OFO Functional Statements - Home

Sections

• Mission and Responsibilities
• Organization
• Order of Succession
• Functions and Responsibilities of the Office of Finance and Operations (OFO) Components

• Immediate Office of the Assistant Secretary
• Executive Office
• Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization
• Office of Hearings and Appeals
• Office of Financial Management
• Office of Grants Management
• Office of Acquisitions Management
• Office of Human Resources
• Office of Security, Facilities and Logistics
• Office of Business Support Services

• Primary Delegations of Authority

Organization Chart

• Office of Finance and Operations Organizational Chart PDF(202KB)
• Office of Human Resources Organizational Chart PDF(233KB)

Mission and Responsibilities

The mission of the Office of Finance and Operations (OFO or Office) is to transform the Department of Education (ED or Department) into a high-performance, customer-focused organization by providing services to our customers that help them do a better job of managing their people, processes, and overall strategy. The OFO is headed by a senior official, appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate, serving as the Assistant Secretary for Finance and Operations and the agency’s Chief Financial Officer (CFO). The CFO’s authorities and functions are identified in 31 U.S.C. § 902. Additionally, the CFO has authority to establish and approve indirect cost rates and cost allocation plans for entities for which the Department represents the Federal Government as the cognizant agency; approve the methodology used by State Education Agencies to establish and approve Local Education Agencies’ indirect cost rates on behalf of the Federal Government pursuant to 34 C.F.R. § 75.561(b) and 76.561(b); and approve the issuance of Department manuals related to indirect costs.

The Office directs, coordinates, and has overall responsibility to perform the following functions:

•  Supports maximum participation by small businesses in Department procurements.
• Develops and implements Department-wide systems and procedures for strategic accountability and performance management.
• Develop and oversee Departmental systems such as total quality management, organizational development, and management directives.
• Conduct evaluations and assessments of Departmental programs and internal management practices.
• Direct and recommend policy for the Civil Rights Reviewing Authority and the Office of Administrative Law Judges.
•  Coordinates the review of Department-wide policies to ensure consistency with the Secretary’s guidance and the Administration’s goals.
•  Oversees all financial management activities related to the programs and operations of the Department.
• Prepares a variety of reports for the agency’s senior leadership integrating key financial information with major Department policy activities and performance objectives.
• Oversees credit management issues and trends relative to student financial assistance programs and makes recommendations and develops alternative strategies based on sound principles of credit and financial management.
• Develops, manages, and provides policy guidance and oversight of the Department's fiscal management activities and operations.
• Provides leadership and direction in the areas of internal control and assessment, financial management training, post audit activities, debt collection, and indirect cost determination.
• Prepares and transmits reports on Chief Financial Officer functions to the Secretary, the Congress, and the Office of Management and Budget (OMB).
• Manages the Department's contracts and purchasing activities.
• Establishes and maintains requirements for acquisition workforce development and career management.
• Develops, manages, and provides regulatory, policy, and procedural guidance and oversight to the Department’s acquisition system and completes acquisition management reporting requirements.
• Fulfills the responsibilities of the Chief Acquisition Officer.
• Develops, manages, and provides regulatory policy, guidance, procedures, and oversight of the Department’s grant awards and administration including risk management and technical assistance, grants management training, pre and post single audit activities, and indirect cost determination. 
• Coordinates the implementation of ED Regulations for the Protection of Human Subjects in extramural and intramural research projects.
• Manages budget programs, process, and proposals.
• Strengthen the effectiveness with which Federal funds are spent through mandated oversight, appeal, and review authorities.
• Provides technical expertise in formula development, modeling, forecasting, and trends analysis; and conducting analyses of costs/benefits and institutional effects of regulations.
• Oversees policy development and reviewing policy recommendations submitted to the Secretary by Principal Offices.
• Analyzes current and proposed education policy; directs the development of policy options for legislative proposals and program reauthorizations based on policy analysis.
• Designs, conducts, and reports on evaluation studies to describe program operations and program outcomes of participants and to promote program improvement.
• Provide personnel and training services to Departmental offices.
• Administer programs to improve the work life of Department employees including the development of family-friendly programs and initiatives.
• Coordinate policy for management reform initiatives, such as the President’s Management Agenda Initiatives, human capital management, and the Government Performance and Results Act.
• Provide resource management services including facilities management, administrative support, and security services.
• Administer personnel security and suitability and information security - as it relates to classified national security information - on a Department-wide basis.
• Support IT activities that affect the Office of Financial Operations (OFO) systems, services, or applications, commercial shared services platforms, or Federal shared services platforms.

Organization

OFO is under the supervision of the Assistant Secretary who reports directly to the Secretary. The Assistant Secretary also serves as the Department’s Chief Financial Officer (CFO). The Office is composed of six service area organizations, which perform the major functions. In addition, the Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU) report directly to the Assistant Secretary for Finance and Operations. An Immediate Office also supports the Assistant Secretary.

Order of Succession

In the event that the Assistant Secretary for Finance and Operations dies, resigns, or is otherwise unable to perform the functions and duties of the office and the office is thereby deemed to be vacant, and the Secretary has not designated in writing another individual to act as the Assistant Secretary for Finance and Operations, the following officials, in the order shown, shall perform the functions and duties of the office in an acting capacity.

In instances where the office of the Assistant Secretary for Finance and Operations is filled, but the head of OFO is absent, unavailable, otherwise unable to perform the functions and duties of the position, and/or there is a disruption in the normal channels of direction and communication, and unless the head of OFO or the Secretary, in writing, designates another individual to act as the Assistant Secretary for Finance and Operations, the following officials, in the order shown, shall serve in an acting capacity as the Acting Assistant Secretary for Finance and Operations:

• Senior Advisor to the Assistant Secretary
• Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary/Deputy Chief Financial Officer
• Deputy Assistant Secretary for Human Resources
• Deputy Assistant Secretary for Grants Management
• Deputy Assistant Secretary for Security, Facilities, and Logistics Services

Functions and Responsibilities of the Office of Finance and Operations (OFO) Components

Immediate Office of the Assistant Secretary

The Assistant Secretary acts for the Secretary in the administration of the Department and represents and advises the Secretary on all inter- and intra-agency administrative matters (e.g., procurement, financial management, grants management, human capital management, personnel security and facilities management, and business support systems) as well as other activities and functions as directed. The Assistant Secretary provides leadership on all operational matters, offering expertise and technical assistance to the Secretary and the Deputy Secretary on the implementation of major management reform initiatives such as those mandated by the President's Management Initiatives and the Government Performance and Results Act Modernization Act of 2010. Additionally, the Assistant Secretary serves as a standing member of the Department's Senior Management Council (SMC)— the primary governance body for advising the Deputy Secretary on all matters related to operations and management of Department programs, functions, and activities. The Assistant Secretary for Finance and Operations is supported by a Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary (PDAS), who serves as the Department's Deputy CFO, along with a Senior Advisor to the Assistant Secretary.

The Immediate Office of the Assistant Secretary for Finance and Operations is responsible for supporting the Assistant Secretary's overall direction and administration of the Department's administrative management functions and coordinates programs with those of other Federal agencies, such as the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), the General Services Administration (GSA), and with members of Congress. The Immediate Office also coordinates responses to Government Accountability Office (GAO) studies and Office of Inspector General (OIG) inquiries.

Executive Office
The Executive Office is responsible for: coordinating all procurement activities (i.e., establishing procurement priorities and schedules; processing accounts payable for purchase and delivery orders; formulating and executing administrative budgets; managing human and financial resources; developing internal administrative policies and procedures related to OFO travel and training); managing correspondence processes, including controlled correspondence and clearances; managing OFO Information Technology (IT) processes and relevant systems, including internal and external website design and maintenance; and supporting personnel processes in conjunction with the Office of Human Resources. The Executive Officer reports directly to the PDAS.

In performing its responsibilities, the staff:

• Serves as the principal liaison between OFO's service area organizations.
• Leads, develops, coordinates, and implements a comprehensive OFO employee communications strategy in support of OFO's mission to ensure communications to OFO employees, and as appropriate other ED employees, are consistent, accurate, and timely.
• Manages the content of OFO's internal and external website information.
• Manages procurement activities within OFO, providing guidance governing procurement activities, coordinating the preparation of procurement documents and the completion of required clearances; maintaining accurate records of individual activities; and paying invoices received from vendors.
• Plans, formulates, and presents the personnel ceiling request and annual budgets for the Program Administration and central support accounts for all OFO units and develops the annual fiscal spending and operating plans for these accounts.
• Manages the functions of the correspondence control unit, assigning documents to appropriate OFO staff for review and clearance.
• Assists in the OFO preparation and production of OFO reports, submissions, documents, and testimony, and coordinates reviews of drafts and final versions of these materials.
• Manages OFO's IT processes (e.g., approve equipment acquisitions; facilitate employee application processing for the Department's Education Central Automated Processing System (EDCAPS), and ensure compliance with the Department's IT Security program requirements).
• Serves as OFO's official representative for agency-wide processes (e.g., Contracting Officer, IT Security Representative, Personnel Security Representative, Freedom of Information Act Liaison, and Records Management Representative) and systems (e.g., FMSS, E2, Quicktime).
• Coordinates administrative and facilities management services for OFO employees including space planning, property inventory control, and health and safety.
• Develops employee engagement opportunities to showcase OFO's programs, products, and services.
• Certifies funds availability and approves all expenditures and obligations for OFO administrative and program accounts, ensuring compliance with the Anti-Deficiency Act. Maintains personnel ceiling control and performs all financial execution functions including analysis of monthly obligation document reports, status of funds reports, and the planned versus actual expenditure reports.
• Operates OFO's personnel management system including recruitment, promotions, details, employee development, performance appraisals, awards, and security investigations. Develops or reviews OFO position descriptions and functional statements. Serves as liaison and coordinates performance appraisals and incentive award recommendations to assure adherence to budgetary constraints and departmental policies, directives, and regulations; and ensures their timely completion.
• Performing comprehensive data analyses and developing and disseminating reports and dashboards to OFO leadership on POC specific administrative operations to inform decision-making.
• Collaborating with OFO offices to develop tools, processes, and analytical insights that enable them to better leverage administrative operational data and processes in new and useful ways.
• Managing the Department's Administrative Communications System (ACS) to develop, maintain, and ensure that directives and handbooks delineating Department policies, procedures, requirements, and other important information of general applicability are strategic, coordinated, comprehensive, and standardized to support mission achievement and risk mitigation.

Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU)

The mission of the OSDBU as defined in Public Law 95-507 is to implement the functions and duties in Sections 8, 15, 31, 36, and 44 of the Small Business Act as amended. OSDBU works to create an environment for maximum practicable participation by small, small disadvantaged, women, historically underutilized business (HubZone), and Service Disabled Veterans in the Department of Education's (ED) procurements and subcontracting opportunities available through ED prime contractors, and is responsible and accountable for the leadership, direction, and supervision of ED's small business initiatives and for the enforcement of the provisions of the Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR) under Part 19.

Functional Activities:

•  Acquisition Planning – Considering contracting or subcontracting opportunities for small businesses, small, disadvantaged businesses, women-owned small business concerns, historically underutilized business zones, and Service-Disabled Veterans.
• Market Research - Identifying, qualified small businesses that can execute on the acquisition business needs of the ED.
• Small Business Outreach – Hosting outreach efforts to educate small businesses about the ED's contract needs, which includes planning and coordinating internal and external small business outreach events.
• Business Systems – Managing the collection and exchange of small business data using technology to create transparency and accountability, leading to a supportable data base system to improve in the exchange of information between OSDBU, program offices, and the acquisition staff (Contracting Officers and Contract Specialist).

Office of Hearings and Appeals

The mission of the Office of Hearings and Appeals (OHA) is to provide independent forums for the fair, impartial, equitable, and timely resolution of disputes involving the Department and recipients of federal education funds. Also, it provides conflict resolution services to employees of the Department.

OHA ensures coordinated administrative oversight of the Department's various hearing bodies and is headed by a Chief Administrative Judge/Director who reports to the PDAS.
In performing its responsibilities, the Immediate Office of the Chief Administrative Judge/Director:

• Facilitates the development of standardized internal procedures, to the extent appropriate, among OHA components.
• Ensures proper and coordinated case tracking and reporting.
• Insulates the adjudicative process by serving as the Principal Office for inquiries about cases, including Congressional inquiries.
• Coordinates arrangements for publication of decisions.
• Coordinates the maintenance of security of files.
• Coordinates arrangements for access by external parties to case precedents and responds, in conjunction with the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Officer where appropriate, to FOIA requests for OHA records.
• Coordinates general support for all hearing related functions including arrangements for hearing rooms.

• Conducts and/or oversees the assignment of all non-Administrative Procedure Act (APA) informal proceedings, including the tracking, dissemination, and archiving of those proceedings.

  OHA is divided into the following components:

  • Administrative Law Judges Division; and
  • Alternative Dispute Resolution Center.

Administrative Law Judges Division

Administrative Law Judges Division, established in accordance with Part D of the General Education Provisions Act, as amended, is a forum for hearing appeals by grantees under applicable programs (defined by statute) of ED enforcement actions.

OHA's Administrative Law Judges conduct administrative proceedings, which the Department is required to conduct subject to the Administrative Procedure Act (5 U.S.C. 551 et seq.).
In addition to programs that OHA is required to hear under Part D, OHA's Administrative Law Judges may also hear other proceedings under other statutes as assigned to OHA by the Chief Administrative Judge/Director of Hearings and Appeals.

These include, but are not limited to, proceedings under the following statutes:

• Proceedings relating to appeals of adverse administrative actions under the Impact Aid program pursuant to Section 7011 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965, as amended, 20 U.S.C. 7711, and the implementing regulations at 34 CFR 222.150-222.159 and 222.164-222.165;
• Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, as amended, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, as amended, the Boy Scouts of America Act, as amended; and 
• The Program Fraud Civil Remedies Act, as amended, Public Law 99-509, Title VI, subtitle B.

The Division's Administrative Law Judges (ALJs) report to the Chief Administrative Law Judge (CALJ), who reports to the Chief Administrative Judge/Director.
The Civil Rights Reviewing Authority was established under 42 U.S.C. 2000d-1 and 34 CFR 100.10 and 100.13 (c), which requires each federal agency to secure compliance with the Civil Rights Act of 1964 by termination of, or refusal to grant or continue, federal financial assistance upon a finding on the record of non-compliance by the recipient.

The Authority, authorized under 34 CFR Parts 100 and 101, is a quasi-judicial body appointed by the Secretary to provide an independent review of adverse civil rights decisions made by ALJs. All seven members are not required to review each matter. For example, two to three members may be appropriate in certain instances. Its Director is the Chief Administrative Judge/Director of OHA.

In performing its responsibilities, the Authority:

• Conducts administrative appeals of ALJ decisions and issues administrative appellate decisions in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, as amended, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, as amended, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, and the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, as amended, and the Boy Scouts of American Equal Access Act, as amended.
• Conducts research on points of law necessary to the decision-making process.
• Accepts and considers applications for attorney's fees and other expenses under the Equal Access to Justice Act (Pub. L. 96-481), as amended, codified at 5 U.S.C. 504 and 28 U.S.C. 2412, and the implementing regulations at 34 CFR 21.1-21.3.

The Civil Rights Reviewing Authority staff provides support services to Authority members and maintains the records of the documents submitted to the Authority.
Higher Education Appeals is a forum for hearing appeals by postsecondary institutions as assigned by the Chief Administrative Judge/Director of OHA. These include, but are not limited to, proceedings under the following statutes:

• Civil penalty proceedings under section 432(g) of the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended (HEA), 20 U.S.C. 1082(g), against a lender or guaranty agency participating in the Federal Family Education Loan Program (FFEL).
• Review proceedings under section 432(h)(2) of the HEA, 20 U.S.C. 1082(h)(2), regarding sanctions imposed by a guaranty agency on lenders participating in the FFEL.
• Review proceedings under section 432(h)(3) of the HEA, 20 U.S.C. 1082(h)(3), regarding sanctions imposed by a guaranty agency on institutions participating in the FFEL.
• Proceedings under section 487(b) of the HEA, 20 U.S.C. 1094(b), to review final audit and program review determinations relating to student financial assistance programs under Title IV of the HEA.
• Proceedings under section 487(c)(1)(F) and 487(c)(3)(A) of the HEA, 20 U.S.C. 1094(c)(1)(F) and 20 U.S.C. 1094(c)(3)(A), to limit, suspend, or terminate the eligibility of an institution to participate in the student financial assistance programs under Title IV of the HEA.
• Proceedings under section 487(c)(1)(H) of the HEA, 20 U.S.C. 1094(c)(1)(H), to limit, suspend, or terminate the eligibility of an individual or organization to contract with an institution to administer a student assistance program, or to impose a civil penalty on such an individual or organization.
• Proceedings under section 487(c)(3)(B) of the HEA, 20 U.S.C. 1094(c)(3)(B), to fine an institution participating in the student financial assistance programs under Title IV of the HEA.
• Proceedings under section 432(h)(1) of the HEA, 20 U.S.C. 1082(h)(1), to limit, suspend, or terminate a lender from participating in the FFEL.

The Division's Administrative Judges conduct administrative proceedings, which the Department is required to conduct, subject to the statutes and implementing regulations.
The Division's Administrative Judges report to the Chief Administrative Judge/Director.

Alternative Dispute Resolution Center

The Alternative Dispute Resolution Center is a forum for the resolution of employment disputes before the dispute advances to a formal complaint stage. The informal dispute resolution process utilizes counseling and mediation to informally resolve a wide range of employee complaints including Equal Employment Opportunity matters under 29 CFR Part 1614, labor relations matters under the Collective Bargaining Agreement, Employee Relations matters under the Administrative Grievance Process, and other employment matters as assigned by the Assistant Secretary for Finance and Operations.

Office of Financial Management

The Office of Financial Management (OFM) is responsible for processing, reconciling, evaluating, and reporting all agency financial transactions; certifying financial transactions, producing internal financial management reports and analyses; preparing the Department's monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements and related notes and schedules; and coordinating the external audit of the agency's financial statements. OFM directs cash management activities within the agency and manages the Department's accounts payable and administrative accounts receivable portfolios. The organization is the Department's principal liaison to the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO), the U.S. Department of Treasury (Treasury), the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), and other regulatory and legislative entities in matters related to the agency's financial accountability and required financial reporting; in this regard, OFM reviews and coordinates directives, other requirements, and initiatives from these organizations.
In carrying out its responsibilities, OFM:
• Ensures the accuracy and timeliness of all agency financial data.
• Processes core financial systems transactions.
• Maintains all fund control systems.
• Processes the Department's payments and ensures the integrity of those payments.
• Makes timely and appropriate adjustments to the financial reports and statements.
• Establishes and maintains financial management policies and procedures.
• Manages non-FSA improper payment risk assessments and reporting.
• Assesses risks and identifies and evaluates financial management and payment system controls.
• Monitors financial management systems.
• Ensures the Department's compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
The Deputy Assistant Secretary for OFM provides overall leadership and coordination to the following six components:
• Cash & Business Financial Management Services Division
• Accounts Receivable & Bank Management Division
• General Ledger Division
• Financial Data Integrity & Controls Division
• Accountability & Financial Reporting Division
• Financial Systems Transactions & Payments Division

The OFM Immediate Office

•  Supports OFM senior staff by providing executive level support, technical advice, and expert guidance on Government-wide and Department-wide initiatives.
• Reviews Government-wide regulations and develops policy and procedural recommendations.
• Coordinates the Department's response to external requests and initiatives from OMB, GAO, Congress, Treasury, and other entities.
• Assists with business process analysis and reengineering.
• Provides office management and administrative support.
• Manages human capital and contract management support for OFM.
• Coordinates OFM special projects by providing project management support.

Cash & Business Financial Management Services Division

The Cash & Business Financial Management Services Division is responsible for Departmental cash reporting and reconciliation of loan, grant, and administrative program activities. The Division is also responsible for the reconciliation of the Department’s various payment subsystems.

In carrying out its responsibilities, the Division:

• Reconciles the G5 payment system to the general ledger and documents and resolves discrepancies and submits them to OFM management.
• Prepares the FMS 224 Reports to Treasury that report disbursement, receipt, and collection transactions according to appropriation, fund, and receipt account.
• Reconciles the travel system, contracting system, and payroll system to the general ledger and documents and resolves discrepancies and submits them to OFM management.
• Produces internal management reports and promotes improvements in financial management operational performance by all Principal Offices and Executive Officers.
• Produces vendor and recipient payment history reports and develops metrics to highlight unusual activity for further analysis.
• Coordinates the Cash Management Improvement Act of 1990 within the Department and with Treasury to ensure efficiency, and equity in the exchange of funds and more timely use of funds and return of interest between the Federal Government and states.
• Maintains the Fund Balance with Treasury (FBWT) reconciliation and produces monitoring reports.
• Manages the Department’s administrative payment process.
• Manages the IPAC process – ensuring accurate and timely application of interagency funds to proper funds, ensures that all unmatched transactions are classified according to trading partner code, and acts as liaison between the Department and other agency trading partners for IPAC payments.
• Coordinates the Prompt Payment Act requirements to ensure timely payments to vendors.
• Reconciles Accounts Payable Trial Balances (APTB sub-ledger) to the general ledger and performs analysis of payable proprietary/budgetary relationships by fund/sector; discrepancies are researched, documented, and resolved.
• Manages the purchase card reconciliation and payment function, ensuring accurate and timely payments to the Department’s purchase card vendor and excellent customer service to the Department’s cardholders.
• Generates Open Purchase Order reports in AP_PO system and reviews reports for missing trading partner codes, misclassified government vendors, and anomalies.

Accounts Receivable & Bank Management Division

The Accounts Receivable & Bank Management Division is responsible for managing administrative accounts receivables and processing recipient bank change requests consistent with sound internal controls. The Division is also responsible for ensuring that supporting documentation is filed in a timely manner and that records management requirements and archiving protocols are observed. In addition, the Division shall adhere to reporting, reconciliation, and discrepancy resolution due dates based on OFM management approved deadlines.

In carrying out its responsibilities, the Division:

• Manages the Department’s administrative receivable and promissory note portfolios.
• Establishes accounts receivables and coordinates with Program Offices on proof-of-debt requirements in support thereof.
• Applies receipts on administrative receivables and promissory notes.
• Processes monthly allowance and other accounts receivable-related accruals.
• Reconciles accounts receivable trial balances (FMSS sub-ledger) and Northridge Loan System promissory notes to the general ledger; research, documents, and resolves discrepancies.
• Researches and resolves miscellaneous receipt revenue/contra-revenue activity.
• Coordinates with financial representatives from educational institutions to negotiate debt repayment terms, refers delinquent debts to private debt collection contractors/Treasury, and writes off uncollectible debts.
• Coordinates with Program Offices and OGC on reimbursement funding and offsetting of delinquent debts.
• Maintains the G5 Banking Financial Information System (BFIS) for financial institution recipient depositor account information, ensuring that all recipient payments can be processed electronically through ACH or FEDWIRE.
• Ensures that each request for an update in banking information is fully documented, controlled, properly stored, and accessible upon request.

General Ledger Division

The General Ledger Division is responsible for all loan, grant, and administrative program accounting activities – including ensuring the accuracy of accounting adjustments and estimates included in the Department’s financial statements. In addition, the Division assists in the preparation/coordination of all official loan program financial reports with Federal Student Aid (FSA) and Office of Budget Service to be submitted to Treasury, OMB, and other government agencies; ensures that all needed high level loan account reconciliations are being performed; assists in the production of related financial reports to Treasury, OMB, and other government agencies; and prepares budgetary/proprietary reports for all appropriations. The Division also performs Departmental account reconciliations and ensures that proper accounting policies and procedures are established and implemented throughout the Department.

In carrying out its responsibilities, the Division:

• Maintains official accounting records of all funds; prepares trial balances and fluctuation analyses for these funds, and researches and resolves variances; and supports preparation of all official financial reports for the Department’s appropriations – including required adjustments and estimates included therein.
• Interfaces with FSA and Office of Budget Service staff on all loan accounting matters.
• Collaborates on high level loan fluctuation analyses of the loan trial balances, and in conjunction with FSA and Office of Budget Service, researches and resolves variances.
• Assists in the preparation and analysis of FMS 224 Reports to Treasury that report disbursement, receipt, and collection transactions according to appropriation, fund, and receipt account.
• Advises operating grant and administrative program managers and their system staffs in maintaining accounting subsystem records.

Financial Data Integrity & Controls Division

The Financial Data Integrity & Controls Division (FDICD) is responsible for advancing the Department’s financial reporting, internal control over financial reporting, and financial data analysis capabilities through use of automation and analytical tools and methods. This includes developing robust tools and techniques which demonstrate payment integrity; supporting the prevention, detection, and recovery of improper payments; and supporting data-driven decision-making in financial management. In addition, the Division is responsible for managing the Department’s OMB Circular A-123 program; overseeing the implementation of activities in OMB Circular A-123, Appendix C (which implements Improper Payment Elimination and Recovery Act (IPERA) requirements) and Appendix A, pertaining to financial reporting and data integrity risk; developing and maintaining policies and procedures related to financial management operations; and developing and maintaining documentation of financial management business processes. Further, the Division is responsible for managing the Department’s internal (OIG and GAO) audit resolution and closure processes.

In carrying out its responsibilities, the Division:

• Oversees Department-wide internal controls to provide assurance of efficient and effective operations, reliable reporting for internal and external use, and compliance with laws and regulations in accordance with the Federal Managers’ Financial Integrity Act of 1982.
• Develops and maintains policies, procedures, and documentation related to financial management business processes, internal controls, and data quality.
• Conducts internal control reviews, quantitative and qualitative risk assessments, monitoring, and internal controls training, including entity-level and financial control assessments.
• Manages the non-FSA improper payment risk assessment, estimation, corrective action planning, and reporting.
• Manages the Department’s Payment Integrity Monitoring Application (PIMA) and leverages available analytic tools (such as Treasury’s Do Not Pay) to help prevent, detect, and recover improper payments.
• Identifies and develops key financial performance metrics.
• Develops and implements data analytics processes to promote the use of best practices in collecting, organizing, and analyzing large sets of financial data.
• Applies information-technology-based data management and analytics to solve complex financial management problems.
• Oversees OFM data management activities.
• Coordinates the resolution, monitoring, and closure of internal audits by the Office of Inspector General (OIG) and the Government Accountability Office (GAO).

Accountability & Financial Reporting Division

The Accountability & Financial Reporting Division is responsible for preparing the Department’s financial statements and Agency Financial Report and producing other statutory and ad-hoc financial reports. The Division is also responsible for managing the intragovernmental accounting function. In addition, the Division coordinates the annual financial statement audit, including oversight of the annual Prepared-by-Client (PBC) process.

In carrying out its responsibilities, the Division:

• Produces the Department’s and FSA’s monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements, and footnotes – when applicable.
• Prepares and publishes the Department’s Agency Financial Report in compliance with applicable OMB requirements.
• Maintains the Government wide Treasury Account Symbol Adjusted Trial Balance System (GTAS) reporting process.
• Prepares ad-hoc financial reports to inform stakeholder decision-making.
• Manages intragovernmental accounting function, including submission of corresponding reports to Treasury, and coordinates with trading partners to resolve differences in amounts reported.
• Coordinates the external audit of the Department’s annual financial statements and provides related guidance, counsel, and support to the Department’s senior management; manages the submission of PBC items; and serves as liaison between the Office of Inspector General (OIG), the Department’s external auditor, Office of Budget Service, FSA, and other stakeholders regarding audit and assurance related issues.
• Coordinates tracking of financial statement audit Notices of Findings and Recommendations (NFRs) issued by Department’s external auditor.
• Manages contract supporting financial statement preparation.

Financial Systems Transactions & Payments Division

The Financial Systems Transactions & Payments Division is responsible for the daily operation and maintenance of the core financial systems and payment processing. The core financial systems maintain the official books of original entry for all funds authorized by the Congress and ensure the integrity of fund usage for programs managed by ED.

In carrying out its responsibilities, the Division:

• Ensures that existing financial systems comply with the Standard General Ledger requirements and OMB/Treasury guidance as it relates to such systems.
• Manages all funds control systems within the current financial systems and the internal/external accounting reporting systems.
• Processes core financial system transaction controls and configuration of system modification requests.
• Receives administrative and program appropriation apportionments, warrants, allotments, and limitations from Fed Admin subsystem.
• Verifies fund availability for commitment and obligation documents received from program and staff offices and records related fund transactions in the automated accounting system.
• Processes payment requests, award updates, adjustments, and recipient expenditure data.
• Oversees the FEDWIRE, ACH, International, and other payment processes.
• Manages all aspects of FMSS system security – including the configuration of the financial statement year-end closing mass-allocation formulas for completing the Department’s year-end closing of the accounting systems – and provides new EDCAPS FMSS users with access and responsibilities.
• Performs the Department’s quarterly and yearly disaster recovery validation testing.

Office of Grants Management

The Office of Grants Management (OGM) develops, manages, and provides policy guidance and oversight of the Department's grant management activities and operations. OGM provides leadership and direction in the areas of discretionary and formula grant management and administration policy, internal control assessment for grants, grant management training, external audit resolution and risk treatment, and indirect cost negotiations.

In carrying out its responsibilities, OGM:

• Coordinates and supports consistent, quality management of formula and discretionary grants and cooperative agreements Department-wide.
• Develops and directs the Department's implementation of requirements for grants in OMB Circular A-123, Internal Control Systems.
• Provides Department-wide oversight of compliance with grants policies and procedures.
• Develops and conducts Department-wide grant management training.
• Develops and implements Departmental policies related to external audit follow-up, and oversees the Department's external audit resolution operations.
• Resolves and closes discretionary grant audits and various formula grant audits for the Department.
• Develops and implements indirect cost policy and negotiates indirect cost rates on behalf of the Federal Government for all State Education Agencies and other entities in which the Department holds a predominate financial interest.

The Deputy Assistant Secretary (DAS) for OGM provides overall leadership, and coordination to the following three components:

• Grants Management Policy Division;
• Grants Risk Management Services Division; and
•  Indirect Cost Group

Grants Management Policy Division (GMPD)

The Grants Management Policy Division (GMPD) is responsible for the oversight of the Department’s grant award and administration processes in order to ensure consistency and accountability and promote effectiveness. GMPD develops and disseminates ED grants management and administration policies, regulations, and procedures, as well as provides leadership and support for reform, innovation and improvement in ED grants management. In addition, GMPD provides training and resources to build staff capacity to manage and monitor grants. 

In carrying out its functions, GMPD:

• Works with all components of the Department to develop and implement Department-wide grant policies and procedures for the administration and management of formula and discretionary grants and cooperative agreements and to promote grantee accountability and results.
• Coordinates the development of ED policies and positions regarding government-wide grants management and streamlining initiatives.
• Research current and innovative grants management practices in order to design and develop new models for improving the grants process in the Department.
• Provides grants management training to grant staff to build their capacity to manage and monitor grants. Ensures accurate and useful information on ED grant requirements is developed and effectively communicated to ED grantees through training and on the web.
• Provides a centralized platform for staff to access policies, information, tools, and resources related to grants management.
• Orchestrates and provides regular forums for grants staff to discuss grants policy updates, upcoming training opportunities, and new/upcoming products and services. Incorporates cross-cutting grants management questions and concerns from ED staff during the forum to facilitate input and sharing of promising practices among the grant making POCs.
• Collaborates with OCIO on the design and development of a new Grants Management System or enhancements to the Department’s current system to ensure the system supports compliance with the Department’s formula and discretionary grants policy and processes.
• Serves as Grants Policy Liaisons providing technical assistance and the primary point of contact for questions generated from program offices related to grant administration policy, guidance, and procedures.
• Manages Discretionary Grant Licenses and Formula award obligation authority.
• Manages the uniform system of non-procurement debarment and suspension to ensure the integrity of ED programs.

Grants Risk Management Services Division (GRMSD)

The Grants Risk Management Services Division (GRMSD) is responsible for coordinating with the Department’s Principal Offices in identifying grantee risks and taking effective action to manage and mitigate risks that may adversely affect the advancement of the Department’s mission and programs. The GRMSD provides oversight, technical assistance, and high-risk grantee assessment and support to the Department’s program offices. The staff works with program offices as requested to identify risk strategies and treatments to inform grant awards, grant monitoring plans and strategies, and corrective actions.

Additionally, GRMSD is responsible for policy development, implementation and oversight for the Department's response to the Inspector General Act of 1988 (P.L. 100-504) and OMB Circular A-50, Audit Follow-up; Single Audits of States, Local Governments, and Non-Profit Organizations. GRMSD has overall responsibility for the external audit follow-up function at the Department. GRMSD resolves and closes grantee Single Audit findings of the Department's discretionary grant programs, as well as various formula grant audit findings, in accordance with OMB Uniform Guidance requirements.

In performing its responsibilities, the staff performs the following high-level activities:

• Provides technical support to the Department’s program offices with customized pre-monitoring grantee risk analysis.
• Oversees external audit follow-up for the Department and serves as the central point in the Department for information regarding external audit follow-up.
• Conducts risk briefings on selected states and districts to provide program offices with risk assessments (i.e., overall fiscal status and climate, potential and emerging audit issues, and other related information.)
• Resolves and closes discretionary grant findings in single audits and OIG external audit reports, as well as formula grant findings that deal with cash management and sub-recipient monitoring.
• Applies criteria and rubrics to drive the investment of resources around high-risk grantees to support targeted efforts that lead to demonstrable outcomes.
• Identifies the Department's grantees that failed to submit a single audit to the Federal Audit Clearinghouse (FAC) and notifies program offices. Works with the FAC to process and assign audit findings received on a weekly basis and the overall management of the Department's interagency agreement with the FAC. 
• Conducts internal reviews and reports on program office closure of single audits and ED-OIG external audits.
• Analyzes audit data and provides results to ED program offices to inform work around program risk, audit finding trends, priorities and strategies for effective grant management responsibilities.
• Coordinates the Semi-Annual Report (SAR) to Congress on audit follow-up.
• Supports program offices in the development of risk profiles for selected States, districts and non-profit entities.
• Oversees revisions and management of Handbook for the Post Audit Process of external audits.
• Annually coordinates and updates the Department's compliance supplement submission to OMB, which serves as a guide for auditors reviewing Department grants.

Indirect Cost Division (ICD)

The Indirect Cost Division (ICD) is responsible for developing, implementing and managing the Department’s indirect cost policy in accordance with regulations issued by OMB Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards under 2 CFR 200 and Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR) for the applicable entity under review.

In carrying out its responsibilities, ICD:

• Negotiates and establishes indirect cost rates on behalf of the Federal Government for all State Educational Agencies and negotiates and establishes indirect cost rates for other State agencies where the Department holds a predominant financial interest.
• Negotiates and establishes indirect cost rates on behalf of the Federal Government for Institutions of Higher Education, nonprofits, and commercial firms where the Department holds a predominant financial interest.
• Negotiates and settles liabilities resulting from excessive indirect cost reimbursement, resolves and closes audits on indirect cost issues, and administers any related appeals.
• Provides technical advice to external and internal customers on cost allocation issues under grants and contracts.
• Serves as the Department's liaison with OMB on fulfilling the cognizant agency responsibilities for cost policy and oversight.
• Oversees the program where States may receive delegations of authority to administer indirect cost oversight for their Local Educational Agencies.
• Develops and implements indirect cost policy.

Office of Acquisitions Management

The Deputy Assistant Secretary (DAS) for the Office of Acquisitions Management leads the Department of Education toward effective, efficient, and accountable Acquisition Management, enhancing the mission by building an end-to-end Acquisition Lifecycle Framework (ALF) which includes oversight, workforce development, policy development, supply chain management, business systems, and contract execution. The Office of Acquisitions Management provides leadership strategically focused on delivering better outcomes, driving behavior changes, and implementing innovative solutions for improved Program Performance leading to ED mission success.

The Immediate Office is led by the DAS, who is also serving as the Deputy Chief Acquisition Officer and Senior Procurement Executive (DCAO & SPE), who reports directly to the PDAS for the Office of Finance and Operations. The DCAO & SPE are responsible for ED-wide Acquisition Management with two distinct functional areas required to assure department-wide Acquisition Management: Contracts and Acquisitions Management Division and Strategic Acquisition Management Initiatives Division.

Contracts and Acquisitions Management (CAM) Division

CAM is responsible for contract execution (solicitation, award, administration, and closeout of all contracts) and other acquisition instruments for the Department including the ten Regional Offices, excluding FSA. CAM’s mission is to proactively lead the acquisition process, planning, negotiating, awarding and administering contracts, advancing the Department’s mission to serve America’s students.

In carrying out its responsibilities, the Immediate Office:

• Supports ED’s socioeconomic goals through advocacy for appropriate use of small business prime and sub-contracting authorities, within applicable Federal and Departmental laws, regulations, guidelines and procedures.
• Advocates for adequate competition in procurements throughout the Department.

The Director, CAM, is the Head of Contracting Activity (HCA). The Director is responsible for the overall management of CAM’s procurement functions and provides leadership and coordination to the immediate office staff and to the following components:

• Program Contracts Group
• Operations Contracts Group
• Education Sciences Contracts Group
• Performance and Logistics Group

Each of the above Contracting groups provide contracting and acquisition support to designated client offices and has identical functions. Each operational group is led by a Group Manager that also serves as the Chief of the Contracting Office (COCO).

In carrying out its responsibilities, each group:

• Develops acquisition plans in conjunction with program offices and advises clients on the preparation of requirement descriptions (statements of work), contractor performance measures, evaluation criteria and other aspects of the procurement process.
• Prepares and issues acquisition solicitations, reviews incoming proposals and bids for conformity with requirements, and advises program offices in the evaluation of these materials.
• Negotiates with offerors, performs pre-award reviews as necessary to assess the technical and business management capacity of offerors, makes source selection decisions, and awards contracts and other acquisition instruments and debriefs offerors.
• Administers acquisition instruments including monitoring, assisting, reviewing and accepting interim and final deliverables and reports, reviewing and approving payments, assessing overall contract performance, reviewing and approving modifications, executing terminations as necessary, and closing out contracts.

Program Contracts Group (PCG)

PCG supports the Department’s non-support, program-based offices as well as the Institute of Education Sciences (IES). These offices include Office of Career, Technical and Adult Education (OCTAE), Office of Elementary and Secondary Education (OESE), Office of English Language Acquisition (OELA), Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development (OPEPD), Office of Postsecondary Education (OPE), and Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS). Within IES, PCG supports the National Center for Education Evaluation and Regional Assistance (NCEE). NCEE is one of four centers in IES, and they help educators and policymakers make informed decisions about education programs through the work of its Knowledge Utilization and Evaluation divisions.

Operations Contracts Group (OCG)

OCG supports the cybersecurity initiatives of the Department. OCG plays a vital role in protecting the Department’s data and systems from cyber threats. Our contracts provide helpdesk support services for all the enterprise systems that are used by every principal office. These offices include: Office of the Secretary (OS), Office of the Chief Information Officer (OCIO), Office of Inspector General (OIG), Office of the General Counsel (OGC), Office for Civil Rights (OCR), Office of Communications and Outreach (OCO), and Office of Finance and Operations (OFO). In addition, OCG participates and provides leadership in other Federal acquisition initiatives such as strategic sourcing and category management. Through our involvement, we help ensure that the Department’s interests are protected while providing guidance to our customers on how to best implement these important initiatives that are designed to help the Department save money and increase efficiency.

Education Sciences Contracts Group (ESCG)

ESCG supports the Institute of Education Sciences (IES). ESCG supports three of the four operational divisions of IES: The National Center for Education Research, the National Center for Education Statistics, and the National Center for Special Education Research. ESCG is responsible for contract lifecycle related to the following Department programs: The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program, the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), the Education Statistics Support Institute Network (ESSIN) and all longitudinal surveys within NCES, in addition to supporting Director initiatives across IES.

Performance and Logistics Group (PLG)

PLG provides support internally to the Director of CAM and other CAM staff, and externally to the Department’s principal offices. In carrying out its duties, the Group:

• Acquisition Procedures- Develops, recommends, establishes, implements, and maintains CAM’s acquisition procedures and procurement performance measures, consistent with applicable Federal and Departmental laws, regulations, guidelines and policies; prepares, publishes, and controls guides, handbooks, brochures, internet web site content and other materials governing CAM’s acquisition processes; and provides guidance to CAM on acquisition-related policies issued by the Office of Federal Procurement Policy (OFPP), General Services Administration, Office of Management and Budget, and other authorities.
• Workload Management- Administers CAM’s Acquisition Planning Process.
• Systems Reporting and Data Analysis- Maintains the electronic contract data requirements for agency automated management systems and preparing internal and external procurement performance reports; and coordinates electronic commerce activities for CAM contracts and acquisitions.
• Oversight and compliance- Conducts internal reviews of CAM’s acquisition activities; administers contract closeout activities; and reviews CAM solicitations and pre-award contract documents for compliance with the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and other applicable regulations and statutes.
• Acquisition Workforce- Administers the certification programs for Acquisition Professionals in CAM’s customer offices (i.e., contracting officers and contracting officer’s representatives).
• Government Purchase Card Program- Administers the Department's Government purchase card program.

Strategic Acquisition Management Initiatives (SAMI) Division

The SAMI division directly supports the Senior Procurement Executive (SPE) and is responsible for:

• Developing and issuing Department-wide procurement policy, regulations, and guidance, including the Education Department’s Acquisition Regulations (EDAR);
• Championing various Federal initiatives and participating in Government-wide acquisition rulemaking through the Civilian Agency Acquisition Council, and in various Government-wide boards, councils and other forums related to acquisition policy, Federal workforce initiatives, and acquisition-related activities;
• Leading contract-related reporting to OMB, FAI, and others, including the Service Contract Inventory, FAIR Act Inventory, and the Department’s Category Management plan;
• Fostering collaboration and innovation in the administration and management of acquisition functions throughout the Department and serving as the Department’s Acquisition Innovation Advocate;
• Serving as the Department’s Acquisition Industry Liaison and partnering with the OSDBU to engage industry and ensure equity in procurement;
• Leading acquisition workforce management, including developing acquisition workforce policy for FAC-C professionals and providing Department-wide acquisition training; and
• Leading program and project management (P/PM) for the Department, including managing the certification of the FAC P/M program and implementation of the Program Management Improvement Accountability Act (PMIAA).

Office of Human Resources

The Office of Human Resources (OHR) provides leadership and direction in the formulation and implementation of human capital policies, programs, and systems to promote efficient and effective federal workforce management and provides operational support and oversight for the full lifecycle of employment for employees of the Department of Education. 

In performing its responsibilities, OHR:

• Provides leadership and advice on matters affecting strategic human capital planning, workforce management, programs, policies, accountability, and reporting.
• Represents the Department of Education on strategic workforce management matters with the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), Office of Management and Budget (OMB), other Federal agencies, the Congress and the public.
• Monitors the Department’s human capital management performance by evaluating and auditing the results of its policies, operations, and programs for compliance with merit systems principles and adherence to focus areas within the human capital framework (i.e., strategic planning and alignment, performance culture and evaluation).

OHR is led by a member of the Senior Executive Service who serves as the Chief Human Capital Officer (CHCO) for the Department and reports to the PDAS. The CHCO is supported by a Deputy, who is also a member of the Senior Executive Service and serves as a strategic partner, leader, and technical human resources expert.

OHR is comprised of eight Divisions each of which is led by a Director:

• Business and Administrative Services Division
• Human Capital Policy and Accountability Division
• Executive Resources Division
• Workforce Relations Division
• Labor and Employee Relations Division
• Recruitment, Staffing and Compensation Division
• Human Capital Strategy Division

Business and Administrative Services Division

BASD is responsible for managing core business and administrative functions for the Immediate Office (IO) of the Chief Human Capital Officer and OHR Divisions. Core business and administrative functions include Internal/External Communications, OHR Human Capital Management, Financial Management, and Acquisition Management.

In carrying out the communications function, BASD implements a comprehensive strategic communications plan; reviews and coordinates internal and external communications; manages the OHR Team SharePoint site and updates knowledge management information; tracks and facilitates deadlines and due dates; facilitates FOIA requests, control correspondence and Office of the Secretary clearances.

In carrying out the OHR human capital management function, BASD implements and interprets human capital management policies to efficiently and effectively develop and retain a high-quality and productive workforce. In this capacity, BASD develops hiring actions for the Chief Human Capital Officer (CHCO), manages the OHR staffing plan, coordinates OHR new hire on-boarding; and ensures employee REACH plans, IDPs and certifications are maintained.

In carrying out the financial management function, BASD administers integrated HR budget, travel, training and acquisition plans. BASD reviews budget data to ensure justifications support requests, are reasonable, and in line with historical data; monitors spending to minimize end of year surpluses and ensures invoices are paid timely. BASD processes and monitors all OHR contracting vehicles and investments to ensure they remain in scope and are executed timely.

Human Capital Policy and Accountability Division

In carrying out its responsibilities, the Human Capital Policy and Accountability Division (HCPAD):

• Develops human resources management policies for the administration of the Department’s human capital management initiatives to efficiently and effectively attract, recruit, develop, and retain a high-quality, productive workforce for the Department in accordance with merit systems principles.
• Manages and implements the Department’s Human Capital Accountability System through evaluation, measurement, data collection, and oversight of improvement plans and reports; conducts periodic and ad hoc accountability audits and reviews of human resources practices to ensure compliance with law, regulation, policies, and prescribed practices.
• Manages the human capital performance evaluation process (HRStat) that identifies, measures, and analyzes human capital data to inform the impact of an agency’s human capital management on organizational results with the intent to improve human capital outcomes.
• Facilitates quarterly HR Stat reviews with senior leadership to identify and monitor human capital measures and targets that inform agency progress toward strategic human capital management goals and priorities.
• Collaborates with OPM during annual human capital reviews on the implementation and achievement of agency human capital goals.

Executive Resources Division

In carrying out its responsibilities, the Executive Resources Division (ERD):

• Provides advisory and operational services in the areas of competitive and excepted service positions, political appointments, position management and classification, staffing and placement, pay and leave, performance and awards, conduct and discipline, executive level allocations, accountability and assessments, and Presidential transitions.

Workforce Relations Division

In carrying out its responsibilities, the Workforce Relations Division (WRD):

• Provides operational support to the Department in the areas of performance management, awards, retirement, benefits administration, and work life programs.
• Administers employee benefits, workers compensation, workforce management, programs, such as alternative work schedules, benefits, and telework/flexplace programs, and oversees and manages employee assistance program services to promote healthy work/life balance and the Federal Occupational Health contract.

The Workforce Relations Division has two Branches:

• Benefits and Work/Life Branch
• Performance Management Branch

Benefits and Work/Life Branch

The Benefits and Work/Life Branch (BWLB) administers employee benefits, and provides information, referrals, and support services to Department employees in balancing the demands of work, family, and personal issues. The Branch works to create a flexible, supportive environment to engage employees and maximize organizational performance. The Branch’s programs are critical management tools for the Federal community as we strive to maintain an excellent, engaged, and mission focused workforce. Key work-life programs offered to Federal employees include worksite health and wellness, Employee Assistance Programs, Federal Occupational Health, workplace flexibilities, telework, alternative work schedules, elder care, Voluntary Leave Transfer Program, Voluntary Leave Bank Program and Workers’ Compensation.

Performance Management Branch

The Performance Management Branch is responsible for developing, administering, coordinating and overseeing key performance management programs, the Awards Recognition Program, the Drug Testing Program, and the Unemployment Program. The Branch provides guidance and direction throughout the full performance cycle to employees and supervisors (i.e., aligning elements and standards with strategic objectives, planning work, setting expectations, monitoring performance, rating and rewarding good performance). The Branch is also responsible for managing the Department’s non-SES employee performance and awards.

Labor and Employee Relations Division

In carrying out its responsibilities, the Labor and Employee Relations Division (LERD):

• Provides operational support to the Department in the areas of labor and employee relations, conduct and discipline, and grievances.
• Provides direction and oversight for the Department’s labor-management relations programs and appraises the effectiveness of labor- management relations throughout the Department.
• Provides training, guidance, advice, and operational support to supervisors, managers, and others regarding pertinent laws, government-wide regulations, case law, third party actions, and agency policy.

Additionally, the Branch provides the statutory function of Agency Head Review (AHR) on collective bargaining mid-term and term agreements. In support of strategic plans and other objectives of the Department, the Branch also provides technical advice and assistance to management on all matters pertaining to employee conduct and labor-management relations in the administration of negotiated labor agreements, coordinates Labor Impact Statements, administers the Department’s Drug program, and manages the Unemployment Compensation program.

Recruitment, Staffing and Compensation Division

The Recruitment, Staffing and Compensation Division (RSCD) provides oversight, consultation and operational services to the Department in the areas of staffing, recruitment and classification, student employment, special hiring initiatives, payroll, personnel processing and management of personnel records. The Director is supported by a Deputy, who serves as a strategic business partner providing comprehensive human resources management staffing, classification, and advisory services to ED customers.

The Recruitment, Staffing and Compensation Division has four Branches:

• Classification and Advisory Branch
• Staffing and Advisory Branch A
• Staffing and Advisory Branch B
• Payroll and Personnel Processing Branch

Classification and Advisory Branch

The Classification and Advisory Branch (CAB) serves as a strategic business partner with customers to provide guidance, direction, and operational support regarding effective position management as well as federal classification laws, regulations and policies.

Staffing and Advisory Branch A

The Staffing and Advisory Branch A (SABA) serves as a strategic business partner with customers to provide guidance, direction, and operational support in the areas of federal personnel staffing, using appropriate systems, and following merit system principles, laws, regulations and policies.

Staffing and Advisory Branch B

The Staffing and Advisory Branch B (SABB) serves as a strategic business partner with customers to provide guidance and direction, as well as operational and administrative support, in the areas of student employment and special hiring initiatives. This includes Veteran recruitment and hiring, the Diversity and Inclusion Program, Pathways Programs (Student Interns), Recent Graduates, Presidential Management Fellows (PMF), and the Student Volunteer Internship Program.
Payroll and Personnel Processing Branch
The Payroll and Personnel Processing Branch (PPPB) provides guidance, oversight and operational support regarding pay and leave administration matters. The Branch is responsible for processing personnel and pay actions/data to include position accounting, accession data, employee and pay records, back-pay, settlements, payroll accounting and eOPF maintenance and record keeping to satisfy Departmental information requirements. The Branch maintains oversight and management of the records information life cycle which includes collection (collect and retrieve), maintenance (use, file and access) and disposition (destruction, sanitization and transfer) of personnel files and records.

Human Capital Strategy Division

The Human Capital Strategy Division (HCSD) is responsible for aligning strategic human capital planning with agency mission, goals and objectives; informing strategic HR decision making and supporting effective workforce management; administering and managing integrated HR Line of Business (HRLoB) shared service provider systems and Department HR IT systems; and overseeing the integrity and reliability of HR data and databases.

In support of these functions, the Division:

• Oversees development of the Department’s strategic human capital management strategies to ensure human capital programs are aligned with agency mission, goals and objectives through analysis, planning, investment and measurement.
• Develops, monitors, and tracks the Department’s Human Capital Operating Plan (HCOP), which serves as an implementation document and articulates how the Department will execute the human capital elements of the agency strategic plan and annual performance plan, and maintain alignment with the Government Performance and Results Act (GPRA) Modernization Act of 2010.
• Develops and maintains a strategic framework that facilitates and guides agency and component-level workforce planning, analysis, implementation and monitoring to meet current and future workforce needs.
• Provides Department-wide and component-level workforce planning and analysis products.
• Provides consultation, advice and oversight of reorganizations and delegations of authority.
• Facilitates user defined queries and provides end user support, training, and guidance to enable customers to access and use routine, self-service predefined and customized HR reports in the DataMart library.
• Serves as system owner and administrator for Department HR IT systems and agency liaison/COR for shared service provided systems (i.e., Interior Business Center, Monster, OPM, etc.), including Federal Personnel and Payroll System (FPPS), FPPS Datamart (OBIEE), WTTS/EODS, EDHires (Monster), QuickTime, Employee Express, FedTalent, and USA Performance.
• Ensures the rigorous application of information security and information assurance policies, principles, and practices in the delivery of HR data and data management.
• Works directly with HR operational staff to validate and correct data discrepancies and ensures effective controls are developed and implemented to prevent recurrence.

Office of Security, Facilities and Logistics

The Office of Security, Facilities and Logistics (OSFL) oversees the Department's physical, personnel, classified information security programs, and protective service operations, as well as oversight of ED's Continuity of Operations Program. OSFL works with other ED organizations, the Federal Protective Service, and other local and Federal law enforcement organizations to secure ED's facilities, classified information, and employees. OSFL establishes and implements policies, space standards and procedures for the design, construction, furnishing, operation, maintenance, and repair of all ED Headquarters and Regional office buildings and provides a wide variety of logistics services to ED.

The OSFL Director is a member of ED's Security Coordinating Committee, chaired by the Assistant Secretary for OFO, which provides oversight and coordination for ED's various security and internal law enforcement activities. The OSFL Director also serves as the Secretary's Senior Intelligence Official and ED's Continuity Coordinator.

The OSFL Immediate Office (I/O) is responsible for ED's mail services, childcare subsidy program, health clinics, printing and copying services, and notary public administration. In addition, the I/O is responsible for the management and oversight of the OSFL budget formulation and execution processes to include the review and processing of Reimbursable Work Authorizations (RWAs), Purchase Orders and contracts, and Interagency Agreements.

Functional Activities include:

Manages ED's Headquarter and Regional mail management programs and provides guidance and support to ensure compliance with ED's mail services policy;

• Provides guidance and oversight for overnight package delivery services;
• Provides monthly expenditure reporting to OSFL Director, which outlines current allocation, total spent against allocation, allocation balance, percent of allocation spent, and amount obligated and committed;
• Manages all personnel related matters including overtime, awards, and timekeeping;
• Manages and oversees the OSFL budget formulation and execution processes;
  • Performs and manages OSFL metrics and reporting;
• Establishes, maintains and tracks employee specialized training programs;
• Conducts weekly reviews, processing, and reporting of RWAs, purchase orders and contracts, requisitions to include contract renewals, new procurements, travel, training, etc.;
• Develops and maintains Standard Operating Procedures, training plans, checklists, and performance measurements;
• Establishes and maintains partnership with the Executive Office for processing of financial documentation;
• Performs quality review and assurance of invoices, payment processes, and expenditures;
• Develops and maintains OSFL Acquisition Plan;
• Manages and maintains ED's moving services (moves, room set-ups, furniture relocations, etc.) and warehouse operations (storage, bulk deliveries, etc.)
• Oversees and manages ED's fitness center programs; and
• Manages ED's printing and copying program.

OSFL is comprised of four Divisions as follows:

Facilities and Logistics Services Division

• Personnel Security and Disaster Preparedness Division
• Physical Security and Emergency Preparedness Division
• Protective Service Division

Facilities and Logistics Services Division

The Facilities and Logistics Services Division (FLSD) provides high-quality and safe work environments for all ED personnel. FLSD partners with other ED offices and GSA to establish and implement policies, standards, and procedures for the design, construction, furnishing, operation, maintenance, and repair of all ED Headquarters and Regional office buildings. FLSD performs project management, lease management, space planning, facility management, safety, and environmental services to support ED's mission. FLSD advises senior level staff and serves as liaison with GSA on all building related matters.

FLSD develops and oversees ED's safety, environmental and occupational health program, which includes: responding to and conducting investigations of environment and health complaints, occupational accidents and injuries; managing the Department's Automated External Defibrillator program; conducting safety inspections and developing corrective action plans; and ensuring ED remains in compliance with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards and GSA mandated safety policies.

FLSD is also responsible for planning, establishing, directing, controlling, and implementing policy, standards, and procedures governing all aspects of the following functions: motor vehicle and transportation operations, shuttle services, parking services, notary public administration, photocopy services, fitness and health services, and the transit benefits program. FLSD manages the storage and delivery of ED publications through its EDPubs program and the management of mail services and programs for ED. FLSD also oversees the Federal Real Property Program.

FLSD has four Branches:

• Space Modernization Branch
• Building Management Branch
• Federal Real Property Branch
• Transportation Services Branch

Space Modernization Branch

The Space Modernization Branch (SMB) provides the vision and project management oversight in executing the ED Space Modernization Program (ESMP) for all ED facilities.
In performing its responsibilities, the Branch:

• Plans, designs, and executes ED's vision of the ESMP for all ED facilities. This entails keeping abreast of space trends in both commercial and government sectors and ensuring the ED's spaces are modern, functional, efficient, and aesthetically pleasing;
• Develops long-term budgets, participates in the budget formulation process, and oversees the execution of those budgets to support the ESMP;
• Works in conjunction with internal and external partners to develop programs of requirements for the ESMP;
• • Develops briefs, schedules, and business plans to support the ESMP, and provides regular updates to ED leadership on the progress of the program;
  • Conducts space utilization reviews and surveys to develop requirements for general and special purpose office layouts;
  • Develops space housing plans for all components within ED;
  • Provides space standards and designs and coordinates renovations or relocations to support the goals and objectives of ED's mission;
  • Provides expert solutions and advice to ED officials of space management and planning matters;
  • Monitors and manages the assignment of space throughout ED;
  • Executes policies, procedures, and standards for space management;
  • Maintains computer aided design drawings (CADD) for all facilities;
  • Is responsible for the acquisition, disposal, and accountability of space; development; of space criteria; space planning; and space policy and design;
  • Approves designs; furniture reconfigurations; construction and final acceptance of space; oversees renovations; relocations; program of requirement development; design intent drawing reviews; and construction drawing reviews;
  • Negotiates the terms, conditions, and cost of occupancy agreements with GSA and manages ED's rent budget;
  • Manages, monitors, and tracks all Federal and commercial leases for ED occupied space; and
  • Performs contracting officer representative duties for facility related actions for furniture procurement, and provides furniture design, acquisition, delivery, and installation services.

Building Management Branch

The Building Management Branch (BMB) provides facilities, project, and space management functions for ED customers in all ED buildings. The team ensures facilities are maintained and operated in accordance with agency and federal policy and procedures by conducting routine building inspections to ensure occupied areas are free of housekeeping, maintenance, and safety/environmental problems. Additionally, the team provides space management and construction management operations for all non-ESMP projects.

The team also manages the ED personal property program, oversees the ED safety and occupational health program, manages all environmental and sustainability activities designated by ED's Chief Sustainability Officer, and manages the Facilities Information Technology portfolio.
In performing its responsibilities, the Branch:

Develops scopes of work; performs cost estimating; develops and communicates project plans/schedules;

• Performs contracting officer representative duties for facility related actions including, elevator maintenance, custodial services, service desk and other IT related contracts, and other services;
• Provides a single point of contact per facility/building, for requesting workplace services including, but not limited to: renovations, locks/keys, room set-ups, plumbing, cleaning, office moves, lights, trash, asset management, hot/cold calls, furniture, ceiling tiles, and restroom supplies;
• Establishes and maintains a compliant and effective asset management control system including oversight of physical inventory surveys;
• Manages the ED's Surplus Property and Disposal Program;
• Tracks and reports energy management activities, greenhouse gas emissions, utilities savings and other performance measures required through Executive Order “Efficient Federal Operations" dated May 17, 2018;
• Prepares procurement requests and reimbursable work authorizations, performs budget requests and tracking;
• Manages the Facilities Information Technology portfolio, providing IT solutions for facilities related issues and policy; and
• Oversees all FLSD activities related to Continuity of Operations plan.

Federal Real Property Branch

The Federal Real Property Branch oversees and administers the Federal Real Property Assistance Program, a statutorily mandated program. The Federal Real Property Assistance Program assists eligible education organizations in the acquisition, development, and management of former federal surplus real property.

• In performing its responsibilities, the Branch:
  Screens available and potentially suitable surplus federal real property with local education organizations;
• Provides guidance and direction to eligible education organizations on the policies, procedures, and regulations which govern the acquisition, development, and disposal of former federal real property;
• Evaluates applications for the acquisition of available surplus federal real property and determine the Public Benefit Allowance that each application qualifies for under federal regulations;
• Approves or disapproves applications for the acquisition of available surplus federal real property;
• Develops and executes deeds and other instruments of conveyance as well as corollary agreements including abrogation and release agreements, consent instruments, cooperative Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs), mortgage financing authorizations, escrow agreements, and documents to revert property title; and • Enforces compliance with the terms and conditions of conveyance instruments.

Transportation Services Branch

The Transportation Services Branch (TSB) is responsible for the management and oversight of ED's transportation services to include transit benefits distribution and oversight; parking support and services; and vehicle contracts and interagency agreements.

In performing its responsibilities, the Branch:

• Develops and oversees shuttle services between and among ED's Headquarters operating locations;
• Oversees ED's parking program in the Headquarters and Regions, and monitors contract parking services;
• Establishes and maintains a motor vehicle management and operations program to provide for Headquarters transportation requirements;
• Allocates and dispatches motor vehicle resources to meet daily requirements;
• Manages a nationwide Fleet Management Program of ED's vehicles, manages vehicle contracts and agreements, and provides government reporting of ED's motor vehicle fleet; and
• Administers the national transit benefits program and assures that all transit distributions are within the allowable benefit for individual employees.

Personnel Security and Disaster Preparedness Division

The Personnel Security and Disaster Preparedness Division (PSDPD) develops policies, procedures, and guidelines for the personnel security functions in accordance with applicable federal laws, regulations, and Executive Orders and ensures everyone's employment will promote the efficiency of the service and is consistent with the public trust and national security interest. The Division adjudicates initial derogatory information on federal forms (OF 612, OF 306, SF 171 or Resume, etc.) to determine if an applicant is suitable for federal employment in a position of trust before an investigation is initiated. It also adjudicates the results of background investigations on applicants, appointees, employees, and contractors for (1) security clearances or to occupy sensitive positions; and (2) suitability to occupy a position of trust not requiring a security clearance. 

The Division also initiates background investigations for applicants, appointees, employees, and contractors and coordinates the implementation of the personnel security portion of Homeland Security Presidential Directive (HSPD)-12, which includes screening of current employees, applicants, and contractors for personal identity verification. The Division also conducts periodic internal reviews and evaluations as part of an ongoing departmental self-inspection program related to the handling and safeguarding of classified national security information and coordinates with the Chief Information Officer (including the Information Assurance Program) in assuring the security of ED's information technology hardware and systems. The Division has oversight and responsibility for the management and planning efforts of the Department's insider threat program and serves as ED's Federal Intelligence Coordination Office. The Division is also responsible for the procurement, maintenance, and oversight of the ED's National Security Information Technology systems and manages ED's Communications Security (COMSEC) Program.

The Division develops and maintains ED's continuity program and plans. This includes executing various tests, training, and exercises of ED programs and ensuring the development and maintenance of all Principal Office's Business Continuity plans. It also administers a broad range of activities relating to employees' and facilities' safety and emergency response. Additionally, the Division works with the Office of the Chief Information Officer regarding cyber threats and organization high value asset systems required to support ED's mission.

PSDPD has two branches:

• Personnel Security Intake Branch
• Personnel Security Adjudication Branch

Personnel Security Intake Branch

The Personnel Security Intake Branch (PSIB) is responsible for assuring that employees and contractors with access to ED-controlled facilities, systems and/or unclassified and classified information are suitable for the level of access granted to them. The type of background investigation is based on job assignment and duties.

The PSIB processes background investigations of federal employees and contractors who would occupy positions where a determination of suitability/fitness for employment or access to classified information is required.

The Branch's responsibilities include:

• Initiating background investigations for applicants, appointees, employees, and contractors and coordinating the implementation of the personnel security portion of HSPD-12, which includes screening of current employees, applicants, and contractors for personal identity verification;
• Reviewing Personnel Security Questionnaires, verifying information submitted on applications, contacting subjects via approved methods to complete information on background investigation forms, retrieving data from credit bureaus, requesting Local Agency Checks, reviewing reports to determine criminal record, etc.; • Processing Entry on Duty (EOD) employees - onboarding new employees, interns, political appointees, and fellows;
• Collecting security paperwork, forms, cyber security training certificates, initiating individual in eQip and assisting with the entire EOD process from a security perspective;
• Conducting New Employee Orientation;
• Performing Electronic Questionnaires for Investigations Processing (eQip) system HelpDesk assistance/requesting NP2 access;
• Working with Contracting Officer Representatives (CORs) and Principal Offices (POs) to process all moderate and high-risk Contractors working on ED accounts - (Document collection and tracking required);
• Personal Identity Verification (PIV) Processing (HSPD12)-Credentialing;
• Processing reciprocity requests;
• Initiating Reinvestigations – 5-year reinvestigations for ED employees and contractors and collecting and tracking process; and
• Processing exit clearances.

Personnel Security Adjudication Branch

The Personnel Security Adjudication Branch (PSAB) adjudicates initial derogatory information on federal forms (OF 612, OF 306, SF 171 or Resume, etc.) to determine if an applicant is suitable for federal employment in a position of trust before an investigation is initiated. It also adjudicates the results of background investigations on applicants, appointees, employees, and contractors for (1) security clearances or to occupy sensitive positions; and (2) suitability to occupy a position of trust not requiring a security clearance.

Physical Security and Emergency Preparedness Division

The Physical Security and Emergency Preparedness Division (PSEPD) develops and enforces procedures to ensure the safety and security of ED staff, contractors, and visitors entering ED Headquarters and Regional facilities; coordinates with other Federal agencies, including Federal Protective Service, GSA, and law enforcement agencies in the development of a physical security program, which protects both ED's facilities and employees. The Division provides oversight of the various facility guard services and, in coordination with the Office of the Secretary; protection of the agency's executives and visiting dignitaries; conducts investigations into administrative and policy violations; and manages the building access control system including the identification card program and HSPD-12 PIV program.

Protective Service Division

The Protective Service Division (PSD) provides personal protection to ensure the safety and security of the Secretary of Education, and during times of increased threat, the Deputy Secretary of Education. PSD has the responsibility and independent authority to determine both the need for employer-provided security and the appropriate protective services in response to that determination. PSD may conduct security studies to assess the needs for employer-provided security and threats and appropriate responses to such threats and to make specific security recommendations. Protection coverage to the Secretary of Education includes the provision of “portal-to-portal" transportation during the business week and for all official events. After-hours and weekend coverage may be provided on an as needed or requested basis, to include coverage for personal travel or private events, based on available threat information or security determination. All locations to be visited by the Secretary of Education are advanced by a PSD detail agent, ensuring venue locations are thoroughly investigated to provide the utmost security posture. When the Secretary of Education travels outside of the National Capitol Region (NCR), the PSD travels in advance of the Secretary of Education to coordinate with State and local law enforcement agencies for support; sites to be visited are assessed; and logistical services are secured. The PSD maintains liaison with the White House Military Office (WHMO) and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and participates in exercises and briefings pertaining to national emergencies; and coordinates contingency plans for Continuity of Operations Plans (COOP) and Continuity of Government (COG), affecting the Secretary of Education.

Office of Business Support Services (OBSS)

Office of Business Support Services is responsible for all IT activities that affect the Office of Financial Operations (OFO) systems, services, or applications (SYSTEMS) that are operating on the Department of Education's hosted platform (PIVOT-H), commercial shared services platforms, or Federal shared services platforms.

Customer and System Support Division (CSSD)

The Customer and System Services Division (CSSD) reports to the Office of Business Support Services' (OBSS) Deputy Assistant Secretary within OFO.

The CSSD is the customer service division within OBSS and is comprised of two branches: OBSS HelpDesk and Communications and Training Services. CSSD is responsible for all end user training, help desk and communication necessary to support the OFO systems, to include the EDCAPS Applications as well as other OFO systems hosted on PIVOT-H. EDCAPS is comprised of the Grants Management and Contracts and Purchasing Systems that are integrated to the Department's core Financial Management System. CSSD's mission is to support the Department's core financial systems, and those systems hosted on PIVOT-H.

OBSS Helpdesk Branch

OBSS Helpdesk Branch provides EDCAPS customers with Tier 1 help desk support necessary to utilize the EDCAPS Applications (CPSS, FMSS, G5, IPP, and E2) to perform their work proficiently. The help desk is broken into two teams, one that supports internal customers that use EDCAPS and the G5 Hotline that supports external users only. Collectively the EDCAPS Help Desk receives approximately 30,000 calls per year and. The help desk provides customer assistance on EDCAPS system issues during the hours of 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM EST and G5 Hotline support through 6:00 PM EST. The EDCAPS Help Desk receives calls from ED staff through the Cisco Finesse Call Distribution System according to issue type and agent availability, and through email messages received through the Department's MS Outlook system. The EDCAPS Help Desk uses RemedyForce, a hosted application that sits on the Salesforce Platform. All issues received by the help desk are posted to the Help Desk RemedyForce call tracking system. Incidents that cannot be resolved by Tier 1 are assigned to Tier 2/3 for further analysis.

Communications and Training Services Branch

Communications and Training Services Branch is responsible for the creation, maintenance, and delivery of courses for the EDCAPS Applications. The training branch creates online course content using the Oracle User Productivity Kit (UPK) software and maintains a library of over 600 course topics available in the Department's FedTalent Learning Management System. The same course content is housed and maintained on ConnectED along with the full complement of course offerings delivered throughout the calendar years. Communication in regard to the course schedule, planned EDCAPS system upgrades, outages, and functional changes, all are centralized to the Training Branch.

Business Systems Support Division (BSSD)

The Business Systems Support Division (BSSD) reports to the Office of Business Support Services' Deputy Assistant Secretary within OFO.

The BSSD's mission is to develop, operate, maintain, and support the Department's core systems. BSSD is responsible for operating and maintaining the agency's financial, grants, contracts, and procurement systems. For each, BSSD is responsible for supporting the IT lifecycle, developing solutions, testing, and installing related software components. BSSD helps to establish policies and procedures and ensures system compliance with applicable laws and regulations. It also works with OCIO to ensure a current cyber security posture. The BSSD is comprised of three branches: Grants Management; Financial Management; and Project Management & Modernization Services.

Grants Management Branch (GMB)

The Grants management Branch maintains the Department's Grants Managements System (G5). It is responsible for the functional operations, providing O&M, troubleshooting, and enhancements. They also support external interfaces to Grants.gov, Sam.gov, Treasury, and DOI. Internal interfaces to FSA, and the other systems under EDCAPS.

Financial Management Branch

The Financial Management Branch maintains the Department's Financial Management System (FMSS) and the Departments Contracts and Procurements System (CPSS). It is responsible for the functional operations, providing O&M, troubleshooting, and enhancements. They also support external interfaces to Sam.gov, Treasury, and DOI. Internal interfaces to FSA, and the other systems under EDCAPS. This branch also helps to make the Department's payments in conjunction with OFM.

Project Management & Modernization Branch

The Project Management & Modernization Branch (PMMB) supports the Department’s investment management and systems lifecycle management by leveraging and analyzing data from ED’s annual IT Funding Request and Enterprise Program Management Review (EPMR). This includes performing comprehensive data analyses and developing and disseminating reports and dashboards to agency leaders to inform decision-making on department investment management and systems lifecycle management. PMMB provides support and assistance across the agency to ensure process and system management as it relates to Folio, IT investments, the EPMR process and associated Governance Boards, and configuration management support. In addition, PMMD manages OFO’s process automation through the management of automation needs intake, oversight of automation changes/configuration management processes, and creation/delivery of Robotic Process Automation (RPA) for business processes to improve productivity. PMMB provides internal OBSS coordination for information assurance services (IAS) and cybersecurity coordination.

The PMMB supports department-wide systems, including the Audit Accountability and Resolution Tracking System (AARTS), the Building and Personnel Security System (EDSTAR), and Hyperion. It is responsible for the functional operations, providing O&M, troubleshooting, and enhancements. They support external interfaces to GSA, DOI, and DOJ.

Shared Services and Cybersecurity Division (SSCSD)

The Shared Services and Cybersecurity Division (SSCSD) reports to the Office of Business Support Services' (OBSS) Deputy Assistant Secretary within OFO.

The SSCSD is responsible for supporting the Departments travel program and the coordination of actions required to enable the OFO to maximize the use of shared IT services offered by other Federal departments and agencies, to also include the shared services offered by commercial entities.

The Federal IT Modernization Report highlights actions that compliment Department and Agency efforts to modernize citizen facing services – by moving to a more secure, agile, and cost-effective infrastructure, much of which will be provided by shared services. By leveraging shared services offered by other Federal departments and agencies, and also the shared services offered by commercial sources, the Department of Education can focus on enabling a more effective and efficient government for the American people. ED's shared services efforts seek to improve the return on investment for IT spending, close productivity gaps, increase communications with the managing partners and customers of shared services. With the challenges faced in today's resource-constrained operating environments, the Department must also eliminate any wasteful spending that results from implementing duplicative solutions for mission, support, and commodity IT functions.

Commercial and Federal Management Shared Services Branch (CFMSSB)

The CFMSSB supports the Departments use of leveraging shared services offered by other Federal departments and agencies and supports OFO in the use of approved Cloud Service Providers and services. CFMSSB provides support to OFO business units by supporting Information Technology projects in accordance with Department systems life cycle management procedures. In addition, the CFMSSB monitors and assesses OFO systems in accordance with information assurance, and information management competencies defined by the Department. Finally, CFMSSB advises OFO business units on the continuation, modernization, consolidation, or termination of systems.

Travel Management Branch (TMB)

The TMB establishes the Departmental travel policy and procedures, administers and monitors the agency's travel system and program, and conducts training to ensure ED compliance with the Federal Travel Regulations. The TMB is responsible for administering the Departments travel cards and the Departments travel card system. TMB is also responsible for reconciling monthly travel invoices to ensure compliance with Department and Federal travel polices. In addition, TMB develops and conducts quarterly user and administrator travel card user training for Department officials. Finally, TMB conducts post travel card payment audits to ensure payment integrity for all submitted documentation.

Cybersecurity Branch

The Cybersecurity Branch is responsible for promoting OBSS systems-compliance with OMB, OCIO, and general cyber security mandates. Additional responsibilities are to address and remediate all cyber security issues identified in OBSS systems, assist and track audits, and support OCIO’s EPM, EARB, and CSAM processes. A secondary role is to provide cyber security consulting to systems outside of OBSS.