The Florida Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) today announced the selection of the Florida Virtual School as the operating education service provider for the Florida Scholars Academy (FSA), a new and unified education system providing in-person instruction for students committed to a DJJ residential program. Full operations are expected to begin July 1, 2024.
The FSA will serve as a national model to improve youth educational opportunities and career pathways within DJJ’s residential commitment programs. Florida Virtual School will emphasize and prioritize full-time direct instruction in the classroom for students. The FSA will primarily focus on the improvement of positive student outcomes through individualized educational pathways with an emphasis on the attainment of a high school or high school equivalency diploma, the attainment of industry-recognized credentials of value to start their career, and enrollment in a postsecondary program of study at a Florida college, university, or technical college.
“It’s no secret that prioritizing a high-quality education to students within Florida’s system of juvenile justice reduces recidivism, puts students on their own career path, and helps them become productive citizens,” said DJJ Secretary Dr. Eric Hall. “The Florida Scholars Academy has been created with a vision of excellence to effectively enhance the educational opportunities and career pathways for students within DJJ’s residential commitment programs, and I am excited to work hand-in-hand with the team at Florida Virtual School and the Florida Scholars Academy’s Board of Trustees to turn our vision into a reality.”
“Florida Virtual School is honored to partner with the DJJ in delivering high-quality educational opportunities to students in the residential commitment programs,” said President and CEO of Florida Virtual School Dr. Louis Algaze. “We are committed to providing a transformative and personalized educational experience for these students to prepare them for future success.”
Governor Ron DeSantis signed legislation creating the Florida Scholars Academy following the Legislature’s unanimous passage of SB 7014 during the 2023 Legislative Session. Educational services have been traditionally provided to approximately 2,300 students annually throughout DJJ’s 44 residential commitment programs by the local school district where the residential program is located.
