HCPS FL Logo Curriculum and Instruction
Action Item
DATE: Tuesday, October 23, 2012
TO: School Board Members
FROM: MaryEllen Elia, Superintendent
SUBJECT / RECOMMENDATIONS
Approve License Contract with the Tampa Convention Center to Host the 2013 Hillsborough Regional Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Fair (Curriculum and Instruction Division)
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The 33rd annual Hillsborough Regional STEM Fair exhibits 2,100 students' science research projects from grades K-12 submitted from over 200 schools in Hillsborough County.  The projects will be exhibited on February 12, 2013, at the Tampa Convention Center and judged by over 400 professional scientists and educators.  This competition provides opportunities for future scientists and engineers to research original ideas in various scientific fields and present data from their experimentation to their peers and professionals.

Two ceremonies will be held on February 13, 2013, with the presentation of awards and scholarships from local, state, and national organizations and agencies, including military branches of the Air Force, Army, Navy, and Marines.

This regional fair is affiliated with both state and national fairs.  Our top 26 middle and high school students will qualify to compete in the State Science and Engineering Fair in March 2013.  In addition, two top high school students will represent Hillsborough County at the International Science and Engineering Fair in Phoenix, Arizona, where they compete with students from all over the world.

STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES
• Motivate students to become responsible learners
FINANCIAL IMPACT (Budgeted:  Yes)
Funds of $17,125 for the rental agreement are available through the Curriculum and Instruction divisional budget.  Funds to cover audio/visual equipment and tables for student projects, not to exceed $10,000, are available through community donations, registration fees from individual schools, and the Curriculum and Instruction divisional budget.
EVALUATION
N/A
SUBMITTED BY:  Larry R. Plank, Director, K-12 STEM
Wynne A. Tye   Gretchen Saunders
Assistant Superintendent, Curriculum and Instruction
(813) 272-4221
  Chief Business Officer
(813) 272-4270
    A 5.06
Hillsborough County Public Schools (Florida) * Mtg.#20121023_515 (Board Meeting) * Section A Item# 5.06