HCPS FL Logo Student Services and Federal Programs
Action Item
DATE: Tuesday, December 10, 2013
TO: School Board Members
FROM: MaryEllen Elia, Superintendent
SUBJECT / RECOMMENDATIONS
Approve the Purchase of Desktop Multiplayer Licenses from DimensionU, Inc. (Sole-Source Provider) to be Utilized in the Hillsborough Out-of-School Time (HOST) Program (Student Services and Federal Programs Division)
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
DimensionU Games is a unique, supplemental resource for mathematics that is delivered in a highly engaging video game context. DimensionU has been part of the district’s instructional, afterschool, and summer program environment since 2009.  Superintendent MaryEllen Elia originally introduced DimensionU as part of a summer math gaming camp pilot program run by HOST, in conjunction with the middle school mathematics department. 

The pilot program demonstrated three primary positive outcomes:  (1) increased academic achievement in mathematics, (2) high student engagement as demonstrated by the extent of home use during the summer, and (3) positive parental feedback about the program and student's motivation. 

DimensionU continues to be actively utilized and accepted by teachers and students in the district. Active usage during the 2012/2013 school year was recognized at 51 middle, elementary, and alternative school sites. The proposed funding would extend DimensionU licenses for the HOST program through December 2014, to include 46 middle schools and 145 elementary school sites (see attached).  This would include elementary and middle school student access at non-traditional sites (i.e., alternative, virtual, Department of Juvenile Justice, homebound).

Executive Summary continued on next page.

STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES
• Demonstrate consistent and effective teaching methods • Motivate students to become responsible learners • Challenge and support all students with an appropriate curriculum • Demonstrate best financial practices
FINANCIAL IMPACT (Budgeted:  No)
The cost of 191 “anytime” access multiplayer district licenses for one year including onsite support and staff training totals $134,150.  The full cost will be paid by the HOST Program.
EVALUATION
End of year data reports show total users, average time spent using software, games completed and points earned.
SUBMITTED BY:  Marie Caracciola, Director, Early Childhood and HOST Programs
Gwendolyn L. Luney, Assistant Superintendent   Gretchen Saunders
Student Services and Federal Programs
(813) 272-4879
  Chief Business Officer
(813) 272-4270
    A 6.30
Hillsborough County Public Schools (Florida) * Mtg.#20131210_604 (Board Meeting) * Section A Item# 6.30