For most of this century, Florida's economy has been one of the "boom or bust" variety; however, since the 1960s, the economy has diversified, bringing in a variety of "high tech" manufacturing and high-end service businesses to the state. Still, wages in agriculture and tourism are so low that the state suffers in terms of per capita income. Minority populations, although increasingly important in Florida life, will remain less than half of the state's population for the foreseeable future. Florida does have the best record of providing middle-class opportunities for Blacks and Hispanics in terms of small business starts, suburban residence, and government jobs. Schools will be at the center of the policy and implementation issues surrounding the state's future. Higher education, business, and communities will all be affected by how well the schools perform. Current efforts in Florida to raise the standards for high school graduation could result in an increase in dropouts in the state--an event with negative economic and social consequences for every Floridian. (20 references) (KM)