Narrative: III. b. 4. C.

Though each partner member of the MPWS employs evaluation methods for their own programs, the MPWS is assessing evaluation process models that can be utilized across WIOA core programs to coordinate with, and be designed in conjunction with, state and local boards and with state agencies responsible for the administration of all respective core programs. A team of individuals representing state and local WIOA partners guides the evaluation process. The team participated in the 2022 Evaluation Peer Learning Cohort (EvalPLC) to learn how to build evaluation projects based on an evidence-based framework. The first formal project began its planning phase in June 2023. The team created a list of research questions to determine how customers could be served most effectively. The project is underway and focuses on barriers identified by Wagner Peyser, WIOA Adult, WIOA Dislocated Worker, and WIOA Youth participants, the types of services provided to individuals with barriers, and how outcomes may be affected based on the services. Analysis is scheduled for completion in the first half of calendar year 2024. The MPWS intends to use the results to improve performance measures under WIOA Section 116 (e) thereby strengthening Missouri’s workforce system.

In 2022, through OWD, the MPWS conducted an Equal Opportunity Staff Survey. The purpose of the survey was to elicit responses on the following issues: staff training needs, successes when interacting with customers and/or partners with disabilities, challenges when interacting with customers and/or clients with disabilities, and ADA compliance for job centers. The evaluation responses identified the following areas of need: disability sensitivity training and training on how to provide job center services to individuals with disabilities, particularly in using assistive technology, and specific training in mental health and addiction. Based on the evaluation results, statewide training on disability sensitivity and how to provide services to individuals with disabilities was provided. In addition, a guidance booklet, following ADA requirements, was developed for staff on effective communication with individuals with vision, hearing, or speech disabilities. The Equal Opportunity team collaborates with partners to ensure that the identified concerns are addressed and that resources are available to assist staff as other issues occur. The evaluation also yielded some positive interactions with customers, which will be shared as promising practices.

Any additional selected research and improvement projects are aligned with the strategies in this combined plan and monitored by the WIOA Steering Committee. This committee assesses the needs of the MPWS to recommend any areas for analysis or improvements. These projects are presented to and approved by the WIOA Steering Committee, any additional core partner leadership, the SWDB and coordinated as necessary with the Secretaries of the Departments of Labor and Education.