Hillsborough County Public Schools Business
Action Item

DATE: Tuesday, October 21, 2008
TO: School Board Members
FROM: MaryEllen Elia, Superintendent

SUBJECT / RECOMMENDATIONS

Approve Technical Services Agreement with Dave Weber (Weber Associates, Inc.) (Human Resources Division)

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The District is committed to providing quality training for all teachers. The consultant, Dave Weber, will conduct a six-hour institute for 200 teachers in POWER Schools on October 25, 2008. The training is based on his book, "Sticks and Stones Exposed: The Power of Our Words." Participants will examine important topics such as cultural diversity, team building, internal and external communication, institutional culture, and effective strategic focus. This program is designed to bring about change that will increase student achievement. Mr. Weber will provide participants with a copy of the book and all other required training materials; he will also work with HCPS staff to plan ongoing follow-up activities to monitor the implementation of the training objectives. This process will measure the impact of the training on participants’ professional development and student achievement.

ANNUAL DISTRICT GOAL(S) AND CRITICAL SUCCESS FACTOR(S)

* Demonstrate consistent and effective teaching methods

FINANCIAL IMPACT (Budgeted: Yes)

Funds for the $8,500 consultant fee are included in the POWER Grant budget, Project 1405.

EVALUATION

A course evaluation will be completed at the conclusion of the training. The results of the evaluation will be captured through the Professional Development System. In addition, by November 7, 2008, all participants will complete a follow-up reflection activity that will demonstrate the application of knowledge gained from the professional development provided by Dave Weber to Professional Learning Communities.

SUBMITTED BY: Tanly Cabrera, Project Director, TIF Grant

Daniel J. Valdez
Deputy Superintendent
(813) 272-4166
Gretchen Saunders
Chief Business Officer
(813) 272-4270
A 5.07
Hillsborough County Public Schools (Florida) * Mtg.#20081021_302 * Section A Item# 5.07