involves an increased focus on appropriate SEP outcomes as opposed to traditional sheltered employment. ARS has developed interagency agreements with the state agencies that serve individuals with the most significant disabilities including DDS, Special Education, Mental Health and the Division of Services for the Blind. ARS is implementing an increased fee schedule for SE providers, including the CRP's, on a fee-for-service basis and the number of SE providers within the state is increasing. The agency anticipates increased numbers of referrals and individuals served in the SE program in years to come.
The Estimated Number Of Individuals To Be Served Under Part B Of Title VI -FY 2007
Disability of individuals to be Served | Number To be Served | % | Number to be Rehabilitated | Supported Employment Model | Projected Funding |
Mental Illness | 19 | 6% | 2 | Job Coach/Mobile Crew Transition Employment | $ 16,839.46 |
Mild Mental Retardation | 132 | 44% | 25 | Job Coach/Mobile Crew | $116,989.97 |
Traumatic Head Injury | 6 | 2% | 0 | Job Coach/Mobile Crew | $ 5,317.73 |
Other | 142 | 47% | 27 | Job Coach/Mobile Crew | $125,852.84 |
TOTAL | 299 | 100% | 54 | $265,000.00 |
The Actual Number Of Individuals Served in FY 2007 Under Part B Of Title VI
Disability of individuals Served | Number Served | % | Rehabilitated | Supported Employment Model | Funding |
Mental Illness | 17 | 6% | 2 | Job Coach/Mobile Crew Transition Employment | $ 61,342.59 |
Mild Mental Retardation | 122 | 43% | 21 | Job Coach/Mobile Crew | $106,736.11 |
Traumatic Head Injury | 5 | 2% | 1 | Job Coach/Mobile Crew | $ 11,041.67 |
Other | 140 | 49% | 47 | Job Coach/Mobile Crew | $ 85,879.63 |
TOTAL | 284 | 100% | 75 | $265,000.00 |
Attachment 6.3: Quality, Scope, and Extent of Supported Employment Services
ARS is implementing an initiative to expand and improve Supported Employment (SE) Services for individuals with the most significant disabilities throughout the state. The initiative was recommended as part of the 2007 RSA On-Site Monitoring. The existing MOU was strengthened to enhance collaboration with ARS, DSB, DD and MH state agencies. Another MOU was developed with the CRP's and SE service vendors to implement strategies to expand the SE system, as well as expand job placement services, beginning July 1, 2008. Strategies include increasing the number of vendors offering SE and job placement statewide through enhanced incentives; utilizing a fee-for-service approach with CRP's and SE providers; revised fee schedules; and commitment from DD and MH state agencies to emphasize work as a high priority outcome.
ARS provides Supported Employment (SE) Services in compliance with Sec. 7 Definitions in the Act based on a determination of the needs of an eligible individual, as specified in an individualized plan for employment. To the extent job skills training is provided, the training is provided on-site. SE services include placement in an integrated setting for the maximum number of hours possible based on the unique strengths, resources, priorities, concerns, abilities, capabilities, interests, and informed choice of individuals with the most significant disabilities. ARS identifies and makes arrangements (including entering into cooperative agreements) with other State agencies and other appropriate entities to assist in the provision of SE services.
State agency partners involved in ARS SE include the Developmental Disabilities Services, Department of Health and Human Services Division of Behavioral Health Sciences, Division of State Services for the Blind and Arkansas Department of Education. SE providers are utilized statewide. Faulkner Co. Council on Developmental Disabilities in Conway, First Step School in Hot Springs, Easter Seals in Little Rock, Community Employment, Inc. in Springfield, Mo., serving northwest Arkansas, and Abilities Unlimited of Jonesboro are a few of the extensive list of vendors for SE services.
All providers of SE services to consumers of ARS have a written agreement on file stating that they will provide extended services for the client as long as the client has the job. The timing of the transition from employment to extended services is immediate. Extended services begin immediately after the case is closed status 26 when the employment outcome is achieved.
172.00.08 Ark. Code R. 005