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2008-2013 Migrant Education Outreach Program
Questions and Answers

Question 1:

Are migrant workers who work as landscapers in season part of the "agricultural" category?

The US Department of Education, Office of Migrant Education does not consider landscaping to be a migrant qualifying activity.  Please reference the Title I Part C - Education of Migratory Children, Draft Non-Regulatory Guidance (October 23, 2003) http://www.ed.gov/programs/mep/mepguidance2003.doc

In this document under Part II. Child Eligibility Section I. 1. What is the definition of “agricultural activity” for purposes of the MEP? it states;

An “agricultural activity” is:

-  any activity directly related to the production or processing of crops, dairy products, poultry, or live stock for initial commercial sale or as a principal means of personal subsistence;
-  any activity directly related to the cultivation of harvesting of trees; or
-  any activity directly related to fish farms. 34.CFR 200.81(a).

In this document under Part II Section I.9 “What are some activities that are not directly related to production or processing? it states;

“Some activities that are not directly related to production or processing include: transporting a product; selling an agricultural or fishing product; landscaping; managing a farm or processing plant; providing accounting, bookkeeping, or clerical services; repairing or maintaining equipment used for production or processing; cleaning or sterilizing farm machinery or processing equipment; providing babysitting or childcare services for farmworkers; and working at a restaurant”.

Question 2:

Will agriculture –on farm, groups, like vegetable grower association and dairylea receive sub grants? To bring back agriculture.

It is up to the local applicant to determine a need to subgrant.

Question 3:

On the Budget Category and Narrative form for Indirect Cost: Code 90 it states “Please note up to 5% of this grant may be spent on program administration including indirect costs”.  Can you clarify that requirement?

The 5% cap on administrative costs was included on the form in error.  Administrative costs are limited to those that are reasonable and necessary for the efficient operation of the program.  Indirect costs will be reimbursed in accordance with the procedures outlined it Fiscal Guidelines at http://www.oms.nysed.gov/cafe/guidelines.html (Audit Guidelines, Specific Costs section) and at http://www.oms.nysed.gov/cafe/cafefaq.html (Frequently Asked Questions).