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—
- b. State Operating Systems and Policies
III. b. 4. C. Evaluation
Describe how the State will conduct evaluations and research projects of activities carried out in the State under WIOA core programs; how such projects will be coordinated with, and designed in conjunction with, State and local boards and with State agencies responsible for the administration of all respective core programs; and, further, how the projects will be coordinated with the evaluations provided for by the Secretary of Labor and the Secretary of Education under WIOA (WIOA Section 116(e )).
Current Narrative:
The Louisiana Workforce Investment Council evaluates the effectiveness of the overall workforce development system by systematically requiring updates on program effectiveness relying on convening resources from local boards, core programs and partner programs’ input. Additionally, the WIC monitors effectiveness of LWDBs in meeting workforce demand. This component of the plan, is an ongoing effort, intended to provide both core program administrators and the LWDBs the opportunity to provide input to the evaluation matrix.
LWC implements existing methods for program evaluation through systematic and objective assessments such as annual compliance monitoring, data validation, and continuous tracking of state and local performance and expenditures. In coordination with workforce partners, the state continues to seek out additional outcomes measures to assist with program evaluations. For example, the annual compliance monitoring process allows the OWD to evaluate the efficiency and effectiveness of programs through desk reviews, on-site visits, and technical assistance trainings (in-person, online, and virtual) with LWDA leadership and staff. OWD evaluates program performance outcomes to determine if the LWDB has met or exceeded negotiated levels, LWDB's fiscal integrity, and other measures of effectiveness (i.e., customer satisfaction, community and workforce partnerships, employer engagement, etc.). Shared results help build capacity and encourage the development and use of additional outcome measures and program evaluation as part of the selection and oversight .Best practices are shared with LWDBs assisting with business outreach, partnerships, and service delivery strategies. LWC's evaluation process includes the following:
- Reviewing existing program evaluation tools and processes
- Working with partner agencies in developing additional methods to evaluate existing data
- Developing policies and guidance on how to identify and evaluate potential promising practices, and use evaluation as part of process improvement
- Requiring the use of logic models and outcome measures as part of the development of new projects and proposals
- Identifying evidence-based practices used for program evaluation and sharing this information with the appropriate state or federal entities
- Working with the WIC, LWDBs, and state partner agencies to develop methods to evaluate the effectiveness of core programs and new initiatives, to the extent practicable and within the constraints of existing resources.
The state will continue to conduct evaluations and research based on data and processes from result-based accountability methods, career pathways system design, performance outcomes, customer-focused initiatives, business metrics, and data from partner agencies. The process is overseen by the OWD and in partnership with local workforce boards, state and federal partners, and representatives from community and non-profit agencies serving individuals with disabilities and disconnected youth. Evaluations follow guidelines set forth in 20 CFR 682.220. Over the next two program years, LWC will implement statewide initiatives focused on reemployment services, virtual learning, and digital literacy. These initiatives will be evaluated and results shared with all partners.