TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) — The Florida Legislature is sending to Gov. Rick Scott a sweeping education bill that revises graduation standards and creates an online university within the University of Florida.
The Florida House on Friday unanimously approved the bill, which was passed by a 33-7 vote earlier in the week by the Florida Senate.
Supporters of the measure contend that the legislation will give high school students an opportunity to take courses that prepare them for careers if they don't intend to go to college. The bill, for example, would make Algebra II an optional course for high school students.
Students who go beyond the standard high school requirements would earn a "scholar" designation on their diploma.
The legislation also allows UF to offer bachelor degrees that are offered completely online.