Approve Sponsoring Agreement with Literacy Compass LLC for the 2010 Literacy Compass Conference (Curriculum and Instruction Division)

We request approval of the sponsoring agreement with Literacy Compass LLC to conduct a conference experience for elementary teachers on July 12 and 13, 2010. The sponsoring agreement includes responsibilities of the district and Literacy Compass LLC to ensure a successful conference. The conference will be held at Chamberlain High School for approximately 600 elementary teachers.

The 2010 Literacy Compass Conference features two keynote curriculum speakers. The two-day conference will focus on Elementary Language Arts with an emphasis on elaboration and reading comprehension. Teacher participants will have the opportunity to hear both keynote speakers during morning or afternoon sessions. This will enable educators who teach in the Extended School Year Program to attend after students leave class either day.

* Demonstrate consistent and effective teaching methods

Funds of $24,350 to cover the full contract cost of this conference are available from the divisional general operating budget for Elementary Education. The sponsoring agreement provides a payment of $2,000 to the district by Literacy Compass LLC for use of the conference facilities.

October 29, 2010 - District staff will review the evaluation surveys completed by each participant. The surveys will measure appropriateness of the sessions, along with the level of implementation of new approaches. Results will be shared with schools, district staff, and the School Board.