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Florida
29th April 2026
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THE HOT STORY

McMahon defends education overhaul as lawmakers question program shifts

U.S. Education Secretary Linda McMahon has told lawmakers on the Senate Appropriations Committee that the administration is still considering relocating key special education programs to other federal agencies, including the Departments of Labor or Health and Human Services, as part of a broader restructuring tied to its fiscal 2027 budget proposal. The administration is also evaluating potential changes to other programs, such as Impact Aid, while defending plans to shift more than 100 education programs across federal agencies, a move critics say could be disruptive. During the hearing, lawmakers from both parties raised concerns about proposed changes to the $1.2bn TRIO program, which supports low-income students, particularly its new focus on workforce pathways and its partial transfer to the Department of Labor. McMahon defended the shift, arguing it reflects labor market needs, while also facing scrutiny over reduced civil rights enforcement capacity despite claims of increased focus. The hearing highlighted broader tensions over the administration’s education strategy, including funding cuts, program consolidation, and questions about legal authority and oversight. While McMahon emphasized improving alignment between education and workforce outcomes, lawmakers questioned accountability measures and the impact of ongoing restructuring.

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STATE NEWS

House blocks DeSantis Priorities

Florida House leaders declined to advance Gov. Ron DeSantis’ special-session proposals to expand vaccine exemptions for public K-12 students and create consumer protections for artificial intelligence. House Speaker Daniel Perez, R-Miami, said the chamber was “fairly clear on our position” and defended not moving either issue forward. DeSantis criticized the House on X, saying voters elected Republicans to challenge Big Tech and the “medical industrial complex.” The Senate dropped the vaccine exemption measure but passed the AI bill 37-1, with Sen. Erin Grall, R-Vero Beach, the only no vote. Grall said the bill “weakens protections for parents” and argued it failed to truly protect children. Perez raised concerns about unvaccinated students and said AI policy should be handled by the federal government. The AI proposal covered children’s chatbot interactions, AI disclosure, political ads, likeness rights and firms tied to foreign countries of concern.

Florida families demand better education

Writing in the Miami Herald, Andrew Spar, president of the Florida Education Association, says Florida families are striving for a better future through education, housing, and stable incomes. The quality of public schools is crucial for their success, yet Spar cautions that the educational landscape in Florida raises concerns. While parents have more educational choices, he warns that the effectiveness of these options is questionable. Public schools must adhere to strict standards, while charter and private schools face fewer regulations, leading to disparities in educational quality. Spar emphasized that "without clear and consistent expectations and accountability, students are the ones who ultimately lose." He concludes that the Florida Constitution mandates a high-quality education for every student, highlighting the need for a reliable public school system that supports families and fosters economic growth.

WORKFORCE

Broward school job cuts postponed

The Broward School Board postponed discussions on a contentious plan to cut 809 jobs, including 306 currently filled positions, which would save approximately $40m. Superintendent Howard Hepburn's proposal faced significant opposition during a four-hour meeting, with board members expressing concerns about the impact on mental health services. Board member Nora Rupert emphasized the need for a thorough review, stating: “It needs to be looked at from top to bottom.” Community members criticized the cuts, particularly to mental health positions, urging the board to prioritize student wellness. Hepburn argued for timely decisions to provide clarity for affected employees, but many felt the plan disproportionately targeted essential roles. A workshop is scheduled for May 11, with a final vote expected on May 19.

Teachers rally for better pay

In Collier County, nearly 100 teachers rallied outside the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Administrative Center on April 27, demanding higher salaries and a livable wage. The Collier County School Board postponed a crucial hearing on teacher pay due to a medical emergency, frustrating educators who have faced an eight-month negotiation impasse. Ken Mouton, president of the Collier County Education Association, criticized the cancellation, stating: "This is the most important meeting for the largest number of employees in the entire district." Florida ranks 50th in the nation for average teacher pay, with many teachers commuting from neighboring counties to afford living expenses. The union is seeking a $3,290 increase to the current $57,000 base salary. Teachers plan to return for the rescheduled hearing on May 1 to continue their fight for fair compensation.

GOVERNANCE

Miami-Dade's crucial superintendent search

Miami-Dade County School Board is currently facing a significant decision: hiring a new superintendent for the third-largest school district in the U.S. The previous search in 2022 was criticized as a "misguided and insulting seven-day sprint." This time, the board aims for a more thorough process, with community involvement and a longer timeframe. However, concerns remain about the budget, as the board plans to keep costs under $30,000 while managing a $7.4bn budget. The board's general counsel will seek an "independent facilitator" to guide the search, and public input will be welcomed. The new superintendent will need to address challenges like declining enrollment and budget constraints. The Miami Herald emphasizes the importance of transparency and public trust in this critical decision, stating: "The process for choosing that person must be open to the public and aboveboard." The new leader will play a vital role in shaping the future of education for over 300,000 students.

FINANCE

Tax hike could boost schools

The Leon County School District is proposing a one-point millage rate increase that could generate $24m to address a funding shortfall. The School Board unanimously voted to advance this proposal, with Superintendent Rocky Hanna preparing a draft resolution. If approved, the measure may appear on the November ballot. Hanna emphasized the importance of community input, stating: "I've taken pride in how we manage the funds of this district and the taxpayer in this district." The plan includes a public workshop for constituents to express their views. Additionally, the board approved a 2% raise for district staff and a 1% increase for exempt staff. The next discussion on the millage proposal is scheduled for May 11.

DISTRICTS

Orange County delays AI policy

Orange County Public Schools removed its AI policy discussion from a workshop, saying members need more time and have not set a new date. The draft policy follows parent survey feedback from more than 5,800 respondents and includes limits on student data, deepfakes, copyright infringement and emotional support uses. Parents remain split, with mom Falice McLeod saying AI use in schools is “just lazy,” while Board Member Angie Gallo said safeguards are needed because students must learn to analyze AI outputs critically.

Garden program grows career skills

In Belle Glade, Lake Shore Middle School has transformed an empty lot into a vibrant garden, part of the "Agriscience Adventure" program funded by the Education Foundation of Palm Beach County. The initiative provides students with hands-on experience in farming, where they grow crops like cabbage, radishes, and tomatoes. James Gavrilos, president of the Education Foundation, emphasized the importance of this program, stating: "We are training these kids to understand the job market and skills they can carry with them one day." The program not only teaches agricultural skills but also connects students to their roots and the food they consume.

Art auction showcases student talent

On May 18, The Education Fund will host the "For the Love of Art Charity Auction and Honoree Celebration," featuring artwork created by Miami-Dade County Public Schools students and teachers. The event, presented by Ocean Bank, aims to unite the community through art, live music, and recognition of notable alumni. Linda Lecht, President of The Education Fund, said, “Every resource we bring to Miami-Dade County Public Schools starts with a private-sector commitment to public education.” Proceeds will support arts education and the Education Fund Ocean Bank Center for Educational Materials, which has provided over $32m in free supplies since 1993.  

CAREER & TECHNICAL EDUCATION

Math skills: The key to jobs

The Florida Chamber emphasizes the importance of math skills for securing in-demand jobs in the state. The Florida Chamber Foundation's "Math Skills Edition" of its Top 30 High-Demand Careers list links specific math competencies to various jobs across Florida's workforce regions. Mar: "Florida’s future competitiveness depends on getting talent right, and that includes math proficiency." The report highlights that one-third of eighth-grade students in Florida are not proficient in math, raising concerns about their readiness for college and the workforce. Business leaders, including Scott Daigle from Fifth Third Bank, stress the need for educational alignment with workforce demands. A 2025 survey revealed that 91% of Florida voters support improving K-12 math education, underscoring the economic imperative of enhancing math outcomes, as noted by Corrie Melton, Vice President of Talent Development for the Future of Work at the Florida Chamber Foundation.

CONSTRUCTION AND RENOVATION

Cherokee School project sparks debate

The historic Cherokee School project has generated mixed reactions within the community. While officials, including Orange County Public Schools School Board member Stephanie Vanos, express excitement about the new high school, expected to open by August 2028, residents voice concerns over potential traffic congestion and noise. “I think everyone agrees with the concept of the school... It’s just maybe not at the right location,” said resident Bob Gold, highlighting issues like limited parking and a one-way street. In response to community feedback, the district is considering reducing the student population from 600 to 500 and implementing staggered schedules to alleviate traffic. Vanos noted that the school would open in phases, starting with 65 students and gradually increasing to 250 over four years.

New school construction saves big bucks

In Southside Jacksonville, a new Hogan-Spring Glen Elementary is being constructed to replace an 87-year-old campus, with costs reduced by over $10m through strategic trimming. The project, costing $43.7m, is part of a broader initiative by Duval County Public Schools to manage escalating construction expenses. The new school, set to open by August 2027, will accommodate 930 students and incorporate the original building's 1939 cornerstone.

New high school breaks ground in Hendry

Hendry County District Schools has officially broken ground on a new high school, the first in nearly 30 years. The current LaBelle High School, built in the 1970s, is outdated and overcrowded. The new school will offer expanded programs and more space, with Taylor Sawatzky, a graduate involved in the construction, expressing pride in contributing to the project.

SAFETY & SECURITY

Anonymous school safety tip system logs nearly 400,000 reports since launch

In the wake of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting, Sandy Hook Promise, co-founded by Nicole Hockley, has developed the "Say Something" program to educate students on identifying warning signs of potential violence. Hockley, whose son was a victim of the tragedy, said: "I feel very compelled to honor that legacy by doing all that I can to prevent future acts of violence." The program has reached thousands of students across the U.S., resulting in nearly 395,000 tips related to threats, bullying, and self-harm. The initiative emphasizes the importance of reporting concerning behavior, with trained crisis counselors available 24/7 to address serious situations. Hockley believes the program has successfully prevented potential shootings and suicides, highlighting the need for proactive measures in school safety.

TECHNOLOGY

Districts win more time on ADA web rules as advocates warn of ongoing barriers

U.S. school districts have been granted an additional year to comply with new federal web accessibility requirements under the Americans with Disabilities Act, delaying the deadline for larger districts to 2027 and for smaller ones to 2028. The rules require school websites, apps, and digital content to meet international accessibility standards, including compatibility with assistive technologies, captions for multimedia, and readable formatting for users with disabilities. Districts had pushed for more time, citing high costs, limited staffing, and challenges with third-party vendors, with surveys showing most are not close to full compliance. However, disability rights advocates warn the delay prolongs barriers for students and families, particularly those with visual or hearing impairments, who rely on accessible digital tools for education and public services.

INTERNATIONAL

Afghanistan risks losing thousands of female professionals amid education bans

Afghanistan could lose more than 25,000 female teachers and health workers by 2030 if restrictions on girls’ education and women’s employment remain in place, according to a UNICEF report, which warns that bans limiting girls’ schooling and excluding women from most public sector jobs are already reducing the pipeline of qualified professionals. The report estimates that up to 20,000 teachers and 5,400 health workers could be lost by 2030, with broader economic impacts of around $84m annually, while at least 1 million girls are currently affected by education restrictions, a figure expected to double without policy changes.
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