Present Florida’s Race to the Top Phase 2 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) (Business Division)

We are currently in negotiations with the Hillsborough County Teachers Association (HCTA) regarding the MOU we received on May 6, 2010, and it is due in Tallahassee no later than midnight on May 25, 2010. The Florida Department of Education (FLDOE) must submit the state application by Tuesday, June 1, 2010. The FLDOE may be awarded up to $700 million if successful.

The Commissioner of Education, Dr. Eric J. Smith, feels we will be successful for two reasons. First is Florida’s demonstrated reform history and nationally acclaimed progress, which helped drive our high score and positive reception of the Phase 1 Race to the Top application (4th out of 41 applicants). Second is the dedication of those who came together as the Governor’s Working Group on April 28, with a charge to develop consensus around Florida’s MOU. This group was well-rounded with representation from our superintendents, board members, and unions representing teachers, as well as teachers, parents, and the business community.

* Increase promotion rates at all grade levels and the percentage of high school graduates, * Demonstrate consistent and effective teaching methods, * Motivate students to become responsible learners, * Challenge and support all students with an appropriate curriculum, * Recruit, develop, and retain a highly effective, diverse workforce, * Align the performance management system with the district’s priorities, * Provide for a district-wide succession planning structure and visible career ladder, * Align financial resources to support the district’s strategic goals, * Demonstrate best financial practices

Funding for this project will be provided to the FLDOE by the US Department of Education (USDOE). The FLDOE will award funds to Local Education Agencies (LEAs).

The project will be evaluated annually by HCPS, FLDOE, and USDOE.