ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — A new open enrollment law was put into effect Wednesday that allows Orange County students to apply to transfer to a different school within the district.
The policy change allows students to choose another school as long as the school has room for them.
The district has space for 2,600 transfers, but there aren’t any “A” schools on the list, which limits students’ chances of transferring to a top-rated school.
Only three high schools, 20 elementary schools and five middle schools have spots, some only with a few openings.
Those who wish to transfer must act fast, the school district said.
“If you intend to take advantage of a capacity transfer, try to do that in the month of February, because we know they're going to fill up fast,” OCPS chairman Bill Sublette said.
New or newly renovated schools aren’t required to accept transfers in their first year.
Out-of-county residents won't be able to apply until May, so Orange County residents will have priority.
Under the new law, parents will have to provide transportation for their children.
Lake County schools also began accepting applications Wednesday.
Osceola, Volusia and some Brevard County schools have already begun accepting applications.
Seminole County Public Schools has yet to set a date.
The deadline for applications differs for each district.