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Brevard County Charter School Operations and Oversight

Brevard County Charter School Operations and Oversight

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This article is the last installment of a four-part series of charter schools by Palm Bay Live.

Charter Schools in Brevard County: Funding and Oversight 

According to Russell Bruhn, Chief Strategic Communications Officer for Brevard Public Schools, charter schools in Brevard County are financed through a combination of state, local, and federal funds, similar to other public schools. The primary source of funding is the Florida Education Finance Program (FEFP), which allocates funds based on the number of full-time enrolled students. Additionally, charter schools have the opportunity to enhance their funding through federal grants. One notable example is the Charter School Program Grant, which supports the planning and initial implementation of charter schools.

“Each charter school has a unique blend of federal, state, and local funding, depending on the specific grants they are able to secure and the number of students they serve,” explained Bruhn. 

In terms of oversight, Brevard County maintains rigorous accountability measures to ensure that charter schools meet both financial and academic standards. “All charter schools in the district are required to submit monthly or quarterly financial reports, depending on whether they have achieved high-performing status,” Bruhn stated. Moreover, the district actively monitors these schools to ensure they comply with state statutes covering all aspects of their operations.

Financial transparency is critical in the oversight process. Charter schools must submit an annual audit to the district, which is then made available to the public on each school’s website. This process ensures that stakeholders, including parents and community members, have access to detailed financial information about the schools.

Billy Prasad, Deputy Director of Brevard County Planning and Development, elaborates on the zoning and land development aspects of charter schools. “From a zoning standpoint, charter schools are treated similarly to other public schools, with certain exceptions. For example, specific provisions in our Code of Ordinances allow the Board of County Commissioners to direct educational facility impact fees toward the construction of charter school facilities,” Prasad notes. Additionally, the Public School Facilities Element of the Comprehensive Plan includes policies that facilitate the use of charter schools as mitigation options to address school capacity issues.

Over the past decade, two charter schools in Brevard County have closed due to financial instability and insufficient academic performance. “When a charter school closes, any remaining public funds, as well as property and equipment purchased with those funds, are returned to the district school board,” Bruhn clarified. This policy helps safeguard public investments and ensures that resources are redistributed to other public schools within the district.

The location of charter schools is also regulated to ensure they meet community needs and educational standards. Prospective charter schools must apply through a state-mandated process, which includes a thorough review of their proposed location as part of a comprehensive assessment by the district. “The review process is designed to evaluate how well the proposed site will serve the community and support the school’s educational goals,” said Bruhn.

Management and Locations of Charter Schools in Brevard County

In the world of charter schools, management fees are a common expense. These fees are often paid to organizations that handle administrative, curriculum development, and operational tasks for the schools. They can vary widely depending on the size of the school, the scope of services provided, and the specific contractual agreements in place.

For instance, in Brevard County, the disparity in management fees among different charter schools is quite noticeable. According to 2021 IRS Form 990 submissions, Palm Bay Academy reported management fees of $29,567. In contrast, Odyssey Charter School paid significantly higher fees amounting to nearly $1.7 million. Meanwhile, Emma Jewel Charter School incurred $93,000 in management fees. These figures highlight the varying scale and administrative needs of each school.

The implications of such management fees are multifaceted. While these fees support the operational efficiency of charter schools, they also raise questions about financial priorities and the allocation of public education funds. High management fees, as seen with Odyssey, suggest a substantial investment in specialized services, which could indicate a focus on enhancing educational quality or administrative depth. However, it also prompts scrutiny regarding the cost-effectiveness of outsourcing school management functions and the impact on budget allocations for direct educational activities. 

In Brevard County, the guidelines regarding the placement of charter schools are notably flexible, emphasizing the adaptability of educational services to community needs. Dr. Melinda Maier, Director of Curriculum & Instruction at Brevard Public Schools, shared insights into the process. “As far as the charter office is concerned, there are no regulations that impact the location of charter schools within the county,” Dr. Maier explained. She noted that applicants for new charter schools may not specify a location initially. “When a potential charter school applies, they may not even know the location at which they would be housed,” she added.

If an applying charter has a proposed location, the county considers the strategic need for a school in that area. Dr. Maier emphasized the focus on community requirements: “If they do have a location, we do take into account if the area is in need of a charter school.”

Brevard County Charter Schools Controversies 

 

Charter schools are mandated to employ certified teachers, in accordance with statutory requirements. Teachers working in or contracted by charter schools must hold the appropriate certifications as stipulated by current legislation. Recently, however, controversies have come to light regarding charter school personnel. Not only was a new principal, previously arrested in 2010 for stealing prescription drugs from teachers, selected for leadership, but also a teacher arrested in January 2023 for domestic violence was named “Teacher of the Year.” Furthermore, the only assistant principal who was set to return for this school year at Odyssey Charter Jr/Sr High was placed on probation last year for his previous actions of violently restraining students by using his forearm across their throats during his tenure at Palm Bay High. 

 

These incidents not only raise questions about the vetting and selection process for staff within charter schools but also about the standards for advancing individuals to leadership positions. Odyssey Charter seems to be a haven for individuals with criminal histories, academic shortcomings, and various professional reprimands, often advancing them to higher roles. This pattern of behavior raises concerns not just about the qualifications of the staff but also about the financial priorities of the school. Notably, in 2021, Odyssey Charter reported spending over $1.6 million in management and $91,000 in legal fees, as detailed in their IRS Form 990.

According to the Brevard Public Schools senior communications coordinator, there are 15 charter schools in Brevard County, 6 of which are located in Palm Bay. Despite Brevard Public Schools maintaining a “B” rating in the latest report card issued by the Florida Department of Education, an analysis of school performance reveals a noteworthy disparity in excellence. While only Education Horizons Charter School achieved an “A” rating, 21 public elementary schools, including Pinewood, Atlantis, and South Lake, secured top marks. 

 

Brevard County Charter Schools and Public Opinion

 

To gauge public opinion more directly, Palm Bay Live conducted a Facebook poll that garnered responses from 592 participants. Thirty-four percent expressed a preference for charter schools, below the 51% who favored public schools. Additionally, alternative options also had their share of support: 4% chose ‘none of the above,’ 2% leaned towards parochial schools, and 9% preferred homeschooling.  

 

Commenters voiced their reasons for their choices, touching on a variety of critical issues. One prevalent theme was concern over the long-term impacts of shifting public funds to charter, private, and religious schools. This reallocation, some argued, has contributed to the dwindling quality of public education, a trend exacerbated by political decisions favoring charter schools over traditional public ones. One community member noted, “That is what is wrong with charter schools—they take from the public schools’ funds.” 

Other community members voiced frustration over what they perceive as more lenient regulations governing charter schools, particularly regarding student discipline. For example, a local remarked on charter schools’ ability to expel students for misconduct, adding, “Public schools aren’t given that luxury.” 

Yet, others argued for the benefits of parental choice and the tailored educational approaches that charter schools can offer, suggesting that for some students, these institutions provide a better fit than their public counterparts. One community member stated, “Personally, it’s about parental choice [and] the best school that meets the needs of the student.” 

Moreover, commenters debated the accountability and oversight of charter schools, with some pointing out the lack of stringent standards that public schools are subject to. This raised alarms about the potential for fiscal mismanagement and educational inconsistency within the charter system. Yet, others argued for the benefits of parental choice and the tailored educational approaches that charter schools can offer, suggesting that for some students, these institutions provide a better fit than their public counterparts.

Echoing through the comments was a call for a balanced perspective on school choice, recognizing the value in both charter and public schools while advocating for reforms that ensure quality education across the board. The conversation also touched on the comparative performance of charter versus public schools in Brevard County, citing statistics to support various viewpoints on which system offers superior education.

brevardschools

Brevard Public Schools Board Votes to Approve Expansion of Guardian Program

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Brevard County, FL- This morning, the Brevard Public School Board voted in favor of the expansion of our Sheriff Training On Site Marshall Program (S.T.O.M.P.) to include district personnel who meet specific qualifications to serve as Guardians.  Safety is Brevard Public Schools (BPS) number one priority for all students and staff, and the inclusion of Guardians to supplement our School Resource Officers and School Security Specialists, will further support our mission to serve every student with excellence as the standard. 
The expansion allows employees the opportunity to apply to be a school-based guardian. The program is voluntary and only employees who are not assigned to a classroom, and as outlined in the terms of their Brevard Federation of Teacher bargaining contract, may volunteer and/or qualify. 
All employee volunteers who qualify for, and are accepted into, the S.T.O.M.P. program will undergo employment vetting, and must successfully complete the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office S.T.O.M.P training requirements before completion. Employee volunteers who advance, will have no law enforcement authority in any capacity, except in the extent necessary to prevent or stop an active assailant incident at any Brevard Public School’s site.
BPS Superintendent Dr. Mark Rendell noted: “This is an additional layer of security for our schools.  While this program is new to Brevard, it is not new to Florida as numerous other districts have had Guardians in schools for several years. The individuals who will be in the program are not classroom teachers or other positions that are part of the instructional staff covered by the teacher contract.  All Guardians will have to go through the same screening process and intensive training that is required by our School Safety Specialists.  I am thankful that we have employees who are willing to volunteer to serve in these positions.  I am also grateful for the strong partnership we have the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office which provides such rigorous training.”
S.T.O.M.P. was formed by the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO), in partnership with Brevard Schools, following the tragic events which occurred at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School on February 14, 2018. In accordance with the 2018 Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Public Safety Act (Florida Senate Bill 7026), S.T.O.M.P. was developed and has served as our program which oversees all School Resource Officers and Security Specialists within Brevard Public Schools sites. 
Training is currently slated to begin July 2024, through collaboration with the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office. 
For requests regarding further information on S.T.O.M.P. training, please contact the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office. For media inquiries or further information regarding BPS’ role in S.T.O.M.P., please contact: [Ryan Dufrain] [Assistant Superintendent to Human Resources] [321-633-1000 ext. 11200] [dufrain.ryan@brevardschools.org]
Profit Over Pupils? For-Profit Dynamics in Florida’s Charter Schools

Profit Over Pupils? For-Profit Dynamics in Florida’s Charter Schools

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The Rise of For-Profit Management in Florida’s Charter Schools

In Florida, the line between non-profit charter schools and for-profit management is increasingly blurred. Although charter schools are required to operate as non-profits, many engage for-profit firms to manage their operations. These companies profit by collecting management fees and through leasing arrangements for school facilities. Often, the management firm itself or a related real estate entity owns the property, effectively making the school’s management company its landlord as well. These financial arrangements are funded by the per-student allocations provided by state legislation, with some schools paying over $1 million annually in lease payments alone, as highlighted by the nonprofit research institute Integrity Florida. 

Carol Burris, Executive Director of the Network for Public Education, notes that about half of all Florida charter schools are operated by for-profit organizations. Notable entities like Academica and Charter Schools USA, which originate from Florida, dominate the charter landscape, raising concerns about the influence of profit motives on educational quality. Moreover, smaller for-profit chains, managing fewer than 10 schools, are also prevalent in the state.

Reports and investigations have revealed instances where for-profit management companies exert substantial control over charter schools’ day-to-day operations, sometimes funneling a significant portion of the schools’ revenue into fees or lease payments to related entities. 

A February 2020 report by the LeRoy Collins Institute further reveals that over 40% of Florida’s charter schools are run by for-profit Education Management Organizations (EMOs), a rate much higher than the national average. 

The prevalence of for-profit Education Management Organizations (EMOs) in Florida, particularly notable in Miami-Dade County, where such entities manage 77% of charter schools as of 2020, adds a complex layer to the ongoing debate about the allocation of public education funds. Critics are concerned about the transparency and accountability of public funds, especially given instances where state education dollars might benefit the for-profit entities more directly than the students.

Burris also notes the involvement of real estate developers in the charter school sector is particularly noteworthy. For instance, Academica, founded and still owned by real estate developers, exemplifies this trend. Burris highlights an intriguing case involving The Villages, where a charter school exclusive to its employees ensures their continued employment. Additionally, the establishment of the Ina A. Cohen Charter School, financed by a family foundation linked to the community’s builders, raises questions about financial entanglements and interests.

Finally, Burris underscores the concerning trend of Florida’s inadequate funding for public schools, as highlighted by the Education Law Center. “Florida does a terrible job funding its public schools by all their research standards,” Barris states. “By starving its public schools, the Florida legislature is driving families into charter schools, leaving the neediest students as well as those with serious learning disabilities behind in the underfunded public schools.” 

 

Charter School Closures and Financial Instability 

 

As of May 10, at least 491 charter schools have closed in Florida since 1998, including 15 in Brevard County. These closures hint at underlying challenges within the charter school system, sparking concerns about their long-term viability and the oversight mechanisms in place to safeguard educational standards and public investment. They also mean that taxpayer funds, once allocated to these privately owned entities for educational purposes, cannot be recouped. 

 

The Florida Auditor General’s latest report for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022, uncovers several pressing issues within the charter school sector, casting a spotlight on the financial instability that plagues some of these institutions. An analysis of 688 schools revealed that 47 were grappling with significant financial issues, and 15 were dire enough to raise serious alarms. Perhaps more concerning is the pattern of repeated mistakes, indicating a systemic failure to address and rectify ongoing financial mismanagement.

 

Additionally, the report highlighted that 51 charter schools operated at a loss during that fiscal year. Four schools’ viability was under question due to financial troubles. A critical issue identified in the report was a lack of transparency. Some schools failed to adequately disclose important financial information, such as budgets and spending reports. 

 

The State of Florida has recently announced plans to strengthen charter school oversight. The Department of Education announced plans to develop a rule to implement charter school oversight measures approved over the last two years. This initiative aims to address the financial instability and lack of transparency identified in the Auditor General’s report. The proposed rule will focus on charter school sponsors, ensuring they oversee the schools’ finances effectively and uphold participation in a state accountability system. A “standard monitoring tool” is in the works to facilitate annual site reviews of charter schools. 

 

Influence of Lobbying and Contributions on Education Policy 

 

According to a 2018 report by Integrity Florida, the charter school industry has played a significant role in shaping education policy through lobbying efforts and political contributions. From 1998 to 2016, the industry spent over $13 million on influencing state education policy, with the aim of legislating changes to expand and financially support charter schools. 

 

One of the most telling instances of this influence was the passage of House Bill 7069 in 2017, which helped expand charter schools by easing the process of opening new schools and mandating revenue sharing from traditional public schools to charter schools for capital projects. 

 

Governor DeSantis’s recent signing of HB 1285 also simplifies the process of converting underperforming public schools into charter schools. This law mandates that any public school receiving consecutive low-performance evaluations be designated as a “turnaround school.” If school districts fail to improve these schools, they are required to contract with a charter school operator by October 1 of the final year of control. 

 

HB 1285 also streamlines the negotiation process between school districts and charter school operators. Key provisions ensure that new charter schools give enrollment preference to students from the previous school’s zone and operate at the same grade levels as the public school they replace. These charter schools are also exempt from paying rent for the facility, and school districts are prohibited from imposing administrative fees. 

 

Financial records from Transparency USA highlight the scale of contributions by prominent industry players. Charter Schools USA, for instance, contributed over $1.4 million across the past three election cycles in the Sunshine State. The Florida Department of State Division of Elections records also reveal specific contributions to key members of the Senate Committee on Education Pre-K-12. In 2022, Charter Schools USA made strategic donations of $1,000 each to three committee members: Senator Corey Simon, Representative Alexis Maria Calatayud, and Representative Jay Collins, all part of the Republican Party and influential in educational legislative matters. 

 

The Florida Federation for Children also plays a critical dual role through its PAC and ECO. The PAC focuses on direct political contributions and campaigning, with over $1.3 million in contributions and $1.4 million in expenditures in 2020, and more than $1.9 million contributed with around $1.7 million spent in 2022. In contrast, the ECO, which focuses on broader election communication efforts, spent about $715,000 in 2018 and $28,000 in 2020. Charter Schools USA has been a notable donor to the PAC, contributing more than $350,000 in 2020 and about $375,000 in 2022. 

Shifting Educational Funds from Public to Charter Schools in Florida

Shifting Educational Funds from Public to Charter Schools in Florida

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 The Future of Charter School Funding 

This article is the second installment of an investigative series on charter schools by Palm Bay Live. Stay tuned for subsequent parts, where we will delve deeper into the intricacies and impact of charter schools in Florida’s education system.

 

Governor DeSantis approved House Bill 1259 last year, which updated how charter schools receive capital outlay funds. This legislation allows for a reduction of funds previously allocated to traditional public schools’ capital expenditures, to now support charter schools. It sets out a phase-out of existing funding restrictions, allowing charter schools to access revenues from the discretionary 1.5 millage local tax. Charter schools must also commit to returning any publicly funded assets to the district in the event of closure. 

 

Proponents argue that the law is a step toward ensuring that charter school students are not disadvantaged in terms of capital outlay funding, which has historically been lower per student compared to traditional public schools. They claim that this approach recognizes the evolving role of charter schools and ensures that funding is student-centered, following students to their chosen public educational institutions. Critics, however, say this shift may impose financial burdens on public school districts. They highlight the risk of diverting essential funds from schools that have longstanding public accountability and infrastructure requirements. 

 

The law is part of a broader legislative effort, including other educational initiatives like HB 891, which pilots year-round schooling in five districts in the 2024-25 school year. This initiative aims to address learning loss and juvenile crime rates that rise with summer temperatures. 

 

Charter Schools and the Battle Over Public Dollars 

 

Funding for Florida’s charter schools, particularly through property taxes, has been a significant area of contention. A 2023 proposal that sparked debate would have required school districts to share local property-tax revenue with charter schools based on the schools’ proportionate share of total school district enrollment. 

 

Charter schools have recently won significant funding battles. In one instance, a court ruled that charter schools in Palm Beach County are entitled to a cut of tax dollars from a property-tax increase approved by voters, which was initially intended for traditional public school safety and teacher pay improvements. In 2022, another appeals court ruled that charter schools are entitled to receive a share of property-tax money approved by voters. 

 

Recently, the conversation around the allocation of these funds took a more contentious turn in Broward County. At the heart of this latest dispute is Manny Diaz, Jr., Florida’s Education Commissioner, who has been a prominent advocate for charter schools. During his tenure as a state lawmaker, Diaz was instrumental in shaping policies that have made Florida a fertile ground for charter school expansion, partly through significant campaign contributions from the school choice sector.

This advocacy has continued into his role as Education Commissioner, where he is now ensuring that charter schools receive millions in public funds — funds initially set aside for traditional public schools in Broward County. The crux of the matter dates back to a tax referendum approved by Broward voters in 2018, aimed at raising funds for school safety and teacher pay improvements. Legal and legislative changes since then have mandated that these funds be shared with charter schools, a move that has led to lawsuits from charter schools demanding their share.

State officials have taken a firm stance on the issue, asserting that Broward County Public Schools (BCPS) owes around $80 million to charter schools in the district. This claim has led to heightened tensions and legal battles, with BCPS arguing that such a payout could severely impact its budget. The state’s response has been unequivocal, with Diaz and the State Board of Education demanding compliance and threatening sanctions for non-compliance, underscoring the ongoing tug-of-war over public education funding in Florida. 

Amid these financial disputes, BCPS is facing significant challenges due to a years-long loss in enrollment, with a decrease of 57,857 students since the 2004/05 school year. During the same period, charter school enrollments have seen a corresponding increase of 26,559 students. This decline has escalated financial pressures, leading to the “Redefining Our Schools” initiative aimed at addressing the issue of under-enrollment and inefficiencies across the district. Under the proposed plans, BCPS has presented a drastic step of closing three schools: Olsen Middle in Dania Beach, Oakridge Elementary in Hollywood, and Broward Estates Elementary in Lauderhill. Additionally, plans for grade reconfiguration at Pines Middle, Hollywood Central Elementary, and Sunland Park Academy, as well as public-private partnerships for Quiet Waters Elementary, Deerfield Beach Elementary, and Tedder Elementary, have been laid out as part of the district’s restructuring efforts.

In a significant shift in education funding, Governor Ron DeSantis signed House Bill 1 into law in 2023, dramatically expanding access to school vouchers across Florida. This legislation broadened school voucher access, which can impact the funding landscape for both charter and traditional public schools. By removing income and enrollment limitations, the bill extended voucher eligibility to nearly all Florida families, stirring concerns over the redirection of funds traditionally allocated to public schools.

The expanded school voucher program in Florida, as of 2023, allows all K-12 students to be eligible for private school scholarships, averaging around $7,700. This can cover tuition and other educational expenses like private tutoring. There’s also a provision for homeschooled students, limited to 20,000 this school year. Additionally, there’s a $750 transportation scholarship for public school students attending schools outside their neighborhood. 

Charter Schools

The Expansion of Florida’s Charter Schools

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This article is the first installment of an investigative series on charter schools by Palm Bay Live. Stay tuned for subsequent parts, where we will delve deeper into the intricacies and impact of charter schools in Florida’s education system.

 

The emergence of charter schools and the expansion of school vouchers are stirring significant debate and shaping the future of schooling in the Sunshine State. With Republican Governor Ron DeSantis at the helm, Florida is witnessing changes in how education is funded, where schools are situated, and who has access to these alternative educational options. 

 

The Evolution and Impact of Charter Schools in Florida 

 

Florida’s charter schools have become an integral part of the state’s educational framework since their inception in 1996. As of the 2022-23 school year, the Sunshine State boasts 726 charter schools across 46 districts, serving a diverse student population of over 382,367. 

 

The student body in Florida’s charter schools is notably diverse, with 71% of students in the 2022-23 school year coming from minority backgrounds. Hispanic students represent the largest group, making up 46% of charter school enrollment, followed by African-American students at 18%.

Despite the competitive and scrutinized process reflected in the fluctuating charter school application approval rates, Florida has seen a steady increase in the number of high-performing charter schools. As of October 2023, there are 231 schools designated as high-performing. 

Charter Schools Overview
                      Charter Schools Overview

Understanding Charter Schools

 

Charter schools aim to provide an alternative to the conventional public school experience, highlighting benefits like reduced class sizes and curricula that cater to specific educational needs. Their expansion is closely tied to the state’s voucher program, which enables families to allocate government funds towards private schooling options, including charter schools.

 

Charter schools in Florida are governed by performance contracts, known as “charters,” which are agreements between the schools’ governing bodies and their sponsoring school districts. These schools are granted operational charters, usually for up to five years, with renewals contingent on their performance outcomes.

 

According to the Florida Department of Education, charter schools welcome students from across their district. However, they can focus their programs on particular groups, such as students of certain ages, those at risk of dropping out, or those who fulfill specific academic criteria set by the school. Specific groups of students, including children of the school’s staff or governing board members, employees of the school’s corporate partners, and students assigned from underperforming schools, can also be given priority to attend charter schools. 

 

Funding for Charter Schools

 

Charter schools receive taxpayer dollars, just like traditional schools, to cover expenses from teacher salaries to educational resources. “Charters have access to additional funding streams from the federal charter schools programs to cover start-up costs, expansions, and facilities,” explains Carol Burris, Executive Director of the Network for Public Education. “However, the original promise that charters would be free from regulation in order to innovate and provide an education at lower cost has not been met in Florida as the state’s politicians have favored the sector over public schools.”

 

Unlike public schools, which are overseen by elected boards, charter schools are governed by nonprofit organizations and, at times, private companies. According to Carol Burris, half of all Florida charter schools are operated by for-profit organizations, including major national chains like Academica and Charter Schools USA. Charter schools are required to report on their educational quality and financial operations to their sponsors. They risk being shut down if they do not achieve their set goals. Just like with their traditional public school counterparts, the Department of Education reviews charter schools’ performance yearly. 

 

Florida’s charter schools receive their primary funding from the Florida Education Finance Program (FEFP) based on the number of enrolled students. Financial support for these schools encompasses a blend of state and local funds, including discretionary lottery funds and contributions from the school district’s discretionary millage levy. 

In addition to state funding, charter schools may be eligible for capital outlay funding, which can be crucial for securing facilities and initiating operations. This funding can come from both state and federal sources and provides financial support for the establishment and expansion of charter school facilities.

Furthermore, charter schools can benefit from voter-approved local tax referendums, which allocate funds for specific purposes such as campus security expenses and teacher compensation. These referendums, approved by voters in various counties, signify a community commitment to supporting public education initiatives.

Recent legal rulings and legislative measures have further clarified the funding landscape for charter schools in Florida. Courts have mandated that school districts share tax revenue generated by voter-approved referendums with charter schools, ensuring equitable distribution of funds. Additionally, state legislation passed in 2019 specifies that charter schools should receive a proportionate share of property tax dollars for operational needs.

To qualify for capital outlay funding, charter schools must meet specific criteria outlined in state statutes. This includes factors such as being in operation for a minimum of two years, having a governing board established in the state for the same duration, and demonstrating financial stability through annual audits that meet specified standards.

 

SCHOLARSHIPS

Scholarship Opportunities

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The Brevard Federated Republican Women organization is currently offering scholarship opportunities to graduating seniors or young people In college or trade school up to age 21.

Here are the requirements:
1. High School Level Grades, Class Rank and High School Graduation Date.
2. SAT/ACT Test Results (Not needed for Trade School Applicants)
3. High School Awards, Honors and Activities.
4. If Dual Enrolled at Eastern Florida State College (EFSC), grades are to be submitted in a sealed envelope, degree seeking and expected graduation date.
5. List of Community Service and/or Employment.
6. Three (3) recommendation letters (From an educator, church/synagogue associate, an employer and/or a volunteer organization associate).
7. Copy of letter from the college to which applicant has been accepted.
8. Copy of voter registration card.
9. One page Essay signed and dated, to include college course interests or trade school interests.  Also, your future goals and plans to be a productive citizen on behalf of the Country.

The deadline to apply is 5pm, Friday, April 28, 2023.

Interested applicants can apply using the following website: http://www.brevardfederatedrepublicanwomen.org/

BPS Board Meets 12-8-22 Graphic

Brevard Public School Board Meets for Special Session to Discuss Discipline

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By Kevin Vaccianna

Palm Bay Live

Brevard Public School Board met on December 8 for a special session after a press conference on November 28th led by Sherriff Wayne Ivey announced “a brand new day” for discipline at the schools. The press conference presented a united front from School Board Chair Matt Susin, Business Representative from the Local 1010 IUPAT, Delores Varney, and Brevard County State Attorney Phil Archer to present a new priority of addressing discipline issues within the schools and busses at local schools. The press conference was held at the local jail and served as a point of concern for many parents and local leaders. The board meeting had dozens from the community in attendance. The passionate discussion turned heated on occasion as the board filled over seven hours discussing discipline issues with the community.

The meeting opened with a welcome and presentation of the agenda from Board Chair Matt Susin. Although several items were listed for discussion on the agenda, the board voted to end the meeting at 4 pm, and discipline issues were the only business discussed. Other issues will be presented at the December 13th board meeting and work session. The order of business for the discipline issue was broken down into the following points: Why, Public Comment, Before the Incident, During the Incident, After the Incident, and Community Involvement. Matt Susin opened the discussion with a panel of community members gathered around the table to discuss their concerns and reasons “why” they felt the meeting and subsequent need for addressing discipline issues had reached a critical point at Brevard Schools.

Members of the community invited to speak included a wide variety of staff and union members to speak on behalf of teachers, bus drivers, IA’s, and parents at Brevard Public Schools, Sherriff Wayne Ivey, and representatives from the NAACP.

Feedback from the President of the Brevard Federation of Teachers, Anthony Colucci showed a stark list of incidents reported citing discipline infractions ranging from classroom elopement to distracting cell phone use and continuing to assault of staff, sex acts in the classroom, and drug use as well as more significant threats to the schoolwide violence. Although most teachers and staff reported that the issues came from a small number of offenders, the growing number of violence issues is a lingering and exhausting concern. Tracie Arzola, Co-Chair of Local 1010 and a parent, shared her concern, “We spent millions on security; we got SROs on site. We spent millions to keep danger out; all we’re doing is caging it in.”

Board member, Jennifer Jenkins, denounced the video press conference as inappropriate, unauthorized, and not previously discussed by the board and challenged the agenda of lacking specificity for a plan of action on policies. Katye Campbell confirmed her frustration of not understanding the proposed methods of policy restructuring in advance of the meeting. The meeting was opened for public speaking at approximately the three-hour mark.

During public discussion, parents, guardians, and community members each received three minutes at the podium to voice their concerns with the board. The level of frustration varied from thanking the board for their service and commitment to the community to asking Chair Matt Susin to “please resign.” Some highlights and targeted issues of those speaking included addressing staffing issues such as training and adding additional staff, concern about SROs and threatening demeanor of the sheriff’s department and police in schools (including new uniforms that include larger rifles carried on the chest of SRO officers daily in school), traumatizing children with a police presence in the school, corporal punishment, distrust of Brevard policing and the school board, prioritizing mental health over policing discipline, and many felt the actions of the press conference leaders were embarrassing to the Brevard community overall and one accusing Chair Matt Susin of “pandering to the Sherriff.”

After public comments, the board discussed actions and steps the district could implement before an incident that would support staff and administrators. Staff, administrators, union leaders, and board members agreed that additional training opportunities would advance discipline policies for the district.

With twenty-two minutes left in the allotted time for the meeting, Matt Susin regrouped to articulate directives for Deputy Superintendent Dr. Beth Thedy. On the list of items to “start immediately”:

  • “Culture of change” to empower staff and administrators to open discussions and be able to discuss and push back on referrals.
  • Form a discipline committee of diverse citizens in the community, including the Sheriff’s Department, members of leadership and unions at the school, and the NAACP.
  • Work towards building three additional professional development days into the school calendars and teaching contracts. (Note: with the 23-24 calendar year set for approval on December 13. This initiative is expected to be implemented in school year 24-25.)
  • Define assault and battery in a socially appropriate way so that teachers and staff will understand that their administration and the district support them.
  • Strictly enforce the current cell phone policies.
  • Further communicate that buses are equal to the school and that all policies apply equally.
  • Evaluate and clean up the referral process.

The close of the meeting brought forth additional heated disagreement between board member Jennifer Jenkins and Chair Matt Susin. Still, the meeting was appreciated by school staff and the community as a starting point for further discussion. Although little progress was made and the general feeling of the room was frustrated, the hope that future discussions would lead to positive changes was evident. Several were thankful to be invited to the discussion, and one staffer seemed to share a common thread of respect for the process ahead, “I’m excited that we are all in this room together right now. Whatever it is that brought us together, I hope we can move past that because what we have in common, right now, is a love for students, is a love for school, and a need to make things better.”

The next meeting of the Brevard Public Schools Board of Directors is December 13th. An agenda is available on the school website. Here is a link to the Palm Bay Live recording of the Special Session of the board.

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Brevard County School Board Meeting-In Review

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The first public meeting of the new Brevard County School Board got off to a contentious start, as the fourth District’s Matt Susin’s nomination for chairman met a withering dissent from District 3’s Jennifer Jenkins, questioning his commitment to the board, a potential future political run, and his track record on transparency or lack thereof. However, after a 3-2 vote, Mr. Susin was elected to be the chairman and presided over the remainder of the meeting.

At the heart of the vast majority of public commentary, which took up well over two hours of the meeting’s runtime, was the newly passed rule 6A, passed down by the state’s board of education, regarding bathroom usage and gender identity.

A raft of speakers advocated on behalf of LGBT students at the podium, beseeching the board to show compassion and empathy for an already marginalized population. These speakers ranged from educators to former students, grandparents and allies.

A minority of those who chose to comment pleaded that the board not get “sucked into” national political debates, disparaging the former chairwoman’s “regime” of mask mandates and focus on “social justice crap.” Some of their rhetoric echoed that of the Moms for Liberty, a Melbourne, FL-based nonprofit that has recently risen to prominence in Florida. Indeed, one of these speakers identified herself as a member of the group.

Nearing the end of the meeting, District 1’s Megan Wright brought up the possibility that a “change of leadership” may be needed, by which she was referring to superintendent Dr. Mark Mullins. After a passionate defense of his leadership by Ms. Jenkins, and over cries of protest from some members of the audience, Dr. Mullins, who seemed to be expecting this, said that he would voluntarily step down from his position and would enter into contract-ending negotiations at a later date and venue.

Finally, after nearly five hours, the board recommended to Dr. Mullins that the district should align itself to comply with the directives of rule 6A, restricting bathroom use based on the “biological sex assigned at birth.” With that, the meeting drew to an abrupt close.

Today, Katye Campbell of the fifth District issued a statement regarding the meeting at large, and specifically the board’s ouster of Dr. Mullins: “The decision to pursue a change in leadership was premature at best… As I stated … in yesterday’s meeting, an appointed superintendent serves at the will of the [five] selected members… [A]fter watching Dr. Mullins successfully work under the leadership of a sometimes very divided board, I had every confidence (and so did other county leaders) that he could serve just as well under this new board.”

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Brevard Public School Celebrates Women’s History, Irish American Heritage and Greek American Heritage Month

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Join BPS as we continue our yearly celebration of diversity and culture represented in the diverse community we serve and employee.   During the month of March, we are honored to observe – Women’s History Month, Irish American Heritage Month, and Greek-American Heritage Month.

 

Women’s History Month
Women’s History Month began as Women’s History Week in California back in 1978 to honor women’s contributions to American history and society from its independence to present.  The movement spread and President Jimmy Carter was the first to issue a Presidential Proclamation of the celebratory week back in 1980.  Subsequent Presidents continue to proclaim a National Women’s History Week after congress passed a public law designating it as a month observance in 1987.  Women’s History Month has grown into an international celebration honoring the contributions of women to history, culture, and society.

 

The National Women’s History Alliance selects and publishes the yearly theme.  This year’s theme is a continuation of the 2020 theme, since many of the women’s suffrage centennial celebrations originally scheduled for 2020 were cancelled due to the Pandemic, the National Women’s History Alliance is extending the annual theme for 2021 to “Valiant Women of the Vote: Refusing to Be Silenced.”  Through collaboration with the League of Women Voters Space Coast and the National Caucus of Black Women of Space Coast, BPS proudly recognizes women in Brevard County that have made significant contributions to our community.  Click here to see a list highlighting a few local heroes and moments in history.

 

Irish American Heritage Month

Irish American Heritage Month was first celebrated in 1991 by proclamation of President George Bush, Sr.  It was intentional that it aligned with Saint Patrick’s Day (March 17th) for the month-long recognition of the contributions that Irish immigrants and their descendants have made to U.S. society. It is an opportunity for us to learn more about Irish culture beyond green and hopes of ‘good luck’; it provides us a special moment to learn how Irish culture has richly contributed to literature, science, music and so much more across our nation and our community.

 

For additional education, visit Search Classroom Resources | PBS LearningMedia

 

Greek American Heritage Month

Greek American Heritage Month, also known as Hellenic Heritage Month or Greek American History Month, coincides with the celebration of Greece’s National Greek Independence Day on March 25th.  Hellenism, originating from Έλλην (Éllēn, “a Greek”), is the emulation of ancient Greek culture, civilization, principles, and ideals, including humanism, reason, the pursuit of knowledge, the arts, moderation, and civic responsibility.  Organizations across the US, including the local chapter of The American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association (AHEPA) in Melbourne, preserve and educate others on the contributions of Greek culture to our society and community.

 

For additional education and resources, visit National Hellenic Society Group Greek Guide to Greatness

 

Although every heritage month above may not be recognized at this time by the Library of Congress Law, FDOE and/or recognized by the district in the past, they are publicly celebrated.  We are honored to have an opportunity to join our community in observance and support our students and employees in celebrating and learning how our diversity makes us stronger through hearing real stories and making real connections.

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Brevard Public Schools Announces Partnership to Offer Internships for CTE Students

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Viera, FL: Brevard Public Schools is pleased to announce a unique partnership with the Brevard County Board of County Commissioners which provides BPS Career and Technical Education (CTE) students the opportunity to participate in spring semester student internships.   Four students from our local high schools completed BCBCC Employment applications, interviewed and were hired. 

 

The four students include Hunter Merklin of Cocoa High who is working with Facilities Planning in CAD Design, Garret McAdams and Bryce Berkhammer of Merritt Island High who are assigned to Automotive Truck and Fleet Repair and Maverick Schmidt of Heritage High who is working within the business sector in Permitting Customer Service.

 

Leo DaSilva, Brevard County Board of County Commissioners Facilities Services Director said “The Public Works facilities program is partnering with Brevard Public Schools to invest in the new workforce talent within our community through its high school Career & Technical internship program.  This is the first time Brevard County is taking advantage of this certified apprenticeship program with hopes to capitalize early on these highly desirable skilled trades such as Architectural Drafting.” 

 

On the job since mid-February, by all accounts both students and their supervisors are making the most of this experience and gaining valuable insights into not only future careers, but a pipeline of skilled students who are helping to serve our community.  A recent visit to see the students in action revealed that BCBCC Supervisors were absolutely thrilled with the work ethic, professionalism and skills of BPS CTE students. 

 

“It is wonderful to see how our local community and business partners are seeing the talent and potential in our CTE students,” said Rachel Rutledge, Director of Career and Technical Education for Brevard Public Schools.  “Nearly 50% of our students graduate with some type of industry certification which gives them a clear advantage when entering college or joining the work force.”

 

For more information about the Career and Technical Education programs and offerings or student internship and apprenticeship opportunities, please visit www.brevardschools.org/CTE.

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