FL S0140

Requires charter school applicants and officers to undergo background screening matching standards for school personnel and board members before application approval.

Mandates charter schools provide verified evidence of accreditation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools before the first day of classes.

Changes certificate of occupancy requirement deadline from 15 calendar days to 60 calendar days before the first day of school.

Expands charter approval criteria to include documentation of adequate financial resources, disclosure of applicant identities and their other charter school operations and records, and proof that governing boards are independent of management companies.

Updates cross-reference in high-performing charter school statute from s. 1002.33(6)(h) to s. 1002.33(6)(i) to reflect the redesignation of paragraphs.