Student Services and Federal Programs Action Item

DATE:	Tuesday, March 27, 2012
TO:	School Board Members
FROM:	MaryEllen Elia, Superintendent
SUBJECT / RECOMMENDATIONS
Approve the Services Agreement between the University of Tampa (UT) and Hillsborough County Public Schools (HCPS) for Services Associated with HCPS Role in UT's Teacher Quality Grant Program Entitled Science-Math-Master (SM2) (Student Services and Federal Programs Division)
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The University of Tampa’s SM2 project will initially provide sound and sufficient professional development to 32 rural school districts, HCPS, and the Manatee School District.  Over three years, it will deliver a tailored professional development program to 450 educators in 50 school districts and create a continuing capacity to upgrade educators in the future.  The HCPS staff participating in the project will assist UT faculty with curriculum development and conducting needs assessments; recruit educators to participant in the school year and summer sessions and coordinate their participation; keep in contact with participating teachers, faculty, and partners; attend partner meetings; and assist the evaluation team as necessary in tracking participation and performance.  The ultimate goal of this project is to better equip mathematics and science teachers to prepare their students for state of Florida end-of-course exams and the rigor of advanced level coursework.  Compensation will be in the form of reimbursement to the district for billable hours for the combined services of participating staff.
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
FINANCIAL IMPACT (Budgeted:  Yes)
Funding for this project is provided by the Florida Department of Education.   UT is the grant’s fiscal agent and project funds reside at UT.  Of the amount awarded to UT, $7,500 is dedicated to project services rendered by district staff.  HCPS will invoice UT as outlined in the Services Agreement.
EVALUATION
Under the terms of the grant, UT is responsible for project evaluation.  A copy of the annual reports and final evaluation report will be provided to HCPS Office of Assessment and Accountability.
SUBMITTED BY:  Lisa Cobb, Assistant Director, Grants and Research Operations Larry Plank, Director, STEM Programs

Gwendolyn L. Luney, Assistant Superintendent		Gretchen Saunders
Student Services and Federal Programs (813) 272-4879		Chief Business Officer (813) 272-4270
		A 5.12
Hillsborough County Public Schools (Florida) * Mtg.#20120327_496 (Board Meeting) * Section A Item# 5.12