Title: G3 Boys and Girls Club Mentoring Services Grant

Recommendation:

I recommend that the School Board approve the submission and receipt of the Boys and Girls Club Mentoring Services Discretionary Grant application from the Florida Department of Education for $124,435, effective July 1, 2005 through June 30, 2006, and authorize the Superintendent or designee to sign all documents and contracts related to the grant which are required for implementation of the grant activities.

Description:

§         The Boys and Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County, Inc., Computer Literacy Mentoring Services grant supports the implementation of Senate Bill 2600, Specific Appropriation 86, that authorizes the Commissioner of Education to award grant dollars for discretionary projects focused on mentoring at-risk students to enhance their knowledge and skills.

§         The School District received notification of the grant announcement and award in August 2005; however the effective date is retroactive to July 1, 2005.

§         This grant is awarded to the School District but is designated for the Boys and Girls Club of Palm Beach County.  The award notice indicates that the grant applications are due now, after the funding has been awarded.

§         To expedite the transfer of funding, a contract for the Boys and Girls Club of Palm Beach County, for $124,435 is attached.

§         The Computer Literacy Mentoring Program will focus on student achievement at six Boys and Girls Clubs in Belle Glade, Delray Beach, Northwood, Riviera Beach, Wellington, and West Palm Beach.

§         The impact of this project will be measured by:  an increase in grades, homework completion, attendance and improved behavior.

§         The program goals are to:

o        Increase student proficiency in computer literacy and technology;

o        Improve student achievement in reading, writing, and math;

o        Help students embrace learning as a lifelong commitment and become self-directed learners;

o        Improve student attitudes about learning and responsibility for academic performance;

o        Encourage creative problem-solving and analytical thinking; and

o        Provide computer technology and software expertise to education directors and staff at the Clubs and increase their ability to provide direct services.

Financial Impact:

The financial impact to the Special Revenue-Other Funds budget is an increase of $124,435.  All grant-related expenditures and contracts are authorized for payment up to the amount of revenue.  There is no financial impact to the Operating Budget.

For Additional Information, contact:

Ann Killets (akillets@palmbeach.k12.fl.us)

Alison Adler

Attachments (list):
DOEtech05.doc
Q&AG3.doc