Hillsborough County Public Schools Curriculum and Instruction
Action Item

DATE: Tuesday, August 31, 2010
TO: School Board Members
FROM: MaryEllen Elia, Superintendent

SUBJECT / RECOMMENDATIONS

Approve Renewal Agreements for Services with University of South Florida (USF) for the Successful Transition After Graduation for Exceptional Students (STAGES) Program, 2010/2011 (Exceptional Student Education)

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

We request approval of the renewal agreements for services to continue the partnership with USF for the STAGES Program which was established in 2004/2005.

The STAGES Program facilitates transition for high school students with disabilities, ages 18-21 years old, under the supervision of a district teacher on the USF campus. The STAGES Program is a two-year program which includes a balance of classroom instruction emphasizing functional academics, integrated social and recreational activities, and career experience opportunities. USF currently provides multiple opportunities for career exploration in areas such as general maintenance, food service, landscaping, child care, and clerical. The district provides a teacher, paraprofessional, transportation, and additional support as identified. The young adults with disabilities benefit by interacting with nondisabled age-appropriate peers in a postsecondary setting.

In addition, USF students who are seeking a degree in special education, human resources, physical education, medicine, engineering, or computer science benefit from interaction with young adults with disabilities through the application of educational theories and practices.

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

* Motivate students to become responsible learners

FINANCIAL IMPACT (Budgeted: Yes)

Funding is included in the divisional general operating budget and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).

EVALUATION

SUBMITTED BY: Deborah Davis, Supervisor, ESE Secondary Curriculum & Instruction/Transition

Joyce L. Wieland
General Director, Exceptional Student Education
(813) 273-7025
Wynne A. Tye
Assistant Superintendent, Curriculum and Instruction
(813) 272-4221
A 1.07
Hillsborough County Public Schools (Florida) * Mtg.#20100831_418 * Section A Item# 1.07