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Florida
16th July 2026
 

THE HOT STORY

Tax cuts threaten children's health services

Hospitals and children's health organizations in Florida are warning that a proposed property tax cut could severely impact their services. The Florida Hospital Association estimates that hospitals could lose about 32% of their tax revenue annually, while children's councils could face losses ranging from $3m to $33m, depending on the county. Mary Mayhew, head of the Florida Hospital Association, emphasized the growing demand for care, stating: “We've already experienced what happens when financial pressures intensify.” The proposed tax plan aims to increase the homestead exemption for certain residents, but critics argue it could lead to significant cuts in essential services, including labor and delivery and children's literacy programs. Michele Watson, head of the Florida Alliance of Children's Councils and Trust, noted that the councils could see a reduction of $163m in services if the tax plan passes, highlighting the potential long-term consequences for Florida's children.

NATIONAL NEWS

GOP pushes legislation to formalize Education Department overhaul

The Republican-controlled House Education and Workforce Committee has advanced a package of 10 bills designed to shift key responsibilities of the U.S. Department of Education to other federal agencies, marking another step toward the Trump administration's goal of dismantling the department. The measures, which passed committee despite strong Democratic opposition, would codify the administration's existing interagency agreements that transfer personnel, grant programs, and other core functions across the federal government. While the legislation would significantly reshape the department's role, fully abolishing the Department of Education would still require an act of Congress. The bills build on agreements signed by Education Secretary Linda McMahon, which the administration has described as partnerships intended to streamline operations by relocating major departmental functions to other agencies.

STATE NEWS

Democrats gear up for local races

The Florida Democratic Party is enhancing support for local candidates through its Take Back Local program, aiming to strengthen their presence in competitive races. FDP Chair Nikki Fried emphasized the importance of investing in these elections, stating: "It's crucial to invest in these competitive races and grow our bench because more than ever, local elections are impacting Floridians' everyday lives." The program has a strong track record, with candidates winning 76% of the time in recent cycles. The initiative provides candidates with funding, strategic support, and resources to engage voters effectively. Fried highlighted the significance of school board races, noting that "our Take Back Local candidates will protect public schools and serve their communities for the people, not for profit." The annual Leadership Blue Weekend is set to begin in Orlando, where Fried expressed confidence in the Democrats' potential to win more seats in Florida.

TECHNOLOGY

Study raises safety and accuracy concerns over Google's AI search for students

A new report from nonprofit Common Sense Media has rated Google's AI-powered search tools "Unacceptable" for student use, citing concerns over accuracy, safety, and academic integrity. After testing more than 2,600 search queries, researchers found that Google's AI Overview and AI Mode frequently produced incorrect answers, completed students' homework without hesitation, and failed to respond appropriately to signs of potential mental health crises or risky behavior. The review found that AI Mode answered every homework question posed by testers, even when they identified themselves as children, rather than encouraging independent learning. Researchers also discovered troubling safety failures, including directing vulnerable users to outdated or inappropriate mental health resources, overlooking potential signs of psychosis, and responding casually to admissions of drug use. Common Sense Media also reported that AI Overview delivered inconsistent historical information and often cited sources lacking editorial oversight, such as social media posts, alongside peer-reviewed research without distinction.

AI school sparks controversy in Miami

Alpha School, a controversial AI-driven institution, is set to open in Miami Beach for the 2026-27 school year, charging $65,000 in annual tuition. The school, which operates without traditional teachers, focuses on a two-hour daily learning model led by "guides." Joe Liemandt, the billionaire behind Alpha, aims to "reinvent education through artificial intelligence." The acquisition of the former Montessori campus reflects a growing demand for elite educational institutions in affluent areas, as wealthy families relocate to South Florida. Critics have raised concerns about Alpha's educational claims and the quality of its AI-based instruction, but Liemandt remains committed to expanding the school's reach and impact.

DISTRICTS

Boosting enrollment: a new approach

The Leon County School Board has approved a one-year partnership with Caissa K-12 to enhance student enrollment and retention. Summer Wilde, a parent, expressed the need for a supportive learning environment, stating: "You know, peer pressure is a lot in school, and there are bullies, and I just wanted to avoid all of that." Adrian Bond, President of Caissa K-12, emphasized the importance of understanding why families leave and how to bring them back, noting that increased enrollment can lead to more resources for schools. Superintendent Rocky Hanna highlighted the partnership's goal of gathering parent feedback to improve local schools, saying: "It could be a great learning experience for us." The outreach will begin with phone calls and may include in-person visits to families.

St. Petersburg Catholic faces athletic freeze

The Pinellas County Schools District has directed all public high schools to refrain from scheduling any athletic events with St. Petersburg Catholic for the 2026-27 school year. This unprecedented move, led by county athletic director Marc Allison, aims to address ongoing concerns regarding the private school's recruitment practices. "This is out of control. I'm glad somebody finally stood up and did something about it," said St. Petersburg High football coach Denis Gillen. The decision comes amid a significant enrollment decline in the district, which has lost approximately 17,000 students since 2018-19. St. Petersburg Catholic has recently transformed its athletic program, achieving notable success, including a 12-1 record last season.

Commissioners reject controversial school proposal

Palm Beach County commissioners have voted 6-1 against Calvary Chapel's proposal to build a K-12 Christian school in Jupiter Farms, siding with residents who argued the project was too large for the rural area. The proposed 110,000-square-foot school would have served nearly 900 students and included extensive facilities. Commissioner Maria Sachs said: "It is the right thing, but it is the wrong place," reflecting concerns about the school's compatibility with the community's character.

GOVERNANCE

Miami-Dade CFO takes new role

Ron Steiger, the chief financial officer of Miami-Dade County Public Schools, is leaving to become the CFO and Vice President of Business and Finance at Barry University, starting August 10. Steiger expressed his love for his 20 years at the school district, particularly the last nine as CFO, stating: “This is really just a story about Barry, and I'm not leaving MDCPS for any reason other than I have an opportunity to go to one of the premier higher ed institutions as their CFO.” His new role will focus on ensuring the business and finance functions are integrated into the institution's core. Steiger's departure comes amid challenges for the district, including declining enrollment, which he has been addressing through cost-cutting measures.  

Velardi earns union backing in district 2

Nancy Velardi, former President of the Pinellas Classroom Teachers Association (PCTA), has received endorsements from both the PCTA and the Pinellas Educational Support Professionals Association (PESPA) for her campaign for the Pinellas County School Board, District 2. Velardi expressed her gratitude, saying: “I am deeply honored to have the support of the educators and education professionals who dedicate their lives to our students every day.” With over 20 years of experience as an English teacher, she is challenging incumbent Lisa Cane in the upcoming election. 

New principal takes charge at Dillard

Elaine Lundberg has been appointed as the new principal of Dillard Street Elementary School in Winter Garden. With 25 years of educational experience, this marks her second role as a principal.

WORKFORCE

Teacher housing sparks community uproar

Orange County Public Schools is attempting to address the housing crisis for teachers by proposing a 100-unit complex near Catalina Elementary School. However, residents in the Isle of Catalina are mounting a strong opposition, fearing increased traffic and changes to their neighborhood. "It's not a good fit for our community," said a local organizer. Despite these concerns, Deputy Superintendent Bridget Williams emphasized the project's potential benefits, stating: "We want to add value to the community." The district plans to hold a community meeting to discuss residents' concerns and foster dialogue. With Central Florida facing a significant affordable housing shortage, the need for more housing options is critical.

CAREER & TECHNICAL EDUCATION

Wakulla County Schools aim for success

Wakulla County Schools and the Chamber of Commerce recently held their inaugural State of Education discussion, focusing on preparing students for local careers. Rachel Pienta, a board member of the Chamber of Commerce, emphasized the importance of education for community success, stating: "If we have well-educated workers to pull from in our community, then we'll have successful businesses." Superintendent Richard Myhre shared his ambition for the school system to be number one, highlighting ongoing improvements and future goals. The curriculum aims to develop employable adults, with initiatives like War Eagle Academy, which offers 16 technical programs. Chief Academic Officer Priscilla Colvin noted partnerships with local businesses and healthcare facilities to provide students with hands-on experience.

HEALTH & WELLBEING

World Cup can kick off student connection

Researchers say the FIFA World Cup presents a unique opportunity for schools to strengthen students' sense of belonging and support mental health by creating shared experiences that bring students, families, and communities together. Experts from Surgo Health said feelings of belonging are strongly linked to student well-being and academic success, citing research showing that young people who feel connected are more likely to report happiness and purpose, while those who lack a sense of belonging are significantly more likely to experience symptoms of anxiety and depression. The researchers encourage educators to use the tournament as a low-pressure way to engage students through activities such as watch parties, trivia contests, classroom projects, and discussions that celebrate different cultures and identities.

Vaping crisis escalates in schools

As the Palm Beach County School District prepares for the new school year starting on August 10, vaping remains a significant concern. During the 2025-26 school year, the district seized 773 drug vapes and 1,262 tobacco vapes, marking an increase from the previous year. The Palm Beach County Commission has proposed an ordinance to establish a minimum distance of 1,000 feet between vape stores and schools, as vaping is seen as a growing epidemic among youth. A district spokesman said: "Rather than relying solely on traditional punitive discipline, we provide free courses for students who violate substance policies." The district is also set to receive $10m from a settlement with JUUL, which was accused of targeting underage users. Educational initiatives are in place to inform students about the dangers of vaping and tobacco use.

LEGAL

DUI drama: Two principals arrested

Jennifer Jimenez and Christina Alcalde, two Florida principals, were arrested on DUI charges after being pulled over while driving the same vehicle hours apart. Jimenez was stopped first around 2 a.m. on July 5, where an officer detected alcohol and she admitted to drinking. She declined a sobriety test and was taken to jail. Alcalde, who was a passenger, later drove the same vehicle and was stopped again. When confronted, she claimed she was trying to help her friend, saying: “I just talked to you. You were really drunk when I talked to you.” Both women have pleaded not guilty to DUI and refusal to submit to testing, bonding out of jail on a $2,000 bond. Alcalde is the principal of Pinecrest Lakes Academy, while Jimenez leads Pinecrest Academy Tavares.

INTERNATIONAL

South Africa rolls out national plan to strengthen reading culture

South Africa's Department of Basic Education has launched a National Literacy Promotion Toolkit designed to improve reading skills by coordinating literacy initiatives across homes, schools, libraries, and communities. Developed with the National Education Collaboration Trust and other literacy organizations, the framework supports the country's National Literacy Strategy for 2024-2030 and aims to foster a nationwide reading culture through greater involvement from parents, educators, community groups, and the private sector. The initiative comes amid persistent concerns over literacy levels, with the department's 2025 Funda Uphumelele National Survey showing that only 31% of Grade 1 learners met expected home-language reading benchmarks, while just 46% of Grade 4 students achieved the Grade 3 benchmark. Officials said the toolkit provides practical guidance on initiatives including reading clubs, print-rich learning environments, literacy events, and the reinstated National Spelling Bee.
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