FL S1244

Establishes an appeal process allowing parents of third-grade students with reading deficiencies to seek exemption from mandatory retention through a majority vote of the district school board.

Recognizes physical or emotional trauma (death of family member, removal from home, serious illness/injury) and unusual test anxiety as justifiable grounds for appealing mandatory retention.

Requires independent assessment by a qualified school psychologist when an appeal is filed, with the school principal evaluating the assessment and making a recommendation to the district school board within 30 days.

Mandates the school district appoint a qualified advocate for parents who lack means or resources to appeal, and allows school personnel to initiate appeals with parental permission.

Requires district school boards to annually report to the state the total number of students promoted as a result of appealing their retention under the new appeal process, effective July 1, 2010.