Curriculum and Instruction
Action Item |
DATE: | Tuesday, August 27, 2013 |
TO: | School Board Members |
FROM: | MaryEllen Elia, Superintendent |
SUBJECT / RECOMMENDATIONS | |
Approve the Recommendation of the Purchase of SPARK Science Equipment and Related Professional Development Workshops from PASCO Scientific (Sole-Source Provider) (Curriculum and Instruction Division) | |
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY | |
This laboratory equipment has been specifically chosen based on the grade levels served by each school at various middle and high schools. The SPARK Science Learning System is a mobile device that offers students the following benefits:
Professional development for Hillsborough County Public School (HCPS) teachers will be provided by PASCO facilitators. PASCO Scientific provides the SPARK science equipment along with the related workshops, holding the copyright to both; therefore, is exempt from the solicitation process per Florida Department of Education rule 6A-1.012. HCPS personnel negotiated with PASCO Scientific a discount agreement approved by the School Board on January 24, 2012. |
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STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES | |
• Demonstrate consistent and effective teaching methods • Motivate students to become responsible learners • Challenge and support all students with an appropriate curriculum | |
FINANCIAL IMPACT (Budgeted: Yes) | |
Anticipated purchases for the 2013/2014 school year are $350,000. Expenditures were $141,996 in 2012/2013, and $403,489 in 2011/2012. Funding will be available from Race to the Top (RTTT), STEM, Magnet Schools Assistance Program (MSAP), and science laboratory allocation. | |
EVALUATION | |
At the end of the school year, a survey will be conducted with the teachers and students to gather information regarding this equipment. In addition, evaluations are performed for all funded grants as required by the grant funding authority. When the Director of K-12 STEM completes the list of participating schools, the Board will be notified via the Friday Report. | |
SUBMITTED BY: Larry R. Plank, Director K-12 STEM |
Wynne A. Tye | Gretchen Saunders | |
Assistant Superintendent, Curriculum and Instruction (813) 272-4221 |
Chief Business Officer (813) 272-4270 |
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A 6.25 | ||
Hillsborough County Public Schools (Florida) * Mtg.#20130827_594 (Board Meeting) * Section A Item# 6.25 |