Public commenters at the Manatee County School Board meeting on Dec. 9 urged the board to take action against the state's Schools of Hope co-location provisions, arguing the policy would redirect money, classrooms and students away from district schools.

"Parents and community members need to understand A, the difference between our current charter schools and Schools of Hope charters," said Martha Jacobs, a Manatee County resident, during public comment. Jacobs asked the board to direct staff to calculate potential lost revenue and unreimbursed expenses and to hold workshops for parents at vulnerable schools.

Barbara Aaron, representing the grassroots group Safe Florida Home Rule, said the policy represents "state government overreach." She cited Florida Statute 1002.333 and warned that "money for these schools means less money for the other schools in the district." Jack Lawrence, a Manatee County public school student, told the board "Schools of hope are going to co locate with Manatee County Public Schools and siphon their funding, transportation, classrooms, resources, and students," and raised concerns about student data sharing.

Several speakers delivered similar appeals. Mary Lynn Parker urged the board to "be brave" and push for repeal or stronger guardrails; Elaine Graham said her "greatest concern tonight is the board's silence" and asked for clear public communication on which campuses might be vulnerable.

In response, Superintendent Breslin and other staff said they are already working on analyses and communication plans. The superintendent told the board staff are preparing a financial-impact review for targeted campuses and will provide public education sessions and materials so families understand the district's authority and limits under state law. Jamara Clark of the Office of Student Assignment emphasized ongoing outreach and said staff will describe transportation responsibilities and priority processes for families.

No formal resolution opposing Schools of Hope was adopted at the meeting. Board members acknowledged public concern and said staff would return with analyses and suggested steps, including workshops and a potential draft resolution for future consideration.

What happens next: staff said they will calculate the potential financial impact for targeted schools, distribute findings to the public and schedule workshops after winter break to explain co-location implications and district options.