MIAMI, Fla. — The Miami-Dade County School Board is asking the state for guidance on a new law that allows charter schools to move into existing public school property free of charge. The request comes after concerns about the law’s logistics and costs.
Under the law, charter schools—which are publicly funded but often run by for-profit companies—can occupy “underutilized” space on district campuses. The board’s agenda item, H-4, asks the state to clarify what counts as unused space and to require charter schools to pay rent and cover services if they co-locate on public school grounds.
Board member Joe Geller, who sponsored the measure, said: “Pay their fair share… you can’t just take over a cafeteria or gym and call it unused space.” Fellow member Steve Gallon added that while the district has always supported charter schools, co-location brings complex challenges, including parking, use of athletic fields, before/after-school programs, and safety responsibilities.
Some public speakers, including teachers’ union members, opposed co-location, calling it an unfunded state mandate that could weaken school security. Board member Roberto Alonso described H-4 as “political theatre” but said logistical issues with co-location can be worked out through cooperation with charter providers.
Following the approval of H-4, the district will conduct a fiscal analysis for each charter school that has applied to co-locate on a campus. There are currently dozens of applications under review.
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