Abandoned Fort Myers School Sparks CHAOS in Florida Governor Race—What’s at Stake?

An abandoned charter school in Fort Myers has become the focal point of a contentious political battle in Florida's gubernatorial race. Republican primary candidate James Fishback is calling out Congressman Byron Donalds over the failed Optima Classical Academy, which was intended to be the fifth classical charter school established by Donalds’ wife, Erika Donalds.

The school broke ground in 2023 with an initial enrollment that attracted hundreds of students and a dedicated staff. However, it never opened, as organizers cited financial difficulties compounded by the effects of Hurricane Ian. This unexpected closure has sparked a heated exchange between Fishback and the Donalds camp.

"Byron Donalds, and his wife Erika, promised these kids the world. And then fell off the face of that same world," Fishback remarked during a media event held in front of the empty school.

Fishback, a political newcomer at just 30 years old, has made transparency a key tenet of his campaign. He stood outside the abandoned school urging Donalds to clarify the circumstances surrounding the charter's funding and its abrupt closure. "We just want you to be honest with the families and the kids whose lives were upended by the abandoning of the school. And the ruse and the gaslighting that has ensued," he stated.

Despite Fishback's strong assertions, the Donalds campaign declined to provide a comment when approached about the allegations. The controversy over Optima Classical Academy is indicative of the broader themes of accountability and transparency that are becoming increasingly critical in political discourse.

As Fishback gains traction, he’s not without his own controversies. Court records reveal that in January, a former employee, who alleged a past relationship with Fishback while she was a minor, sought a protective order against him. The woman accused Fishback of stalking and harassment; however, the court ultimately denied her request for the order. When confronted about the allegations, Fishback denied the claims, asserting, "No, I did not. Completely false. The court completely exonerated me of those accusations."

The fate of Optima Academy itself has taken a new turn this year. Ownership of the school was transferred to another charter operator, who plans to open the institution next fall. This development leaves many questions unanswered regarding the initial investment of taxpayer dollars and the promises made to families in the community.

The situation in Fort Myers not only highlights the personal stakes involved for individuals like Fishback and the Donalds but also serves as a microcosm of the broader political environment in Florida. The debate surrounding education, transparency, and governance is intensifying as the state approaches the gubernatorial election, and voters will be watching how candidates address such failures and their implications for the future.

As Florida's political landscape continues to evolve, the story of Optima Classical Academy serves as a reminder of the responsibilities that come with leadership, especially when it involves the education and well-being of children. The community's expectations for accountability will likely play a significant role in shaping the narrative leading up to the elections.