House Bill 5101, recently advanced by the Florida House, has sparked concern among educators and parents statewide, including those in Horizon West, over its potential to significantly reduce funding for Advanced Placement (AP), dual enrollment, and industry certification programs in public high schools.

The bill seeks to eliminate the long-standing incentive funding that school districts receive when students complete college-level or career-focused coursework. According to Orange County Public Schools (OCPS), the proposed legislation could result in a loss of more than $16 million for the district. These funds currently help cover the cost of instructional materials, teacher training, and student exam fees for AP and other acceleration programs.

For Horizon West, where schools like Windermere High and Horizon High have consistently promoted rigorous academic pathways, the financial impact could be substantial. Hundreds of students in the area participate in AP courses or dual enrollment each year, earning college credit before graduation and saving on future tuition. Under the new legislation, that access may shrink due to resource constraints and reduced capacity.

OCPS Superintendent Dr. Maria Vazquez has voiced strong opposition to the bill, stating it would “devastate” efforts to provide equitable access to accelerated coursework, particularly for underserved populations. She emphasized that these programs not only prepare students for college and careers but also contribute to school grade calculations and overall performance.

The bill proposes redirecting funding away from districts and instead increasing allocations to state colleges and universities. However, school leaders argue that the move disproportionately harms public high schools and overlooks the essential role they play in student success.