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Florida
11th August 2026
 

THE HOT STORY

Florida schools embrace new changes

As students in Florida return for the 2026-2027 school year, they encounter several new laws that took effect on July 1. Among these changes, cursive handwriting instruction is now mandatory for grades 3 to 5, and marching band and Special Olympics participation can count towards physical education credits. Additionally, high school students face restrictions on phone usage during instructional time, while college professors are now allowed to carry concealed weapons on campus. "Disciplinary records are defined as any verified reports of serious or recurrent behavior patterns," including threat assessments, which must be transferred to colleges within five school days. Other changes include relaxed rules for teachers with expired licenses and new requirements for reporting students promoting organizations deemed terrorist by the state.

POLICY

Are cellphone bans effective?

Since France implemented the first comprehensive student cellphone ban in 2018, 106 countries and 39 U.S. states have followed suit. However, experts like Sonia Livingstone, a professor at the London School of Economics, argue that "the jury is out" on the effectiveness of these bans. While some studies indicate improved academic performance and reduced bullying among students without phones, others show no significant changes. The push for bans reflects growing concerns about technology's impact on youth, as highlighted by former U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy's call for stricter regulations. Despite the bans, students often find ways to circumvent them, raising questions about their practicality and effectiveness. In Norway, a study found that cellphone restrictions positively impacted grades, particularly for girls, suggesting that while bans may help, their overall effectiveness remains uncertain.

Parents embrace AI for learning

According to a recent survey by the National School Choice Awareness Foundation (NSCAF), 76% of U.S. parents support the use of AI in schools, with 42% citing its ability to personalize learning as the most compelling benefit. Shelby Doyle, senior vice president of policy and national partnerships at NSCAF, said: "Finding the 'right fit' and personalizing the choice of a school for each child has become the goal of school choice." However, parents also express concerns, with 48% worried that AI may lead to over-dependence on technology. As the new school year approaches, 88% of parents feel excited, while 67% report stress. The survey included 2,053 parents of school-aged children and was conducted from July 24 to July 31, 2026.

DISTRICTS

Enrollment drops in Palm Beach schools

Enrollment in Palm Beach County schools fell by 7,000 and by 11,000 in Broward County last year, with further declines anticipated. Broward Superintendent Howard Hepburn is visiting schools to promote a new initiative aimed at reversing this trend. Hallandale High, now a four-day-a-week accelerated magnet program, focuses on entrepreneurship, aviation, and technology. Principal Paula Peters said: “We're going to grow. We've just got to get the word out.” The new schedule extends school hours Monday through Thursday, allowing for longer class periods. Students are encouraged to use Fridays for internships and community service, with optional enrichment activities planned. Junior Ta'Riyah Knowles expressed her intention to use Fridays for rest, stating: “I'm going to sleep in if I don't have any games or practices.” The initiative aims to prepare students for future success.

Citrus County schools faces tough cuts

As Citrus County Schools grapples with declining enrollment, the district has made significant staffing cuts, eliminating around 80 positions, primarily in administration and support roles. Superintendent Dr. Scott Hebert stated: “If we have less students, then we don’t need the same number of staff.” The district's total enrollment has dropped by approximately 1,200 students over the past three years, now totaling just over 15,000. Additionally, the Citrus County School District Police Department has been deactivated, with school safety operations now overseen by the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office. Hebert emphasized the importance of collaboration, saying: “Safety is very important to me, but who better to run the safety than our sheriff’s department?” Furthermore, the district is transitioning from Canvas to Google Education Plus for its learning management system, with elementary and middle school students starting the new platform this year.

Broward schools to cut testing time

Broward County Public Schools is set to significantly reduce testing minutes for elementary schools, as outlined in the After-Action Report on Instruction, Assessment, Testing and Screen Time Reduction. The report suggests a reduction of over 65% in district-required K-5 assessment minutes, with a complete elimination of testing for Kindergarten and first grade. The changes are driven by concerns over "redundancy, screen time, developmental fit, and instructional disruption," according to the report. The Division of Academics engaged with educators, school leaders, and parents to identify ways to minimize testing while maintaining effective progress monitoring. The proposed adjustments aim to streamline assessments that do not directly inform instruction.

Palm Beach schools kick off year strong

The School District of Palm Beach County welcomed around 160,000 students for the new academic year, earning an "A+" grade for a smooth opening day, according to Superintendent Mike Burke. He praised the district's preparation, stating: "A+ it's been an incredible day." The district confirmed that enrollment numbers may fluctuate as families continue to register. All 528 school bus routes operated on schedule, although the district is seeking about 40 additional drivers. Burke also noted that many parents expressed concerns about the integration of artificial intelligence in classrooms, with teachers beginning to address AI policies on the first day. Additionally, the district is prioritizing reducing chronic absenteeism this year, urging families to ensure students attend school daily and on time.

Targeted instruction boosts student success

The Osceola County School District has implemented changes to its Exceptional Student Education (ESE) program, focusing on providing targeted instruction for students with disabilities. Deputy Superintendent Rene Clayton said: “To be able to provide the resources districtwide, we made sure that we were able to concentrate those services by hubbing those types of services into hub sites." The district's overall grade improved to a "B," with 20 schools raising their letter grades.

FINANCE

Orange County Schools face funding crisis

As students return to classrooms in Orange County Public Schools, the district grapples with financial challenges due to a decline in enrollment by about 2,000 students. Superintendent Maria Vazquez explained: "Operational costs are increasing faster than revenue," leading to potential losses in per-student state funding. The district previously closed seven under-enrolled schools but has no plans for further closures this year. To save costs, OCPS proposed increasing insurance premiums for teachers, causing negotiations with the teachers' union to reach an impasse. Additionally, a ban on e-bikes and e-scooters on elementary and middle school campuses has sparked controversy among parents. Despite these issues, Teresa Jacobs, chair of the Orange County School Board, noted the district's academic strength, achieving its third consecutive A rating from the state.

GOVERNANCE

Candidates vie for Miami-Dade school board

In Miami-Dade County, seven candidates are competing for the District 1 seat on the School Board, previously held by Steve Gallon. School safety is a primary concern among candidates, with Pastor Joy Jackson stating: “We do have those entities in place,” referring to existing safety measures. Catholic school teacher Wrendly Mesidor advocates for policies like clear backpacks and metal detectors, while former police chief James Wright emphasizes the importance of addressing bullying to prevent violence. Retired principal Katrina Wilson believes that knowledge enhances safety, saying: “The more people know, the better they behave.” Florida Memorial University Board Chair Bernard Jennings stresses the need for well-paid security personnel to ensure their commitment. Teacher Linda Cothiere highlights the connection between safety and learning, asserting: “You can't learn in a place if you don't feel safe.”

Martin seeks re-election for school board

Reese Martin is running for re-election to the Highlands County School Board District 4, emphasizing his commitment to quality education and support for teachers. "I believe our schools are the cornerstone of our community," he said, advocating for competitive salaries and benefits for educators. Martin, a lifelong resident and former vocational agriculture teacher, aims to ensure qualified teachers in every classroom and to allocate resources effectively. He plans to reduce administrative costs to direct funding to classrooms, enhancing student success. Martin also highlights the importance of career and technical opportunities in schools, stating that these attract families and students.

CONSTRUCTION AND RENOVATION

New school building opens in Bonita Springs

Teachers have moved into a new $40m building at Bonita Springs Elementary ahead of the 2026/27 school year. The 48,000-square-foot facility contains 16 classrooms, administrative offices, a clinic and a space-themed media center, bringing most pupils under one roof after years of relying on portable classrooms. The original 1921 schoolhouse was demolished after being declared structurally unsafe, although a memorial wall will preserve its historic appearance. The new layout is expected to improve safety, communication and staff collaboration while supporting the school’s STEAM programs. Further construction will add a cafeteria, kitchen and music space, with the entire redevelopment scheduled for completion by September 2027.

SOCIAL & COMMUNITY

Backpacks and hope for students

As the new school year approaches, organizations in South Florida are ensuring students have the necessary supplies. The Peanut Butter Jelly Project, led by Founder Brooke Waltzer, provided backpacks and essential items at Fort Lauderdale High School. Waltzer emphasized the financial burden on families, stating: “Some of these lists that they get are $250-300 for the whole school year.” Additionally, changes to the breakfast and lunch programs are underway, with only 141 Broward schools and 121 Miami-Dade schools continuing to offer free lunch. Parents of students at campuses that do not qualify will need to apply for free lunch assistance.

HIGHER EDUCATION

Antisemitism rampant on Canadian campuses

According to a new report titled Campus Antisemitism and Student Experiences, nearly all Jewish students surveyed in Canada reported experiencing or witnessing antisemitism. The Department of Canadian Heritage's survey revealed that 95.7% of Jewish students faced antisemitism, with 70% feeling their universities did not take the issue seriously. Jack Jedwab, the report's main author, said: “Antisemitism on Canadian campuses is neither isolated nor episodic.” The report highlighted various forms of discrimination, including physical violence, intimidation, and Holocaust denial. Additionally, 36% of respondents noted biased course content related to Jews and Israel. The report comes amid rising antisemitic incidents in Canada, prompting calls for action from various groups. Martha Piper, former president of the University of British Columbia, emphasized the need for universities to create a more welcoming environment for Jewish students.
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