Board Duties

Florida Statute 985.619 establishes the Florida Scholars Academy to deliver educational opportunities to students served in residential commitment programs and defines the statutory duties of the Florida Scholars Academy Board of Trustees.

Leadership Framework

Statutory Duty	Relevant Statutory Language
Oversee the development of the Florida Scholars Academy (FSA) program	“The board of trustees shall . . . Be responsible for the Florida Scholars Academy’s development of an education delivery system that is cost-effective, high-quality, educationally sound, and capable of sustaining an effective delivery system.” Section (s.) 985.619(4)(b)2, Florida Statutes (F.S.)
Adopt a rigorous accountability system to promote student success	“The board of trustees shall . . . implement an accountability system approved by the State Board of Education for the school by the 2024-2025 school year.” s.985.619(4)(b)3, F.S. The accountability system must assess whether the FSA is effective and efficient in providing quality services that encourage: • High student achievement, • Seamless articulation, and • Maximum access to career opportunities.
Provide fiscal oversight to safeguard the public trust	“The board of trustees shall . . . Maintain the financial records and accounts of the Florida Scholars Academy” s. 985.619(4)(b)8, F.S.
Establish a culture of excellence and continuous improvement	“The board of trustees shall . . . exercise such authority as is needed for the proper operation and improvement of the Florida Scholars Academy.” s. 985.619(4)(b)9, F.S.
Maintain rigorous regulatory compliance	“The board of trustees shall . . . Administer and maintain the educational programs of the Florida Scholars Academy in accordance with law and department rules, in consultation with the State Board of Education.” s. 985.619(4)(b)4, F.S. “The board of trustees shall . . . Provide for the content and custody of student records” s. 985.619(4)(b)7, F.S.
Ensure that all FSA students have access to high-quality educational opportunities	“The mission of the Florida Scholars Academy is: • to provide a free and appropriate high-quality education to eligible students within the juvenile justice system and • to prepare students for gainful employment • as productive citizens upon their reentry into the community.” s. 985.619(2), F.S.