Florida’s Charter School and School Choice Summit Draws Record Attendance
In a vibrant gathering that underscores Florida’s commitment to school choice, the 2024 Annual Charter School Conference and School Choice Summit recently took place in Orlando. Organized by the Florida Department of Education, the event attracted an unprecedented 1,300 participants, including educators, school leaders, and exhibitors.
This significant turnout provided a platform for attendees from charter and private schools across Florida to engage with each other, exchange best practices, and interact with exhibitors showcasing specialized services for the educational community. The conference served as a melting pot of ideas and innovation aimed at enhancing educational experiences.
“I am proud to welcome a record number of attendees at this year’s Charter School Conference and School Choice Summit,” stated Commissioner of Education Manny Diaz, Jr. “Under the leadership of Governor Ron DeSantis, Florida is the best state to receive a quality education that fits the needs of each family. This conference is yet another example of how we support the continued expansion of school choice in Florida.”
Florida has witnessed significant growth in its charter school system, boasting 738 schools and serving over 405,000 students this year. The state’s universal school choice policy ensures a wide array of educational options, allowing families to select schools that best meet their needs.
In 2023, Governor Ron DeSantis signed House Bill 1, positioning Florida as the pioneer state in establishing universal school choice. This landmark bill removed financial eligibility barriers and enrollment limits for the Family Empowerment Scholarship Educational Options, while also raising the growth cap for scholarships for students with unique abilities. As a result, over 500,000 students are benefiting from the Family Empowerment Scholarship and Florida Tax Credit Scholarship programs in 2024.
For more information about Florida’s school choice initiatives, including charter schools, visit School Choice.
Read More Here
