Governor Rick Scott has approved a bill that could create Florida’s 12 public state university. Lynn Hatter reports the governor signed off on the proposal Friday that lets the University of South Florida’s Polytechnic Campus become an independent school.
Governor Rick Scott signed a bill pushed by Senate budget chief JD Alexander that grants the polytechnic campus immediate independence from its parent-school, USF. The move comes after months of contentious debate over the future of the campus, which will now be known as Florida Polytechnic University.
The split was opposed by USF students, faculty and its president Judy Genshaft. The Florida Democratic Party released a statement saying Floridians didn’t ask for the new school, that it’s not needed and that the state can’t afford it.
Back in March the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools said it could take as long as six years for Florida Polytechnic University to earn accreditation. It is unclear at this time how the move will affect students whose financial aid depends on the school being properly credentialed.
The Governor's approval letter is here.
