Approve to Submit Grant Application to the Florida Department of Education, and if Approved, Accept Funds for the Florida Diagnostic and Learning Resources System (FDLRS), 2009/2010 (Curriculum and Instruction Division)

We request approval to submit a grant application to the Bureau of Grants Management, Florida Department of Education for funding the FDLRS Associate Center to support the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).

FDLRS centers are part of the Florida public school system. The primary focus of each center is to support the implementation of IDEA. Each center provides services in four areas: Child Find, Human Resources Development, Parent Services, and Technology. A summary of each of these service areas is attached.

FDLRS is a network of 19 state and federally funded associate centers established in 1978 which provides support services to educators, families of students with disabilities, and community agencies throughout Florida.

Federal entitlement grant applications for students with disabilities must be submitted annually.

* 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, * Recruit, develop, and retain a highly effective, diverse workforce

If approved, estimated grant funds of $1,313,307 will be included in the divisional special revenue/federal programs budget. Administrative costs are included in the grant budget.

Performance evaluation measures are determined by the Florida Department of Education. The completed annual state performance report will be completed in December 2009. The results of the evaluation will be shared with all stakeholders.