The bill amends section 1002.37 of the Florida Statutes, which governs the Florida Virtual School (FLVS), by removing provisions that previously prioritized certain students for admission, thereby allowing FLVS to serve all students who meet the profile for success. It also mandates that both parents and students be informed about the opportunities offered by FLVS and grants sovereign immunity to FLVS officers, employees, and the board of trustees. Additionally, the president and CEO of FLVS is given the authority to call board meetings, while the board is required to allocate specific funds to support the school's mission and is authorized to enter into contracts with other educational institutions and government agencies.

Further changes streamline FLVS's governance and operational structure by transferring the authority to approve proposed expenditures from the executive director to the president and CEO or authorized designees. The bill also classifies certain employees as state employees for retirement benefits eligibility and tasks the board of trustees with developing a technology-based education delivery system while seeking supplemental funding sources. It eliminates the requirement for performance measures and accountability reports to the Commissioner of Education and ensures that all assessments, including international assessments, are available to FLVS students. The bill specifies that various assessments must be taken at the school assigned based on district school board attendance areas, unless an alternative site is agreed upon, and mandates that school districts provide necessary testing facilities and schedules. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 1122 Filed: 1002.51