Approve the Agreement for Technical Services with Eckerd College Leadership Development Institute (Educational Leadership and Professional Development)

Hillsborough County Public Schools has been sending school and district leaders to the Eckerd College Leadership Develop Institute for the past ten years. It has been a required professional development component of the Preparing New Principals Program (PNP) for the past five years and is funded through the Department of Education Title II grant. Each summer the newly selected cohort attends the three-day institute at Eckerd College for the purpose of developing their leadership. 

During the three days, participants receive comprehensive, honest, and productive feedback based on results of 360-degree survey data completed by their supervisor, direct reports, and peers. They receive individual coaching as well as tools and strategies to support their continued leadership development. They participate in activities that reinforce the importance of vision, goals, effective action planning, shared leadership, conflict resolution, and other important leadership related topics. Participants leave the institute with knowledge of themselves as leaders and how they can capitalize on their current strengths and develop in areas needing improvement. In surveying the many leaders who have attended throughout the years, the common statement is that Eckerd College Leadership Development Institute was a life and leadership changing experience.

Funds in the amount of $41,600 will be available in the Title II grant.  For tracking purposes, the project number specific to this agenda item is 3589.  As of June 19, 2018, the remaining balance less encumbrances for this line item equaled $41,600.

The Eckerd College experience has changed the way our leaders view themselves and how they have worked to improve themselves as leaders. Feedback has shown that 100 percent of the participants felt the program met or exceeded their expectations. The past four cohorts of PNP have set goals based on data received through Eckerd College 360-degree surveys. Goals have included areas of collaboration and inclusive leadership, emotional intelligence, and relationship building. Post surveys have shown that 90 percent of leaders improved in these areas after two years of the PNP program and ongoing reflection, and intentional focus on the feedback received through the Eckerd College Leadership Development Program.