The Florida legislative session this week featured significant developments in education budget proposals and legislative priorities, with budget recommendations unveiled by both the House and Senate committees.
The House PreK-12 Education Budget and Senate PK-12 Appropriations Committees, headed respectively by Chairwoman Jenna Persons-Mulicka and Chairman Danny Burgess, put forward budgets anticipating an addition of 60,750 students, bringing the statewide total to over 3.1 million. The Senate's proposal boosts per-pupil funding by $135.26 to $9,122.93, while the House increases funds by $62 to $9,050. Both committees propose reductions in the computer science bonus allocation; the House by $5 million, and the Senate by $3 million.
Priorities include funding for the Schools of Hope charter schools program with $6 million, $500,000 for FDLRS centers to aid students with Individualized Education Plans, and $2 million for regional math directors. Additionally, both plans call for a $50 million cut in the School Recognition Program. Further budget details are expected soon.
Several education initiatives of the Foundation for Florida’s Future also advanced. "HB1309, sponsored by Rep. John Snyder, passed the House Budget Committee unanimously," which enhances literacy interventions and district reading plans. HB 875, led by Rep. Alex Rizo, seeks to establish new requirements for teacher preparation programs with a focus on evidence-based reading practices.
HB 1387, sponsored by Rep. Jenna Persons-Mulicka, addresses collective bargaining with an emphasis on union member participation and restrictions during certification elections. Meanwhile, HB 1367, introduced by Rep. Erika Booth, standardizes absenteeism definitions and district roles in reducing it. HB 1267, led by Rep. Demi Busatta, aims to expand the Schools of Hope program to include more underutilized school facilities.
Additionally, HB 1145, sponsored by Rep. Jason Shoaf, passed the House Education and Employment Committee, allowing charter schools to participate in the Workforce Capitalization Incentive Grant program.
Proposals from both chambers aim to modify the operations of major scholarship programs. The Senate proposal suggests creating a separate budget line with a new payment cycle, while the House plans to cap scholarships based on forecasts and state funding. Application processes and fund releases would be adjusted to regulate interactions with these programs. The Senate suggests maintaining the enrollment stabilization fund, whereas the House suggests its elimination.