The Purchase of Pasco Spark Science Learning Systems and Associated Probes and Sensors from Pasco Scientific Utilizing Pinellas County School Board’s ITB 08-490-054 for Science Equipment and Supplies (Curriculum and Instruction Division)

Applicable Florida Department of Education and district policy allows purchases from contracts awarded by other governmental agencies, district school boards, Department of Management Services, etc. at or below specified prices. This practice reduces procurement administrative costs, can provide lower prices for large agencies’ volume, and expedites time sensitive procurements.

Pasco Probes and Sensors (site licenses for Sparkvue Software) is an all-in-one mobile device that seamlessly integrates the power of probeware with inquiry-based content and assessment. With its large, full-color display, finger-touch navigation and completely intuitive data collection and analysis capabilities, Pasco Spark completely redefines the concept of easy-to-use--so the focus remains on the learning of science. The Spark is designed to become the center of the school's discovery-based science learning environment, providing both teacher and student the embedded support for exploring scientific concepts.

The Spark Science Learning System includes more than 60 free preinstalled SPARKlabs™--standards-based guided inquiry labs in a unique electronic notebook format. These SPARKlabs completely integrate background content, data collection and analysis, even assessment--all within the same environment. Students no longer need to navigate to a separate file for instructions or even refer to paper manuals.

Purchases will be made for the following schools included in the EETT 2010 Competitive Grant: Brooker Elementary, Chiaramonte Elementary, Grady Elementary, Graham Elementary, Gorrie Elementary, Just Elementary, Kingswood Elementary, Dowdell Middle, Madison Middle, McLane Middle, Monroe Middle, Rodgers Middle, Wilson Middle, Blake High, Bloomingdale High, and Plant High.

* Increase promotion rates at all grade levels and the percentage of high school graduates

Budgeted funds of $430,000 are available from the EETT 2010 Competitive Grant - Project 1733