§ 32–1691.06. Establishment of IT training grants.

(a) Pursuant to § 32-1603(c), no later than January 31, 2022, and by November 1 annually thereafter, the WIC shall issue IT training grants ("grants") to eligible providers of IT training in the District.

(b) Grant recipients shall use funds received pursuant to this section to support the salaries and fringe benefits of faculty and staff engaged in the provision of IT training and to provide Program participants the financial assistance outlined in § 32-1691.02(b).

(c) Subject to availability of funds, the WIC shall award grants totaling not less than $1,875,000 per year with the option of one additional year based on performance results from previous years.

(d) To be eligible for a grant, an applicant shall:

(1) Be licensed by the Higher Education Licensure Commission as a postsecondary institution, degree or non-degree seeking; and

(2) Demonstrate that its IT training participants consistently and successfully attain the following benchmarks:

(A) Completion of IT training;

(B) Attainment of an IT occupational credential;

(C) Obtainment of unsubsidized employment in an IT occupation; and

(D) Retention of employment in an IT occupation for 6 months or longer.

(e) The WIC may give preference to grant applicants utilizing integrated education and training, as defined by 34 C.F.R. § 463.35.