HCPS FL Logo Academic Support and Federal Programs
Action Item
DATE: Tuesday, December 9, 2014
TO: School Board Members
FROM: MaryEllen Elia, Superintendent
SUBJECT / RECOMMENDATIONS
Approve the Renewal Purchase of Desktop Multiplayer Licenses from DimensionU, Inc., (Sole-Source Provider) to be Utilized in the Hillsborough Out-of-School Time (HOST) Program (Academic Support and Federal Programs Division)
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
On December 10, 2013, the Board approved the purchase of desktop Multiplayer Licenses from DimensionU, Inc. for students in grades 3-8.  During the pilot program, user accounts were set-up, communications were coordinated, and support was provided to staff.  Three primary positive outcomes were demonstrated:  (1) increased academic achievement in mathematics, (2) high student engagement as demonstrated by the extent of home use during the summer, and (3) positive parental feedback about the program and student’s motivation.

This unique, highly engaging video game aligns with the new Florida Standards, provides a supplemental resource for mathematics, and has been part of the district’s instructional, afterschool, and summer program environment since 2009.  It has been utilized and accepted by teachers and students at 85 percent (163) of elementary, middle, and K-8 schools, 30 percent of charter schools, 17 percent of alternative schools, and at 42 HOST summer sites.  During the school year, the average time students spent on DimensionU was 21 minutes weekly, and in July, 45 minutes weekly.  In addition, students answered over 1.2 million math problems, earned over 60 million points, and played over 161,000 DimensionU games.

DimensionU has demonstrated a positive start for 2014/2015.  The focus for the second year of implementation will be on continued communication and support to students, educators, and parents.

STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES
• Demonstrate consistent and effective teaching methods • Motivate students to become responsible learners • Challenge and support all students with an appropriate curriculum • Demonstrate best financial practices
FINANCIAL IMPACT (Budgeted:  No)
The cost of 188 “anytime” access multiplayer district licenses for two years including onsite support and staff training totals $262,260.  The full cost will be paid by the HOST Program.
EVALUATION
End of year data reports showing total users, average time spent using the software, math problems solved, games completed, and points earned.  
SUBMITTED BY:  Marie Caracciola, Director, Early Childhood and HOST Programs
Larry Sykes, Ed.D., Assistant Superintendent   Gretchen Saunders
Academic Support and Federal Programs
(813) 272-4879
  Chief Business Officer
(813) 272-4270
    A 6.30
Hillsborough County Public Schools (Florida) * Mtg.#20141209_646 (Board Meeting) * Section A Item# 6.30