Q: Is Georgia planning on having tutoring? I knew Florida was, but didn’t know Georgia would. What will the process be?
Pines-The GA waiver application includes a 5% set-aside known as a Flexible Learning Program, that includes tutoring among other student interventions. It is not a mandatory SES program like you are accustomed to.
Q: Is there a time frame for when the DOE could no longer require changes to FL’s plan to tutor for 12-13?
Pines- The USDE is in uncharted territory now in re-thinking Florida’s already-approved waiver. As such there is no time-table as you say, but it would appear that some resolution would have to occur in next 60 days or less. The State Commissioner, along with state education advocacy groups, and EIA are all working hard and together to make sure the USDE does not reverse decisions by FL.
Q: Do you know what to expect in New York City? It can be fairly expensive to get ready for the tutoring year.
Pines-Save your money; the NY State application does not require tutoring.
Q: Thanks for doing the webinar today. What is the latest on CT? I hear they retained the 20% set-aside, but I have not heard anything else. Any news?
Pines- Happy to share what I know. In CT, you are correct. The State continues a 20% set aside but SES is not required. Funds may be used for extended learning time (XLT), Saturday academies and other evidence-based interventions. State will establish list of approved external providers for turnaround.
Q: I did not have a chance to ask Mr. Pines for any specifics in regard to Virginia’s language within their SES Waiver application.
Pines- Here is the best link at the USDE to see all state applications, both approved and still pending (waiver link). Use the pdf key-word search function to find “SES”.
Q:Is there a written copy of Virginia’s waiver application which can be reviewed? Also, can you provide a link to the Federal website that posts the waiver applications of the involved states?
The Virginia application is found there as well, but in short, they maintain the 20% set aside but not mandated services like SES. In Focus Schools, LEAs must use research based instructional interventions, and they are to hire an external contractor that provides academic review/accreditation-like analysis and plan implementation. Services include PD, strategic planning, data-driven assessments.
