Approve the Recommendation Regarding the Purchase of "ABC Music & Me" from Kindermusik International (Sole-Source Provider) (Business Division)

These items from Kindermusik International are considered sole source items and are exempt from the bidding process per Department of Education 6A1.012 purchasing policies.

The materials in question, "ABC Music & Me," are needed to provide a strong support for the development of literacy and writing through the use of music in young children. Research demonstrated that "Kindermusik" not only helps develop the brain, but has an impact on reading comprehension, verbal memory, listening skills, vocabulary, phonological and phonemic awareness, writing and print awareness. This program also provides a strong parent component that helps parents become involved in the active learning of their young students.

* Align financial resources to support the district’s strategic goals, * Demonstrate best financial practices

Budgeted IDEA Federal Grant funds are available in the amount of $314,959 for this project.