Several of these policies have been reviewed by community members and there are still concerns we would like reviewed and addressed.
One concern that comes up is the lack of uniformity in definitions. Each policy has a different way it refers to terms, for example “address” sometimes “address/residence” is used and others “primary address/residence”. Additionally, the definitions are not consistent, community members have suggested having a “definition bank” for all policies.
Policy 6400 (formerly 5004.1) never came back to the area advisories since April when we expressed concerns about the changes. The Policy does not reflect current Florida Statutes (Definition for English Language Learner does not match the statute), it removes language that ensures that schools comply with Florida Statutes open enrollment and is not accurately redlined. The Definition for “Homeless Student” was between Gross FISH Capacity and Innovation Programs, but was moved without being reflected.
Policy 5100 (formerly 5.1) still needs work as to the options for proof of address; specifically, it doesn’t require a recorded and notarized Deed (required to be valid) but does require a notarized lease (not required to be valid) - this limits access for non-owners. Also, in the Definitions, Divorced or Separated Parents 3 says the District will not resolve enrollment disputes which is not representative of “student centered.” Finally, this Policy is not properly redlined, on Page 11 of 15 in the box for Proof of Address the first line the word “registering” has been removed and not reflected.
Policy 8010 (formerly 5000) was reviewed the most by the communities, but still makes changes we do not support specifically removing references to providing equitable education to all groups, accepting community requests for boundary changes, complying with conditions of the Interlocal Agreement as to level of service and lack of procedures and/or guidelines. We understand that level of service is not required in statute, but it is agreed to as a condition within the community. Additionally, we have requested procedures/guidelines be used with this policy and would like to see that happen in order for the community to be informed of the process.