We request approval of contract with Class.com to purchase educational software to support virtual education for students in grades 6 through adult.

Class.com offers a highly rigorous on-line curriculum with a wide range of core and elective offerings which will be used to support drop-out prevention initiatives in middle school, high school, alternative education and adult education programs. In addition, Class.com will be used to improve the delivery of services to students enrolled in the Hospital Homebound Program and for dropout retrieval.

Class.com will be implemented in a variety of formats to best meet the needs of a population who have not been successful with traditional delivery options. Instruction will be provided by certified Hillsborough County teachers in a fully virtual environment, in a hybrid combined lab and virtual setting, and in a structured lab setting. It is appropriate for grades 6 through adult, and includes support for English Language Learners (ELL) and Exceptional Student Education (ESE) students. Hardware currently exists for implementation of this program and will require no additional cost to the District.

* Increase promotion rates at all grade levels and the percentage of high school graduates, * Demonstrate consistent and effective teaching methods, * Motivate students to become responsible learners, * Challenge and support all students with an appropriate curriculum, * Demonstrate best financial practices

The financial impact to Supplemental Academic Instruction (SAI) funds will be $305,000 pro-rated over a period of 18 months. $107,000 will be paid from the 08/09 budget and includes set up fees, and pro-rated training and software costs. The additional $198,000 will be paid from the 09/10 budget.

An evaluation of the program will be conducted annually by the Division of Curriculum and Instruction to determine the effectiveness of the program in reducing the drop out rate. The results will be shared with district officials and will be used to determine future purchases.