Teaching and Learning Action Item

DATE:	Tuesday, December 5, 2017
TO:	School Board Members
FROM:	Jeff Eakins, Superintendent
SUBJECT / RECOMMENDATIONS
Approve the Purchase of Science Education for Public Understanding Program (SEPUP) from LAB-AIDS, Inc. (Sole-Source Provider) (Office of Teaching and Learning)
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
SEPUP at the Lawrence Hall of Science, University of California, Berkeley, develops issue-oriented innovative science materials. This standards-aligned program includes hands-on, inquiry-based content and assessment through a series of modules and science kits. The program supports middle school teachers with developing lessons that foster student engagement and excitement in the science classroom. The modules provide opportunities for students to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills through scientific investigations and observations, bridging the classroom and the natural world.  The professional development component provides teachers with continuous support for implementation through a virtual professional learning community, known as the “SEPUP Cadre," and face-to-face trainings that coincide with the start of each module.  SEPUP modules are currently being implemented at six middle schools in the realigned, sixth grade science course. The participating schools were selected based on teacher commitment to the training component. Approval for this purchase will extend the implementation for a second semester and subsequent years. In accordance with the Florida Department of Education (FLDOE) Purchasing Policy 6A-1.012(12)(d), commodities or contractual services available only from a single source may be exempted from the competitive solicitation requirements. When a district school board believes that a purchase is available only from a single source, as specified by the FLDOE, the district school board may negotiate on the best terms and conditions with the single source vendor.
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES
• Provide a student-centered learning environment that engages every child
FINANCIAL IMPACT (Budgeted:  Yes)
Funds in the amount of $50,000 will be available in the Categorical Science Lab funds.  For tracking purposes, the project number specific to the agenda item is 4506.  As of November 7, 2017, the remaining balance less encumbrances for this line item will equal $59,932.
EVALUATION
Evaluation continued on attachment.
SUBMITTED BY:  Deborah Cook, Chief Academic Officer, Office of Teaching and Learning Janet Spence, Instructional Leadership Director, Middle School Education Nicole Jacquay, Supervisor, Middle School Science

Gretchen Saunders		Dr. Alberto Vázquez
Chief Business Officer (813) 272-4270		Chief of Staff (813) 272-4986
		C 6.15
Hillsborough County Public Schools (Florida) * Mtg.#20171205_824 (Board Meeting) * Section C Item# 6.15