The "Freedom to Learn Act" proposes significant amendments to Florida's education laws, primarily aimed at fostering a more inclusive educational environment. The bill repeals existing prohibitions on training or instruction based on race, color, national origin, or sex, and removes restrictions on the use of personal titles and pronouns. It also introduces new mandates for public schools, including the requirement to teach LGBTQ history and the encouragement of diversity, equity, and inclusion programs. Additionally, the bill modifies the responsibilities of school districts regarding instructional materials, allowing for a broader range of viewpoints in school libraries and eliminating previous restrictions on discussing sexual orientation and gender identity in certain grades.

Moreover, the bill amends the requirements for school leader preparation programs by removing the necessity for candidates to demonstrate mastery in specific content areas, indicating a shift in focus for the training of school leaders. It establishes a clearer objection process for parents concerning instructional materials and outlines a framework for the approval of school leader preparation programs. The changes are set to take effect on July 1, 2026, allowing time for the educational system to adapt to the new requirements.

Statutes affected:
S 790 Filed: 1000.071, 1001.42, 1001.706, 1003.42, 1004.04, 1004.85, 1007.25, 1012.562