Title: CS1 Charter for Biotech Learning Center Charter School, Inc.

Recommendation:
I recommend that the School Board approve the Charter for Biotech Learning Center Charter School, Inc., effective May 19, 2005, through June 30, 2008.

Description:

Section 1002.33, F.S, authorizes Charter Schools as part of the state's program of public education. 

The mission of  Biotech Learning Center Charter School, Inc. is to provide an instructional program for middle and high school students that focuses on high academic standards.  The school will use a standards-driven constructivist approach of teaching and learning.  The model is structured around how humans learn and the nature of the information culture in which students live.

Biotech Learning Center Charter School, Inc. will provide a unique academic environment for approximately 250 culturally diverse students in 6th through 12th grades.  Based upon the 2000 census profiling central and north Palm Beach County, the school will be racially and technically diverse.

The Palm Beach County School Board approved the original application for Biotech Learning Center Charter School, Inc., on March 16, 2005.

Pursuant to Florida Statute 1002.33, the terms and conditions for the operation of the Charter School shall be set forth by  the District and the applicant in a written contractual agreement called a Charter.  The Charter for Biotech Learning Charter School, Inc. has been reviewed and approved by the appropriate District departments and the Governing Board of the Charter School.

Due to the large number of pages, a copy of the Charter is on file in the Board Minutes Office for review.

Financial Impact:
Each Charter School will receive 95% of the funded FTE generated by up to 500 students. The District will retain 5% of the FTE, up to 500 students, as per Florida Statute.

For Additional Information, contact:
Ann Killets (akillets@palmbeach.k12.fl.us)
Janice S. Cover
Chuck Shaw

Attachments (list):
data panel all charter schools - 2004 (FY02-FY04.rtf