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FLORIDA - A new education funding proposal moving through the Florida Legislature is raising concerns among educators and lawmakers who fear it could drastically reduce support for advanced high school programs.
House Bill 5101, introduced by the Florida House PreK-12 Budget Subcommittee and sponsored by Rep. Jenna Persons-Mulicka of Fort Myers, seeks to modify how the state distributes funds through the Florida Education Finance Program (FEFP).
While the bill’s backers say it increases overall per-student funding, critics argue it cuts essential financial support for programs like Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), and dual enrollment courses.
Rep. Anna Eskamani, a Democrat from Orlando, said the bill would have damaging consequences for school districts across the state, particularly in areas like Orange County.
A recent memo from Orange County Public Schools estimated the funding shift could cost the district nearly $17 million.
The district also warned of further consequences, such as fewer qualified teachers, limited professional development, and added costs for families covering exam fees and learning materials.
While supporters of the bill maintain that districts will still receive more money overall, Eskamani counters that the funding model gives local school systems less flexibility to invest in college-prep programs.
The legislation still faces review in the state Senate, where a similar bill is being considered.
Final decisions won’t be made until both chambers agree on a unified state budget. Until then, debate continues over whether HB 5101 strengthens education—or undermines it.