In a move that could reshape Florida’s high school athletic landscape, House Bill 151 is stirring up discussions across the state.
The bill seeks to expand opportunities for private school students to compete in sports at public schools.
HB 151 “Revises criteria private school students must meet to participate in sport at FHSAA member school; and removes provision limiting which non-FHSAA member private school students are eligible to participate in FHSAA sports.”
This legislative shift could change the way students approach sports in Florida, particularly those in private or charter schools who previously had limited access to public school athletic opportunities.
Jason Flom, director at Cornerstone Learning Community in Tallahassee, notes giving students more options is essential.
“Kids who might not have access to other sports might find that ‘Hey, I do want to play lacrosse that they have over at Leon High School,’ or Rickards, or some other place,” Flom said.
However, he raises concerns about the broader financial implications.
“That impacts funding for public schools, that impacts funding at charter or private schools,” Flom said. “So there’s money that moves when you have a child who goes from a public school to a charter school or a public school to a private school.”
HB 151 presents opportunities and logistical challenges for schools navigating the changes. Chris Maignan, athletic director at Community Leadership Academy in Tallahassee, emphasizes the balance his school aims to strike.
“What we do is serve student-athletes, and we serve the parents in this community. We give our kids and our parents in the community more opportunities for families to prioritize athletes and school choice,” Maignan said. “They can come to a small private Christian school like ours and still be able to play at any public or private school of their choice.”
Maignan acknowledges that adapting to these changes won’t come without hurdles.
“Right now, we’re independent, so we abide by the FSHAA rules and guidelines to participate against member schools, but there will be many more requirements from the FSHAA that we will have to change a little bit or adapt,” Maignan said.
He also brings up the potential challenges with funding and access, particularly for schools that don’t yet offer certain sports.
“I know that some challenges will come with this bill. I think funding for public or private member schools that accept FSHAA member schools that don’t have the sport will be a challenge or a hurdle that we must figure out.”
Flom also highlights practical considerations about handling sports programs, especially concerning liability.
“I would assume that it would fall under the public schools hosting the sport; it would fall under their overall liability insurance,” Flom said.
With schools figuring out how to best implement the bill’s provisions, many wonder if there will be enough resources.
Despite the challenges, the bill promises greater inclusivity in Florida’s athletic programs, with students gaining more freedom in choosing where they want to pursue their athletic interests. If passed, the bill takes effect July 1.