The Florida Department of Education, and all relevant state officials

We, the undersigned, call for the immediate restoration of online GED testing for all Florida residents. On January 10, 2024, the Florida Department of Education suspended online proctored GED examinations, citing "testing irregularities."While maintaining testing integrity is important, this decision has, perhaps unintentionally, created significant barriers for thousands of hardworking Floridians striving to better their lives.

For many, online GED testing isn't just a convenience; it's a lifeline. When online courses became an option, it isn't just "convenient"; sometimes it's the only way. That access meant a parent can learn after the kids were asleep, in their pajamas, finally chasing that dream. Without it, that ambition would stayed just that: a dream.

It offers flexibility for parents juggling childcare, employees working demanding hours, individuals with limited transportation, and those living in rural areas far from testing centers. It's about access – access to education, to higher-paying jobs, and to the opportunity to move forward.

This suspension, though reportedly due to technical issues, feels like a direct hit to the very people who are trying to uplift themselves and contribute more to our state. It leaves many wondering: was this suspension truly the only option? And how does it genuinely help the citizens of Florida, especially those who are already facing challenges?

We believe in a Florida where every resident has a clear path to success. By restoring online GED testing, the state would empower its citizens, rather than inadvertently creating roadblocks. Let's work together to find solutions that uphold testing integrity and support the aspirations of Floridians seeking to build brighter futures.

We urge the Florida Department of Education to reconsider this suspension and explore solutions that allow for secure and accessible online GED testing to resume as quickly as possible. Let's make it easier, not harder, for Floridians to achieve their educational and career goals.