Bill would require private schools to disclose which IEP/504 accommodations they will provide before enrollment

Senate Bill 508, titled the Family Empowerment Scholarship Program and presented to the committee by Senator Jones, would require private schools that accept scholarship students to disclose in writing which accommodations, modifications and services (if any) they will provide for students with existing individualized education plans (IEPs), 504 plans or English-learner plans before the parent completes enrollment.

Why it matters: Sponsors said the bill is intended to ensure parents have clear, advance information about what supports a private or home-school provider will deliver prior to enrollment, improving "informed choice." Private-school representatives urged clearer, narrower language so schools are not required to produce full IEPs for prospective students they may not ultimately enroll.

Senator Jones said the bill ensures parents "receive clear, upfront information about what support their child can expect prior to enrollment." A friendly amendment was adopted requiring public schools to consult with private schools about equitable services so private schools relying on district-provided equitable services are not disadvantaged.

Public testimony: Steve Hicks, chief operations officer for Center Academy Schools and president of the Florida Coalition of Scholarship Schools, urged the committee to narrow the bill's drafting and avoid creating onerous documentation requirements that could force smaller schools out of the scholarship market. Crystal Etienne, speaking in support, said the bill simply ensures parents are informed.

Committee action: The committee adopted the amendment and reported CS for SB 508 favorably. The roll call in the transcript recorded the bill as reported favorably by a majority of the committee.