Hillsborough County Public Schools Curriculum and Instruction
Action Item

DATE: Tuesday, September 26, 2006
TO: School Board Members
FROM: MaryEllen Elia, Superintendent

SUBJECT / RECOMMENDATIONS

Approve Restructuring of the Department of Exceptional Student Education

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

In an effort to better meet the needs of students with disabilities, teachers, and schools, the Department of Exceptional Student Education (ESE) evaluated the current ESE program structure. As a result of these efforts, the following changes to the Department of Exceptional Student Education are recommended.

Create Position: Supervisor of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD)
This individual would supervise and coordinate the instructional program and related services for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) students, provide training and support for ASD teachers and personnel, and respond to parents' questions and concerns.

Create Position: Program Manager, Parent Liaison Project
No Child Left Behind, IDEA 2004, State Performance Plan and Staff Development protocol make enhanced parent involvement a critical focus. This position is needed to coordinate Florida Diagnostic Learning Resources System (FDLRS) Parent Services, Parent Liaison Project, and other ESE/FDLRS Parent initiatives. FDLRS Parent Services for parents include: the Parent Press Newsletter, the Parent Press electronic venues, designed to help new families understand and navigate the Exceptional Student Education system; parent training and informational workshops, individual assistance, by phone or in person, providing information about ESE programs and services; and guidance in educational planning and community resources.

Reclassify Positions: Clerk II to Accounting Clerk I and Accounting Clerk III to Accountant I
The responsibilities of these positions have grown considerably over the years. The need for accountability and confidentiality are major factors in the monitoring and overseeing of the IDEA federal grant which exceeds $36,000,000.

ANNUAL DISTRICT GOAL(S) AND CRITICAL SUCCESS FACTOR(S)

All District Goals and Critical Success Factors

FINANCIAL IMPACT (Budgeted: Yes)

Funds of appoximately $101,395 annually, including benefits, are included in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) budget.

EVALUATION

SUBMITTED BY:

Wynne A. Tye
General Director, Exceptional Student Education
(813) 273-7025
Michael A. Grego, Ed.D.
Assistant Superintendent, Curriculum and Instruction
(813) 272-4221
1.07
Hillsborough County Public Schools (Florida) * Mtg.#20060926_184 * Section E Item# 1.07