The Florida Department of Education announced on May 4 the release of the Florida Advanced Courses and Tests (FACT) U.S. History course framework, describing it as a rigorous alternative to Advanced Placement for students in the state.
This new course is part of an effort to expand high-quality advanced coursework opportunities for Florida students, according to the department. The initiative aims to provide a comprehensive study of American history while ensuring that instructional materials are free from ideological bias.
“Florida continues to lead the way in expanding access to rigorous, high-quality advanced coursework for all students,” said Commissioner of Education Anastasios Kamoutsas. “The FACT U.S. History framework underscores our commitment to instruction grounded in the full scope of our nation’s history, while ensuring materials are free from ideological bias or indoctrination.” Ryan Petty, Chair of the State Board of Education, said: “The FACT courses ensure Florida students have access to academically rigorous, transparent, and high-quality advanced pathways. The FACT U.S. History framework provides a thorough and balanced study of our nation’s past, grounded in primary sources and factual accuracy. It represents an important step toward restoring academic integrity in the classroom after years of uneven and, at times, ideologically driven instruction. Our goal is simple: equip students with the knowledge and critical thinking skills they need to succeed in college, careers, and civic life. I encourage districts and charter schools to participate in the pilot of this course.”
FACT courses were created through House Bill 1537 signed by Governor Ron DeSantis in 2023 as another acceleration pathway for students who seek alternatives beyond existing options such as Advanced Placement that embed Critical Race Theory or Diversity Equity Inclusion into their content.
Following unanimous approval by the State Board of Education, these courses now count toward acceleration options statewide; successful completion allows high school credit and college credit if passing scores are achieved on assessments when enrolling at a Florida College System institution or state university.
The first FACT course—College Algebra—was piloted this year across 32 traditional public schools and charter schools with plans for statewide implementation next year; similarly, districts can join next year’s pilot launch for FACT U.S. History by registering before May 18th.
The department operates from its headquarters at 325 West Gaines Street in Tallahassee according to its official website. It partners with parents, educators, and communities across Florida’s public education system from early learning through higher education as outlined on its website. Its programs support K-12 schools as well as career development initiatives according to official information, offering resources like school choice options and professional training as noted online.
