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Florida
14th October 2026
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THE HOT STORY

Schools seek better English learner support

School districts are facing significant challenges in supporting approximately 5 million English learners across the U.S. A recent Education Week special report highlights key issues and offers practical solutions. One major concern is the early assessment of English learners' needs, particularly in California, where legislation now exempts transitional kindergarten students from standardized testing to avoid misidentification. Almudena Abeyta, superintendent of the Chelsea district, emphasized the urgency of helping older English learners acquire essential language skills quickly, stating, “It's a lot, and the teachers have to work extremely hard at making it work.” Additionally, districts are increasingly utilizing artificial intelligence tools to communicate with non-English-speaking families, although concerns about accuracy and privacy remain. The report underscores the need for tailored support and innovative strategies to effectively assist English learners.

DESIGN MATTERS

Watch How Florida Math Was Designed Around B.E.S.T.

What does it really mean for a curriculum to be aligned? In a new video, McGraw Hill Florida Math contributing author Sarah B. Bush, Ph.D., takes educators inside the design process — and the difference between stamping benchmark codes on pages and designing one around what Florida's B.E.S.T. Standards ask students to become capable of doing. Built from the B1G-M instructional guides and the Math Standards Progressions, with the Mathematical Thinking and Reasoning Standards woven throughout, Florida Math moves students from exploration to representation to reasoning to application — so the evidence of alignment lives in what students think about, do, explain, and demonstrate. Watch the video and see how Florida Math builds math confidence for teachers, students, and Florida schools.

Watch the video

 

STATE NEWS

Florida's campus carry law sparks debate

The Florida Legislature passed HB 757, allowing university staff to carry weapons on campus after completing 144 hours of training, drug tests, and psychological evaluations. This law expands Florida's School Guardian Program, initially created for K-12 schools after the tragic shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in 2018. Angela Ferrell-Zabala, executive director of Moms Demand Action, emphasized that "students, staff, and families made it clear... they didn't want more guns on university campuses." Despite the law's passage, no colleges have opted into the program, indicating a lack of support. Rep. Susan Valdés, who co-sponsored the bill, noted that it provides universities with an option for future safety needs. Critics argue that the law does not enhance safety, with Emily Dornan from FSU Students Demand Action stating: "Bringing more guns into lecture halls and libraries doesn't make us safer." The law also includes provisions for threat assessments and security measures.

FINANCE

Budget crisis looms for Osceola schools

Osceola County school officials are grappling with a potential $100m budget shortfall over the next four years. Terry Castillo, a District 1 school board member, said: “There’s a lot of different reasons for that,” citing reduced federal funding and a drop in enrollment, which has led to a $13m loss in funding. The district is exploring ways to manage its budget without resorting to staff layoffs, as 80% of its operational budget is allocated to salaries. Castillo emphasized the need for restructuring rather than firing teachers. Andrew Spar, president of the Florida Education Association, highlighted the financial strain on teachers, noting that “teacher salaries in Florida over the last nearly three decades have fallen by $15,000.” A referendum for a one mill increase in property taxes is set for a vote on November 3, aimed at bolstering teacher and staff salaries.

DISTRICTS

New superintendent crucial for schools

As Orange County Public Schools faces declining enrollment and budget shortfalls, parents emphasize the importance of the next superintendent in shaping the district's future. The Orange County School Board is set to update its search for a new leader following the retirement of Dr. Maria Vasquez, who served for 35 years. Parents like Christy Noone express hope that the new superintendent will focus on "student enrollment" and enhance support for public schools. The district reported a loss of over 7,600 students this year, resulting in an estimated $23m funding deficit. Community involvement is deemed essential for reversing this trend, with parents advocating for better classroom resources and teacher-to-student ratios.

Vote yes to save Miami teachers

As South Florida's public schools grapple with declining enrollment and funding cuts, a crucial tax referendum is set to expire. On Nov. 3, voters in Broward and Miami-Dade will decide on the "School Board Referendum," which could secure approximately $569.5m annually for schools until June 30, 2031. Miami-Dade County Public Schools Superintendent Rafael Villalobos emphasized the referendum's importance, stating: "The results would be catastrophic" if it fails. Without the funding, teachers could face pay cuts of up to $16,000, prompting concerns about a potential mass exodus from the public school system. The referendum has broad support, including from elected officials and union leaders, but faces competition from Amendment 3, which could confuse voters. Broward County is also voting on a similar measure, which could yield about $358m annually for their schools.

Polk County Public Schools plan major rezoning

Polk County Public Schools (PCPS) is set to hold a series of town halls to discuss proposed changes to middle school attendance zones. The district aims to balance enrollment and optimize resources to ensure all students receive a high-quality education, "regardless of where they live," the district said. While new boundaries are not yet finalized, the school board is expected to vote on the matter in early 2027. The town hall meetings will take place across various regions, starting on October 15, and will provide information on the proposed changes, answer questions, and gather community feedback. For more details, visit the PCPS website.

Schools on the move in Indian River

Indian River County is set to relocate Wabasso School and Sebastian Elementary School of the Arts during the 2027-2028 school year to enhance facilities and address declining enrollment. Superintendent David Moore mentioned that the moves could save the district about $1.5m annually. Wabasso will transition to the vacant Glendale Elementary, which could cost up to $7m, while Sebastian Elementary will share the Sebastian River Middle School campus. Christina Jacobs, Chief of Staff, emphasized the need for "unique learning experiences" and plans to create innovative spaces, including sensory rooms and culinary areas. School Board members expressed support, highlighting the importance of providing new environments for students.  

HEALTH & SAFETY

Parents and teachers protest school reopening

In a heated Santa Rosa County School Board meeting, parents and teachers protested Superintendent Karen Barber's decision to reopen schools on October 14 following Hurricane Isaias. Barber stated: "Under direction of Gov. DeSantis and the Florida Department of Education we have been informed that we need to be back in school on Wednesday." However, community members voiced their concerns, leading to a unanimous vote to keep schools closed until October 19. Educators like Michael Schultz emphasized the dire situation, noting, "Students who didn't have roofs over their heads or didn't have running water." The board's decision reflects the ongoing challenges faced by the community in the aftermath of the hurricane.

ECPS prioritizes safety for students

Escambia County Public Schools (ECPS) and Santa Rosa County District Schools will remain closed until Monday, due to the aftermath of Hurricane Isaias. An ECPS spokesperson reported that approximately 32 school sites were without power on Monday, with 20 restored by Tuesday afternoon. "We are working closely with Florida Power and Light and other local utilities and law enforcement to re-establish vital services to our campuses," said the ECPS spokesman. The district is actively repairing damage and ensuring that all bus routes can operate safely. Santa Rosa County's School Board decided to postpone classes after receiving feedback from parents and teachers.

LEGAL

Lee County School Board suspends athletic director

The Lee County School Board unanimously voted to suspend former North Fort Myers athletic director Joe Bowen without pay while he awaits a hearing with the Florida Division of Administrative Hearings. The board's decision follows allegations that Bowen was aware of a pay-to-play scheme, engaged in improper hiring practices, and failed to address misconduct reports, potentially jeopardizing athlete safety.

SCHOOL TRANSPORTATION

New buses on the way for Marion County

Marion County Public Schools is set to purchase 22 new school buses for nearly $4m, despite ongoing challenges in finding qualified drivers. The new buses, equipped with GPS and surveillance cameras, will not be available for at least a year, raising questions about their immediate impact on the driver shortage.

SOCIAL & COMMUNITY

Palm Coast YMCA plans unveiled

The Volusia Flagler YMCA, along with the city and Flagler County School District, is collaborating on a $14m facility in Palm Coast, set to be completed by winter 2028. The proposed 46,300-square-foot YMCA will feature a wellness center, a 50-meter Olympic-size swimming pool, and a family pool. 

INTERNATIONAL

Thunberg joins French student protests

French high school students, joined by activist Greta Thunberg, are protesting against poor school conditions, including teacher shortages and overcrowded classrooms. The movement, now in its fourth week, has seen demonstrations and blockades across the country. Thunberg stated: "They should know that all over the world we are following these developments. We are inspired by the young people who are demanding their basic rights." The protests have led to clashes with police, resulting in injuries and arrests. Education Minister Edouard Geffray reported that around 200 schools were closed due to safety concerns related to the protests. The government is under pressure to address these issues amid rising national debt and a looming presidential election.

OTHER

The Balancing Act returns with a bang

The Balancing Act, a podcast hosted by New Jersey teachers Joe Vitale and Jamie Wanko, has launched its fourth season, featuring new partnerships and high-profile guests, including U.S. Senators Andy Kim and Cory Booker. Since its inception in 2023, the podcast has released over 100 episodes, focusing on the challenges educators face while balancing teaching and parenting. “For us, The Balancing Act is more than just a podcast. It's a community,” said Vitale. The new season includes segments developed with Teachers' Insurance Plan of NJ and NJ School Jobs, addressing issues like teacher burnout and technology management. New episodes are available every Tuesday on major podcast platforms.
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