HCPS FL Logo Curriculum and Instruction
Action Item
DATE: Tuesday, August 12, 2014
TO: School Board Members
FROM: MaryEllen Elia, Superintendent
SUBJECT / RECOMMENDATIONS
Approve the Purchase of SPARK Science Equipment and Related Professional Development Workshops from PASCO Scientific (Sole-Source Provider) (Curriculum and Instruction Division)
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This laboratory equipment has been specifically chosen based on the grade levels served by each school at various middle and high schools. The SPARK Science Learning System is a mobile device that offers students the following benefits:

  • Integrates the power of probeware with inquiry-based content and assessment.
  • Encourages and enhances a discovery-based learning environment.
  • Brings portability and mobility to a classroom where critical thinking and problem solving are driven.
  • Brings twenty-first century technology into the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) classroom.

Professional development for Hillsborough County Public Schools teachers will be provided by PASCO facilitators.  District personnel negotiated with PASCO Scientific a discount agreement approved on January 17, 2014.  PASCO Scientific is designated as sole-source and is the designer, manufacturer, distributor, and marketer of SPARK science equipment and related workshops.  This purchase is exempt from the requesting competitive solicitations by the Florida Department of Education 6A-1.012 Purchasing Policies (11) (b).
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 2014/2015 school year are $175,000. Expenditures were $153,216 in 2013/2014 and $141,996 in 2012/2013. Funding will be available from Race to the Top (RTTT), STEM, Magnet Schools Assistance Program (MSAP), and science laboratory allocation.
EVALUATION
At the end of the school year, a survey will be conducted with the teachers and students to gather information regarding this equipment. In addition, evaluations are performed for all funded grants as required by the grant funding authority. 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 6.03
Hillsborough County Public Schools (Florida) * Mtg.#20140812_638 (Board Meeting) * Section A Item# 6.03