• Schools of Excellence

Section 1003.631(1)(a), F.S., requires the State Board of Education (SBE) to designate a school as a School of Excellence if the grade calculation is in the 80^th percentile or higher for schools comprised of the same grade groupings (elementary, middle, high and combination) for at least two of the last three school years. In 2022-23, 783 schools were designated as a School of Excellence. Of these schools, 658 maintained their designation from 2021-22, 37 renewed their designation, and 88 were newly designated in 2022-23.

Elementary Schools (PDF),  Middle Schools (PDF),  High Schools (PDF),   Combination Schools (PDF)

A School of Excellence is extended the following administrative flexibilities outlined in the statute:

·exemption from any law or rule that requires a minimum period of daily or weekly instruction in reading;

·principal autonomy as provided under s. 1012.28(8), F.S.;

·instructional personnel may substitute one year of employment at the school for 20 in-service points, up to 60 points total in a five-year cycle, toward the renewal of a professional certificate;

·exemption from compliance with school district policies establishing times for the start and end of the school day; and

·calculation of class size compliance based on the average number of students at the school level.

Congratulations to Celebration K-8, Harmony Community School, NeoCity Academy, Osceola School for the Arts, Osceola Virtual School, and Professional and Technical High!