(a) Composition. The composition of a governing body must be in accordance with the requirements specified at section 642(c)(1)(B) of the Act, except where specific exceptions are authorized in the case of public entities at section 642(c)(1)(D) of the Act. Agencies must ensure members of the governing body do not have a conflict of interest, pursuant to section 642(c)(1)(C) of the Act.

(b) Duties and responsibilities.  

(1) The governing body is responsible for activities specified at section 642(c)(1)(E) of the Act.

(2) The governing body must use ongoing monitoring results, data on school readiness goals, other information described in §1302.102, and information described at section 642(d)(2) of the Act to conduct its responsibilities.

(c) Advisory committees. 

(1) A governing body may establish advisory committees as it deems necessary for effective governance and improvement of the program.

(2) If a governing body establishes an advisory committee to oversee key responsibilities related to program governance, it must:

(i) Establish the structure, communication, and oversight in such a way that the governing body continues to maintain its legal and fiscal responsibility for the Head Start agency; and,

(ii) Notify the responsible HHS official of its intent to establish such an advisory committee.