Hillsborough County Public Schools Student Services and Federal Programs
Action Item

DATE: Tuesday, July 15, 2008
TO: School Board Members
FROM: MaryEllen Elia, Superintendent

SUBJECT / RECOMMENDATIONS

Approve Renewal Contract for Catapult Learning To Provide Client Services for the Title I Part, A Private School Reading and Math Program (Student Services and Federal Programs Division)

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The Title 1 Program has, for the past five years, employed Catapult Learning (formerly Sylvan Education Solutions) to provide third party remedial reading and mathematics services. During the 2008/09 school year, 25 eligible private schools will participate in the district’s Title I program which will serve approximately 700 students. The amount of funds to be approved will not exceed $1,100,000. These funds will address instructional and administrative costs, along with required set aside and equitable share activities such as staff development and parent involvement.

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

Goal 1- The percentage of students scoring at Level 3 or higher on the FCAT in Reading will increase a minimum of 5 percentage points. Goal 2- The percentage of students scoring at Level 3 or higher on the FCAT in Mathematics will increase a minimum of 5 percentage points.

FINANCIAL IMPACT (Budgeted: Yes)

This item is included in Special Revenue funds for Title I in an amount not to exceed $1,100,000 for a one-year period. The awarded proposal is for a five-year period with an option to extend the contract for an additional two years, beginning with the 2008/2009 school year.

EVALUATION

At the conclusion of the 2008/2009 school year, a complete program evaluation will be conducted. Student achievement data, as well as survey results from principals, teachers and parents and will be used to determine overall program effectiveness. The results of this evaluation will be shared with the provider and be a critical factor when the district determines contract renewal and any future contract awards.

SUBMITTED BY: Jeff Eakins, Director of Federal Programs

Gwendolyn Luney
Assistant Superintendent Student Services and Federal Programs Division
(813) 272 4879
Gretchen Saunders
Chief Business Officer
(813) 272-4270
A 5.09
Hillsborough County Public Schools (Florida) * Mtg.#20080715_295 * Section A Item# 5.09