Approve Renewal Memorandum of Agreement with the Children’s Board of Hillsborough County for Family and School Support Team (FASST) Project, 2007/2008 - $160,000 (Exceptional Student Education)

Since 1993, the School District has partnered with the Children’s Board of Hillsborough County to provide prevention and early intervention mental health services to children and families in elementary schools and for a district-wide early childhood screening service. The Children’s Board provides $4 million for FASST services in Hillsborough County.

A renewal Memorandum of Agreement for 2007/2008 for $160,000 has been developed to continue the commitment of the District to this initiative. The FASST Project serves 78 elementary schools by means of wraparound teams that function with a system of core values and principles that are flexible, individualized, child centered, family focused, and culturally competent.

School-based FASST Teams served over 368 students and families and developmental screenings were provided at community locations to over 1,500 children. Of the students screened, 75% received a referral for follow-up services; 94% improved or maintained their level in Reading; 82% improved or maintained their level in Math; and 91% improved or maintained their level in writing. Seventy-seven percent of the students’ behavior improved at school and/or at home.

Goal 5 - The district will close the FCAT achievement gap by a minimum of 10 percentage points as reported by No Child Left Behind.

Funds of $160,000 are included in the divisional general operating budget for Exceptional Student Education. Funds will provide for the coordination of behavioral screening and a referral system.