HCPS FL Logo Instructional Support
Action Item
DATE: Tuesday, September 17, 2013
TO: School Board Members
FROM: MaryEllen Elia, Superintendent
SUBJECT / RECOMMENDATIONS
Adoption of Resolution – “Disability History and Awareness Weeks” (Instructional Support Division)
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Senate Bill 856 created section 1003.4205, Florida Statutes, entitled “Disability History and Awareness Instruction,” and was signed into law by Governor Crist on June 13, 2008.  The law requires school districts to designate the first two weeks of October as “Disability Awareness and History Weeks.”  The Bill promotes providing instruction for students in all K-12 public schools to expand student knowledge, understanding, and awareness of individuals with disabilities and disability rights history.  The attached resolution for Hillsborough County Public Schools has been prepared for recognition by the School Board.

The Department of Exceptional Student Education provides all students with disabilities the opportunity to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to realize their potential through the provision of specially designed instruction and related services.  The goal of the district is to provide equal access and opportunities for the identification, evaluation, and education of students with disabilities within general education classrooms with accommodations to meet the needs of students with disabilities as applicable to each individual student.

Hillsborough County Public Schools continues to provide exemplary educational opportunities for all students and the Department of Exceptional Student Education is proud of the dedication and professionalism of all individuals who provide services and support to students with disabilities.

In recognition of “Disability History and Awareness Weeks,” our schools will provide intensive instruction on disability history, people with disabilities, and the disability rights movement, especially during the first two weeks of October, and periodically throughout the school year, and will encourage entities outside of the district to conduct and promote educational activities on behalf of students with disabilities.

STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES
All Strategic Objectives
FINANCIAL IMPACT (Budgeted:  No)
This agenda item has no financial impact on the district.
EVALUATION
N/A
SUBMITTED BY: 
Maryann Parks   George Gaffney
General Director, Department of Exceptional Student Education
(813) 273-7025
  Assistant Superintendent, Instructional Support
(813) 273-7033
    C 07
Hillsborough County Public Schools (Florida) * Mtg.#20130917_597 (Board Recognition Meeting) * Section C Item# 07