APRIL 9, 2025 - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Kevin Christian, APR, CPRC, Director of Public Relations
352.671.7734 w ◊ 352.840.3265 c
[email protected]
MARION SCHOOL BOARD ISSUES RESOLUTION
TO PROTECT STUDENT FUNDING
MARION COUNTY – With unanimous support, members of the Marion County School Board passed a resolution urging state lawmakers to protect funding for rigorous academic and career preparation programs.
Resolution 25-04 urges members of the Florida Legislature to reconsider House Bill 5101 and Senate Bill 2510 and amend those bills to protect funding for Advanced Credit and Career and Professional Education (CAPE) programs.
Current discussions could cut this funding by as much as 50%, meaning students in Marion County would lose $2.5 million earmarked for Advanced Credit and CAPE classes. Such cuts would also impact teachers who deliver challenging and meaningful instruction meeting the demands of post-secondary institutions and modern industry.
Specifically, the resolution reminds lawmakers these programs have been “instrumental in enabling students in Marion County to succeed academically, earn industry certifications, and be well-prepared for college, the workforce, and life beyond high school.”
The resolution also cites School Board member support that “encourages the Legislature to implement accountability measures for districts that misuse such funds, without penalizing districts – like Marion County – that have demonstrated responsible and effective stewardship.”
Resolution 25-04 was emailed to Marion County’s legislative delegation today in advance of voting expected on both bills later this week.
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