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Two GOP-sponsored proposals in Florida aim to restrict undocumented students from enrolling in public colleges and universities. One proposal would effectively block these students, while another would cap foreign student enrollment at 10% of a school's total student body. Florida GOP Chair Evan Power said: "Our country has been invaded by illegal immigrants," emphasizing the need for control over immigration. In contrast, Democrats argue that the legislation is politically motivated and fails to address real issues. Orlando Democratic State Rep. Anna Eskamani stated: “These bills don’t do any of that.” Currently, only three states—Georgia, Alabama, and South Carolina—ban undocumented students from public colleges. The 2026 legislative session begins Tuesday.

 

News 13

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The recent guidance from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has removed several vaccines from the recommended list for children, potentially leading to confusion among families and schools. Vaccines for measles, mumps, rubella, polio, and whooping cough remain mandatory, while others, including the influenza and COVID-19 vaccines, are now recommended only after consultation with a healthcare provider—a process termed “shared clinical decision-making.” Richard Hughes, a vaccine-law expert, emphasized the importance of school vaccination requirements, commenting: “Because we compel people to go to school, it's a mechanism that we have to protect the entire population from all of these diseases.” The changes have prompted some states to reject the new guidelines, maintaining alignment with the American Academy of Pediatrics' recommendations. This conflicting messaging may lead to increased mistrust in vaccines, as noted by Lynn Nelson, president of the National Association of School Nurses: “It's just going to sow more mistrust and the idea that vaccines are optional.” Schools are encouraged to prepare fact sheets to clarify vaccination requirements for parents.

 

Education Week News

Orange County Public Schools has unveiled a proposed plan addressing the potential closure of seven schools due to declining enrollment. The district is grappling with the challenges of low student numbers. "The proposed plan aims to ensure that resources are allocated effectively," said a district representative. The situation highlights the ongoing struggle many educational institutions face in maintaining viability amid changing demographics and enrollment patterns.

 

Pensacola News Journal

Fox 35 Orlando

Laurie Breslin, the newly appointed superintendent of the School District of Manatee County, has outlined her key priorities for 2026, focusing on increasing graduation rates, improving attendance, and enhancing literacy scores. Breslin is also addressing serious concerns following incidents of inappropriate behavior by teachers, stating: “Safety and security is always No, 1.” To ensure student safety, the district is enhancing its human resource protocols and collaborating with local law enforcement. Additionally, Breslin is tackling facility issues, particularly mold concerns at Lakewood Ranch High, with a $1.2m cleaning plan and a $6m water line replacement. She aims to improve the district's graduation rate, which currently stands at 88%, with a goal of exceeding 90%. Breslin emphasizes the importance of community feedback in shaping the future of the district.

 

Sarasota Observer

Two high-level administrators in the Broward school district are under investigation following an audit that uncovered significant failures in hiring a construction oversight company. Superintendent Howard Hepburn confirmed that the human resources department is looking into Jennifer Andreu, executive director of procurement, and chief operating officer Wanda Paul. Hepburn stated: "The district's human resources department is investigating," highlighting the seriousness of the situation. The probe comes with Andreu having already announced her resignation, indicating a potential leadership crisis within the district.

 

Sun Sentinel

Stephanie Nordin has officially launched her campaign for the Collier County School Board District 1 seat, attracting over 150 supporters at her kickoff event in Naples. Running against Jeff Donaldson and Ronald Nuara, Nordin aims to bring "thoughtful leadership, responsible decision-making, and a deep understanding of how policies impact students, families, and educators." A lifelong resident and founder of Autism Collier, she emphasizes student success, family partnerships, and fiscal responsibility in her campaign. Nordin has received early endorsements, including support from Rep. Meg Weinberger, as she prepares for the 2026 election cycle.

 

Florida Politics

Duval County school officials have rejected a proposal from charter school operator Mater Academy to co-locate new charter schools within two existing public schools. Eugene Hays, the district's Charter Schools Director, said: “The district is unable to approve the request,” citing logistical issues and state law requirements. The "Schools of Hope" program has faced criticism from traditional school advocates, particularly as it allows charters to co-locate rent-free while receiving state funding. Hays noted that the School Board had already approved consolidating students from Don Brewer Elementary into Merrill Road Elementary, which will not have the capacity for the proposed charter students. Additionally, Fort Caroline Middle School is dedicated to a specialized arts program, making it unsuitable for co-location. The situation may evolve as school activists lobby for changes in the Florida Legislature.

 

The Florida Times-Union

Sarasota Observer

Legends Academy in Central Florida has abruptly closed, leaving many students without classrooms and teachers without jobs. The closure has caused significant disruption, with teachers packing up without severance and little information provided. The sudden decision has raised concerns among parents and the community about the future of the affected students.

 

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The Florida Times-Union

Jody Dumas, the executive director of facility services for Sarasota County Schools, indicated that the construction of an elementary school in Waterside may be postponed for one to two years or more. The 2025-2026 Five-Year Capital Improvement Plan had initially approved funding of $77m for the school, but the need for it is now being reassessed. Residents like Kait Paligraf expressed disappointment, stating, “It’s disappointing that they are now kind of bait and switching us.” With current zoning placing students at Tatum Ridge Elementary, McIntosh Middle, and Booker High, parents are concerned about the distance. Laura Cole, senior vice president of Lakewood Ranch Communities, was surprised by the news and plans to meet with school officials. Dumas emphasized the importance of understanding student growth and ensuring capacity aligns with community needs.

 

Sarasota Observer

Florida lawmakers are considering a bill that would mandate recess for middle school students, expanding the current requirement that only applies to elementary schools. The proposal aims to add 100 minutes of weekly free play for students through eighth grade. This initiative was inspired by three middle schoolers from Osceola County and is set to take effect on July 1 if approved.

 

Fox 35 Orlando

Japan’s plan to effectively eliminate high school tuition from fiscal 2026 is raising concerns among public schools, which fear a shift in student preference toward private institutions. Under the new system, private school subsidies will reach ¥457,200 ($2,916) per student annually, narrowing the cost gap and potentially reducing public school enrolment. Educators warn this could accelerate public school consolidations amid declining student numbers. The education ministry plans to counterbalance the shift with new subsidies and reforms aimed at enhancing the appeal of public schools. 

 

The Japan Times