Research

Florida Charter Institute

Possibilities & Potential for Florida's Underutilized School Buildings

A comprehensive study of 20 Florida counties, covering 90% of the state’s charter schools, reveals a growing imbalance. District schools are losing students but keeping (and even adding) buildings. Simultaneously, charter schools, Florida’s fastest-growing public school sector, are lacking space and are forced to spend millions of dollars on facilities.

Keep Your Eyes On Florida!

A recent analysis of academic data from around the country has shown that Florida’s educational achievements clearly demonstrate that school choice works! A recent study published by American Enterprise Institute’s CERN and the FCI highlighting how Florida’s unique policy-driven approach has sustained strong results over two decades. The state’s emphasis on early literacy, consistent progress assessments, and a robust school choice system, has positioned Florida as a leader in educational outcomes and return on investment. Florida’s elementary students rank near the top nationally in reading and math, and its low-income students outperform their peers in other states. This success is achieved at a lower per-pupil cost than many high-spending states, providing a model worth exploring further.

Charter Application Insights

The Florida Charter Institute has recently conducted an in-depth study of over 300 charter applications and 170 evaluations to identify the key elements of successful charter submissions. This comprehensive analysis offers insights into structuring charter applications effectively, providing aspiring charter groups with a framework for creating strong applications and actionable plans for operating high-quality schools. The resulting manual is an invaluable resource, designed to guide applicants in developing thorough, well-crafted charter applications for successful school operations.

2024 Effect Size Analysis

The paper Using Effect Size as a Comparative Metric of Academic Achievement explains how educators can use effect size to fairly compare school performance by accounting for differences in student demographics. It shows how this simple, standardized measure complements proficiency data to provide a more accurate and equitable understanding of school outcomes.

The Florida Institute for Charter School Operations started its operations in February, 2023 thanks to the collaboration of the Florida Department of Education’s federal Charter Schools Program grant. The grant is currently supporting the following research projects. We anticipate additional funding to be provided by the Florida Legislature to increase the services and programs we are able to offer during the next legislative session.

ANALYZE CHARTER APPLICATIONS AND EVALUATIONS

Through an extensive review of charter applications submitted throughout the state, The Institute will find exemplar samples of effective charter applications and provide guidance on the development and evaluation of charter school applications.

EVALUATE CHARTER SCHOOL RENEWALS

While studying authorizing best practices, FCI will also reach out to the top performing charter school authorizers in the country to identify their renewal processes. We will also review the renewal processes utilized throughout Florida to find commonalities and best practices with the goal of developing recommended practices on charter renewals in the state.

REVIEW FINANCIAL DATA

Through a comprehensive review of charter school annual audits and financial reports, The Institute will collect data regarding financial practices at charter schools throughout the state. This data will then be compared to academic performance to identify financial best practices in use at these schools.

DOCUMENT LEA RESPONSIBILITIES

Florida Statute allows for charter schools to serve as their own LEA if they meet specific criteria. In addition, with the new option for colleges to become authorizers, several new organizations will pursue independent LEA status. FCI has interviewed all current organizations that hold this status, and is working with the Department of Education to develop a manual outlining best practices for organizations exploring this option.

RESEARCH INSTRUCTIONAL BEST PRACTICES

Through examining and interviewing the top performing public charter schools in Florida, FCI will identify what leadership and instructional practices are most commonly used at these schools and develop information and training based on the data.

DEVELOP INSTRUCTIONAL AND LEADERSHIP SEMINARS

FCI has and will continue to develop and deliver a series of research-based best practice workshops for teachers, instructional coaches, and school leaders to increase the effectiveness of school outcomes. We are also initiating a working group and fellowship program that provides more intensive development to individuals who are committed to implementing research-based best practices in their classrooms and schools.