Florida supply assistance program changes eligibility for teachers

Teachers complained about the Florida Teachers Classroom Supply Assistance Program after the program changed eligibility rules in 2023 to restrict reimbursement to classroom teachers only. The program previously allowed teachers up to $300 for supplies, but the change affected about 1,623 non-classroom staff, including speech-language pathologists and social workers. Affected teachers reported receiving notice of the eligibility change on September 17, five weeks after the school year began.

The change relates to state education funding issues impacting local schools. The restriction means that certain educators who work directly with students may no longer qualify for state reimbursement for supplies they purchase.

State education funding issues are impacting local schools in Gainesville, Florida.