September 11, 2025
At the School Board Meeting of September 10, 2025, the School Board unanimously approved agenda item H-11, proffered by School Board Member Dr. Steve Gallon III, Competency-Based Education: Exploring Innovative Strategies Regarding Requirements For Seat Time, directing the Superintendent of Schools to: 1. review existing State and District rules, policies, practices, and statutory requirements regarding seat-time and credit allocation to identify areas of flexibility and innovation; 2. conduct a feasibility study to explore piloting Competency-Based Education (CBE) models in select schools and grade levels, with a particular focus on secondary schools and alternative pathways; 3. engage stakeholders, including students, parents, teachers, and community members, to gather input and assess interest in competency-based models; and 4. benchmark best practices from other states and districts that have successfully implemented CBE initiatives.
Miami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS) is nationally recognized for innovation and choice, offering families diverse programs to match student interests. In 2025, the District earned 91 awards from Magnet Schools of America—more than any other district—highlighting its commitment to excellence and equity.
Building on this legacy, M-DCPS this agenda item aims at exploring Competency-Based Education (CBE), which shifts learning from seat time to demonstrated mastery. Research shows CBE fosters deeper knowledge, personalized pacing, and stronger preparation for college, careers, and technical programs. It also provides families clearer insight into student progress while offering the District higher achievement, improved graduation outcomes, better workforce alignment, and fiscal efficiencies. Through CBE, M-DCPS would continue empowering students with mastery, equity, and future readiness.
“Competency-Based Education has the power to transform learning by focusing on what students know and can do, rather than how long they sit in a classroom,” said School Board Member Dr. Steve Gallon III. “By exploring this model, M-DCPS is reaffirming its role as a national leader in innovation and equity, ensuring every student advances with mastery and is prepared for college, careers, and the future.”
To read the full item, click here: h11rev.pdf
