Education Slice
Become more informed in minutes...
Education Slice Logo
Florida
7th October 2026
Together with


THE HOT STORY

Safer routes urged around schools

School-age pedestrian deaths on weekdays during the school year have remained broadly unchanged over the past five years, with 134 children killed in 2024, according to an Education Week analysis of federal data. Researchers warn that children face particular risks around dawn and in the evening, while larger vehicles, high-speed road designs, and schools located farther from residential areas can make walking more dangerous. Experts say safety lessons and speed-limit signs are not enough, recommending measures such as narrower lanes, crosswalks, bike routes, and safer school entrances. New York City is reducing speed limits to 15 mph near hundreds of schools, redesigning streets, and expanding temporary car-free zones around schools. Researchers also encourage districts to map students’ routes and work with transportation authorities on infrastructure improvements that make walking and cycling safer.

FLDOE-APPROVED MATH CURRICULA

HMH Florida Math Programs Approved by Florida Department of Education

HMH announced that the Florida Department of Education has approved HMH math programs for the state's 2026–2027 K–12 Mathematics instructional materials adoption. Approved programs include Florida's B.E.S.T. Go Math! K–5, HMH Florida's B.E.S.T. Into Math 6–8, Florida's B.E.S.T. Into Algebra 1, and Math 180. Designed specifically for Florida classrooms, the programs provide educators with a connected pathway of high-quality instructional materials that support students from foundational skills through Algebra 1, helping teachers deliver rigorous, standards-aligned instruction while supporting conceptual understanding, procedural fluency, and targeted intervention.

You'll also find information on FLDOE-approved mathematics programs from HMH, including solutions for Grades K-8, Algebra 1, and intensive intervention designed to support Florida schools.

Access Free Math Resources and FLDOE-Approved Programs

 

STATE NEWS

Florida school bus safety under fire

The recent school bus crash in Polk County which resulted in the death of a 10th grader, has reignited discussions about the state's seat belt regulations. While Florida mandates that school buses built since 2001 have seat belts, it does not require students to wear them or implement the more protective lap-and-shoulder belts recommended by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). The NTSB's investigations have shown that lap-and-shoulder belts significantly enhance passenger safety during crashes. Despite federal recommendations for Florida to adopt these safety measures, the state has yet to comply. The tragic incident has led to renewed scrutiny of whether Florida's school bus safety standards should be updated to align with federal guidelines.

Mack's education shake-up sparks debate

Henry Mack III, Florida's education commissioner, initially inspired hope among public education advocates with his approach to school officials. However, the Tampa Bay Times says concerns have grown due to his stance on library books and calls for “real science, not ideology” in academic standards. The Florida Department of Education's updated science guidelines, released in September, have drawn criticism for omitting key concepts like “evolution.” Critics argue that the standards lack depth and fail to adequately prepare students. Mack's social media posts, which some found sarcastic, have further fueled discontent. “It got your attention,” Mack said, emphasizing the need for people to read the standards rather than just the headlines.  

WORKFORCE

Teachers voice concerns over classroom demands

At a recent roundtable hosted by the Florida Education Association and the Leon Classroom Teachers Association, educators expressed their struggles with increasing classroom demands. Scott Mazur, president of the LCTA, emphasized the importance of gathering diverse perspectives to understand the challenges faced in education. Algebra teacher Sandra Meador highlighted the difficulty of meeting the individual needs of students, stating: "If I have 20 students in my class... I have at least 19 different ways that I have to teach each of those individual students." Meador, who returned to teaching after retirement, noted that veteran teachers often lack sufficient incentives to remain in the profession. The discussion also addressed the balance between state requirements and the personal needs of students, with Mazur commenting: "The art is being able to understand people and how they respond." Educators stressed the necessity of having a voice in policy decisions that affect their classrooms.

Uthmeier awaits findings in teacher case

Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier is currently awaiting the results of an investigation by Sarasota County Schools into teacher Elizabeth Ballard, who is accused of "bullying" an eighth-grade student. Uthmeier previously stated that if the allegations are true, Ballard should be dismissed and her educator certificate revoked. Jason Means, president of the Sarasota Classified Teachers Association, argued that Uthmeier should not interfere, saying: "Stay in your lane." The Sarasota County School Board is conducting its own investigation, which is the fourth involving Ballard this year, with previous probes resulting in findings of teacher misconduct. Ballard has faced suspensions for her behavior towards the student, who has a politically influential family. School Board member Tom Edwards expressed concern over the contentious situation, suggesting that outside administration should have been involved for guidance.

DISTRICTS

AI in classrooms: a new era

In Orange County, new requirements for AI in schools are set to change how students use these tools. Following the State Board of Education's adoption of Florida's AI rule on September 16, Orange County Public Schools (OCPS) is updating its policies to include 18 requirements, up from 15. A significant change mandates parental consent for students using certain AI instructional tools. “If the student will be directly using the tool,” parents must have the option to opt out, OCPS board member Gallo said. The rules also prohibit AI systems designed to meet students' social or emotional needs and require safeguards against undisclosed behavior monitoring. The debate now centers on how schools can integrate AI while maintaining essential human judgment and critical thinking in education.

Broward schools face closure threat

Broward County School Board members convened to address the potential closure of schools due to declining enrollment. Superintendent Howard Hepburn highlighted that the district has "over 60,000 open seats," with a loss of more than 48,000 students over the past decade, which significantly affects the budget. Sarah Leonardi, the School Board's chair, noted that this decline is linked to a "nationwide demographic change." The final decision on which schools will close is expected in December, following public comments from parents and students advocating for their schools.

King High School ends IB program

Hillsborough School District officials have announced the discontinuation of the International Baccalaureate (IB) program at King High School, with the last class expected to graduate in 2030. The school, which began offering the IB program in 1994, will transition to a new artificial intelligence program set to launch in 2028. District spokesperson Tanya Arja said: “The King High School of Innovation will focus on AI, Cybersecurity, and Computing.” The new program will include partnerships with local universities and businesses, providing students with opportunities for certifications, internships, and experiential learning. The district aims to ensure that all students, regardless of their program, receive support to succeed.

Celebrating student excellence in Lee County

During the 2026-27 school year, The News-Press, in partnership with Lee County principals, will honor exceptional high school students and their achievements. Nominees are revealed on Mondays, with an interactive poll for voting open until 5 p.m. on Thursdays. The winner of the Student of the Week will be announced on Fridays. Jeffrey Estes III from Bonita Springs High School is nominated for his impressive 5.22 GPA and commitment to academics and athletics. Other nominees include Travis Anderson from Fort Myers High School, who exemplifies resilience and leadership, and Emma Kramer from Bishop Verot High School, a National Merit Semifinalist dedicated to community service.  

GOVERNANCE

Candidates clash in Bay County race

The Bay County School Board District 3 race has narrowed to two candidates: Dr. John L. Haley and incumbent Christopher Moore, with the election set for November 3. Haley has received the endorsement of Colleen Koch, who finished third in the August primary. In that primary, Moore garnered 29.25% of the votes, while Haley received 28.63%. Haley emphasized his commitment to "put students first" and ensure fiscal responsibility, citing the district's overspending of $5m last year and $7m this year. Moore, on the other hand, highlighted his experience and the district's recent success in eliminating 'D' and 'F' schools, stating: “I have been a part of significant, empirical success over the last four years.” Both candidates face challenges, including budget constraints and teacher retention issues.

New principal takes charge at Bok Academy

Marte Wilson has been appointed as the new principal at Edward W. Bok Academy North in Lake Wales, following a board meeting on Oct. 1. Previously, Wilson served as assistant principal at Denison Middle School in Winter Haven. With an 18-year career in education, he has held various roles, including classroom teacher and dean of students.

STUDENT SUPPORT

Disney Dreamers Academy expands to middle-schoolers

Walt Disney World is collaborating with Boys & Girls Clubs of America to introduce the Disney Dreamers Academy to 200 middle-schoolers from Orlando, Miami, Atlanta, and Houston. Jericho Todman, a 12-year-old from Lakeview Middle School, expressed his excitement about connecting with mentors, stating: “It's like having multiple parents at once.” The program, which has traditionally served high-schoolers, is now being reimagined to support younger students through year-round workshops and mentorship opportunities. Tajiana Ancora-Brown, Director of External Affairs at Walt Disney World, emphasized the importance of this partnership, saying: “This is a time in (middle-schoolers') development, where these students could really use the extra support.” The initiative aims to help students build confidence and explore career paths, with the first cohort starting in January 2027.

SAFETY & SECURITY

Vaping detectors to hit schools

The Osceola County School District is implementing a vape detection program in response to rising student vaping rates, utilizing $191,885 from the county's opioid settlement fund. This initiative aims to address substance use disorder risk factors among youth and aligns with broader prevention goals. The program will install detectors in 19 schools, providing real-time alerts to staff for quick responses. The district aims for a 25% reduction in vaping-related referrals by the 2024-2025 school year and plans to connect all affected students with cessation services.  

INTERNATIONAL

Students rise up for school reform

Students in Paris protested against under-resourced schools, blocking roads and creating barricades at institutions like Hélène Boucher lycée. This demonstration is part of a growing nationwide movement demanding increased resources for the education system. The protests, which began in mid-September, have seen widespread participation, with labor unions joining in support. The government's response has been forceful, resulting in over 5,000 arrests, primarily of minors. The use of police force has sparked anger among parents and teachers, further fueling the students' defiance. As one protester noted, students are highlighting the dire conditions in their schools, stating: "Liberty, Equality, Fraternity" should apply to education as well.
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