HCPS FL Logo Curriculum and Instruction
Action Item
DATE: Tuesday, July 26, 2011
TO: School Board Members
FROM: MaryEllen Elia, Superintendent
SUBJECT / RECOMMENDATIONS
Approve Agreement with the University of South Florida (USF) for the Training of 30 Masters Level Instructional Staff (School Psychologists), 2011 through 2013 (Curriculum and Instruction Division)
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The Department of Exceptional Student Education (ESE) and the Department of Student Support, Psychological Services, is initiating a voluntary training plan in cooperation with USF that will train instructional staff in applied behavior analysis.

USF will deliver four graduate level courses (15 hours total) to 30 master's level instructional staff so they meet the requirements to take the Certified Behavior Analyst (CBA) examination.   The teaching calendar (one course per semester) will cover fall 2011, spring 2012, fall 2012, and spring 2013. 

CBA's provide direct support to students with intensive behavioral needs by guiding school teams in the design and implementation of functional behavioral assessments, positive behavioral intervention plans, monitoring student progress, and supporting intervention and data reliability.  They will also assist schools with universal/schoolwide strategies and targeted group/classroom behavior programs.

Individuals participating in the training will sign an agreement (attachment A) that indicates their intention to remain with the district at least two years after certification has been obtained.  Participants will commit to utilizing their CBA certification to assist students, schools, and families in improving challenging behaviors.

STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES
All Strategic Objectives
FINANCIAL IMPACT (Budgeted:  Yes)
Funds of $45,000 are included in the divisional special revenue/federal programs budget, Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
EVALUATION
A quarterly review of Office Discipline Referral (ODR) and Change of Placement (COP) data will be collected to ensure decreases in both areas. 
SUBMITTED BY:  Joyce L. Wieland, General Director, Department of Exceptional Student Education
Maryann Parks, Supervisor, Department of Exceptional Student Education
Wynne A. Tye   Gretchen Saunders
Assistant Superintendent, Curriculum and Instruction
(813) 272-4221
  Chief Business Officer
(813) 272-4270
    A 5.01a
Hillsborough County Public Schools (Florida) * Mtg.#20110726_468 (Board Meeting followed by Public Hearing) * Section A Item# 5.01a