The bill amends section 1002.333 of the Florida Statutes to revise the definition of "persistently low-performing school" and to enhance the operational framework for schools of hope. The new definition includes schools that have received three grades lower than a C in at least three of the previous five years, were closed within two years of a notice of intent, or were in the bottom 10 percent of schools statewide for student performance on specific assessments. Additionally, the bill allows nonprofit entities operating schools of hope to report their students directly to the Department of Education and outlines the procedures for schools of hope to utilize school district facilities without incurring rental fees.

Furthermore, the bill establishes requirements for mutual management agreements between schools of hope and school districts, ensuring that maintenance costs do not exceed $600 per student. It mandates that students enrolled in schools of hope be included in school district calculations for capital outlay funding and allows for colocating schools of hope with other public schools under certain conditions. The State Board of Education is also given authority to resolve disputes between hope operators and school districts, with a process for appointing a special magistrate to facilitate these resolutions. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 1708 Filed: 1002.33, 1013.31