Approve the Agreement for Technical Services with Resource Associates for the Evaluation of the Foreign Language Assistance Program (FLAP) Grant (Information and Technology Division)

The purpose of the Foreign Language Assistance Program (FLAP) is to support students in the development of effective communication skills; to assist students in attaining higher levels of critical thinking and problem-solving skills; and to build a multi-cultural and language enriched learning community that will support the development of students who can work toward being productive contributors in a multi-cultural and multi-literate global society. In order to comply with the grant application and the stipulation that an evaluation be performed, Resource Associates has been contracted to evaluate the program. Resource Associates performed the evaluation of Years 1 and 2 of FLAP for 2007/2008. Copies of previous reports are available through the Department of Assessment and Accountability.

Resource Associates will collaborate with the project director and develop instruments and methodology. The evaluator will be responsible for implementing all facets of the project evaluation including a sequence skills checklist based on Florida Curriculum guide and local enrichment instruments for gathering qualitative data from key participant groups including students, parents, educators, and community members. The evaluator will conduct site visits and facilitate focus groups at the schools involved in the program, which include: Ferrell Middle School, Greco Middle School, Jennings Middle School, and Williams Middle School.

* Challenge and support all students with an appropriate curriculum

Of the $299,188 awarded for this grant, $30,000 has been set aside for evaluation purposes.

Resource Associates will provide an Interim and a Performance Report for Semester 1 in April 2009, and will provide a Complete Data Report in October 2009.