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Vocational education training is a core activity in which total weekly course credit hours and allowable unsupervised study time can be used to meet required weekly participation. Hours must be verified and submitted on the client attendance form.

The participant has and must continue to make satisfactory progress in the institution, school, or course. Satisfactory progress is defined as maintaining at least a “C” average or its equivalent at the educational institution or facility.

If the training is provided in an educational institution, Vocational Educational Training must be in-state and public. Exceptions may be made for out-of-state or private institutions when an extenuating circumstance exists.

IMPACT will not pay for supplies such as notebooks, paper, pencils, pens, briefcases, or clothing that is part of the client’s normal wardrobe.

The institution and participant agree to provide attendance records on the appropriate State Form, and grade reports at specified intervals.

All Vocational Educational Training programs must be approved by the IMPACT case manager, or a designee, in writing affirming that: • The local job market offers employment opportunities in the area in which the participant is pursuing training. • The participant has the motivation and aptitude to complete the training. • The training is likely to result in employment. 2540.10.55 SELF-INITIATED VOCATIONAL TRAINING (C)

Participants who are already attending an institution of higher education or a Vocational Training Program when they become mandatory for TANF are considered to be in Self-Initiated Vocational Training.

An Assessment and Self-Sufficiency Plan must be completed for a self-initiated participant to determine the appropriateness of the Vocational Training activity and what assistance the participant may need to successfully complete the training. 2540.10.60 DISTANCE LEARNING (C)

Distance Learning includes Vocational Educational Training performed off-site via the internet or correspondence. Distance Learning is subject to the same reporting requirements as on-site educational activities.

Counting participation hours: • Participants may receive one hour of credit per week for unsupervised study for each course credit.