Printer FriendlyBureau of Curriculum & Instruction
Bureau of Curriculum & Instruction |
| Text Index |
Custom Search
|
Adoption Overview
Florida’s adoption process derives its authority from Florida Statutes (PDF). Policy and Procedures (PDF) based on statute are developed annually by the Department of Education.
Each year, Florida adopts instructional materials for specific classes. We refer to these materials as major tools of instruction and their ancillaries. Major tools are materials that cover the Sunshine State Standards, stated intended outcomes, and course objectives for the specific classes.
Selected subject areas are called for adoption each year on a rotating basis, usually for a period of 6 years. Adoption Schedule (PDF)
Prior to each adoption, the Department of Education publishes the Instructional Materials Specifications for the subjects to be adopted. These specifications outline the courses for which materials are being sought, as well as the standards that those materials are expected to meet. The specifications are currently available on this web site.
In the year prior to the adoption, the Department of Education accepts nominations for the State Instructional Materials Committees (SIMC). Nominations for these committees are generally made by district school officials, professional and educational associations, and civic organizations. More information about the duties of the Committees, as well as the instructions and nomination form are available on this web site. The Commissioner of Education appoints the Committees.
In January of the adoption year, the Commissioner of Education formally announces the adoption in a memo sent to all publishing companies whose names and addresses appear on the publisher mailing list database in the Office of Instructional Materials. Publishers may be added to the list by registering. If you have any questions concerning registration, please contact . The announcement marks the official beginning of the adoption year. Information for publishers about the bidding process may be found on this web site.
It is the Commissioner of Education who formally adopts materials recommended by the State Instructional Materials Committee. He may accept the recommendations or amend them by removing materials, but he may not add material that the Committee did not recommend. The adoption process is completed in December, and titles of the newly adopted materials are listed on this web site. Newly adopted (PDF) materials are available for purchase beginning April 1 of the year following the adoption.
Florida schools and school districts must purchase adopted materials through the publisher's Florida depository.