Title: 10.  GRANTS TO PROVIDE TECHNICALLY ENHANCED EDUCATION FOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES : PROPOSAL FOR FUNDING (M.V. RUTHERFORD)

Requested Action:

1.    CONFIRM SUBMISSION OF A GRANT PROPOSAL TO THE U. S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION UNDER THE GRANTS TO PROVIDE TECHNICALLY ENHANCED EDUCATION FOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $400,000.

2.    UPON NOTIFICATION OF AWARD, APPROVE ACCEPTANCE OF THESE GRANT FUNDS AND THEIR BUDGETING IN THE APPROPRIATE PART I, GENERAL REVENUE BUDGET RESOLUTION, AND APPROVE ANY EXPENDITURES AND AMENDMENTS REQUIRED TO IMPLEMENT THIS PROPOSAL IN FULL.

Summary Explanation and Background:

The purpose of this grant program is to purchase computer equipment and software to develop technical education solutions for students with disabilities.  The new grant-funded ESE lab will provide tools to boost academic achievement for students who have been assigned to the Mattie V. Rutherford Alternative Center.  It will also provide extracurricular activities to enhance self-esteem for the students participating in the program and contribute to a smooth transition back into the students’ home schools.  Finally, the Steppngstones grant will provide workforce readiness skills to prepare students for economic independence.

The 24-month grant program will serve ESE students enrolled at Mattie V. Rutherford. Its primary focus is to improve academic performance of students with disabilities by providing supplemental educational programs to increase FCAT scores.

New Century Commission Recommendation/OPPAGA Recommendation/Council of Great City Schools Recommendation:

R6, R27, R32, R37, R50

Attachments (list):
STIBudget2005.xls

Financial Impact:
The district may receive up to $400,000 to support alternative school ESE students at Mattie V. Rutherford.

For Additional Information, contact:

Pat Chaney   798-4819

Lori Evans  390-2254