Memo No. 045-22: Change in Distribution Model of PluggedIn VA Funds
This memo details a change in the distribution model for PluggedIn VA funding, which is provided to the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) through Virginia Lottery funds.
Since the first Governor’s Innovation Grant in 2009, PluggedIn VA has made a unique, pioneering contribution to the state and the national adult education and training landscape. The PluggedIn VA cohorts demonstrated, even through a limited number of small annual awards, the viability and impactfulness of the model of integrated education and training (IET). We applaud the efforts of the early adopters and partners who implemented this service model and those who have continued to expand it.
Beginning with state priorities released in the 2020-2023 competitive cycle for Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2014 (WIOA), Adult Education and Family Literacy Act (AEFLA) funds, all adult education providers have been required to offer IET programming so that the opportunity to earn high-demand industry credentials through IET programming is available in all regions of the Commonwealth.
Given this requirement, the VDOE will distribute the PluggedIn VA annual funds ($465,375) as formula awards to reach all regional providers. This will ensure consistent, predictable funding that providers can budget toward the staffing and instructional costs of the IET model, including the provision of career coaching services. The allocations will be published in the 2022-2023 continuation application package, which will be released in mid-March.
Beginning in program year 2022-2023, PluggedIn VA funds will be claimed as state match to the federal AEFLA award. Therefore, PluggedIn VA funds will no longer be available to purchase GED® vouchers for students. Providers should use the state-funded vouchers (see Director’s Memo #42-21) or awarded Race to GED® funds for such purchases.
If you have further questions, please contact Heidi Silver-Pacuilla, Ph.D., Adult Education Coordinator, by email at OAEL@doe.virginia.gov or by telephone at (804) 786-3347.