The bill amends various sections of Florida Statutes concerning prekindergarten through grade 12 education, with a primary focus on enhancing virtual instruction and funding mechanisms. It allows school districts to report full-time equivalent (FTE) students for credits earned in virtual courses during the summer, thereby expanding funding opportunities. The bill also removes certain legislative intents, including the requirement for the Commissioner of Education to review the methodology for determining additional FTE membership weights and the eligibility criteria for students earning CAPE Digital Tool certificates. Additionally, it redefines "full-time equivalent student" and revises the calculation procedures for additional FTE membership for specific students, while updating the Florida School Recognition Program to emphasize instructional personnel.

Moreover, the bill introduces significant changes to dual enrollment and early admission programs, ensuring that students enrolling in eligible independent institutions are exempt from tuition and fees. It establishes criteria for calculating FTE membership based on academic performance in various advanced courses and modifies FTE values associated with successful course completions. The funding structure for CAPE industry certifications is also revised, removing the previous weight of 0.3 and allowing for bonuses for teachers based on student certifications. The bill further adjusts FTE funding for students graduating early and updates the distribution schedule for Florida Education Finance Program (FEFP) funds. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 2510 Filed: 1002.45, 1003.4203, 1003.498, 1003.4935, 1011.61, 1011.66