Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida has signed HB 1285, a groundbreaking education bill that aims to further enhance the state’s education system. The bill focuses on providing high school students with opportunities to explore military service, work their way through school, support classical education, and make key improvements to higher education.
Governor DeSantis emphasized Florida’s commitment to educational excellence, stating that the state has become a standard-bearer for academic success by focusing on core academic subjects and rejecting indoctrination in the classroom. Education Commissioner Manny Diaz, Jr. echoed this sentiment, highlighting Florida’s dedication to providing innovative pathways to academic success.
Representative Jennifer Canady praised the legislation, emphasizing that Florida has become the nation’s leader in education by prioritizing student achievement, parental involvement, and high-quality instruction. Ray Rodrigues, Chancellor of the State University System of Florida, commended Governor DeSantis for solidifying Florida’s higher education system as number one in the nation.
HB 1285 includes provisions such as allowing 11th and 12th grade students to take the ASVAB Test and consult with military recruiters, enabling students to work their way through school, and establishing accountability measures for postsecondary institutions. The bill also empowers aspiring teachers to obtain a classical teaching certificate and ensures that conflicts of interest between institutions and trustees are avoided.
Additionally, the bill provides a clear process for struggling schools to convert to charter schools, supports military families through the Purple Star Schools of Distinction Program, and limits book challenges to protect schools from politicization. Overall, HB 1285 aims to further elevate Florida’s education system and provide students with the tools they need to succeed.