Approve Renewal of Collaborative Affiliation and Medical Services Agreement with the University of South Florida (USF), College of Medicine for Services for Students with Complex and Serious Emotional and Behavioral Disabilities, 2009/2010 (Curriculum and Instruction Division)

In July 2002, the district and USF’s, College of Medicine began a partnership to provide continuity of care and long-term follow up for students with complex and serious emotional and behavioral disabilities.

We request approval of the agreement which has been developed with the USF Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Silver Child Development Center, to continue to provide neuropsychiatric evaluation services to students who are referred by the Department of Exceptional Student Education and the Florida Diagnostic Learning Resources System. Comprehensive neuropsychiatric evaluation, consultation, and follow-up services will be provided for at least 35 elementary, middle, and high school students for the 2009/2010 school year. USF will assume all responsibilities for meeting federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) regulations.

During the 2008/2009 school year, approximately 30 students were referred for services through this program. USF made 42 visits to schools throughout the district to observe students, attend school meetings, and provide follow-up assistance. In addition, over 37 students were seen through the psychiatric resident rotation program at two designated school visits.

* 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

Funds of $169,040 are included in the divisional special revenue/federal programs budget for Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Project 1731.