Approve Grant Application to The Able Trust, and if Approved, Accept Funds for the Continuation of the High School/High Tech Program, 2007/2008 - $20,000 (Career and Technical Education)

We are requesting approval to submit a proposal to The Able Trust for the continuation of the High School/High Tech (HS/HT) program to assist high school students with disabilities prepare and advance in postsecondary education and/or career training. HS/HT is accomplished through a comprehensive program providing:

• career counseling
• coursework counseling
• college visits
• internships
• corporate site visits
• job-shadowing in technology and science related fields

The HS/HT, offered in Hillsborough County for the past six years, is an initiative of the Department of Labor, Office of Disability Employment Policy, and is duplicated in 28 states. The program is administered through the Career and Technical Education Department, and currently serves approximately 65 Exceptional Student Education students at: Brandon, Durant, Plant, Plant City, and Sickles High Schools; and Simmons Career Center.

Goal 5 – The district will close the FCAT achievement gap by a minimum of 10% as reported by No Child Left Behind.
Critical Success Factor 5, b – Increase the number of under-represented students in advanced level courses and programs and provide ongoing support to ensure student success.

If approved, grant funds of $20,000 will be included in the divisional special revenue/federal program budget.

August 2008. Evaluation will be based on student outcomes related to job preparation activities and postsecondary education plans.