Item Coversheet

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December 12, 2023 Board Meeting
Agenda Item 11.

Title
APPROVAL OF CONTRACT WITH HOUGHTON MIFFLIN HARCOURT FOR AMIRA TUTORING PROGRAM

Description

Amira Learning uses an evidence-based approach to reading success and demonstrates strong levels of evidence under the ESSA criteria. Dozens of micro-interventions rooted in the science of reading embedded in the program help students build critical foundational skills while supporting all five pillars of reading: phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. Using a large portion of the SoRT grant, we will be able to secure up to 5,500 student licenses. Professional learning will able be provided for teachers to understand reports and support implementation of this online tutoring program.



Gap Analysis

During the 2022-2023 school year, 4,451 students in grades K-5 scored a Level 1 on the end of the year Florida Assessment of Student Thinking (F.A.S.T.) for English Language Arts. This number includes all public and elementary charter schools within Sarasota County.



Previous Outcomes 

This is the first year using the Amira software.



Expected Outcomes 

It is expected that participating students will have improved FAST reading scores in 2023-2024.



Strategic Plan Goal

Recommendation

That the approval of the contract with Houghton Mifflin Harcourt for Amira Tutoring Program is approved as presented.



Contact Information

KELLY ELLINGTON  kelly.ellington@sarasotacountyschools.net

JENNIFER MAINELLI  jennifer.mainelli@sarasotacountyschools.net

RACHAEL O'DEA  rachael.o'dea@sarasotacountyschools.net



Financial Impact

$110,000.00 (Funded by the Science of Reading Tutoring (SoRT) Grant



ATTACHMENTS:
DescriptionUpload DateType
Contract12/4/2023Cover Memo