Florida Virtual School to Hire 190 Florida Educators for Florida Scholars Academy

Teachers, Paraprofessionals, School Counselors, and More Have the Opportunity to Positively Impact the Lives of At-Risk Youth in Florida’s Juvenile Justice System 

ORLANDO, Fla. (March 26, 2024) - Florida Virtual School (FLVS) is now hiring for more than 190 new positions across the state. These 190 jobs, which include teachers, instructional leaders, paraprofessionals, school counselors, and school registrars, will support the Florida Scholars Academy (FSA). 

The FSA is a partnership between the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) and FLVS to create a new unified education system that provides in-person instruction for students assigned to all 42 DJJ residential commitment programs in Florida. Classes start on July 10, 2024. 

“These positions are vital in making a difference in the lives of more than 2,300 students who are assigned to the DJJ residential commitment programs,” said Chief Academic Officer of Florida Virtual School, Robin Winder. “These passionate educators will provide students with structure and consistent support, helping them become confident, empowered, and productive members of society.”

In addition to helping at-risk youth see a path forward for themselves, these new FSA team members will play a critical role in reducing the recidivism rate. In a recent research report by Mackinac Center for Public Policy, juvenile justice system education and workforce programs reduce the likelihood of recidivism by 14.8% and increase the probability of employment by 6.9%. 

“No matter the circumstances that led these students to be assigned to a Department of Juvenile Justice residential commitment programs, they deserve a high-quality education,” said the Superintendent of Florida Scholars Academy, Julian Cazañas Jr. “Our educators will meet every student where they are, providing them with the tools and skills needed to change the trajectory of their lives.” 

Teachers who apply must have Highly Qualified teacher status, which requires a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university, full state certification or licensure, and subject competency for the subject(s) and grade level(s) taught. Additionally, teachers are required to provide in-person instruction at DJJ facilities, and be available to work Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Benefits include access to the Florida Retirement System, 12 paid holidays, an educational assistance program, sick and annual leave accrual, and more. 

To learn more about Florida Scholars Academy and apply for open positions, visit the FSA careers webpage.