Workforce Connections Action Item

DATE:	Tuesday, September 19, 2017
TO:	School Board Members
FROM:	Jeff Eakins, Superintendent
SUBJECT / RECOMMENDATIONS
Approve Agreement for Technical Services with NAF (Formerly National Academy Foundation) to Continue Providing Curriculum and Academy Support for Academies of Finance, Information Technology, and Hospitality and Tourism (Workforce Connections)
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
On February 13, 1995, March 13, 2007, and December 9, 2014, the School Board approved the Membership Agreement with NAF, a non-profit education organization that collaborates with the Florida Department of Education to provide support for the establishment of various academies of special curriculum focus. NAF Academies focus on career exposure and preparation at the high school level with the objective of eliminating barriers to create an interdisciplinary program to ensure student success in preparation for employment and higher education.  In 2016, this organization officially changed its name to NAF, and has requested annual updates to its agreement. Hillsborough County Public Schools has the following NAF Academies: Academy of Finance at Armwood, Brandon, Chamberlain, and Jefferson High Schools Academy of Information Technology at Brandon and Steinbrenner High Schools Academy of Hospitality and Tourism at Leto High School NAF provides digital curriculum materials, Academy implementation resources, and a dedicated NAF Academy Development Director to support teachers and district staff in implementing the NAF Academy model with fidelity. One of NAF's newest offerings is NAFTrack, which will provide Academies with opportunities for student certification, a dedicated online professional network, and opportunities for employer engagement. As a NAF Academy completer, students are provided opportunities at a wide variety of organizations that affiliate with the NAF Network.
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES
• Improve the high school graduation rate • Provide a student-centered learning environment that engages every child
FINANCIAL IMPACT (Budgeted:  Yes)
Funds in the amount of $13,300 will be available in Project 3328 – Secondary Perkins Grant.
EVALUATION
In 2016/2017, there were approximately 800 students enrolled in NAF Academies at seven high schools.  These students have multiple opportunities to participate in advisory board meetings, career exploration visits, and Career and Technical Student Organizations. Each year, site-based NAF Academy Directors perform a self-evaluation as part of NAF’s process. Hillsborough County has had at least one “Model” program and three “Certified” programs for five consecutive years. In 2017/2018, we will utilize a wide variety of metrics to evaluate the effectiveness of the NAF program, including student enrollment, Academy self-evaluations, summer intern placement, earned Career and Professional Education industry certifications, opportunities for Career Exploration Visits, business partner engagement, and participation in Career and Technical Student Organizations.
SUBMITTED BY:  Warren S. Brooks, Workforce Connections Officer, Workforce Connections

Gretchen Saunders		Dr. Alberto Vázquez
Chief Business Officer (813) 272-4270		Chief of Staff (813) 272-4986
		C 6.13
Hillsborough County Public Schools (Florida) * Mtg.#20170919_819 (Board Meeting followed by Public Hearing) * Section C Item# 6.13