HCPS FL Logo Information and Technology
Action Item
DATE: Tuesday, April 10, 2012
TO: School Board Members
FROM: MaryEllen Elia, Superintendent
SUBJECT / RECOMMENDATIONS
Approve the Agreement for Technical Services for DIYA Solutions, LLC for the Evaluation of the Boy Scouts – Learning for Life Grant (Information and Technology Division)
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The state-funded grant, Boy Scouts-Learning for Life, is to be used to enhance and improve student performance of at-risk, low-performing students and to reduce dropout rates by providing additional learning opportunities.  In Hillsborough County, the grant will be used at 22 schools to assist in improving overall student achievement, student attendance rates, retention rates, engagement and social development, and increase graduation rates and decrease dropout rates.

The grant requires that an external evaluation be done to ensure that the project is being successfully administered and that project expectations are being met.  DIYA Solutions, Inc. has been asked to conduct this evaluation for this year.  The evaluator will determine, through surveys and observations, that project funds are used for activities that directly support the accomplishment of the project purpose and expected outcomes.  The data will be analyzed and the evaluator will complete a mid-year formative evaluation report and a final summative evaluation report. The reports will provide a detailed explanation of the program and current progress towards meeting program objectives, as well as a brief summary of the program.  The reports will contain a description of the participants; data on average daily attendance and/or enrollment at each site; data on student referrals by the school counselor and/or teachers; a synopsis of current level of participation at each site; progress toward achievement project objectives; and an analysis of the teacher, parent, and student surveys.  Overall program-wide recommendations will also be presented.

STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES
• Demonstrate consistent and effective teaching methods • Motivate students to become responsible learners
FINANCIAL IMPACT (Budgeted:  Yes)
A total of $117,500 has been awarded for the implementation of this project.  Of this amount, $10,000 has been allocated for the external evaluation of the project.
EVALUATION
Presentations will be made to program personnel.  A mid-year formative evaluation report and a final summative evaluation report will be submitted to the program manager and the Department of Assessment and Accountability. 
SUBMITTED BY:  Samuel R. Whitten, Assistant Director, Assessment and Accountability
David J. Steele, Ph.D.   Gretchen Saunders
Chief Information and Technology Officer and Project Director, Empowering Effective Teachers
(813) 272-4600
  Chief Business Officer
(813) 272-4270
    A 5.11
Hillsborough County Public Schools (Florida) * Mtg.#20120410_498 (Board Meeting) * Section A Item# 5.11