Since 1995, the School Board has approved agreements with the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) to provide services to children with disabilities in the Head Start Program. This renewal agreement defines specific services provided and outlined in the Head Start Disabilities Service Plan for Hillsborough County. Services provided to children and families include Child Find/Pre-K screenings, assessments and service coordination, as well as direct educational services to Head Start children with disabilities in the least restrictive environment. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) mandates the services described in the plan.

The School District of Hillsborough County delivered Exceptional Student Education (ESE) services at BOCC Head Start sites. These services have assured that children are served in the least restrictive environment. For example, participation in staffings and Individual Educational Plan (IEP) development, providing service coordination, and participation in Local Education Agency (LEA)/Head Start meetings.

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

All children receiving services are eligible for ESE services and generate state FTE funding.