Session 1: Foundations of Head Start Fiscal Stewardship

Introduction to Federal Fiscal Requirements, Updated Uniform Guidance, and Fiscal Monitoring Highlights 

– Overview of federal fiscal requirements and roles and responsibilities 

– Key updates in the revised Uniform Guidance 

– Fiscal monitoring expectations (FA1 and FA2) and common findings 

– Linking fiscal systems to governance and oversight 

Session 2: Building Strong Fiscal Leadership: An Introduction for New Head Start Fiscal Officers

– Overview of Head Start fiscal requirements and regulatory framework 

– Roles and responsibilities of fiscal staff within a Head Start system 

– Understanding the connection between program operations and fiscal decisions 

– Importance of strong program–fiscal communication and coordination 

– Introduction to key fiscal reports and data fiscal staff should understand and monitor 

– Common pitfalls and compliance risks for new fiscal leaders 

Session 3: Allowable, Allocable, and Reasonable Costs

– Decision-making framework for cost allowability

– Common misconceptions and high-risk gray areas

– Aligning costs with approved budgets and program goals

– Scenarios related to staffing, incentives, wellness, fundraising, and blended or braided funding

Session 4: Internal Controls – Safeguarding Federal Funds

– Core components of effective internal controls 

– Segregation of duties, approvals, and documentation standards 

– Preventing, detecting, and responding to fiscal risk 

– Practical examples and peer discussion