Over 600 students, parents, and teachers made their mantra, "our voice, our choice" heard by legislators as they braved the heat to gather on the steps of the Florida Capitol on Tuesday to advocate for increased school options in the state.

Traveling from as far as Miami to attend the rally, full-time online school and brick-and-mortar charter supporters joined together to advocate for the protection and expansion of parents' right to choose the education system that works best for their children. Golden Apple awards were handed out by the NCPSO FL Chapter to Gov. Rick Scott, Sen. President Mike Haridopolos, Sen. Anitere Flores, Rep. Kelli Stargel and Rep. Will Weatherford for their hard work and devotion to school choice.

"Some people are visual learners, some people do well in a virtual school environment," said Sen. Haridopolos in his address before the crowd. "Not everyone learns the same way. Virtual schools have proven their success and there are enough safeguards in place."

Sen. Flores, sponsor of S.B. 1620, which would greatly expand virtual learning in Florida, addressed the crowd, urging her legislative colleagues to support the legislation. If passed, the bill would require all students take an online course before graduating, would give kindergarten students the option to take online classes, and would also allow virtual charter schools to offer full or part-time online classes. Both the Senate bill and its House counterpart (HB 7197) are set to be decided on by both chambers shortly.

The rally concluded with Governor Scott reissuing his support for expanding school choice in the state. After the rally, families were invited to meet with their legislators and take a tour of the Old Capitol.