Approve Grant Application to the Florida Department of Education, and if Approved, Accept Funds, for Florida Diagnostic and Learning Resources System (FDLRS) 2006/2007, Estimated $1,091,790 (Exceptional Student Education)

Federal entitlement grant applications for disabled students must be submitted annually. The Department of Exceptional Student Education has prepared a project application to be submitted to the Bureau of Grants Management, Florida Department of Education for the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) funds. FDLRS is a network of 19 state and federally-funded associate centers established in 1978 which provides support services to educators, families of students with exceptionalities, and community agencies throughout Florida.

FDLRS Centers are part of the public school system. The primary focus of each center is to support the implementation of Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Each center provides services in four areas: Child Find, Human Resources Development, Parent Services, and Technology. A summary of each of these services areas is attached.

Goal 5 – The district will close the FCAT achievement gap by a minimum of 10 percentage points as reported by No Child Left Behind.

If approved, estimated grant funds of $1,091,790 will be included in the divisional special revenue/federal programs budget. Administrative costs are included in the grant budget.

Performance evaluation measures are determined by the Florida Department of Education. The completed annual state performance report will be completed in December 2007. The results of the evaluation will be shared with all stakeholders.