A new Florida law that changes some of the requirements for earning a standard high school diploma is now in effect, giving students additional options for meeting graduation requirements.
The law, which took effect July 1, allows students who complete two years of marching band to satisfy both the one-credit physical education requirement and the one-credit fine or performing arts requirement for a standard diploma. Under previous law, two years of marching band could be used to fulfill only one of those requirements.
The legislation also creates a new option for certain students with disabilities. Students who participate in the Special Olympics for one year may substitute that participation for the required physical education credit if the activity is approved by their Individualized Education Program (IEP) team.
The new law does not eliminate Florida’s physical education requirement for all students. It expands the list of approved alternatives that may be used to meet the requirement while maintaining existing graduation standards. Other previously authorized substitutions, including certain interscholastic sports participation and Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC), remain available.
The changes are part of a broader package of education-related laws that took effect across Florida on July 1. State lawmakers said the measure is intended to provide greater flexibility for students while recognizing the physical activity involved in marching band and the athletic participation of students competing in the Special Olympics.
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