As a parent of a student actively pursuing academic excellence through dual enrollment at Santa Fe College, I find it disheartening that we are not allowed to participate in the student government of Santa Fe High School. We are students who have shown our commitment to education and leadership by taking on college-level classes while still in high school. We strive not only for our personal growth but also for the betterment of our peers and school community.

Dual enrollment students are often role models, demonstrating a strong work ethic, dedication, and resilience. These qualities make us ideal candidates for student government positions where we can use these traits to drive positive change within our school community.

As defined by Florida Statute, “the dual enrollment program is the enrollment of an eligible secondary student or home education student in a postsecondary course creditable towards high school completion and a career certificate or an associate or bachelors degree.” In Florida, Dual Enrollment courses are a cost free way for high school students to engage in challenging courses that can accelerate college completion. Strategically enrolling in dual enrollment courses that satisfy general education core course requirements can save a student and their family hundreds if not thousands of tuition and fee dollars and expedite entry into the workforce. Courtesy of The Florida College System and the Florida Department of Education

According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), students participating in dual enrollment programs provide high school students access to a wider range of rigorous academic and technical courses, savings in time and money for a college degree, promoting efficiency of learning and increased likelihood of continuing their education beyond high school. This data suggests that dual enrollment students possess qualities necessary for effective leadership.

We believe that being part of the student government will allow these students  to share their unique perspectives gained from experiencing both high school and college environments simultaneously. This experience could be invaluable in shaping policies that benefit all SFHS students.

Therefore, we urge the administration of Santa Fe High School in Alachua, FL, USA, to reconsider their policy barring dual enrollment students from participating in student government. Let's empower all capable leaders within our ranks regardless of their academic paths! Please sign this petition if you agree with this cause.