HCPS FL Logo Curriculum and Instruction
Action Item
DATE: Tuesday, December 15, 2015
TO: School Board Members
FROM: Jeff Eakins, Superintendent
SUBJECT / RECOMMENDATIONS
Approve 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:

  • integrates the power of probeware with inquiry-based content and assessment;
  • encourages and enhances a discovery-based learning environment;
  • brings portability and mobility to a classroom where critical thinking and problem-solving are driven;
  • brings twenty-first century technology into the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) classroom.

Professional development for teachers will be provided by PASCO Scientific facilitators. District personnel negotiated with PASCO Scientific a discount agreement approved on November 2, 2015. PASCO Scientific is designated as sole-source and is the designer, manufacturer, distributor, and marketer of SPARK science equipment and related workshops. This purchase is exempt from the requesting competitive solicitations by the Florida Department of Education 6A-1.012 Purchasing Policies (11) (b).
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)

Expenditures were $248,652 in 2014/2015 and $153,206 in 2013/2014. Funds in the amount of $275,000 will be available for anticipated purchases for the 2015/2016 fiscal year from the following:

  • 101 General, Project 6011-STEM, $20,000
  • 101 General, Project 4506-Science Laboratory Allocation, $60,000
  • 420 Federal, Project 2938-Math/Science Partnership Grant, $195,000
EVALUATION
Schools are continually monitored by district staff to ensure robotics and other equipment are used appropriately during the academic day and during out-of-school time. In addition, evaluations are performed for all funded grants as required by the grant.
SUBMITTED BY:  Larry R. Plank, Director, K-12 Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics
Denny B. Oest   Gretchen Saunders
Assistant Superintendent, Curriculum and Instruction
(813) 272-4221		   Chief Business Officer
(813) 272-4270
    C 6.12
Hillsborough County Public Schools (Florida) * Mtg.#20151215_706 (Board Meeting) * Section C Item# 6.12