Approve Agreements of Understanding with Community-Based Training Sites for Exceptional Education Students, 2007/2008, Various (Exceptional Student Education)

We request approval of three additional Agreements of Understanding for 2007/2008 Community-Based Training sites which include Lowry Park Zoo, Palm Garden, and Sweet Bay (Gandy).

The Community-Based Training Program was initiated by the District for exceptional education students with mild and moderate disabilities. By providing training in entry-level positions at a variety of businesses in the community, these students are better prepared to successfully enter the workforce. During the 2007/2008 school year 20 school sites (high schools and exceptional centers) will participate to provide training opportunities for approximately 250 exceptional education students. These community business partners provide valuable training experiences for exceptional education students. Attached is a list of the Community-Based Training partners for 2007/2008.

Goal 5 - The district will close the FCAT achievement gap by a minimum of 10 percentage points as reported by No Child Left Behind.
Critical Success Factor 5.c – Design and implement program scheduling to meet the remediation and enrichment needs of students.

The Agreements of Understanding are non-financial. The estimated cost for transporting students to and from all approved business sites is approximately $200,000 and is included in the divisional special revenue/ federal programs budget for Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Project 1331.

June 2008 - Evaluation will be determined by business and student assessments of the program. The results will be shared with all stakeholders.