The bill seeks to improve administrative efficiency and fiscal transparency within Florida's public schools by amending various sections of the Florida Statutes. Key provisions include exempting district school boards from certain rule adoption requirements, allowing them to adopt rules with public input at public meetings without adhering to the usual requirements. The Department of Education is tasked with informing district superintendents about their ability to petition for declaratory statements and maintaining a list of statutory and rule requirements. Additionally, the bill removes the requirement for district school boards to employ an internal auditor under specific circumstances and eliminates the need for school financial reports to be included in student handbooks. Other amendments focus on enhancing funding mechanisms, operational flexibility, and accountability in educational programs.

Further changes include updates to educator certification requirements, allowing for more flexible pathways for teacher preparation and professional development. The bill introduces provisions for apprentice teachers, modifies eligibility criteria for certification, and extends the validity period for professional certificates for highly effective teachers. It also emphasizes the importance of evidence-based instructional strategies, particularly in reading instruction, and mandates that school districts develop professional learning systems. Overall, the bill aims to streamline processes, reduce regulatory burdens, and enhance the quality of education in Florida's school districts while ensuring accountability and transparency in operations.

Statutes affected:
S 630 Filed: 120.81, 1001.42, 1002.20, 1002.33, 1002.451, 1002.61, 1002.63, 1006.40, 1011.14, 1011.60, 1011.69, 1012.39, 1013.19, 1013.35, 1013.45, 163.3180, 1002.68, 1003.631, 1004.85, 1012.552, 1012.586, 1012.98, 1013.62