Neighborhood schools have always been the heart of our communities, a place where children grow, learn, and develop into the leaders of tomorrow. However, this foundation is being threatened by the Florida legislature's expansion of the Schools of Hope program. Legislative changes made in 2025 permit private corporations to 'co-locate' charter schools within the very walls of our public institutions. If an A-rated school is deemed underused- often due to an aging population, short term rentals, or ongoing construction- it is at risk for co-location.  If a school has students who struggle with 3rd grade reading, or 4th grade math- it is at risk for co-location. If a school is within 5 miles of a low-perfoming school- it is at risk for co-location.

The proposed 'co-location' allows charter schools, operated largely by private entities, to share space within existing public schools. This essentially turns public education facilities into a 'first come, first serve' battleground for corporate land grabs. Our children’s education should not be subject to business deals or corporate interests, and our public education tax dollars aren't meant to fund private enterprise.

The introduction of charter operations into public school spaces diverts critical resources, which can lead to an erosion in the quality of education. The law requires co-located public schools to include without limitation custodial services, maintenance services, school safety services, nursing services, and student transportation services. Playgrounds, gyms, cafeterias, libraries-- all shared.

The presence of different operational models within a single school can create an environment of inequality and conflict. This struggle is not just a policy debate; it's a real threat to the fabric of our communities and the future of our children. We must protect our neighborhood schools, ensuring they remain spaces dedicated solely to nurturing and educating the young minds of our communities without the interference of corporate interests.

I urge you to stand with us to oppose this initiative that favors profit over pupils. The future of our children lies in schools that prioritize learning over revenue and communities over competition. Join us in safeguarding the integrity of our public schools and sign this petition to tell the Florida legislature to scrap the planned expansion of Schools of Hope and stop this corporate infringement upon our public school system.