HCPS FL Logo Information and Technology
Action Item
DATE: Tuesday, July 26, 2011
TO: School Board Members
FROM: MaryEllen Elia, Superintendent
SUBJECT / RECOMMENDATIONS
Approve an Agreement with Tutor.com MYLIVE PD to Participate in a Research Project that Provides Online, on Demand, Professional Development to Algebra I Teachers
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Tutor.com MyLivePD has received funding from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to conduct on national research study on the effectiveness of online, on demand professional development for teachers of Algebra I.

 A group of 50-75 Algebra I teachers from the district is expected to participate.  Participation is open to all teachers of Algebra I and is completely voluntary.  Throughout the year, teachers will have access to professional coaches who can assist them with pedagogical concerns such as the best way to teach factoring or best practice in assessing student learning on graphing linear equations. Participating teachers will have the responsibility of attending an inservice activity at the beginning of the project and participating in surveys.

 The project is of interest to the district because professional development is an area of focus;  this will give district personnel the opportunity to evaluate the effectiveness of this innovative approach.

STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES
• 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
FINANCIAL IMPACT (Budgeted:  Yes)
Funds of not more than $2,000 will be allocated for training sessions stipends.
EVALUATION
The study will be evaluated by district and Tutor.com MyLivePD staff.  The evaluation will include a study of how often teachers take advantage of the opportunity to obtain coaching advice and student performance compared to student in non-participating classes.
SUBMITTED BY: 
    David J. Steele, Ph.D.

  Chief Information and Technology Officer and Project Director, Empowering Effective Teachers Grant
(813) 272-4600
    A 4.03
Hillsborough County Public Schools (Florida) * Mtg.#20110726_468 (Board Meeting followed by Public Hearing) * Section A Item# 4.03