HCPS FL Logo Curriculum and Instruction
Action Item
DATE: Tuesday, August 27, 2013
TO: School Board Members
FROM: MaryEllen Elia, Superintendent
SUBJECT / RECOMMENDATIONS
Approve the Recommendation of the Purchase of LEGO Education Materials and Curriculum and Related Professional Development Workshops from LEGO Education (Sole-Source Provider) (Curriculum and Instruction Division)
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
These learning tools have been specifically chosen based on the grade levels served by each school at various elementary and middle schools. LEGO robotics equipment and curriculum offers students the following benefits:

  • Integrates the power of robotics technology with inquiry-based content and assessment.
  • Encourages and enhances a discovery-based science learning environment.
  • Brings 21st century technology into the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) classroom.
  • Provides a tool that allows students to problem solve, test solutions, and draw conclusions.
  • Professional development for Hillsborough County Public School teachers will be provided by trained LEGO MINDSTORMS facilitators.

LEGO Education provides materials, curriculum, related workshops, and is the exclusive United States distributor; therefore, is exempt from the solicitation process per Florida Department of Education rule 6A-1.012.
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES
• Demonstrate consistent and effective teaching methods • Motivate students to become responsible learners • Challenge and support all students with an appropriate curriculum
FINANCIAL IMPACT (Budgeted:  Yes)
Anticipated purchases for the 2013/2014 school year are $400,000. Expenditures were $325,971 in 2012/2013, and $107,351 in 2011/2102.  Funding will be available from Race to the Top (RTTT), STEM, Title I, and science laboratory allocation.
EVALUATION
Evaluation of technology implementation will be conducted by the elementary and middle school science supervisors. Continual professional development will be held for participating teachers throughout the year. When the Director of K-12 STEM completes the list of participating schools, the Board will be notified via the Friday Report.
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 6.24
Hillsborough County Public Schools (Florida) * Mtg.#20130827_594 (Board Meeting) * Section A Item# 6.24