Budget released, session extended 

A comprehensive state budget was released today. Click here to read the budget. The budget requires a 72-hour "cooling off period" to allow lawmakers and the public to review the final document. Lawmakers will likely to begin discussions on Monday.

 
Legislative Update
Our advocacy team in Tallahassee has been meeting with legislators for months. We've advocated on behalf of all our member schools, their teachers, and the students they serve. Here's the list of the top priorities we've been focusing on:
  • Support for teacher bonuses through an expanded Best & Brightest program,
  • Giving high-quality charter school operators with a track record of success an opportunity to participate in the Schools of Hope program and replicate in areas with persistently low-performing school,
  • Fair share of capital outlay and equitable per-student funding.
A conforming bill that addresses charter school capital outlay and other issues that concern our member schools has been released. We are hopeful it will pass. Once session ends, we will provide you with a comprehensive summary of all the new and changes in current legislation that impact your schools and K-12 education.  
  
PECO dollars
On Wednesday, lawmakers approved a $500 million list of school construction and maintenance projects. It included Public Education Capital Outlay (PECO) for district-run and charter schools. The construction and maintenance projects are subject to Governor Scott's review.  
 
  
Upcoming Events
FCSA / Somerset Academy Technology & Education Innovation Fair  
 
Miami Dade principals & teachers will receive in-service points for attending. Come learn about the latest in education technology and how to launch a STEAM/STEM program at your school.   
Free for FCSA members. Tuesday, May 16 - Somerset  City Arts, 47 NW 16 Street, Homestead.
Save the Date: 
Florida meeting / 2nd Annual FCSA Charter School Super Hero celebration during the National 
Charter Schools Conference (June 11-14)  
Tuesday, June 13, 5-6 p.m. at the
Walter E. Washington Convention Center - Room 159 AB, Washington D.C.

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