Fiscal Manager Certification

Driven by federal oversight and the Head Start Program Performance Standards (HSPPS), fiscal management in Head Start requires thorough understanding of the federal requirements and how they impact day to day work of fiscal staff. The Academy’s Fiscal Management Certification provides learners an opportunity to create a professional portfolio demonstrating their expertise and understanding of their responsibilities as a fiscal manager or as fiscal staff supporting management. This process includes regular opportunities to meet with experts in the field and enhance knowledge throughout the experience. Learners will take away a portfolio that clearly demonstrates their mastery and a certification that clearly identifies that mastery.

• Start Date: New cohorts accepted monthly
• Course Level: Certification
• Requirements/Prerequisites: Fiscal Essentials is suggested before taking this certification program for those with fewer than three years of experience. While no specific experience is required, a minimum of six months in your position is strongly recommended. The certification does not include instruction.
• Completion Timeline/Duration: Four months for portfolio completion and two months for review and final grade.
• Head Start Alignment: This course supports programs in meeting the Head Start Act Section 642 Powers and Functions of Head Start Agencies in which “the agency shall establish and maintain a formal structure for program governance, for the oversight of quality services for Head Start children and families and for making decisions related to program design and implementation. Such structure shall include…. not less than one member shall have a background and expertise in fiscal management or accounting.” It also supports programs in meeting Part 1303-Financial and Administrative Requirements of the HSPPS. Health and Human Services regulation 45 CFR §75.