The Department has been reviewing grants that reflect the prior Administration’s priorities and policy preferences and conflict with those of the current Administration, in that the programs: violate the letter or purpose of Federal civil rights law; conflict with the Department’s policy of prioritizing merit, fairness, and excellence in education; undermine the well-being of the students these programs are intended to help; or constitute an inappropriate use of federal funds. As part of this review, some grants have been terminated. Those organizations with terminated grants receive a termination letter that describes an opportunity, consistent with 2 CFR § 200.342, in which they could submit information and documentation appealing the termination within 30 calendar days of receipt of the termination letter. Department staff will follow the process set out below to review these appeals:
Step 1: Receive appeal from terminated grantee following procedures outlined in the termination letter.
Step 2: First level reviewer examines all appeal materials received and applicable grant materials.
Step 3: First level reviewer completes individual factual analysis of appealing grantee and provides analysis of decision consistent with the terms of the termination letter.
Step 4: First level reviewer provides initial recommendation to senior leadership in the program office.
Step 5: Senior leadership in the program office makes final appeal decision regarding each individual appeal.
Step 6: Program office sends final letter and completes any applicable actions in the Department's grant system.
Step 7: Grantee receives notification of decision through individualized letter explaining the reasons the appeal is accepted or denied.