HB 1163 Summary

• Requires charter school principals, governing board members, chief financial officers, or equivalent positions to obtain valid third-party certification at least 30 days before school opens or employment begins, certifying competence in charter school administration including financial planning, business practices, grant management, and governance.

• Certification must address core competencies including developing business plans, financial planning and accounting, state and federal grant requirements, student performance accountability, identification of funding sources, and governance topics such as government sunshine laws, conflicts of interest, and ethics.

• Individuals holding the required certification meet training requirements under Florida Statutes sections 1002.33(12)(h)3, 1002.33(6)(f), and 1002.33(9)(j)4.

• Updates cross-references in section 1012.32 regarding background screening requirements for charter school employees and governing board members to align with the new certification requirements.

• Takes effect July 1, 2019.