This bill amends Florida Statutes concerning education, specifically targeting lab schools and charter schools. It allows lab schools to use discretionary capital improvement funds for various purposes, such as purchasing real property, constructing facilities, and acquiring vehicles for student transportation, as long as these expenditures are at or below the appraised value. The bill defines "appraised value" and requires documentation of this value to be submitted to the Department of Education upon request.

In addition to provisions for lab schools, the bill introduces significant amendments for charter schools, including the ability to increase enrollment beyond their charter's specified capacity if they are not under a school improvement or corrective action plan, provided the new enrollment does not exceed the facility's capacity. Charter schools must notify their sponsors in writing by March 1 of their intent to increase enrollment for the following school year. The bill also enhances the operational flexibility of high-performing charter schools, allowing them to consolidate charters and expand grade levels more easily, while ensuring accountability and transparency in governance. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 822 Filed: 1002.331
S 822 c2: 1002.331