Frequently Asked Questions
Sometimes what you need to know is too specific to ever be covered in a workshop or training, however well-designed. Whether you need a few specific facts or reams of research on a new program, LearningWork Connection provides expert assistance in finding the information you need.
We may have already addressed your questions about Workforce Investment Act (WIA) youth programming in our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) area. The WIA Youth FAQ currently includes questions and responses about performance, spending, fiscal issues (including allowable costs), framework activities, and program elements.
I was told that I have to give the TABE as part of eligibility determination. Do I?
No. Eligibility is based on meeting income requirements and documenting a specific barrier to employment. The TABE should not be given as part of the eligibility determination process. The TABE should be given as part of the objective assessment after a youth is determined to be eligible. Note that giving an eligible youth the TABE is delivering a service, so makes the youth a participant.
Is Ohio using Common Measures?
Yes. Under waiver authority, Ohio is now accountable for meeting Common Measures for youth (as well as adults and dislocated workers) instead of the former statutory measures.
I was told that all youth are in all the Common Measures. Is that true?
No. There is no older youth/younger youth designation in Common Measures, so age is not a factor in determining whether a youth is included in a particular measure. But each measure clearly defines who is included. For example, the Literacy/Numeracy measure includes ONLY youth who are out-of-school AND basic skill deficient. In school youth are excluded from this measure. For detailed information on Common Measures, see USDOL TEGL 17-05.
Can we pay a stipend to youth who are in summer employment?
Youth who are participating in Summer Employment Linked to Academic and Occupational Skills must be paid a wage. Youth in other program elements offered during the summer, such as Paid or Unpaid Work Experience, may be paid a stipend.
I heard that we now have to spend at least 70 percent of our funds on out-of-school youth. Is that true?
No. The requirement that local areas must spend at least 30 percent of their youth allocation on out-of-school youth has not changed. The spending requirement is part of the law and won’t change until WIA is reauthorized or replaced with other legislation.
Can I use WIA youth funds to provide a service to a youth who is not a WIA participant?
In general, no. WIA youth funds can only be used to provide services to WIA participants; however, WIA funds may be spent on outreach or recruitment activities. For example, you may hold an open house for youth to recruit new participants. Some youth who attend may not be eligible or may choose not to become WIA participants. This is allowable, but you cannot provide any service under the 10 program elements or framework activities to non-participants.
What services can we provide to a youth who is in follow-up?
Any service that was provided to a youth as an active participant can be provided during follow-up if it is needed for the youth to keep his or her employment, stay in education, or advance on the job. Some local policies limit what can be provided during follow-up, so be sure to know your local policy, as well.
