FL H1483

Amends Florida Statutes to require students who earn a high school equivalency diploma to be included in the high school graduation rate for purposes of determining a school's grade beginning with the 2011-2012 school year.

Establishes that high school equivalency diplomas have equal status with standard high school diplomas for all state purposes, including admission to state universities and community colleges.

Requires that at least 75 percent of students earning a high school equivalency diploma pursuant to section 1003.435 be included in the calculation of the high school graduation rate used in school grading systems.

Directs the State Board of Education to adopt rules for awarding a standard high school diploma to holders of high school equivalency diplomas who meet designated criteria, with the commissioner establishing administration procedures.

Takes effect July 1, 2011.