Tallahassee, Fla., August 21, 2024 – The State Board of Education convened for its August meeting to implement rules concerning accountability for Voluntary Prekindergarten Programs (VPK), the new School Readiness Plus program, and the creation of a Florida Seal of Fine Arts program. Commissioner Manny Diaz, Jr. provided remarks on the Florida Department of Education’s progress, noting a 13.3% reduction in teacher vacancies since last year and a decrease in average vacancies per school to 1.11.
Commissioner Diaz also introduced the Department’s Model Policy for school districts to use when establishing the newly passed Volunteer School Chaplain Program, which allows credible chaplains to volunteer at Florida schools. Additionally, updates were given on efforts to ensure school safety and the expansion of the Purple Star program across schools, districts, and state colleges.
“Today’s State Board actions reinforce Florida’s long-standing commitment to high quality instruction for all students, including our youngest learners,” said Commissioner Manny Diaz, Jr. “Ensuring that every child has the tools they need to be successful in school is a top priority.”
The State Board approved a new VPK program accountability rule that calculates each provider’s performance metric and designation. This rule defines quality, achievement, and learning gains while introducing new metrics for VPK provider accountability and performance. The Board also approved provisions allowing local early learning coalitions to implement the School Readiness Plus program, extending child care services for families exiting the federally-funded school readiness program.
In additional actions taken today, the State Board approved a rule implementing the Florida Seal of Fine Arts Program. This initiative recognizes high school graduates who meet exemplary benchmarks in fine arts coursework with a seal on their diploma. The rule outlines eligibility criteria for students to earn this distinction.
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