This funding cycle reached the maximum level of $475,000 per year and received an outstanding 98 out of 100 points on the application. Over the years, Fresno HEP has proudly graduated 2,773 individuals with their GEDs, proving that the GED can and does change lives.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the United States Department of Education, the dedicated staff who assisted in the grant application, all supporting entities, and, most importantly, our resilient students who continue to embody the spirit of “YES we can!”

In every organization, there are teams whose critical work goes largely unnoticed by the public eye, yet their contribution is vital to the overall success and integrity of the operations. At SER, one such indispensable team is our Internal Monitoring Unit. Comprised of a dedicated staff of three; Michael Miranda, Andrew Gaston and Mae-Kayla Starks.  This team operates behind the scenes, ensuring that our programs and services not only meet but exceed standards of excellence and compliance.

The Internal Monitoring Unit is tasked with the crucial role of conducting reviews of SER’s programs. They ensure that every initiative aligns with both our mission and the regulatory requirements set forth by our funding bodies and partners. Their work involves the evaluation of program delivery and outcomes assessment.

The meticulous efforts of the Internal Monitoring Unit allow SER to maintain transparency, accountability, and efficiency across operations. By identifying areas for improvement, they directly contribute to enhancing the quality of services we provide to our community. Their work not only safeguards our reputation but also ensures that we continue to secure the trust and support of our constituents and partners.

1. Typical Day in the Internal Monitoring Unit (IMU):
   • The IMU team spends their day reviewing multiple files related to Enrollments, Progress Reviews, Re-certifications, and Exits, which are sent over by the Employment Training Specialist (ETS). Each team member ensures these files comply with the SCSEP Program Guidelines. When errors are noted the ETS is notified and required to submit corrections within 72 hours of receipt.   Approved files are organized and sent for final approvals using their established filing systems.   
2. Challenges Faced by the Internal Monitoring Unit:
   • The IMU often encounters various issues with file reviews, primarily due to nuances that require specific attention. The primary solution is effective communication within the team and with other relevant staff like Coordinators or ETS. Problems such as miscommunication, file disorganization, and incorrect file submissions are typically resolved through clear and prompt communication, ensuring consistency in file handling.
3. Impact of the Internal Monitoring Unit on SER’s Programs:
   • The IMU plays a critical role in enhancing the effectiveness of SER’s programs by ensuring the accuracy and compliance of participant files before they reach contracting sources. Their diligent reviews lead to cleaner files that require less time for further processing and approvals, thus streamlining the entire file handling process and reducing error rates significantly.
4. Significant Improvements from Internal Monitoring Unit’s Findings:
   • A notable improvement was made during the transition to the SCSEP HUB website, where IMU developed simplified checklists in collaboration with Coordinator Catherine Irving. These checklists helped clarify the filing and monitoring processes, specifying which documents were mandatory and which were conditional. The implementation of these checklists streamlined the review process for IMU and was also shared with ETS’s and Coordinators, greatly enhancing the overall efficiency of document handling within the program.