Bill > H0857

This bill modifies Florida school district regulations regarding student support services by establishing comprehensive guidelines for organizations providing mentoring, counseling, tutoring, and extracurricular programs. The bill requires that such organizations cannot restrict participation based on race, color, or ethnicity, and organizations representing a single racial or ethnic group must demonstrate they employ diverse mentors and staff. The legislation mandates that all individuals working with students must undergo a Level 2 background screening, which is a comprehensive criminal history check, and organizations are responsible for conducting and maintaining these screenings. Public schools must now publish detailed information about support programs on their websites, including program descriptions, eligibility requirements, contact information, and application processes. District school boards must ensure organizational compliance and maintain documentation, and school superintendents must submit annual reports to the Department of Education detailing program participation, including the number of schools and students served, organization names, and demographic information of participants. The bill aims to enhance transparency, safety, and inclusivity in student support services across Florida's K-12 schools, with implementation set for July 1, 2026.

Education

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2026/857