Education Slice
Become more informed in minutes....
Education Slice Logo
Florida
29th July 2026
 

THE HOT STORY

Drones join school security arsenal

At least nine schools across Florida, Georgia and Colorado will introduce remotely operated drones designed to confront active shooters within 15 seconds. Activated through teacher apps or panic buttons, the nonlethal aircraft can flash lights, sound sirens, spray pepper gel, break windows and ram targets. Mithril Defense co-founder Bill King said: “Once I get the drones on you, you just can’t escape them.” Supporters argue the technology could protect campuses without dedicated resource officers and improve response during the critical opening minutes of an attack. Critics warn pilots could mistake students or police officers for attackers and question spending limited school budgets on untested technology. The drones have undergone simulations but have never been deployed during an actual shooting.

NATIONAL NEWS

Court stops Education Department's latest attempt to end school mental health funding

A federal judge has blocked the U.S. Department of Education from moving forward with another attempt to terminate nearly $1 billion in school mental health grants, ruling that the agency likely acted unlawfully by reassessing previously approved grants using new policy priorities. U.S. District Judge Kymberly Evanson found the department could not evaluate multiyear grants against criteria that were not in place when the funding was originally awarded, and said states did not have to wait until the grants were formally canceled before challenging the decision in court. The grants, created by Congress in 2018 and 2020 following a series of school shootings, support the recruitment of mental health professionals in underserved schools. According to the coalition of states challenging the cuts, the programs have provided services to nearly 775,000 students in their first year, contributed to a 50% reduction in suicide risk at high-need schools, reduced absenteeism and behavioral issues, and improved student engagement. The judge also ruled the department could not withhold grant payments without providing recipients with notice and an opportunity for review, finding its planned actions were likely arbitrary, capricious, and in violation of the Administrative Procedure Act.

Right-sizing schools could strengthen education

A new EdChoice analysis argues that declining public school enrollment does not have to lead to weaker schools, urging districts to adopt thoughtful "right-sizing" strategies, including consolidating facilities, adjusting staffing, and reallocating resources to better serve remaining students. The authors note that U.S. public school enrollment fell 3% between 2019 and 2024, while inflation-adjusted revenue per student increased 16%, reaching $21,065, largely because of state funding protections and higher per-pupil spending. They contend that enrollment declines are driven by multiple factors beyond school choice, including lower birth rates and population shifts, and argue that transparent planning, efficient use of underutilized facilities, and student-focused resource allocation can help districts remain financially resilient while improving educational outcomes. 

STATE NEWS

Florida's pre-K education ranked low

Florida's early education system is under scrutiny, with WalletHub's recent ranking placing it 38th among all states and the District of Columbia. While Florida scored 18th in quality, it fell short in access and resources, ranking 42nd and 43rd, respectively. "More than 3.1m children have benefited from the Voluntary Prekindergarten Education Program (VPK)," said the Florida Department of Education, highlighting the program's importance. The District of Columbia topped the list, boasting the highest enrollment rates and spending per child. Florida's VPK program, established in 2005, offers free pre-K for all 4-year-olds, but challenges remain in improving overall access and support for early education.

TECHNOLOGY

AI takes center stage in Osceola schools

During a recent workshop at the School District of Osceola County, district leaders explored the integration of AI programs into their educational framework. Peter Thorne, chief information and technology officer, emphasized the importance of responsible AI use, stating: “We are going to select about 30 people who both instructional and as well as operational, who are going to become our spokespeople for AI and the tools that we’re using.” The newly introduced AI Fellows Program aims to develop AI expertise among staff, with an 18-week session starting shortly after students return. The district's goal is to ensure AI complements human expertise, as noted in their materials, stating AI should “augment — not replace — human expertise, relationships, and decision-making.” The district also plans to allow students aged 13 and older to use Microsoft Copilot as a learning companion.

TEACHING

The truth about homeschooling

Homeschooling offers various advantages, such as flexibility and financial support from the State of Florida, which provides funds for educational items. However, it also presents significant challenges. Many homeschooled children struggle with time management, a crucial skill for success. "If it is not learned at home or school, when will it be learned?" The effectiveness of homeschooling largely depends on the parent's teaching abilities, and not all parents are equipped to teach essential subjects. Additionally, homeschooled children may miss out on social interactions and learning experiences that occur in traditional school settings. Parents must maintain high standards and expectations to ensure their children become educated citizens. Joining a well-organized homeschool group can help mitigate some of these challenges by providing socialization opportunities and shared learning experiences. Ultimately, parents must ensure their children receive a proper education, regardless of the setting.

GOVERNANCE

Romelus rates Burke's performance an 8

Christina L. Romelus, a candidate for Palm Beach School Board District 4, rated Superintendent Michael Burke an eight out of 10 for his performance. She praised his strong financial management and academic improvements but highlighted challenges such as teacher recruitment and declining enrollment. "Families need to know that our schools are safe, welcoming, and committed to their children's success," Romelus said, emphasizing the need for better communication and partnerships with the community. She also expressed concern over the district's $40m deficit and proposed a thorough budget review to protect classrooms while advocating for better public-school funding. Romelus believes that "hungry children cannot properly learn or grow," stressing the importance of ensuring all students have access to free meals. Her diverse background as a mother, educator, and public servant positions her uniquely to address these issues.

Candidates vie for Miami-Dade school board seat

The race to fill the vacant District 1 seat on the Miami-Dade County School Board is heating up, with eight candidates vying for the position left by Steve Gallon, who has moved to the county council. The candidates bring diverse backgrounds in public service and education, with some having decades of experience in Miami-Dade's public schools, while others are first-time candidates. James Barry Wright, a former police chief, emphasized the importance of "student safety, student success, and workforce readiness" as his top priorities. Wrendly Mesidor, a Catholic school teacher, aims to advocate for educators and improve student achievement. Each candidate has shared their vision and priorities, highlighting the need for strong leadership in the district.

POLICY

Less screen time for Pasco kids

Pasco County schools are reducing screen time for students to enhance fundamental skills. Superintendent John Legg emphasized, "Teachers own the instruction, not the technology," highlighting the need for analog skills like listening and note-taking. The new guidelines recommend a maximum of 30 minutes of screen time for kindergarten and first grade, one hour for grades 2-8, and an average of 90 minutes for high school students. This initiative aligns with a national trend to limit digital instruction, as research indicates excessive screen exposure can negatively impact academic performance.

DISTRICTS

Miami-Dade schools face closures

Classes in Miami-Dade County will resume on August 13, but nine schools will not reopen due to a decision by the Miami-Dade County School Board. The closures, which were voted on during a June 17 meeting, include Mandarin Lakes K-8 Academy, Robert Russa Moton Elementary, and Parkway Elementary, among others. Lissette Fernandez, co-founder of Moms for Libros, said: "These schools serve some of the highest-poverty communities in Miami-Dade," highlighting the impact of the closures. The district is facing declining enrollment, with a drop of around 13,000 students from the previous year, attributed to factors such as Florida's expanded voucher program and fewer immigrant families moving to the area. The Miami-Dade County School District had 313,220 students enrolled at the start of the 2025-2026 school year.

Broward schools level the playing field

Broward County Public Schools has announced that all 128 elementary schools will now offer at least three enrichment courses, ensuring equal access for students in both affluent and economically disadvantaged areas. Dr. Howard Hepburn expressed satisfaction at the Broward County School Board meeting, stating: “I'm pleased to say that mission was accepted and that mission was accomplished.” The initiative, which costs approximately $800,000, aims to provide more engaging classes like music, art, and PE, particularly in schools that previously offered only two specials. Board member Allen Zeman highlighted the need for this change, noting that “low-income kids were getting music or art or PE, whereas middle-class and upper-income people were getting all of ‘em.” Additionally, every elementary school will have a full-time librarian, and the district plans to address overcrowding in high school AP classes.

SAFETY & SECURITY

Broward schools tackle bus safety

Broward County Public Schools is set to enhance student safety by partnering with BusPatrol to equip nearly 1,300 school buses with AI-powered "infraction detection systems." This initiative follows a similar program in Miami-Dade County, which successfully fitted 900 buses with similar technology. The cameras will identify when drivers fail to stop for stationary school buses, and footage will be reviewed by the Broward County Public Schools Police Department. If a violation is confirmed, a "Notice of Violation will be sent to the registered vehicle owner," with fines starting at $225 for offenders.

NUTRITION

Survey finds nearly one in four U.S. teens use food delivery apps during school hours

A new survey from the American Society for Nutrition has found that nearly one in four U.S. teenagers use food delivery apps during school hours, with 58.8% of those students ordering fast food and 34.1% purchasing sugary drinks, raising concerns about the impact on student health and school nutrition efforts. The study, which surveyed 1,027 adolescents aged 13 to 17 in 2025, found that almost half also used delivery apps after school. Researchers said the findings highlight a gap in nutrition policies, which regulate food sold in schools but not meals ordered through smartphones. Students in the western U.S. were the most likely to use delivery apps during school hours, while respondents expressed mixed views, with many supporting access but also acknowledging concerns about distractions and campus safety. 

LEGAL

Georgia teen sentenced to life without parole for Apalachee High School shooting

Colt Gray, the Georgia teenager who pleaded guilty last week to carrying out the 2024 mass shooting at Apalachee High School, has been sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. Judge Nicholas Primm ruled that the attack, which killed two students and two teachers and injured nine others, was a deliberate act rather than the result of youthful immaturity, rejecting defense arguments that Gray's abusive upbringing and troubled home life should leave open the possibility of parole. During the sentencing hearing, family members of the victims urged the court to ensure Gray would never be released, describing the lasting trauma caused by the shooting. Prosecutors presented evidence that Gray had become fixated on previous mass shootings and sought notoriety, while the defense highlighted years of abuse, neglect, parental substance misuse, and untreated mental health issues. The judge acknowledged Gray's difficult childhood but concluded that it did not excuse his actions, stating that the harm inflicted on the victims, their families, and the community warranted a sentence of life without parole.

INTERNATIONAL

Seoul school curriculum to emphasize history, constitutional values, and anti-discrimination

The Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education plans to introduce a new civic education course into the school curriculum following controversy over Paichai High School students allegedly mocking the May 18 Gwangju Democratization Movement, with the aim of strengthening students' understanding of democracy, history, and civic responsibility. The elective course, tentatively titled "Democratic Citizenship Through Coexistence and Communication," will focus on history, constitutional education, and preventing discrimination and hate through classroom discussion and interactive learning. The initiative was accelerated after nationwide criticism of the incident and is expected to be introduced in Seoul schools from the 2028 academic year, with officials also pledging rigorous oversight to ensure political neutrality in the curriculum. 

AND FINALLY...

Colorado tops national education rankings

Colorado has been ranked the top state for education by U.S. News & World Report, rising from third place last year, based on measures spanning preschool, K–12, and higher education. Gov. Jared Polis welcomed the recognition but cautioned that the ranking reflects a "low bar," noting that the U.S. education system still trails many other developed countries and that too many Colorado students are struggling to meet academic expectations. The ranking was supported by Colorado's expanded early childhood education programs, including universal preschool and free full-day kindergarten, as well as an improving high school graduation rate, which rose to 85.6% for the Class of 2025. However, student achievement remains a concern. On the 2024 National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), only 35% of Colorado eighth graders met or exceeded proficiency in reading and 32% did so in math, despite outperforming national averages in both subjects. It was followed by New Jersey, Florida, Wyoming, and Wisconsin; the top 10 was rounded out by Utah, Massachusetts, Washington, South Dakota, and North Carolina.
Industry Slice Logo

Education Slice delivers the latest, most relevant and useful intelligence to key educators, administrators, decision makers and teaching influencers, each weekday morning..

Content is selected to an exacting brief from hundreds of influential media sources and summarised by experienced journalists into an easy-to-read digest email. Education Slice enhances the performance and decision-making capabilities of individuals and teams by delivering the relevant news, innovations and knowledge in a cost-effective way.

If you are interested in sponsorship opportunities within Education Slice, please get in touch via email sales team

Follow us on FacebookFollow us on XFollow us on Linkedin

This e-mail has been sent to [[EMAIL_TO]]

Click here to unsubscribe