Presentation Details

Beyond the Basics: Sunshine Law and Public Records Challenges for Schools

Florida charter schools operate in a space that merges public accountability with nonprofit governance. While many board members and school leaders are familiar with the general obligations under Florida’s Government-in-the-Sunshine Law and public records statutes, complex and evolving applications of these laws often catch even experienced operators off guard. Most private schools are not required to comply with Florida’s public records statutes. However, public records obligations may be triggered by participation in state scholarship programs or entering into contracts with public agencies. This panel dives deeper into Sunshine Law and public records compliance for Florida public and private schools. Attendees will examine real-life examples involving schools that ran afoul of open-meeting requirements, failed to timely or fully respond to records requests, failed to maintain records or improperly delegated decision-making. The discussion will also highlight recurring missteps involving text messages and private email accounts, closed board retreats, advisory committees, pblic comment and third-party vendors. Beyond compliance, this panel will also focus on how these statutes can be a valuable tool for Florida schools to obtain information. This session is essential for charter and private school board members, principals, and management company personnel who want a practical and detailed understanding of how Florida’s Sunshine and public records laws affect school operations and governance. Legal professionals and compliance officers supporting Florida schools will also benefit from this discussion.

Strand & Topic: Business > Legal Issues
Audience: School-based Administrators > K-12

Presented by:

• Melissa Gross-Arnold, Shareholder, Arnold Law Firm
• Kathleen Schoenberg, Of Counsel, Arnold Law Firm