(A) Eligible agency adjusted levels of performance for core indicators
(i) In general For each eligible agency submitting a State plan, there shall be established, in accordance with this subparagraph, levels of performance for each of the core indicators of performance described in paragraph (2)(A) for adult education and literacy activities authorized under this part. The levels of performance established under this subparagraph shall, at a minimum
(I) be expressed in an objective, quantifiable, and measurable form; and
(II) show the progress of the eligible agency toward continuously improving in performance.
(ii) Identification in State plan Each eligible agency shall identify, in the State plan submitted under section
9224 of this title, expected levels of performance for each of the core indicators of performance for the first 3 program years covered by the State plan.
(iii) Agreement on eligible agency adjusted levels of performance for first 3 years In order to ensure an optimal return on the investment of Federal funds in adult education and literacy activities authorized under this part, the Secretary and each eligible agency shall reach agreement on levels of performance for each of the core indicators of performance, for the first 3 program years covered by the State plan, taking into account the levels identified in the State plan under clause (ii) and the factors described in clause (iv). The levels agreed to under this clause shall be considered to be the eligible agency adjusted levels of performance for the eligible agency for such years and shall be incorporated into the State plan prior to the approval of such plan.
(iv) Factors The agreement described in clause (iii) or (v) shall take into account
(I) how the levels involved compare with the eligible agency adjusted levels of performance established for other eligible agencies, taking into account factors including the characteristics of participants when the participants entered the program, and the services or instruction to be provided; and
(II) the extent to which such levels involved promote continuous improvement in performance on the performance measures by such eligible agency and ensure optimal return on the investment of Federal funds.
(v) Agreement on eligible agency adjusted levels of performance for 4th and 5th years Prior to the fourth program year covered by the State plan, the Secretary and each eligible agency shall reach agreement on levels of performance for each of the core indicators of performance for the fourth and fifth program years covered by the State plan, taking into account the factors described in clause (iv). The levels agreed to under this clause shall be considered to be the eligible agency adjusted levels of performance for the eligible agency for such years and shall be incorporated into the State plan.
(vi) Revisions If unanticipated circumstances arise in a State resulting in a significant change in the factors described in clause (iv)(II), the eligible agency may request that the eligible agency adjusted levels of performance agreed to under clause (iii) or (v) be revised. The Secretary, after collaboration with the representatives described in section
2871 (i)(1) of title
29, shall issue objective criteria and methods for making such revisions.
