Florida Lawmakers Set to Debate School Funding Revisions—Winter Challenges Ahead!

The big story: Florida’s education voucher program is growing, and many school officials are worried. They’re concerned about how this impacts funding for public schools, which serve most kids in the state.

Lawmakers have included the voucher funding in the overall school funding formula. This has created uncertainty for public schools. They can’t always predict their budget, making it hard to plan for the needs of their students.

There’s ongoing discussion about changing the Florida Education Finance Program (FEFP). Changes were made in 2023, and there may be even more adjustments coming. The House PreK-12 Appropriations Committee is scheduled to meet soon to address these issues with superintendents in attendance.

Currently, the cost of Florida’s voucher program could hit $4 billion. That’s a significant amount, raising more questions about funding.

Weather may put some plans on hold, especially in North Florida. Some school districts have canceled classes due to expected winter conditions. Meetings have been rescheduled because of these weather concerns.

Hot topics:

University leadership: Florida Atlantic University has named three finalists for its presidential position. Meanwhile, students at Bethune-Cookman University are demanding the resignation of trustees after they chose not to promote the interim president.

Teacher shortages: Teacher vacancies in Florida are declining. However, there’s a rising concern that more of the new teachers are working without certification.

School start times: Duval County officials are looking for ways to comply with a new law that requires high schools to start classes no earlier than 8:30 a.m.

School closures: Broward County is still determining how many under-enrolled schools need to close.

Planning days: In Hernando County, students will experience early release days on Fridays instead of Wednesdays next year.

Legal counsel: The Polk County school board is searching for new legal counsel after their first attempt didn’t go as planned.

K-8 schools: Indian River County is considering converting three elementary schools to K-8 campuses after gathering input from parents.

Growth challenges: Sarasota County officials are discussing how to manage growth as they plan for the future.

Charter schools: Cape Coral’s charter school system will revise its pay structure. A recent report found that many employees earn less than the midpoint of their salary range.

From the police blotter… A coach at a Marion County high school has been arrested on serious charges related to inappropriate conduct with students.