Narrative: d.

Funding Eligible Providers

WorkReady U will utilize the considerations specified in section 231(e) of WIOA and in accordance with 34 CFR 463 subpart C to fund eligible providers for establishing or operating Integrated English Language and Civics Education (IELCE) programs under Section 243 of WIOA. This will be executed through a competitive, multi-year request for proposal (RFP) process. 

Louisiana runs all of its competitions (sections 231, 243, and 225) in accordance with 34 CFR 463 subpart C. All eligible providers have direct and equitable access to apply and compete for grants.  The grant competition information is shared through the LCTCS communications office via posting on the LCTCS website and other means of available communication. LCTCS uses the same application process for all eligible providers for sections 225, 231, and/or 243.  This ensures that all applications are evaluated using the same rubric and scoring criteria.

As required in Section 427 of GEPA, each applicant must provide a description of the agency’s process to ensure equitable access to and participation in, the WIOA Title II adult education program for students, teachers, and other program beneficiaries with special needs. LCTCS has approved state policies that provide for equal opportunity for all qualified persons without regard to disability in the recruitment of, admission to, accessibility to, participation in, treatment in, or employment in the programs and activities operated and sponsored by the Louisiana Community and Technical College System.

In evaluating applications, WorkReady U considers whether the provider has demonstrated the need for IELCE services in a designated service delivery area. Applications must include data demonstrating the need for IELCE services in their respective areas of the state. Data sources that may be cited are the US Census Bureau, reports from the Office of Immigration Services, documentation of prior effectiveness in the delivery of this type of service, or other data. Successful applicants must demonstrate their ability to deliver integrated services that include:

1. Instruction in Literacy and English Language Acquisition
   • Programs must use state-approved English Language Proficiency Standards to ensure high-quality literacy instruction.
   • Advanced literacy instruction should cater to professionals with degrees and credentials from their native countries.
2. Instruction on Rights and Responsibilities of Citizenship
   • Civics education will help students understand their rights and responsibilities, promoting active and informed participation as parents, workers, and community members.
3. Combination with Integrated Education and Training (IET) Activities
   • IELCE programs must offer training opportunities that integrate English literacy with workforce skills training in high-demand sectors.
   • Providers will co-enroll participants in IET programs offered within the local or regional workforce development area.

Serving Adult English Language Learners

Funded IELCE programs will serve adult English language learners (ELL), including professionals with foreign degrees and credentials, through:

1. Customized Curriculum
   • Developing industry-specific curricula to meet the language and literacy needs of ELLs in sectors such as healthcare, IT, advanced manufacturing, and hospitality.
   • Offering advanced English literacy instruction for individuals seeking to re-enter their professions in the United States.
2. Workforce Preparation and Placement
   • Providing career counseling and job placement services to help ELLs navigate the job market and secure unsubsidized employment.
   • Facilitating work-based learning opportunities, such as internships and apprenticeships, in partnership with local employers.

Integration with Local Workforce Development System

IELCE programs will integrate with the local workforce development system through:

1. Collaborative Planning and Coordination
   • Regular engagement with local Workforce Development Boards (WDBs) and American Job Centers (AJCs) to align program goals with regional workforce priorities.
   • Participation in joint planning sessions and workforce initiatives to ensure a cohesive approach to service delivery.
2. Data Sharing and Performance Tracking
   • Implementing data-sharing agreements where possible to monitor participant progress and program outcomes.
   • Using performance data to continuously improve service delivery and achieve better employment outcomes for participants.
3. Integrated Service Delivery Models
   • Developing models that combine language instruction, civics education, and workforce development services.
   • Piloting innovative approaches, such as Integrated Education and Training (IET) programs, to provide contextualized learning experiences.

Offering IELCE in Combination with IET Activities

IELCE programs will incorporate IET activities as outlined in 34 CFR section 463.36 by:

1. Co-Enrollment in Workforce Training
   • Participants will be co-enrolled in IET programs that provide concurrent and contextualized instruction in literacy, language acquisition, and occupational skills.
2. Partnerships with Training Providers
   • Establishing partnerships with community colleges, technical schools, and other training providers to offer integrated training programs.
   • Ensuring that training programs meet industry standards and lead to recognized credentials.

Preparing for Unsubsidized Employment

IELCE programs are designed to prepare ELLs for unsubsidized employment in in-demand industries by:

1. Career Pathway Development
   • Creating clear career pathways that link education and training to employment opportunities in high-demand sectors.
   • Working with employers to identify job openings and align training programs with industry needs.
2. Job Placement Support
   • Providing job search assistance, resume writing workshops, and interview preparation.
   • Leveraging relationships with local businesses to facilitate job placements and on-the-job training opportunities.

Instruction in Citizenship and Civic Participation

The IELCE programs will include comprehensive instruction on:

1. Citizenship Education
   • Educating students about their rights and responsibilities as citizens.
   • Promoting civic engagement and participation through practical, community-based activities.
2. Civic Participation
   • Encouraging students to take active roles in their communities.
   • Providing opportunities for students to engage in volunteer work, community projects, and local government initiatives.

By implementing these strategies, IELCE programs will effectively prepare adult English language learners for successful integration into the workforce and community, leading to economic self-sufficiency and active citizenship.