Located in:
- III. Operational Planning Elements
The Unified or Combined State Plan must include an Operational Planning Elements section that supports the State’s strategy and the system-wide vision described in Section II(c) above. Unless otherwise noted, all Operational Planning Elements apply to Combined State Plan partner programs included in the plan as well as to core programs. This section must include—
- b. State Operating Systems and Policies
The Unified or Combined State Plan must include a description of the State operating systems and policies that will support the implementation of the State strategy described in section II Strategic Elements. This includes—
- 3. State Program and State Board Overview
- B. State Board
Provide a description of the State Board, including—
- B. State Board
- 3. State Program and State Board Overview
- b. State Operating Systems and Policies
III. b. 3. B. ii. Board Activities
Provide a description of the activities that will assist State Board members and staff in carrying out State Board functions effectively.
Current Narrative:
Provide a description of the activities that will assist State Board members and staff in carrying out State Board functions effectively.
Every new member is provided a thorough orientation that includes information on the following:
• Introduction to the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act
• Introduction to the Arkansas Workforce System to include the purpose, guiding principles, employer-driven focus, importance of business relationships, and services to employers and jobseekers
• Information regarding the Arkansas Workforce Centers including the hallmarks of excellence, goal of workforce centers, accessing services, operational and functional requirements for a workforce center, partner programs, more detailed info on employer and jobseekers services, employment resources, assessments, job coaching, and building toward excellence
• Information on the workforce board including the board vision, mission, role of the board, strategic planning, using labor market information, oversight responsibilities, evaluation, innovation, collaboration, attracting and involving employers, and targeted industries in the State
• Information regarding how to be a successful board member including areas of responsibility, the appointment process, key characteristics of a successful workforce board member, networking, conflict of interest, Arkansas Freedom of Information Act, and board staff roles
Since its formation in June 2015, newly appointed and experienced members receive annual training regarding their roles and responsibility as a board member. Additionally, the full board and its Strategic Planning, Program and Performance Evaluation, and TANF Oversight Committees conduct quarterly meetings.
Board Training
On February 3, 2021, the U.S. Department of Labor's contractor, Maher & Maher, conducted a Board Governance training with this Board. This training was designed to illuminate WIOA's vision for State Boards as well as their relationship with the Workforce Development System. Additionally, the training took a "deep dive" into the roles and responsibilities of Board Members, both as members of the Board as well as advocates for the State's workforce development system.