Last week, the Florida Department of Education organized the 2024 Annual Charter School Conference and School Choice Summit in Orlando. The event saw a record attendance of 1,300 participants and exhibitors. It served as a platform for leaders and educators from Florida's charter and private schools to collaborate with each other and with Florida Department of Education staff. Attendees shared best practices and engaged with exhibitors offering services tailored to the charter school and private school community.
Commissioner of Education Manny Diaz, Jr. expressed his satisfaction with the turnout: “I am proud to welcome a record number of attendees at this year’s Charter School Conference and School Choice Summit.” He highlighted the state's commitment under Governor Ron DeSantis' leadership, stating that "Florida is the best state to receive a quality education that fits the needs of each family."
The number of charter schools in Florida has grown significantly, reaching 738 schools across the state, enrolling over 405,000 students this year. Alongside charter schools, Florida provides universal school choice with various options allowing students to attend schools that best meet their needs.
In 2023, Governor Ron DeSantis signed House Bill 1, making Florida the first state in the nation to establish universal school choice. This legislation removed financial eligibility restrictions and enrollment caps for certain scholarship programs. For the 2024 school year, more than 500,000 students are benefiting from these programs.
For further details on Florida's school choice programs, including charter schools, interested parties can visit School Choice.