"We are proud to begin implementing this historic partnership that will not only create a better coordinated federal approach to postsecondary education and workforce development, but will also ensure that students pursuing higher education pursue programs aligned with their career goals and workforce needs," Assistant Secretary for Postsecondary Education David Barker said in a statement."
"Rachel Gittleman, president of the union that represents ED employees, said in a statement that moving the federal workers and grant programs was "an unnecessary, unlawful move that will create confusion for grantees and chaos for staff.""
"ED officials have said outsourcing the grant programs will help to "streamline bureaucracy.""
"ED said in the news release Thursday that grant recipients in the higher ed programs will transition to Labor's grant and payment management system, "following the detail." Both agencies will provide grantees with additional guidance."
An interagency agreement signed last year assigns administration of most Education Department higher education grant programs to the Labor Department, including grants supporting student success, HBCUs, and other minority-serving institutions. Labor will administer grants and use its grant and payment management system, while Education retains authority over budget, eligibility criteria, priorities, and human-resources processes. Agencies will provide grantees with additional guidance during the transition. Officials characterized the move as streamlining bureaucracy and coordinating postsecondary education with workforce needs. Critics questioned the agreements' legality and effectiveness and warned the transfer could create confusion for grantees and chaos for staff.
Read at Inside Higher Ed | Higher Education News, Events and Jobs
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