📅 2026 Update: Changes in Florida's Education Landscape

Since the original article was written, there have been several important updates regarding the Florida Department of Education. These changes impact school grading, teacher certification, and the use of technology in classrooms. Readers can find the earlier article further down this page.

🏫 2024 School Grading Scale Update

In July 2024, the Florida State Board of Education approved a new school grading scale. This change led to nearly 1,300 schools earning an "A" grade. This is a 6-percentage point increase compared to 2023, showing overall improvement in school performance.

🤖 Responsible AI in Classrooms

As of September 2026, new rules were adopted regarding the use of artificial intelligence in classrooms. These rules stress the importance of parental control, data protection, and teacher involvement. This marks a significant step in ensuring that technology is safely integrated into education.

📚 FACT U.S. History Framework

In May 2026, the Florida Department of Education introduced the FACT U.S. History framework. This framework is an alternative to Advanced Placement courses.

It aims to provide a thorough study of American history for Florida students.

👩‍🏫 Teacher Vacancy Reduction

In July 2025, the Department announced a 17.7% reduction in teacher vacancies for the 2025-2026 school year. This is close to a 30% decrease over two years, which reflects Florida's commitment to attracting and keeping quality educators.

📊 Mid-Year Progress Monitoring Results

In January 2025, it was reported that 45% of students scored a level 3 or higher on the FAST Progress Monitoring second assessment. This is a 3-percentage point increase from the previous year, indicating positive trends in student achievement.

📌 Key Points Summary

  • 1,300 schools received an "A" grade in 2024.
  • AI rules emphasize parental control and data protection.
  • The new FACT U.S. History framework aims for comprehensive study.
  • Teacher vacancies reduced by 17.7% in 2025-2026.
  • 45% of students scored at or above level 3 on assessments.

💡 Tips for Navigating Florida's Education System

Review the specifics of your situation with a qualified attorney.

📄 Understand Teacher Certification Requirements

To earn a Florida teacher certification, candidates must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. They also need to complete a state-approved teacher preparation program and pass required examinations.

📅 Keep Track of Deadlines

Be aware of important deadlines, such as the instructional materials adoption bids due by October 30, 2024. Knowing these dates helps ensure timely submissions and updates.

🔍 Monitor Processing Times

Processing times for teacher certification applications can vary. It is important to check the Florida Department of Education's website for the latest timelines to avoid delays.

📝 Prepare for FTCE/FELE Exams

Register for the Florida Teacher Certification Examinations (FTCE) and Florida Educational Leadership Examination (FELE) online. Be mindful of the testing fees, which amount to $215 for the full battery.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Engage with Community Safety Initiatives

Participate in the FortifyFL training for parents and guardians, which must be available by November 15, 2024. This training is crucial for enhancing school safety and community involvement.

📚 Utilize Available Resources

The Florida Department of Education provides various resources and guidance for teacher certification applicants. Make sure to take advantage of these free options to help navigate the process.

🏆 Services Ranked by User Reviews (2026)

This section covers services related to education and teacher certification. These services can assist users in navigating the Florida Department of Education's processes. Rankings are based on Trustpilot data collected in October 2026, and scores may change over time.

Star ratings only reflect one aspect of user satisfaction, as unhappy customers often leave more reviews.

🥇 1. EaseGov

EaseGov has been rated 4.5 stars. It is known for helping users with online applications and document preparation. Reviewers appreciate its expediting services, although some have reported delays in processing times.

🆓 Free Options for Assistance

The Florida Department of Education offers free resources for those seeking teacher certification and FTCE/FELE support. These resources include guidance and customer service for registration and test-related inquiries.

🔎 Factors to Compare When Choosing Services

  • ✅ User Ratings: Check Trustpilot scores for overall satisfaction.
  • 📅 Processing Times: Consider how quickly services can handle applications.
  • 📝 Available Support: Look for options that offer guidance and resources.
  • 💰 Cost Structure: Review fees associated with services for transparency.
  • 🔍 Specialization: Ensure the service aligns with your specific educational needs.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

📑 What is the new school grading scale?

The new school grading scale, approved in July 2024, resulted in nearly 1,300 schools earning an "A" grade, which is a 6-percentage point increase from 2023.

🤖 How is AI being used in Florida classrooms?

New rules adopted in September 2026 govern the use of AI in classrooms, focusing on parental control, data protection, and teacher involvement.

👩‍🏫 How can I apply for teacher certification?

To apply for teacher certification, candidates must submit an initial application package and provide an Official Statement of Status of Eligibility along with their fingerprints.

📈 What are the mid-year progress monitoring results?

As of January 2025, 45% of students scored at least a level 3 on the FAST Progress Monitoring second assessment, marking a 3-percentage point increase from the prior year.

🏫 What is the FACT U.S. History framework?

The FACT U.S. History framework, introduced in May 2026, serves as an alternative to Advanced Placement courses, providing a comprehensive study of American history for students in Florida.

📅 When are the deadlines for instructional materials adoption?

Bids for the 2025-2026 instructional materials adoption must be submitted by October 30, 2024, with the initial list published by December 1, 2025.

⚖️ Recent Cases Relating to Florida Education

Recent court rulings have influenced various aspects of Florida's education system, including teacher certification and school safety measures.

Readers can browse more rulings in the news section.

End of October 2026 Update





The Florida Department of Education (FL DOE) is the agency of the State Government tasked with oversight over the administrative and quality control issues of the Florida public educational system. The FL DOE headquarters can be located in Tallahassee, in Suite 1514 of the Turlington Building at 325 West Gaines Street.

Queries and concerns related to the Florida Department of Education can be answered or addressed in person, or, as an alternative, people may call the FL DOE number at (850) 245-0505, or send a fax to (850) 245-9667. Among other things, the FL DOE ensures that the various public schools under its supervision retain their adherence to the set standards for academic performance levels set by the State Government. In this regard, FL DOE-approved tests are carried out for students in these facilities to guarantee the success of the curriculum.

The acting authority over the FL DOE is Commissioner of Education Eric J. Smith. The authority of the Commissioner was modified and to some degree lessened within the general FL DOE system in 1998, according to revisions passed through the Florida Constitution Revision Commission. An amendment to the Florida Constitution, Article IV, Section IV, passed in this year and became effective after five years, took the responsibility for appointing the FL DOE Commissioner away from the direct approval of the electorate, allowing the Governor to directly select the Commissioner and generally to exercise authority over the FL DOE. 

Florida Department of Education