Approve Agreement for Use of School Facilities Between the School Board of Hillsborough County and the Early Childhood Council for Space at Manhattan Center

The School Board of Hillsborough County has been asked for their continued support and collaboration with the Early Childhood Council (ECC) for use of space at Manhattan Center.  In November 2009, the School Board approved the Use of Facilities Agreement with the ECC and the ECC has expressed their desire to continue this arrangement.  The School Board has been receiving the benefit of free developmental screenings for early childhood students for over 25 years as part of the partnership with the ECC.  This initiative has been recognized as a best practice community collaborative by the Florida Department of Education.

The ECC's screening initiative allows Florida Diagnostic & Learning Resources System (FDLRS) and their staff to participate in screening events and oversight meetings, equating to the work of two HCPS staff members.  This allows HCPS cost savings of two salaries and benefits.

This community collaboration has been reviewed as a positive enhancement for the early childhood population within HCPS, as well as a recognized benefit to the staff.

This agreement is of mutual benefit to both parties.  No fees will be assessed to either party.