Workforce Connections Action Item

DATE:	Tuesday, August 29, 2017
TO:	School Board Members
FROM:	Jeff Eakins, Superintendent
SUBJECT / RECOMMENDATIONS
Approve Memorandum of Agreement for The Able Trust 2017/2018 Academic School Year (Workforce Connections)
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The Workforce Connections Division focuses on employment and preparing all students for the workforce.  We are requesting approval of the renewal of The Able Trust Grant which supports the High School High Tech (HSHT) Program (Attachment A). This program is designed to provide high school students with disabilities the opportunity to explore employment and postsecondary education opportunities that lead to technology-related courses.  HSHT links youth to a broad range of academic, career development, resources, and experiences that will enable them to meet the demands of the 21st century workforce. HSHT is an initiative of the U. S. Department of Labor, Office of Disability Employment Policy.  The program has been successfully implemented for several years at Brandon, Durant, Middleton, and Strawberry Crest High Schools.  The Able Trust Grant has afforded valuable career exploration and postsecondary opportunities for the participating students.  The Able Trust requires The School Board of Hillsborough County, Florida to be the first signature on the Agreement.
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES
• Improve the high school graduation rate • Provide a student-centered learning environment that engages every child
FINANCIAL IMPACT (Budgeted:  Yes)
Funds in the amount of $22,000 will be available in The Able Trust grant.  For tracking purposes, the project number specific to this agenda item is 3313 and 3314 for fiscal year 2017/2018.
EVALUATION
In 2016/2017, there were 38 students participating in this program, which included five career exploration visits and college experiences. In addition, students received workshops from business partners at their school site throughout the year. In summer 2017, there were six students from this program who participated in an internship. All 19 seniors in this program graduated with a diploma, and 89 percent of those students are pursuing postsecondary education (Attachment B). Student activities developed for this project are designed to reduce the dropout rate of students with disabilities, increase enrollment in postsecondary education/training, and improve participation in education and vocational-related activities leading to increased employment opportunities.  Data of student participation in the activities and employment will be collected and reported to The Able Trust.
SUBMITTED BY:  Warren S. Brooks, Workforce Connections Officer, Workforce Connections

Gretchen Saunders		Dr. Alberto Vázquez
Chief Business Officer (813) 272-4270		Chief of Staff (813) 272-4986
		C 6.13
Hillsborough County Public Schools (Florida) * Mtg.#20170829_818 (Board Meeting) * Section C Item# 6.13