Bill > S1232

This bill, titled the "Public Education Innovation and Efficiency Act," allows the State Board of Education to grant statutory waivers to school districts that enter into performance contracts, aiming to improve student achievement through various means like public-private partnerships, expanded parental choice, and virtual education. A school district can apply for a waiver from most statutes governing school operations (found in chapters 1000-1013 of Florida Statutes) if its district school board votes for it with a supermajority. However, certain critical areas, including student health and safety, services for students with disabilities, civil rights, student assessment programs, and laws related to elected officials' duties and financial disclosures, are exempt from waivers. School districts receiving waivers must still comply with public records and open meetings laws. Applications for waivers must be submitted to the commissioner and the State Board of Education with specific details on the waiver's purpose, goals, and expected impact, and waivers can be granted for up to three years if they are expected to improve academic or fiscal performance. Additionally, school districts with waivers must submit an annual report detailing their strategies and results.