The bill amends sections of Florida Statutes related to virtual instruction programs and dropout retrieval programs. It revises the assessment and accountability requirements for virtual instruction program providers, specifying that those operating exclusively as dropout retrieval programs are exempt from certain district grade requirements. The bill introduces new language that mandates these providers to receive a school grade or school improvement rating for each district they contract with, based on the assessment scores of students served within that district, rather than statewide aggregated scores.

Additionally, the bill defines dropout retrieval programs as serving students who have officially withdrawn from high school and are not currently engaged in the education system. It allows these programs to choose whether to receive a school grade or a school improvement rating. The changes aim to enhance accountability and tailor assessment requirements to better reflect the unique circumstances of dropout retrieval programs. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
H 1079 Filed: 1008.34