News Summary
Tallahassee schools may take legal action against Renaissance Charter following the closure of Renaissance Academy. Superintendent Rocky Hanna aims to reclaim taxpayer-funded assets leased to a new private institution. Meanwhile, the school board celebrated student achievements, awarding scholarships and recognizing high school graduates. This dual focus illustrates the ongoing challenges and successes faced by education in the district.
Tallahassee schools may pursue legal action against Renaissance Charter in a dispute over taxpayer-funded property following the closure of Renaissance Academy. Superintendent Rocky Hanna revealed at the May 27 board meeting that the district is seeking to reclaim furniture and equipment that were financed through taxpayer dollars since the charter school’s inception in 2012.
The controversy arose after Renaissance Academy, one of the five charter schools operating in the district, announced its closure in March. Subsequently, the governing board of Renaissance Academy leased the property to a new private institution, Tallahassee Preparatory Academy. This has raised questions regarding ownership and the rightful claim of Leon County taxpayers on the school’s assets.
Hanna visited Renaissance Academy in an effort to inventory the tangible assets that could potentially be transferred to other public schools. However, on a follow-up visit, the district faced barriers as Renaissance’s attorneys denied access to the premises. They asserted that the furnishings and equipment are secured under a lien, thereby complicating the district’s claim to these items.
School Board Member Rosanne Wood highlighted the implications for taxpayers, indicating that the situation represents a significant loss for the local community. The discussion reflects broader concerns regarding the management and accountability of charter schools within the district.
In addition to the legal discussions, the board meeting also celebrated the achievements of local graduates. The Foundation for Leon County Schools awarded five scholarships of $250 each to students involved in leadership roles on the student advisory council. This recognition underscores the district’s commitment to fostering student engagement and achievement.
Among the honorees was Tolulope Binitie, a student member who made significant contributions during the 2024-25 school year. Binitie graduated from Godby High School at the age of 16, having also earned an associate’s degree from Tallahassee State College. He maintained an impressive GPA of 4.65 and plans to pursue pre-medicine at Florida State University.
Additionally, three other students from Godby High School achieved the distinction of earning associate degrees while simultaneously receiving their high school diplomas. This accomplishment reflects the district’s dedication to providing advanced educational pathways for students.
The recent week featured six graduation ceremonies across Tallahassee, celebrating the success of approximately 2,000 graduates. These events not only marked a significant milestone in students’ lives but also showcased the vast potential of the youth within the community. Nearly 1,000 photos from these memorable occasions have been documented and will be published for community viewing.
The ongoing discussions regarding Renaissance Academy and the celebration of student success at the recent board meeting illustrate the dual facets of educational developments in Tallahassee. As legal matters await resolution, the district continues to focus on advancing educational opportunities and acknowledging student accomplishments.
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Additional Resources
- Chiles High School Graduation Photos
- Best Private High Schools in Tallahassee Metro Area
- Best Public High Schools in Tallahassee Metro Area
- Leon School Board Weighs Lawsuit Against Renaissance Academy Charter
- Wikipedia: Tallahassee
