The bill amends section 1002.333 of the Florida Statutes, which pertains to schools of hope, by allowing mutual management plans for school district facilities used by these schools to include provisions for sharing specified costs between the school of hope and the school district. Specifically, the amendment introduces language that enables the district school board to either maintain the school facilities similarly to other public schools or to share maintenance and other costs with the school of hope. This change aims to enhance collaboration and resource sharing between school districts and schools of hope.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that schools of hope must comply with the Florida Building Code and the State Requirements for Educational Facilities, but only if a mutual management plan is in place. It also ensures that students enrolled in schools of hope are counted in the district's total capital outlay full-time equivalent membership for funding purposes. The bill emphasizes equitable treatment of schools of hope in comparison to public schools regarding local building requirements and site planning processes. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
H 1543 Filed: 1002.333