Florida families were promised that the Schools of Hope program would expand opportunity for students in struggling schools. But years later, many parents, educators, and school board members across our state are still asking the same question: Who is this law really helping?

Recent proposals from the Florida Department of Education attempt to clarify parts of the Schools of Hope law, including who pays for shared services and which schools can be targeted for co-location. But even supporters of school choice have acknowledged that these fixes may not resolve the deeper problems written into the law itself.

District leaders have raised concerns about unclear cost responsibilities, especially since the statute allows charter operators to use public school space and services at “no cost,” even while new rules suggest fees could be negotiated. That contradiction invites confusion — and potentially lawsuits — while local taxpayers are left to absorb the risk.

School board members from multiple counties have also questioned why Schools of Hope can still co-locate in schools that are not low-performing, including higher-rated schools, despite public statements suggesting the program was meant for high-need communities. Families deserve transparency and consistency, not shifting interpretations.

Advocates have further warned that the state’s formula for determining building capacity is outdated and may not reflect current class size requirements or early learning programs. These are not minor technicalities. They directly affect overcrowding, student services, and the quality of learning environments for all children sharing a campus.

This is not about being for or against charter schools. Many Floridians support school choice. But school choice must be fair, fiscally responsible, and rooted in clear, accountable policy.

We call on Governor Ron DeSantis and members of the Florida Legislature to repeal the current Schools of Hope law and work in bipartisan partnership with districts, families, and educators to craft a new approach that truly serves students in need without destabilizing existing public schools.

Florida’s children deserve thoughtful policy — not confusion and conflict.

Sign this petition to urge state leaders to start over and get it right.