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Superintendent outlines Hardee Virtual Academy and Pathways pilot; board to explore lobbyist workshop
Summary
Superintendent reported early enrollment interest in a new Hardee Virtual Academy and a Hardee Pathways program for scholarship students; board members agreed to gather information and plan a workshop to explore hiring a lobbyist or shared lobbying services for rural districts.
The superintendent reported initial interest in two pilot programs: the Hardee Virtual Academy and Hardee Pathways. Eighteen parents have expressed interest in the blended-learning Hardee Virtual Academy, which will operate from the former Fred Dennis Building with students attending on-site two days a week and working from home the remainder. The district has completed renovations including new flooring, HVAC work, plumbing and roofing repairs; the facility is being prepared for the program.
The Hardee Pathways program is intended for students with family empowerment scholarships or tax‑credit scholarships who would pay part of their scholarship to take courses from the district as a means of re-engaging them with district schools. Two parents have expressed interest and a third has an appointment; the district described the program as year‑one pilots with plans to expand course offerings over time. The superintendent said the virtual academy requires a minimum enrollment of 14 to offset costs and that current interest exceeds that threshold.
Board members then discussed exploring the use of a lobbyist or shared lobbying services to assist rural districts in Tallahassee. Miss Cornell said she had been researching the issue and recommended pursuing more information. The board discussed options including contacting the Florida School Boards Association (FSBA), Chris Doolin (Small District Coalition), and other providers; Mr. McKinley said his firm has a lobbying branch and offered to provide contacts. The board did not vote to hire a lobbyist. Instead, Miss Bennett, Miss Cornell and Dr. Albritton agreed to gather information and propose possible dates for a workshop or informational session (in person or via Zoom) to review options and potential costs.
No formal motion to retain a lobbyist was made or voted on at the meeting; the board’s next step is an informational workshop to evaluate potential benefits and costs.
