Instructional Support
Action Item |
DATE: | Tuesday, August 13, 2013 |
TO: | School Board Members |
FROM: | MaryEllen Elia, Superintendent |
SUBJECT / RECOMMENDATIONS | |
Approve Memorandum of Agreement with Mental Health Care, Inc. (MHC) dba Gracepoint for Exceptional Student Education Services, 2013/2014 (Instructional Support Division) | |
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY | |
We request approval of the agreement with MHC for the continuation of services for the 2013/2014 school year. Since August 1994, the district has contracted with MHC to provide therapeutic services for students and their families being served in the Emotional/Behavioral Disabilities (E/BD) program. The goal of this service is to improve behavior and increase the academic success of our students identified as having an emotional/behavioral disability.
During the 2012/2013 school year, MHC provided psychiatric, respite, counseling, and wrap-around services for approximately 329 students identified as having E/BD (Pre-K – High School) and families. We had eight full-time therapists, one therapeutic mentor, and one case manager serving students and families at eight school sites. The therapists provided individual, family, and group therapy to students and their families, and helped to provide referrals to other resources within the community. When students transition from an E/BD placement back to a less restrictive environment or a new school, the therapists follow them to assist in making the change a positive experience. MHC also provides access to Child Psychiatric Services when the family needs more services. In addition, counseling services are also provided to students with disabilities by the district’s School Social Work and School Psychology personnel. |
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STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES | |
All Strategic Objectives | |
FINANCIAL IMPACT (Budgeted: Yes) | |
Funds of $332,850 are included in the divisional special revenue/federal programs budget, Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) Grant. | |
EVALUATION | |
Academic and behavioral progress will be measured using the student’s Individual Educational Plan (IEP) goals and objectives. | |
SUBMITTED BY:
Maryann Parks General Director, Department of Exceptional Student Education |
George E. Gaffney, Assistant Superintendent | Gretchen Saunders | |
Instructional Support Division (813) 273-7033 |
Chief Business Officer (813) 272-4270 |
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A 6.09 | ||
Hillsborough County Public Schools (Florida) * Mtg.#20130813_593 (Board Meeting) * Section A Item# 6.09 |