HCPS FL Logo Administration
Action Item
DATE: Tuesday, January 20, 2015
TO: School Board Members
FROM: MaryEllen Elia, Superintendent
SUBJECT / RECOMMENDATIONS

Approve the Agreement for Technical Services with the University of South Florida Board of Trustees (USF) (Administration Division)

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Leading in schools in need of turn around continues to be a challenge for principals across the country.  In Hillsborough County Public Schools (HCPS), the challenge has become a priority.  A major emphasis of the Principal Pipeline is to develop principals who can improve teaching and learning in all schools, but especially those with the most challenges in relation to student outcomes.

The University of South Florida Educational Leadership and Policy Studies Department has partnered with HCPS Leadership Development for the past three years to align their Educational Leadership Certification with our School Leader competencies and expectations.  They have designed coursework and practicum experiences based on feedback from HCPS, and this has led to more prepared candidates entering the principal pipeline. 

The strong partnership has moved to a new level through the Design a Professional Development Program that will prepare current principals to move into schools in need of turn around.  The 15-month program will allow participants to obtain an Education Specialist Degree in Educational Leadership with an emphasis in school turn around.  USF and HCPS will work together to design the selection process, the course-work, the field experiences, and the final capstone project, which will lead to finding solutions to real-world problems the district faces with student achievement.  Program content will be based on national research and case studies and proven practices from the field of school turn around.

STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES
• Demonstrate consistent and effective teaching methods • Motivate students to become responsible learners
FINANCIAL IMPACT (Budgeted:  Yes)
Funding for this project will be paid from the Wallace Foundation grant in the amount of $361,683.
EVALUATION
The success of the program will be determined by student outcomes in schools where the principals in the program serve.
SUBMITTED BY:  Tricia McManus, Director, Leadership Development
Lewis Brinson, Ed.D.   Gretchen Saunders
Assistant Superintendent, Administration
(813) 272-4071
  Chief Business Officer
(813) 272-4270
    A 6.24
Hillsborough County Public Schools (Florida) * Mtg.#20150120_682 (Board Meeting) * Section A Item# 6.24