Mater Academy Targets Two Manatee Schools Under State “Schools of Hope” Program
The Sara Scott Harllee Center and Lincoln Middle School have been identified by Mater Academy Inc., a Miami-based charter school operator, as potential sites for co-location under Florida’s “Schools of Hope” program.
The School District of Manatee County confirmed receipt of the notices on October 8, part of a statewide effort by for-profit charter operators to secure access to district campuses they consider underutilized. The program, created under state law, allows certain charter operators to occupy perceived vacant space in public schools while utilizing district resources—such as transportation, custodial services, and food services—at no cost.
Harllee Center currently offers specialized programs, such as the Teen Parent Program (TAPP), which provides educational opportunities for student parents, and the Soar in 4 lab, which promotes early learning and literacy. It also hosts the district’s Homeschool Liaison Office. Lincoln Middle School, meanwhile, serves a diverse student population and community programs.
These notices were filed under Rule 6A-1.0998271 of the Florida Administrative Code and Section 1002.333 of the Florida Statutes. The revised rule, however, does not take effect until October 28, with November 11 designated as the earliest allowable date for submissions. District officials said any notices received before that date, including Mater Academy’s, are premature and not actionable.
The district’s letter to families emphasized that these notifications are not valid at this time, but confirmed preparations are underway should future submissions be filed after the effective date.
The new Schools of Hope legislation expands eligibility beyond low-performing schools, allowing charter operators to target any public school they deem to have unused space. Under the rule, districts have 20 days to object to a proposed co-location, but charter operators are not required to accept alternate sites.
Mater Academy has issued similar notices to districts across Florida, including Sarasota County, where one targeted school serves students with disabilities. Critics have raised concerns that the legislation could displace existing programs or force schools to reorganize classrooms and resources to accommodate charter operators.
The School District of Manatee County stated it remains committed to providing high-quality education for all students and will continue to monitor developments closely.
Residents can view related documentation and updates at manateeschools.net and learn more about the Schools of Hope legislation at flsenate.gov.