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Florida
7th July 2026
 

THE HOT STORY

Florida law boosts children's funding

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis recently signed HB 7031E, which exempts the Escambia Children's Trust and similar organizations from tax increment revenue payments. This legislation, effective July 1, clarifies that Children's Services Councils are not required to contribute to community redevelopment trust funds. Escambia Children's Trust Executive Director Lindsay Cannon said: “As communicated previously, ECT's position has been that the existing statutory framework did not require TIF assessments on Children's Services Councils.” The Children's Trust has previously paid $1.2m in TIF payments to Escambia County and $1.8m to Pensacola. The new law is expected to allow the trust to allocate more funds towards children's programs, enhancing their services and support for families in need. Cannon emphasized the trust's commitment to collaboration with local governments to improve outcomes for children in Escambia County.

SCHOOL CHOICE

Empowering students through school choice

Jehu King, a sophomore at Howard University and a graduate of KIPP Bold City in Jacksonville, credits school choice for his academic success. He stated: "I was only able to get where I am because of the liberating school choice opportunities available to me in Florida." However, Florida's school choice system faces legal challenges from the Florida Education Association, which argues that expanding voucher and charter school programs violates the state constitution. King emphasizes that school choice should not be viewed as a threat but as a tool for families to find the best educational environment for their children. He believes that access to quality education is crucial for personal growth and opportunity, stating: "It is about preserving access, opportunity and the possibility of liberation through education." As the lawsuit progresses, King hopes the focus remains on the students affected by these policies.

DISTRICTS

Monroe County School District scores an A

The Monroe County School District has achieved an “A” grade for the 2025-2026 school year, reflecting a commitment to excellence among students and educators in the Florida Keys. The district's accountability points increased from 763 to 774, showcasing a culture of continuous improvement. Notably, Poinciana Elementary School and Plantation Key School both maintained their “A” ratings, while several other schools came close to the new threshold. The district attributes its success to enhancements in college and career readiness, graduation rates, and English Language Arts achievement, with graduation rates climbing from 88% to 93%.

FAMU DRS earns historic B grade

FAMU DRS has achieved a significant milestone by earning a "B" grade for the 2025-26 school year, marking an improvement from the "C" grades it received for nearly a decade. The board established a special committee to help the school reach an "A" grade, focusing on strategic priorities, recruitment, and fundraising. FAMU President Marva Johnson noted that the "B" grade reflects real progress, emphasizing the dedication of students and staff. The school, founded in 1887, operates as its own district and serves K-12 students. 

Sarasota schools shine

Sarasota County Schools are celebrating their 23rd consecutive A rating from the Florida Department of Education. The annual school grades, based on a 100-point scale, assess student achievement, graduation rates, and college readiness. All district-managed schools received A or B grades, with A-rated schools increasing from 24 to 35 over the past three years. Superintendent Terry Connor said: "These results reflect an extraordinary level of commitment across our district, and we are incredibly proud of the hard work behind them." The district also saw a 32-point increase in its overall score compared to the previous academic year.

WORKFORCE

Martin County schools cut 55 jobs

In a significant reorganization, Martin County schools have eliminated 13 administrative roles and 42 unfilled positions, including three assistant principal roles, as part of Superintendent Michael Maine's plan to reduce administrative bloat and redirect funds to classrooms. The changes are projected to save nearly $4m, which will be reinvested in classroom resources.

HEALTH & WELLBEING

AI chatbots: A teen's new best friend

In a world where many teens feel isolated, a significant number are turning to AI chatbots for emotional support. A 2025 Pew survey revealed that 64% of U.S. teens use these tools, with 30% using them daily. Psychologists Marc Brackett and Robin Stern argue that this trend highlights a deeper cultural issue: many young people lack trusted human connections. "If a chatbot feels safer than a parent, teacher, coach, counselor or friend, it's not a technology story; it's a culture story," they said. While AI can help young people articulate their feelings and practice coping strategies, it cannot replace the essential human relationships necessary for emotional well-being. The authors emphasize the need for stronger human connections and emotional support systems, urging parents and educators to foster environments where children feel safe to express their emotions.

Healthy schools initiative expands access

Ensley and Navy Point Elementary will join the Healthy Schools Escambia initiative, providing free medical, dental, and optometry care, along with afterschool tutoring and other services for students and their families. The initiative, funded by the Escambia Children's Trust with $450,000 per school annually, aims to enhance student health and academic performance. The program has shown positive outcomes, with students in the Y Sports program achieving higher math gains and attendance rates. 

Students see drug support

Hope House, operated by the nonprofit Hope Above Fear, provides a supportive environment for high school students facing disciplinary issues related to drug use. Launched in partnership with the Escambia County School District, the program offers an eight-week drug diversion initiative at no cost to the district. During the 2025-26 school year, 21 students were referred to the program, which includes group discussions, creative projects, and individual reflections. Kerri Coots, the school district's director of alternative education, emphasized the importance of keeping students in their traditional schools while addressing their conduct.

NUTRITION

Broward school lunch prices on the rise

Broward County Schools are increasing lunch prices for the 2026-27 school year, marking the second consecutive year of hikes. Elementary school lunches will rise from $3 to $4, middle school from $3.35 to $4.35, and high school from $3.50 to $4.50. Despite these increases, breakfast will remain free for all students, and lunch will still be free for students in the district's 141 lowest-income schools due to a federal program. The School Board has also agreed to write off $720,433 in outstanding meal debt from the previous year but plans to be more aggressive in collecting payments this year. The Council of Great City Schools recommended the price increases to improve the food services budget, as the district is currently losing money on meal services.

HIGHER EDUCATION

FSU and FAMU set ambitious goals

Florida State University (FSU) and Florida A&M University (FAMU) are focusing on health and workforce readiness in their 2026 accountability plans, recently approved by the Florida Board of Governors. FSU's initiatives include the FSU Health program aimed at improving healthcare access and outcomes, with President Richard McCullough stating: “We continue to build from a position of strength.” Meanwhile, FAMU is enhancing its professional licensure programs and investing in AI and cybersecurity to align with workforce needs. Both universities aim to improve student success, with FSU achieving a 78.1% four-year graduation rate and FAMU targeting a 55% rate for the upcoming year.

Students face backlash for protest shirts

Seven students at Florida International University (FIU) were charged with conduct code violations after wearing "ICE OFF FIU" T-shirts during a silent protest in March. University officials have mandated that the students create a "video reflection" on the school's conduct code to lift the hold on their records, which prevents them from registering for classes or receiving financial aid. The protest was a response to FIU's agreement with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, which allows campus police to enforce federal immigration laws. Garrett Gravley from the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression criticized the university's policy, calling it "shameful" and highlighting the need for revisions to protect students' First Amendment rights.
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