The bill amends section 1002.37 of the Florida Statutes, which governs the Florida Virtual School (FLVS), by removing provisions that prioritized certain students for admission, thereby allowing FLVS to serve all students who meet the profile for success. It 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. The bill also allows the president and CEO of FLVS to call board meetings, authorizes the board to seek supplemental funding beyond the Florida Education Finance Program, and requires specific funds to support the school's mission. Additionally, it classifies certain employees as state employees eligible for the Florida Retirement System and removes the executive director's authority to override proposed expenditures.

Further changes include eliminating the requirement for the board of trustees to establish performance measures and accountability reports to the Commissioner of Education, while ensuring that international assessments are available to all FLVS students. The board is empowered to enter into contracts with other educational institutions and government agencies and must maintain financial records in accordance with state rules. The bill also specifies that all assessments, including international assessments, must be taken at designated schools based on district school board attendance areas unless an alternative site is agreed upon. It mandates that school districts provide access to testing facilities and information regarding assessments. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 1122 Filed: 1002.51