The state of Florida has set clear safety standards through the Marjory Stoneman Douglas Act. This millage will allow us to enhance school safety in compliance with the state law, without having to cut student programs to pay for it. Proceeds from the millage will help us cover the costs for:

• school resource deputies and officers, 

• school safety guardians,

• the Positive Alternative to School Suspension (PASS) program, which removes students with disciplinary referrals from the classroom for a period of time, while still allowing students to attend school, maintain their academic progress and learn the skills needed to manage their behaviors, and

• the Academy of Lake Hills in Mascotte and in Howey-in-the-Hills, which provide long-term alternative educational placements and programs to address social, emotional, behavioral, academic and mental health needs of students.

Student mental health is closely connected to academic achievement, school attendance, behavior and overall well-being. By identifying and addressing concerns early, schools can help students overcome challenges, stay engaged in learning and build the skills they need to succeed.

Proceeds from the millage will help us provide:

•  school psychologists, social workers and mental health liaisons who can support students before issues reach crisis levels, and 

• a nurse on every campus to address students' health needs and support a safe, healthy learning environment.