Title and Board Action Requested
title
Approve the Purchase of Certification Prep Curriculum from Knowledge Pillars Education Inc. for Career and Technical Education (CTE) Programs and Authorize the Issuance of Purchase Orders in an Estimated Amount of $85,000.00
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Executive Summary
The Supervisor of College And Career Programs, on behalf of the Superintendent of Schools, hereby requests the Board to approve the purchase up to $85,000.00 in certification prep curriculum and certification attempts from Knowledge Pillars Education Inc. to support Hernando County School District’s Business Enterprise, Entrepreneurship, Advanced IT, Cybersecurity, Engineering, Artificial Intelligence, Digital Design, and Gaming programs as needed throughout the 2025-2026 school year. This curriculum provides industry-aligned instructional materials and practice assessment designed to prepare students for success on state-approved industry certification exams.
Knowledge Pillars’ online platform offers interactive content, performance-based assessments, and real-world application exercises that strengthen students’ technical skills and support teachers in delivering high-quality instruction aligned with Career and Technical Education (CTE) standards. This purchase will enhance student readiness for certification success, increase district performance outcomes, and expand opportunities for students to earn industry-recognized credentials that support college and career pathways.
Funding for these purchases will be provided through supplemental funding earned by each program above. No General Fund dollars will be used for this initiative.
My Contact
Beth Lastra
Supervisor of College and Career Programs
352-797-7000 ext. 70474
lastra_b@hcsb.k12.fl.us
2023-28 Strategic Focus Area
Priority 1: Student Success
Financial Impact
See attached budget sheet.
If expenditure is not currently budgeted, this will serve as the budget amendment when Board approved. If the agenda item includes the purchase of goods or services, the funds requested are an anticipated amount and may fluctuate depending on such factors as current market conditions, product availability, additional funding sources, and the needs of the District. Should the actual cost exceed the anticipated amount, the Board approves the additional cost, after review by the superintendent, but not in excess of the funds available in the site’s approved annual budget.