DeSantis Signs Bill to Expand ‘Schools of Hope’ Charter Program
Introduction to the Bill
Gov. Ron DeSantis on Monday signed a bill that could help expand charter schools known as “schools of hope.” The bill (SB 2510), which is linked to the new state budget, drew debate before passing the Legislature on June 16. Charter schools are public schools often run by private operators.
Background of the ‘Schools of Hope’ Program
Lawmakers in 2017 created the schools of hope program to serve children in areas with “persistently low-performing” traditional public schools. The aim was to provide alternative education options for students in underserved areas.
Key Provisions of the Bill
The bill, in part, changes criteria for determining whether traditional public schools are persistently-low performing, which could increase the number that would receive the designation — and, as a result, open the door for more schools of hope. Also, the bill will give schools of hope the right to use vacant school facilities or “co-locate” with other schools if space is available.
Debate and Opposition
The bill was part of a broader push by Republican lawmakers to expand school choice. But it drew opposition from Democrats who contended it would harm traditional public schools. The debate highlighted the ongoing discussion about the role of charter schools in the education system and their impact on traditional public schools.
Implications of the Bill
The expansion of the ‘schools of hope’ program could have significant implications for education in the state. Proponents argue that it will provide more options for students in underserved areas, while opponents worry about the potential drain on resources for traditional public schools.
Conclusion
The signing of the bill marks a significant development in the state’s education policy. As the ‘schools of hope’ program expands, it will be important to monitor its impact on students, traditional public schools, and the broader education system. The debate over charter schools and school choice is likely to continue, with this bill being a key point of discussion.
FAQs
What are ‘schools of hope’?
‘Schools of hope’ are charter schools designed to serve children in areas with “persistently low-performing” traditional public schools.
How could the bill affect traditional public schools?
The bill could lead to more schools being designated as persistently low-performing, potentially diverting resources and students away from traditional public schools.
What are the key provisions of the bill?
The bill changes the criteria for determining persistently low-performing schools and allows schools of hope to use vacant facilities or co-locate with other schools.
Why was the bill controversial?
The bill was controversial because it is part of a broader push to expand school choice, which some argue could harm traditional public schools.
What is the potential impact of the bill on students?
The bill could provide more education options for students in underserved areas, potentially improving their access to quality education.
Gov. Ron DeSantis on Monday signed a bill that could help expand charter schools known as “schools of hope.”
The bill (SB 2510), which is linked to the new state budget, drew debate before passing the Legislature on June 16.
Charter schools are public schools often run by private operators.
Lawmakers in 2017 created the schools of hope program to serve children in areas with “persistently low-performing” traditional public schools.
The bill, in part, changes criteria for determining whether traditional public schools are persistently-low performing, which could increase the number that would receive the designation — and, as a result, open the door for more schools of hope. Also, the bill will give schools of hope the right to use vacant school facilities or “co-locate” with other schools if space is available.
The bill was part of a broader push by Republican lawmakers to expand school choice. But it drew opposition from Democrats who contended it would harm traditional public schools.
