MINUTES OF THE KANSAS CHILDREN’S CABINET MEETING
The October 20, 2011, meeting of the Kansas Children’s Cabinet and Trust Fund was called to order by Cabinet Chair Amanda Adkins at 9:30 a.m. with a quorum present. The meeting was held in Marvin Auditorium 101-A located in the Topeka-Shawnee County Public Library, 1515 SW 10th Avenue, Topeka.
Present: Amanda Adkins, Chair, Valdenia Winn, Mary Cohen, Jonathan Freiden, Shannon Cotsoradis,
Terrie Huntington, Kari Bruffett (KDHE Designee), Jim Kallinger (SRS Designee),
Mark Gleeson (Supreme Court Designee), and Gayle Stuber (KSDE Designee)
Staff: Jim Redmon, Jane Weiler, and Dyogga Adegbore
Guests: The University of Kansas Institute for Educational Research & Public Service:
Karin Chang-Rios, Annie McKay, Stephanie Wallio, and Jessica Dunn
Cabinet Chair Amanda Adkins asked for introductions around the table and from the audience.
Approval of Minutes – September 15, 2011
Mary Cohen moved that the minutes of September 15, 2011 be approved as written. Following the second of Terrie Huntington, the motion carried.
An Overview of Social, Educational, and Health Status of Children in Kansas
Cabinet Chair Amanda Adkins and Jim Redmon gave a power point presentation about long-term strategic imperatives and key opportunities concerning social, educational and health status of children in Kansas. The KU Institute team helped put together the presentation using information that included data and demographic details, rankings and scores and poverty levels in various communities in the state. The Cabinet can begin developing a plan to reach those objectives through analyzing needs, targets, models, implementation and results over time and tracking consistent longitudinal data for children birth to five years of age and analyzing how it impacts reading levels for 3rd and 4th grade students. Three key goals that Cabinet Chair Adkins would like to see the Kansas Children’s Cabinet pursue are:
Health: Children in Kansas are among the healthiest in the nation;
Education: Children in Kansas are prepared for future workforce needs to be competitive in a global market; and
Services: Children in Kansas live in stable families that flourish.
FY 2011 Children’s Initiatives Fund (CIF) Overview
Karin Chang-Rios, Ph.D., Assistant Director, Annie McKay, MA, Research Analyst,
Stephanie Wallio, Ph.D., Research Associate and Jessica Dunn, MA, Graduate Research Assistant, presented the components of the accountability framework as well as reviewed and discussed the contents of the CIF Briefing Binder. The sections of the binder include:
- FY 2011 Overview and FY 2012 Funding by program, agency primary population served and primary focus area
- At-A-Glance tables by financial information, population served, evidence-based practice, quality evaluation, and program overview
- Specific program information of the CIF programs
- Appendices (Accountability Framework, Evidence Based Practices checklist and Quality Evaluation checklist used by Institute team members during the evaluation process
There were questions about individual programs and whether their evidenced-based practices levels had changed in the last year or not. In some cases, a program raised its EBP level.
Future Cabinet Meetings
November 10, 2011 - 9:30 a.m. (Marvin Auditorium Room 101-A), Topeka-Shawnee County Public Library.
Cabinet Chair Amanda Adkins announced the Cabinet will need a meeting scheduled in December
to act on the CIF recommendations.
Other Business:
Race To The Top Early Learning Federal Grant Application
Dr. Gayle Stuber distributed copies of the Race To The Top Executive Summary. The Kansas team’s application for the Race To The Top federal early learning challenge grant was submitted to U.S. Department of Education on October 18, 2011. The grant affords funding opportunities for states to build a coordinated early learning and development system. It supports early childhood professionals to provide higher quality learning experiences to children, reduces the readiness gaps during the early years and the academic gaps in later elementary years. Representation from the Governor’s office, Kansas State Department of Education (Lead Agency), Kansas Department of Health & Environment, Kansas Department of Social & Rehabilitation Services along with Jim Redmon of the Kansas Children’s Cabinet and Trust Fund office worked together to submit the grant application for Kansas. Applicants will be notified of action taken on applications in early December.
Adjournment
There being no further business for discussion, Terrie Huntington moved the meeting be adjourned at 11:50 a.m. Following a second by Jonathan Freiden, motion carried.
MINUTES OF THE KANSAS CHILDREN’S CABINET MEETING
Thursday, September 15, 2011
9:35 a.m. to 10:50 a.m.
The September 15, 2011, meeting of the Kansas Children’s Cabinet and Trust Fund was called to order by Cabinet Chair Amanda Adkins at 9:35 a.m. with a quorum present. The meeting was held in Menninger Room 206 located in the Topeka-Shawnee County Public Library, 1515 SW 10th Avenue, Topeka.
Present: Amanda Adkins, Chair, Laura Kelly, Shari Weber, Valdenia Winn, Tim Cruz, Mary Cohen,
Jim Kallinger (SRS Designee), Mark Gleeson (Supreme Court Designee),
Gayle Stuber (KSDE Designee)
Staff: Jim Redmon, Jane Weiler, and Dyogga Adegbore
Guests: The University of Kansas Institute for Educational Research & Public Service:
Karin Chang-Rios, Annie McKay, and Stephanie Wallio
Cabinet Chair Amanda Adkins asked for introductions around the table and from the audience.
Approval of Minutes – June 16, 2011
Laura Kelly moved that the minutes of June 16, 2011 be approved. Following the second of Tim Cruz, the motion carried.
Direction of Children’s Cabinet and Trust Fund Preliminary Discussion
Cabinet Chair Amanda Adkins congratulated the Cabinet on the work that has been accomplished. She talked briefly about her education and work background. Her current position is Executive & General Manager at Cerner Corporation in Kansas City, where she analyzes data and system
processes in health care.
Amanda reported on her meetings with leaders of organizations that the Cabinet funds with CIF dollars. She is interested in hearing about their successes and weakness with their programs, and where they think the holes are in providing services. On the whole, Amanda said she has been impressed with these organizations and what they are doing in Kansas. Their work has had a good impact on children and families. She brought up Parents As Teachers (PAT) as an example of a program serving and benefitting families. Amanda talked about the data collected by the programs and compiled by The University of Kansas Institute. The data is showing the results for why they they are both good investments and reasons for receiving CIF funding. The Cabinet has been conversing with the programs and collecting the data. As a result of Amanda’s early quantitative (data) and qualitative (discussions) review of programs, she concluded that the Children’s Cabinet is missing “bookends.” She defined this to include: 1. Defining the problem in Kansas (I.E. – Bad trends we see for children and families current state); and 2. Being clear on the end result (I.E. – Clarity on future state, our vision for the environment and results we want to see in 10 years). Amanda has asked Jim to start working on identifying the current state problem set. This discussion will be continued at future meetings.
The University of Kansas Kansas, Institute for Educational Research and Public Service presentation
Karin Chang-Rios, Ph.D., Assistant Director, Annie McKay, MA, Research Analyst, and
Stephanie Wallio, Ph.D., Research Associate presented background and overview on the CIF accountability framework, aligning requirements, and process timeline.
In preparation for the FY 2013 Recommendations, Cabinet staff will be sending copies of the
FY 2011 CIF Briefing binder to the Cabinet before the October 20 meeting. At the October meeting, the KU team will be discussing the program funding, process used for information gathering, collected data, outcomes and evidence-based practice levels and programs.
The Cabinet will make FY 2013 CIF recommendations at the November 10 meeting.
Dr. Chang-Rios announced that The University of Kansas Institute for Educational Research & Public Service will be hosting a Midwest Research & Evaluation Exchange at 6:00 p.m. tonight at the Plaza Marriott in Kansas City, Missouri. The Exchange is an opportunity for researchers and evaluators to learn about emerging research on children and families, discuss issues of measurement and evaluation and to address policy imperative for the work they do. More information about the Exchange is available at http://www.continuinged.ku.eud/programs/childhood. All Cabinet members are invited. Dr. Lisa Klein, Birth to Five Policy Alliance, and Dr. Gayle Stuber, Kansas State Department of Education are presenters.
Executive Director Report
Problem-Solution Framework
Jim Redmon said, as a continuation to what Cabinet Chair Adkins alluded to, they are developing a problem-solution framework, which will delineate where we are in Kansas in addressing children and family issues. The framework will also reflect why and what we fund and the point to changes we need to consider given the potential for declining tobacco revenue.
Cabinet Chair Adkins added that she had met recently with Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt about the declining tobacco settlement dollars. The AG informed her that his office is in arbitration with tobacco companies. The AG said he would have a better feel for how much money will be coming in by end of this year. Although tobacco settlement dollars are expected to continue declining, Jim Kallinger commented that we should recommend the programs have strategic plans in place for seeking alternate sources as these dollars are declining. Jim Redmon added that some, but not all, programs do have plans in place and are able to blend and braid funding.
Race to the Top for Early Learning
Jim reported Governor Brownback’s representative, Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE), Kansas Department of Health & Environment (KDHE), Kansas Department of Social & Rehabilitation Services (SRS) staff and he had been in discussions on whether Kansas should apply for the Race to the Top for Early Learning federal grant. The award is $50 million dollars over four years. Recently, Governor Brownback designated KSDE to be the lead agency in writing the grant in concert with other state agencies including the Kansas Children’s Cabinet. Applications are due October 19, 2011 in Washington, D.C.
Smart Start Kansas and ECBG Renewal RFPs
Jim Redmon reported the Cabinet office will be announcing grant renewal Request For Proposals (RFPs) for the Smart Start Kansas and Early Childhood Block Grant (ECBG). The grantees will be given a six-week turnaround time to reapply. He added there is some merit in combining both grants into one funding stream to make it more coherent. Jim said that the Cabinet can discuss making all early childhood funding streams align at a future meeting. Both grants use CIF tobacco settlement funds.
Reading Road Map Initiative
Jim gave an update on the Reading Road Map initiative since the last Cabinet meeting. He has met with State Librarian and early childhood partners about the Governor’s Reading Road Map initiative. All are on board with collaborating for the success of the program. The group will continue discussions on how to coordinate this project with the Race to the Top Early Learning grant and other early childhood initiatives in the state.
Community-Based Child Abuse Prevention (CBCAP) Program
Jim said that along with the early childhood initiatives that the Cabinet carries out, there is the Children’s Trust Fund program. The Cabinet office has recently renewed the nine CBCAP grants for period July 1, 2011 to June 30, 2012. The Cabinet office has taken over the Period of PURPLE Crying, Shaken Baby Syndrome projects formerly administered directly by the Kansas Department of Social & Rehabilitation Services (SRS). Jim said he met with Jim Kallinger, Deputy Secretary of Integrated Service Delivery and his staff at SRS on better ways to avoid duplication of service on prevention initiatives. They were able to establish that SRS oversee the child welfare aspects and the Children’sTrust Fund will focus more on the primary and secondary prevention programs.
Future Cabinet Meetings
October 20, 2011
November 10, 2011
The meetings will be held 9:30 a.m. in Marvin Auditorium Room 101-A at the Topeka-Shawnee County Public Library.
Other Business:
Recognition of Melissa L. Ness
Laura Kelly moved the minutes reflect the Cabinet recognized Melissa L. Ness for 8+ years of exemplary service as Chair of the Kansas Children’s Cabinet and Trust Fund. Following a second by Tim Cruz, the motion carried.
Adjournment
There being no further business for discussion, Laura Kelly moved the meeting be adjourned at 10:50 a.m. Following a second by Tim Cruz, motion carried.
MINUTES OF THE KANSAS CHILDREN’S CABINET MEETING
SRS Learning Center, Room D
2600 SW East Circle Drive South, Topeka
Thursday, June 16, 2011
9:30 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.
Present: Melissa Ness, Chair, Laura Kelly, Terrie Huntington, Shari Weber, José Olivas,
Tim Cruz, Jonathan Freiden, Mark Gleeson (Supreme Court Designee), and
Janet Newton (KSDE Designee)
Staff: Jim Redmon, Jane Weiler, and Dyogga Adegbore
Guests: The University of Kansas Institute for Educational Research & Public Service:
Karin Chang-Rios, Annie McKay, and Jessica Dunn
Welcome and Introductions
Cabinet Chair Melissa Ness called the meeting to order and asked for introductions around the table and from the audience. There was a quorum.
Approval of Minutes – November 9, 2010
The Cabinet received copies of the last minutes prior to this meeting.
It moved and seconded by José Olivas and Terrie Huntington, the Cabinet approve the minutes of November 10, 2010, as written. Motion carried.
Melissa remarked that agenda Item #3, Overview and background of the Cabinet, would be removed from the agenda since the new ex officio members were not present. This was an information item for their benefit.
Outcome of the 2011 Legislative Session
Melissa reported the FY 2012 CIF recommendations had been sent to the Governor and Kansas Legislature. The recommendations were sustained although with across the board cuts. The Early Head Start program encountered even more challenges maintaining CIF funding. The Cabinet recommended continued full funding of the EHS program at $3,452,686 last fall. During the session the program was defunded entirely. By the end of the legislative session, EHS was reinstated with CIF funding at $66,866 in addition to funds coming from SRS/Child Care Development Fund. Also, for the first time, the legislature back filled CIF with $6.7 million (in one-time sales tax revenues). The Cabinet appreciated the efforts of Senator Laura Kelly, Senator Terrie Huntington, and the early childhood advocates this past legislative session in protecting CIF. The legislature passed the Governor’s Reading Road map initiative with CIF funding for FY 2012. The appropriation for the program is $933,137.
The University of Kansas Kansas, Institute for Educational Research and Public Service presentation
The KU Institute team provided background and overview on the accountability framework. The presentation included overview of funding by agency, programs by agency, accountability process timeline, collection and compilation of data.
Mark Gleeson asked the audience members who are recipients of CIF dollars to comment on how they thought the accountability framework worked for them. Kandi Miller, United Way of the Plains, Wichita (Smart Start Kansas) and Colleen Pederson, DCCCA Inc., Lawrence (Family Preservation), Janet Newton, KSDE (Parents As Teachers), and Leadell Ediger, Child Care Aware® of Kansas (Early Childhood Block Grant) responded positively about the transparency of the process, site visits, and alignment with federal standards. Jane Weiler remarked that feedback from the Smart Start Kansas and ECBG grantees concluded the KU team provided a positive resource for technical assistance for them.
Executive Director Report
Jim Report reported he will be meeting with SRS representatives about child abuse prevention initiatives and Children’s Trust Fund activities tomorrow. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss ways to collaborate and avoid any potential for duplication of dollars on prevention initiatives between SRS and the Kansas Children’s Cabinet and Trust Fund.
Jim announced that the ECBG and Smart Start RFPs will go out this fall. He will invite Cabinet members, state and national experts to assist reviewing the applications. The CBCAP renewal RFPs were announced to current grantees. Applications will be due to the office in a week.
Laura Kelly inquired about status of establishing the Reading Road Map initiative. Jim responded he had met with State Library Association representatives. The State Library Association administers a well-known Six Steps to Reading Road Map program. He is also considering funding the program through early childhood grants. Terrie Huntington remarked the school districts might be a likely fit for helping measure reading proficiency levels.
Jonathan Freiden remarked he was involved in the initial discussions with Governor Brownback about the reading program initiative. He understood the intent to reflect a collaborative effort among early childhood partners, Parents As Teachers, and libraries, with a concrete framework with outcomes established.
Laura Kelly mentioned the legislative intent was for the libraries to be involved because of their six steps to reading road program already established. Also, the early childhood community should have representation. The budget was originally set at $500,000. Melissa suggested the Cabinet allot time for a written plan with outcomes and pull together the players needed to move forward with the reading road map initiative. Laura Kelly suggested setting up pilot sites at various libraries across the state.
Melissa asked Jim to look at current reading/literacy projects, concepts and develop a proposal. Jonathan stated that in his discussions with the Governor, the intent of the reading road map project was to increase 3rd grade literacy levels. Jonathan stated that if the State Library Association will be involved in this effort, its current six-step reading road program must meet new criteria that includes outcomes, evidence-based practices, and accountability measures that reflect the Governor’s intent.
Preparing for FY 2013 Recommendations
Melissa commented that at the next meeting Cabinet members will be provided information about criteria/assumptions and budgets for the FY 2013 CIF recommendations. There will be an update on the literacy investment implementation as well.
Next Meetings
The Cabinet next three meetings are scheduled September 15, October 20 and November 10, 2011 at 9:30 a.m. Note: All three meetings will be held at the Topeka-Shawnee County Public Library, located at 1515 SW 10th Avenue in Topeka.
Adjournment
There being no further business for discussion, the meeting was adjourned at 11:45 a.m.
Minutes of November 9, 2010 Meeting (in PDF format)
MINUTES OF THE KANSAS CHILDREN’S CABINET MEETING
Hayden Building, LL Conference Room
212 SW 8th Avenue, Topeka
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
9:30 a.m. to 11:50 a.m.
Present: Melissa Ness, Chair, Jose Olivas, Tim Cruz, Laura Kelly, Shari Weber,
Terrie Huntington, Mark Gleeson (Supreme Court Designee),
Gayle Stuber (KSDE Designee), and Bobbi Mariani (SRS Designee)
Cabinet Staff: Jim Redmon, Jane Weiler, and Dyogga Adegbore
Absent: Jonathan Freiden, William Nelson, Gwen Perkins, Andy Tompkins,
Justice Lee Johnson, Roderick Bremby, Don Jordan, Russell Jennings
Guests: The University of Kansas Institute for Educational Research &
Public Service:
Karin Chang-Rios, Annie McKay and Mary Morales
Melissa Ness, Chair opened the meeting and welcomed everyone.
There was a quorum.
Approval of the Minutes
Cabinet members received copies of the minutes before the meeting.
It was moved and seconded by Jose’ Olivas and Laura Kelly the Cabinet approve the minutes of September 30, 2010, April 15, 2010, January 26, 2010 and November 16, 2009, as written. Motion carried.
Introductory Remarks from the Chair
Melissa Ness remarked that today’s meeting will be focused on receiving new information and material on each Children’s Initiatives Fund program (CIF) that the Cabinet made recommendations on last year to the Kansas Legislature. The Cabinet would be moving through each program profile in the briefing binder.
Report from the Executive Director
Jim Redmon reported the Cabinet office sent out Request For Proposals (RFP) to current Early Childhood Block Grant and Smart Start Kansas grantees. The ECBG RFPS are for grant renewals and due by October 15. The Smart Start Kansas RFPs are for new grants and due by October 29. Cabinet staff discussed with the grantees the possibility of combining both ECBG and Smart Start Kansas funding streams at some future time. Although the Cabinet will make the final decision after weighing the pros, cons, and impact.
Master Tobacco Settlement shortfall
Jim reported that there is a $1.85 million dollar shortfall in the Master Tobacco Settlement in FY 2011. The tobacco monies are the funding source for the KEY Fund Investment Account and the Children’s Initiatives Fund. Melissa commented the Cabinet has been asked by the Division of the Budget to weigh-in and recommend distribution of the balance.
Review of Children’s Initiatives Fund Programs
The KU Institute team presented the components of the accountability framework and timeline for surveys and interviews with program staff. KU staff and the Cabinet reviewed and discussed the contents of the CIF Briefing Binder which each Cabinet member received prior to the meeting. The sections of the binder include:
- FY 2010 Overview and FY 2011 Funding by program, agency primary population served and primary focus area
- At-A-Glance tables by financial information, population served, evidence-based practice, quality evaluation, and program overview
- Specific program information of the 17 CIF programs
- Appendices (Accountability Framework, Evidence Based Practices checklist and Quality Evaluation checklist used by Institute staff during the evaluation process
Cabinet members posed questions about some of the programs that would require additional background information and investigation prior to the next meeting. At the November 9th meeting, the Cabinet will look at answers to the questions. After further discussion, it was already determined there may be some recommendations for funding that will have a caveat and expectations outlined for use of CIF funding. Melissa Ness commented if Cabinet members desired additional information on any program, to let Jim Redmon know prior to the November 9 meeting.
Next Meeting
Melissa remarked that the next meeting is scheduled Tuesday, November 9, 2010 at 9:30 a.m. at Hayden Building, again. Cabinet staff will be polling Cabinet members on their availability to attend on November 9th. If it is obvious that we will not have a quorum of voting members, an alternate date will be announced. Senator Laura Kelly indicated that she would not be available to participate at that meeting.
Adjournment
There being no further business for discussion, it was moved and seconded by Laura Kelly and Jose’ Olivas the Cabinet adjourn the meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 11:50 a.m.
MINUTES OF THE KANSAS CHILDREN’S CABINET MEETING
Hayden Building, LL Conference Room
212 SW 8th Avenue, Topeka
Thursday, September 30, 2010
9:30 a.m. to Noon
Present: Melissa Ness, Chair, Jose Olivas, Tim Cruz, Laura Kelly, Andy Tompkins,
Lee Johnson, Mark Gleeson (Supreme Court Designee),
Kerry Haag (KSDE Designee) and Bobbi Mariani (SRS Designee)
Cabinet Staff: Jim Redmon, Jane Weiler, and Dyogga Adegbore
Absent: William Nelson, Terrie Huntington, Gwen Perkins, Shari Weber,
Jonathan Freiden, Roderick Bremby, Don Jordan, Russell Jennings,
and Gayle Stuber (KSDE Designee)
Guests: The University of Kansas Institute for Educational Research &
Public Service:
Jackie Counts, Karin Chang-Rios, Terry Garst, and Annie McKay
Welcome and Introductions
Cabinet Chair Melissa Ness called the meeting to order and asked for introductions. The Cabinet was short one person for a quorum.
Introductory Remarks from the Chair
Melissa Ness remarked that the Cabinet received the minutes of April 15 and January 26, 2010 and November 16, 2009 for review. No action was taken.
Melissa commented that this is one of three important meetings. Today, the KU Institute team will be giving an overview and background on how they go about preparing the Cabinet to make its Children’s Initiatives Fund (CIF) recommendations. At the October 19 meeting, the Cabinet will be delving into the details with specific questions on the community impact of investing in each program. The November meeting will cover the programs and recommendations will be made at that time. There are only three programs which the Children’s Cabinet directly oversees and grants out the funds; Children’s Cabinet Accountability, Early Childhood Block Grant, and Smart Start Kansas.
Melissa added that the Cabinet’s wisdom and expertise in making recommendations are needed in this important statutory process. Melissa then asked Jim Redmon, Executive Director, to give a brief budget update.
Jim reported that after much legislative discussion, the Cabinet’s recommendations made last November were taken by the Kansas Legislature except for JJA. JJA is no longer funded by CIF.
There is a shortfall in the tobacco settlement for FY 2011. The Office of the Budget does not yet know the amount of the Master Tobacco Settlement shortfall; an estimate is around $2 million dollars. He hopes to provide the Cabinet with the exact figure before next meeting. The Cabinet can then weigh-in at the October 19 meeting on the tobacco settlement monies distributed across the programs.
Jim introduced the KU Institute team. The KU Institute team has done a great job assisting the Cabinet meeting its statutory mandates with evaluating and providing evidenced-based research for the CIF programs. This team is lead by Jackie Counts. Dr. Counts will be departing her post as Assistant Director at KU Institute to accept a position with the Department of Health and Human Services, Health Resources Service and Administration as a Public Health Analyst effective October 11. She also will be involved with home visitation and early childhood comprehensive systems grants. This is her last meeting, and we wish her much happiness and success in her new job.
Melissa commented seven years ago, we did not have this accountability and evidenced-based research framework in place until the current Cabinet staff and the KU Institute team became involved with the work.
Updates, Comments, and Questions from Cabinet members
Melissa asked Cabinet members for updates. Tim Cruz talked about early childhood programs in Garden City area are successfully meeting needs in the community. Jose’ Olivas agreed with Tim Cruz’ observation for his area in Southwest Kansas. Kerry Haag commented on the unpredictability of funding for the school districts is and will continue to be a concern at KSDE.
Mark Gleeson updated on happenings at the Kansas Supreme Court. Although the budget has been submitted, several positions are on hold for filling and courts are closing early. Supreme Court staff, continue efforts attempting to meet the demands with fewer hours and less staff. On the upside, Mark Gleeson reported the courts are involved with a social worker training pilot and curriculum development for working in courts. Justice Johnson remarked the Judicial branch has a lot of balls in the air. He is serving under his third Chief Justice. The budget problems have caused the Judicial Branch to take draconian measures. We are embarking on handling numerous cases for judges and clerks with less funding, more work but maintain efficiency and provide the same services as before.
Dr. Andy Tompkins talked about the Kansas Board of Regents and the board continues to manage dealing with numerous issues at the university and community college levels. Dr. Tompkins remarked he is looking forward to more feedback being available to provide school districts. Jim talked about his and
Dr. Gayle Stuber’s presentations to the P-20 Council on the data piece around early childhood in Kansas around school-aged student identifiers through the school system. Senator Laura Kelly said revenue receipts are better than they have been in the last couple years; revenue is over the estimates which is good news. Economically things are turning around in Kansas. Ag is strong. Aviation is taking a big hit though. It is more optimistic now than six months ago. Bobbi Mariani with SRS talked about technology improvements and linking databases and sharing information among State agencies and other providers. Melissa Ness talked about her facilitation work in child welfare, foster care, and parent support groups especially in the area of mental health.
Report from the Executive Director
Jim Redmon reported the Cabinet manages over $20 million dollars in grants. The Smart Start Kansas Request For Proposals is due October 30 and Early Childhood Block Grant RFP is due October 15. This is the third year of the ECBG and we have been looking very closely about the outcomes. We talked about combining the funding streams of Smart Start Kansas and ECBG at some point. It might be a more effective way in managing the programs, however that will be at the discretion of the Cabinet.
Jim reported that former grantee, Rainbows United Inc., Wichita, was a discussion point last year by the Cabinet. Rainbows United declared bankruptcy last year. We worked with them and SRS on how to proceed with transferring fiscal agent duties and management of the grants the agency has with the Children’s Cabinet. Since then, the United Way of the Plains offered to take over as fiscal agent and they have done a great job administering the grants. The transition has gone smoothly.
Jim talked about the National Governor’s Association (NGA) grant that Kansas is benefitting from, offering access to technical assistance on early childhood issues and data collection warehouses. Although no money is in the deal, a lot of good information is accessible to recipients to make good program decisions. Also, KSDE offers information for single identifiers on kids. It has gone well.
The Cabinet office submitted its SRS budget. The CBCAP renewal grants are doing well. The last federal CBCAP award was funded at $871,956, the highest yet received by the Cabinet.
Jim reported the Early Childhood Advisory Council (ECAC) grant is submitted, the Governor appointed Council members and funding soon to be received. Justice Johnson talked about how the first nine months of gestation constitute the most important period and impact early childhood first few years. Is there something to that and look at prenatal program to help upfront. There are reports on higher testing and IQs based on what happens in the gestation period. Some of these programs might need to be moved back to prenatal services. Jim agreed and talked about information presented to the P-20 Council. He saw no problem with funding programs for prenatal services. The home visiting program, health departments, KDHE, and mental health agencies have collaborated with developing programs geared toward prenatal services. Senator Kelly in Medicaid, we do provide services for prenatal health care. The Cabinet also talked about funding for early childhood mental health services. The ECBG does provide a small funding source. Cabinet Chair Melissa Ness talked about the importance of enlisting the assistance from people at the table who can help keep the Cabinet abreast of opportunities to focus on as a Cabinet. Jim also was pleased to report the Children’s Cabinet Administration fund returned $70,000 to the State. He added the office also has always run a streamlined budget operation.
Preparation for FY 2012 CIF Recommendations
Jackie Counts introduced the KU Institute team working on the Children’s Initiatives Fund project. They include Karin Chang-Rios, Annie McKay, and Terry Garst. The KU Institute team members gave a power point presentation and handed out copies of the June 29th CIF Information meeting booklet. They conducted the meeting for the program staff to give an overview of the CIF evaluation process. At today’s meeting, KU Institute staff went over the background, timeline, accountability framework, aligning requirements, program funding, and the process used for information gathering, collecting data, outcomes and evidence-based practice levels and programs.
Melissa Ness asked Cabinet members to anticipate a copy of the 2010 CIF Briefing Binder before the October 19th meeting. She asked the Cabinet to review the booklet and come with questions and comments at the next meeting.
Next Meeting
October 19, 2010 at 9:30 a.m. at Hayden Building, Lower Level Conference Room, 212 SW 8th Avenue in Topeka.
There being no further business for discussion, the meeting was dismissed at 11:15 a.m.
MINUTES OF THE KANSAS CHILDREN’S CABINET MEETING
Landon State Office Building, Conference Room 106
900 SW Jackson
Thursday, April 15, 2010
1:15 p.m. to 1:50 p.m.
Present: Melissa Ness, Chair, Jose’ Olivas, Sylvia Robinson, (via telephone),
Terrie Huntington (via telephone), Shari Weber, Don Jordan, Russell Jennings,
Gayle Stuber, (KSDE Designee), Aaron Dunkel, (KDHE Designee)
Cabinet Staff: Jim Redmon, Jane Weiler, and Dyogga Adegbore
Absent: Gwen Perkins, Laura Kelly, Lee Johnson, Tim Cruz, William Nelson, Roderick Bremby,
Reginald Robinson, Mark Gleeson (Supreme Court Designee)
Guests: The University of Kansas Institute for Educational Research & Public Service:
Jackie Counts, Karin Chang-Rios, and Annie McKay
Welcome and Introductions
Cabinet Chair Melissa Ness called the meeting to order and introduced everyone at the table and on the telephone.
A quorum was present.
Opening Remarks from the Chair
Melissa Ness explained why the Cabinet called this special meeting although the Cabinet had made its FY 2011 CIF recommendations last November. Recently both Senate and House Committees made recommended reductions in Children’s Initiative Funds for FY 2011. The House Committee recommendation figure was $7 Million. In the Senate’s recommendation, they targeted reducing the CIF funding by $12 million through the Early Childhood Block Grant, Smart Start Kansas, Early Head Start, Parents As Teachers and Tiny K. Melissa said that before the Senate Ways & Means Committee meets, she and Jim requested that the Cabinet decide where the cuts come from as the Cabinet has impact and outcome data to make the decisions. The recommendations presented at today’s Cabinet meeting reflect the $12,012,403 in reductions are targeted to come out of the CIF proportionally. After the Cabinet makes its decision, the recommendations would be sent to the Senate subcommittee next week.
Jim Redmon and the KU Institute team worked on the process, criteria and formula which were used in coming up with the recommendations. Criteria included level of evidence base, quality of evaluation, level of outcomes measures and if funds are used a Federal match to leverage additional dollars into the State. Karin Chang-Rios discussed the formula work used. There were 11 programs found to have federal match maintenance. The KU Team did not come up with new data as much of the data research used is outlined in the CIF Briefing Binder.
Don Jordan commented that certain programs should warrant 100 percent exemption because of federal match requirements. Russell Jennings remarked that cuts would have a cumulative effect on most programs. He expressed concern on how to differentiate the populations served without the funding. Aaron Dunkel discussed that the Infant Toddler and Smoking Cessation programs are 100 percent federally maintained programs through KDHE.
Melissa reported on feedback received earlier from a Cabinet member unable to attend the meeting, recommending reducing CIF funds in the Juvenile grants and adding to the Pre-Kindergarten program.
Shari Weber commented that public safety must be part of the discussion in CIF Funding reductions. The Cabinet has a dilemma of weighting heavily on early childhood programs versus Juvenile Justice Authority programs and other programs serving non-early childhood populations.
Cabinet members were pleased with the work of the KU Institute team with the evaluation and evidence-base research framework put in place.
There being no further discussion, Melissa Ness asked for a motion from the Cabinet.
MOTION:
It was moved and seconded by Sylvia Robinson and Terrie Huntington that the Cabinet approves the recommendations for CIF reductions for FY 2011 as presented. The vote was 4-1 (Weber dissenting) to approve the motion. Motion carried.
Adjournment
It was moved and seconded by Shari Weber and Jose’ Olivas to adjourn the meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 1:50 p.m. Motion carried.
MINUTES OF THE KANSAS CHILDREN’S CABINET MEETING
Children’s Alliance of Kansas, Conference Room
627 SW Topeka Boulevard
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
1:00 p.m. to 1:50 p.m.
Present: Melissa Ness, Chair, Jose’ Olivas, Sylvia Robinson, Shari Weber,
Don Jordan, Russell Jennings, Roderick Bremby,
Gayle Stuber, (KSDE Designee) and Dawn Spencer (Substitute Supreme Court Designee)
Cabinet Staff: Jim Redmon, Jane Weiler, and Dyogga Adegbore
Absent: Lee Johnson, Tim Cruz, William Nelson, Reginald Robinson,
Mark Gleeson (Supreme Court Designee)
Guests: The Honorable Mark Parkinson, Governor of the State of Kansas
The University of Kansas Institute for Educational Research & Public Service:
Jackie Counts and Elenor Buffington
Welcome and Introductions
Cabinet Chair Melissa Ness called the meeting to order. Cabinet members introduced themselves.
Opening Remarks from the Chair and Introduction of the Governor
Melissa Ness introduced and recognized Mr. Bruce Linhos, Executive Director of the Children’s Alliance of Kansas. She thanked Mr. Linhos for opening his conference room to the Kansas Children’s Cabinet meeting.
Melissa spoke about one of the Cabinet’s statutory charges, which is to evaluate all Children’s Initiatives Fund (CIF) program outcomes and evaluations and then make recommendations to the Governor and Kansas Legislature on continued program funding based on the CIF Accountability Framework, including the Children’s Cabinet priority of investment in early childhood. The Cabinet has taken this charge seriously over the last few years. The Cabinet made CIF recommendations at the November 16, 2009 meeting. Since then, Melissa said she and Jim Redmon met with State Budget Director Duane Goossen and with Governor Parkinson’s senior staff, Rae Anne Davis and John Polzar to present the Cabinet’s recommendations. Director Goossen presented a somber yet realistic picture of the budget for FY 2011. Governor Parkinson presented his FY 2011 budget with the CIF recommendations included. However, three CIF programs are on the list, potentially targeted for elimination of CIF funding should state revenue continue declining over the next few months. Those programs targeted included JJA’s Prevention Grant, KSDE’s Parents As Teachers and SRS’ Family Centered Systems of Care.
Although the State has a serious budget crisis, the Cabinet has confidence in the CIF accountability framework in place and can use the CIF briefing binder to defend the recommendations before the legislature.
Remarks from The Honorable Mark Parkinson, Governor of the State of Kansas
With those remarks, Melissa Ness introduced Governor Mark Parkinson.
Governor Parkinson expressed appreciation to address the Cabinet at its meeting. The Governor talked about the serious budget situation in Kansas and that state programs, like the Children’s Initiatives Fund (CIF), are in a precarious situation and are at risk for funding. This will be the 4th year in history the state has seen a decline in revenues. There have already been major cuts made to the budget, however there remains a $400 million revenue shortfall in the State’s fiscal year 2011 budget. Additional cuts would do serious damage to the State. As a remedy, Governor Parkinson proposed increases in both taxes on tobacco by $0.55 per pack and $.01 state sales tax over the next 36 months. The Governor urged the Cabinet to send a message to its advocates and those clients of the program services, the real potential for more cuts. In addition, their message to the legislature should be less about not cutting funding and more about unified support for the cigarette and state sales taxes in order to bring in additional revenues to balance the state budget. He said it is a myth that voters would punish legislators who vote for tax increases.
Melissa thanked Governor Parkinson for coming to the Children’s Cabinet meeting.
Discussion of Children’s Initiatives Fund (CIF) Updates on Accountability and Priorities
Melissa asked the Cabinet for feedback on next steps. Sylvia Robinson asked about the Children’s Cabinet’s plan of action in response to the Governor’s comment to send a message to the legislature to support the tax increases to help balance the State’s budget. Russell Jennings commented that agency heads find themselves having to prioritize programs by dollars and percentages. Don Jordan suggested instead of everyone fighting for a piece of the pie, they will want to work together to remain a part of the pie. Roderick Bremby remarked that it will be imperative for the Cabinet to look at the type of children and families who might be impacted by potential cuts to all of the CIF programs, and particularly in the three targeted CIF programs, JJA’s Prevention Grants, KSDE’s Parents As Teachers (P.A.T.) and SRS’ Family Systems of Care. The CIF Briefing Binder does not include impacts on children and families should funding be cut for programs.
Jose’ Olivas suggested letter-writing campaigns, by the Cabinet and early childhood advocates, to the legislature talking about the CIF accountability process and how important these programs are to the CIF investment in early childhood. Jim Redmon remarked the Cabinet would need to convey the Governor’s message to our grantees and early childhood advocates about the dire situation and real potential for losing CIF funding for programs.
Melissa Ness was pleased to announce that Senator Terrie Huntington is a new member of the Kansas Children’s Cabinet. Senator Huntington replaces Senator David Wysong on the Cabinet. She could not attend today’s meeting.
Jim Redmon updated the Cabinet on the Early Learning Coordinating Council. There is a proposal on the Governor’s desk waiting signing of the executive order to establish the Early Childhood Advisory Council (ECAC). The ELCC will transition into ECAC. This will bring in $800,000 in federal funding over a period of three years to address the early childhood infrastructure in the State. After the Governor’s vetting process, the application will be submitted.
Adjournment
The Cabinet did not set its meeting dates. Cabinet staff will be sending the Cabinet a list of potential meeting dates soon.
There being no further business for discussion, the meeting adjourned at 1:50 p.m.
MINUTES OF THE KANSAS CHILDREN’S CABINET MEETING
Hayden Building, Lower Level Conference Room
212 SW 8th Street
Monday, November 16, 2009
9:15 a.m. to 11:25 a.m.
Minutes in PDF format
MINUTES OF THE KANSAS CHILDREN’S CABINET MEETING
Maner Conference Center, Pioneer Room, Topeka, Kansas
9:00 a.m. to Noon
Thursday, October 14, 2009
Present: Melissa Ness, Chair, Tim Cruz, Jose’ Olivas, Russell Jennings, Roderick Bremby,
David Wysong, Gwen Perkins, Lee Johnson, Shari Weber, William Nelson,
Gayle Stuber (KSDE Designee), Mark Gleeson (Supreme Court Designee),
Bobbi Mariani (SRS Designee)
Cabinet Staff: Jim Redmon, Jane Weiler, and Dyogga Adegbore
Absent: Sylvia Robinson, Laura Kelly, and Reginald Robinson
Guests: The University of Kansas Institute for Educational Research & Public Service:
Jackie Counts, Karin Chang-Rios, Elenor Buffington, and Heather Rasmussen
Welcome and Introductions
Cabinet Chair Melissa Ness called the meeting to order. Attendees introduced themselves.
There was a quorum.
Approval of Minutes – November 18, 2008 and September 18, 2009
Cabinet members received the minutes of November 18, 2008 and September 18, 2009 before the meeting. It was moved and seconded by William Nelson and Tim Cruz, the Cabinet approve both
sets of minutes, as written. Motion carried.
Introductory Remarks from the Chair
Melissa Ness, Chair, gave an overview of the meeting agenda before introducing the KU Institute for Educational Research and Public Service staff. The Cabinet would be reviewing the CIF Briefing Binder, discussing program by program, and asking questions of the KU Institute team. The Cabinet will be making its final recommendations at the November 16th meeting. KU Institute staff include: Jackie Counts, Elenor Buffington, Heather Rasmussen, and Karin Chang-Rios.
Review of Children’s Initiatives Fund Programs
At the September meeting, the KU Institute for Educational Research and Public Service team presented material on the CIF framework and distributed copies of the CIF Informational Meeting booklet, which was given to the CIF program staff. At this meeting, the KU Institute team presented the elements of the accountability framework and timeline for surveys and interviews. They also reviewed the changes made to the process this year. Results of the information gathering process are included in the CIF Briefing Binder, which contains the following five sections:
- Overview (FY09 funding by program, agency, primary population served, and primary focus area)
- FY10 Funding (FY10 funding by program and agency)
- At-A-Glance tables (Program information in a comparative format regarding funding, population served in FY09, evidence-based practices, and quality evaluation)
- Program Information (Detailed FY09 program information in three sections: framework elements, counties served, and program outcomes summaries)
- Appendices (Accountability Framework and checklists used by Institute staff during the evaluation process).
Melissa Ness remarked that if Cabinet members desired additional information on any program,
to let the KU Institute team members know prior to the November 16 meeting.
William Nelson commented the CIF Briefing Binder is a very valuable tool and the Cabinet has come light years away from where it was three years ago. David Wysong commended the Cabinet and the KU Institute team on their good work. Melissa Ness commended the Cabinet staff on their fine work on behalf of the Cabinet.
Russ Jennings suggested the CIF Briefing Binder be posted to the Children’s Cabinet website. Jim Redmon responded the binder tables and information would be added to the website soon after the recommendations are made and this process is completed.
EXECUTIVE SESSION
Motion
It was moved and seconded by William Nelson and Jose’ Olivas the Children’s Cabinet go into Executive Session for the purpose of considering a grant-related matter. Allotted time for the discussion would be 15 minutes. Motion carried. Only voting members and staff remained in the meeting. The Cabinet went into executive sessions at 11:45 a.m.
Motion
It was moved and seconded by William Nelson and Tim Cruz, the Children’s Cabinet go back into regular session. Motion carried.
Motion
It was moved and seconded by William Nelson and Jose’ Olivas, the Children’s Cabinet approve the
change of fiscal agent for an Early Childhood Block Grant for next year as discussed
in executive session. Motion carried.
Adjournment
There being no further business for discussion, it was moved and seconded by Tim Cruz and
William Nelson to adjourn the meeting at Noon. Motion carried.
The next meeting of the Kansas Children’s Cabinet is scheduled Monday, November 16 at
9:00 a.m. at Hayden Building, Lower Level Conference Room, 212 SW 8th Street, Topeka.
MINUTES OF THE KANSAS CHILDREN’S CABINET MEETING
SRS Learning Center, Room B
2600 SW East Circle Drive South
Friday, September 18, 2009
9:00 a.m. to 11:20 a.m.
Present: Melissa Ness, Chair, Tim Cruz, Jose’ Olivas, Russell Jennings, Roderick Bremby,
Janet Newton, (KSDE Designee), Bobbi Mariani (SRS Designee),
Cabinet Staff: Jim Redmon, Jane Weiler, and Dyogga Adegbore
Absent: Sylvia Robinson, Laura Kelly, Shari Weber, Lee Johnson, David Wysong,
William Nelson, Gwen Perkins, Reginald Robinson and Mark Gleeson (Supreme Court Designee)
Guests: The University of Kansas Institute for Educational Research & Public Service:
Jackie Counts, Elenor Buffington, Karin Chang-Rios, and Heather Rasmussen
Welcome and Introductions
Cabinet Chair Melissa Ness called the meeting to order. Attendees introduced themselves.
Approval of Minutes – November 18, 2008
Cabinet members received the November 18, 2008 minutes before the meeting. Since there was not a quorum, no action was taken.
Introductory Remarks from the Chair
Melissa Ness, Chair, remarked this meeting and the October 14 meeting discussions will help the Cabinet focus on the evaluation process and setup for recommendations at the November 16 meeting.
Preparation for FY 2010 Children’s Initiatives Fund Program Recommendations
The KU Institute team members gave a power point presentation on the Children’s Initiatives Fund programs. They covered the background, information requests, timeline, accountability framework, aligning requirements, and the process used for information gathering, collecting data, looking at outcomes, measures/instruments and defining evidence-based practices/programs.
The KU team will be preparing a briefing binder for 2009 programs, which contains funding charts and at-a-glance tables on each of the CIF programs. Secretary Bremby and Commissioner Jennings were highly complimentary of the KU Institute team’s work, expertise, and efforts on behalf of the Cabinet. Commissioner Jennings asked if any agencies were gathering longitudinal information on programs. Jackie Counts responded that Kansas State Department of Education collects that type of data. Janet Newton responded that KSDE does collect KIDs data, which is used to maintain information on all school-aged children in public and private schools in Kansas. She provided the Commissioner with a contact person name.
Report from the Executive Director
Jim Redmon commented that the current Children’s Initiatives Fund programs remained at the
FY 2009 level for FY 2010. The CIF contributed $9.2 million to the State General Fund.
The Children’s Cabinet and Trust Fund received its largest federal award for its Community-Based Child Abuse Prevention program at $808,464. Jim reported nine grantee organizations received CBCAP awards. Grants run from July 1, 2009 to June 30, 2010. The grants use evidence-based practices. The Cabinet office continues to receive revenue from the Children’s Trust Fund license tags and from income received from marriage licenses. Jim was complimentary of the Kansas Department of Social and Rehabilitation Services’ assistance as the administrative government body that houses the Children’s Cabinet. He was especially appreciative of Paula Hinman, Accountant with the Children and Family Services Finance & Budget Unit for the budgeting and financial administration advisor services provided to the Children’s Cabinet office.
Jim reported that Early Childhood Block Grants are up and running. Jane Weiler has been conducting site visits at all the ECBG sites and the Smart Start Kansas sites. Jane commented that she has found the visits to be helpful to both the Cabinet and to the grantees, It has been beneficial to see the programming that gets funded with the ECBG and SSK dollars. The RFPs for grant renewals for both ECBG and SSK were recently announced. Award notices will be sent in early November.
Jim reported that the Cabinet office has scheduled another Kansas Early Childhood Comprehensive Systems planning meeting with stakeholders in mid-October in Salina.
There is an Early Childhood Advisory Council grant application. Jim and members of the Early Learning Coordinating Council and KU Institute staff are completing the application. The award is $808,000. Monies received from this award will be used to bring early childhood providers together to help coordinate services in Kansas. The Kansas Early Childhood Advisory Council will be overseeing the work of the project and will have representatives from across the early childhood spectrum.
Kansas has opportunity to apply for the Early Childhood Challenge Grant. This is $8 billion dollars for eight years. It is a competitive grant and all states are eligible to apply. The monies awarded from that grant will be used in a similar manner as the ECAC grant and will be managed jointly by the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services and the U.S. Department of Education.
Jim reported that through a legislative effort, $50,000 in Children’s Initiatives Funds was paid to a diagnostic autism program. Cabinet members agreed all programs need to go through the CIF evaluation process.
EXECUTIVE SESSION
Motion
It was moved and seconded by Jose’ Olivas and Tim Cruz the Children’s Cabinet go into Executive Session at 11:00 a.m. for 15 minutes for the purpose of discussing a grant-related matter. Only voting members and staff remained in the meeting. Motion carried.
It was moved and seconded by Tim Cruz and Jose’ Olivas, the Children’s Cabinet go back into regular session. Motion carried.
No action was taken on the grant-related topic.
Melissa suggested that Jim and staff prepare a memorandum providing the pros and cons for keeping or pulling the grant, timeline, and prepare for the possibility of scheduling a conference call with the Cabinet to brief them on possible action.
Adjournment
There being no further business for discussion, the meeting was adjourned at 11:15 a.m.
The next meeting of the Kansas Children’s Cabinet is scheduled Wednesday, October 14 at 9:00 a.m. at Maner Conference Center, Pioneer Room, 1717 SW Topeka Boulevard in Topeka.
