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Florida
29th October 2026
 

THE HOT STORY

Largest US teachers union signals political shift under new president

New National Education Association (NEA) President Princess Moss has outlined plans to move the nation's largest labor union away from traditional party affiliations and toward issue-based advocacy focused on public education and student needs. Representing approximately 3m teachers and public employees, the NEA has historically supported Democratic candidates, including Joe Biden in 2020 and Kamala Harris in 2024. However, Moss, a former elementary school music teacher, wants the organization to establish an independent political identity and work with lawmakers from both parties on education policy. Her priorities include addressing inflation-driven school budget pressures, the potential impact of federal school voucher programs, and the Trump administration's efforts to dismantle the Department of Education. While education policy observers view the proposed shift as a significant departure from the union's traditional approach, Moss has emphasized that the NEA will support policymakers who prioritize public education, regardless of political affiliation.

STATE NEWS

AI in education: a double standard?

Florida Education Commissioner Henry Mack has faced scrutiny over his use of AI in writing official communications. Despite advocating for limited AI use in schools, an analysis by the Miami Herald using Pangram's AI detection software indicated that most of Mack's writings, including social media posts and articles, were likely generated by AI. Mack questioned the ethical implications of AI in education, stating: “If AI writes the brief, who knows whether the law is just?” Critics, including Paul Novosad, an economics professor at Dartmouth College, argue that this undermines the ethical standards educators should model for students. While Mack's office defended his writings as his own, the controversy highlights the growing reliance on AI in educational settings and raises questions about authenticity in communication.

NATIONAL NEWS

Education Secretary faces scrutiny over $43,000 furniture purchase

The U.S. Department of Education has outlined plans to spend $43,278 on new office furniture for Secretary Linda McMahon as the agency relocates to smaller headquarters while pursuing efforts to dismantle the department. McMahon has argued that the relocation will save approximately $5m annually in operating costs, with the department occupying 80% less office space following workforce reductions from around 4,100 to 2,300 employees. However, the move involves additional expenditure, including an estimated $13m to renovate the new headquarters, while the Energy Department could spend approximately $215m adapting the Education Department's former building. Officials have defended the furniture purchases as necessary for the new workspace, although the spending comes amid scrutiny of federal office renovation costs and the administration's broader efforts to reduce government expenditure. The department's closure would require congressional approval, which has not been granted.

GOVERNANCE

Nearly half of U.S. school board members lack education experience

A new EdWeek Research Center survey has found that 44% of U.S. school board members have never worked in K-12 education, raising questions about how professional backgrounds influence district governance. The survey of 478 board members also revealed that 40% are retired from careers outside their board responsibilities. Education experts argue that while limited experience in schools can create challenges when navigating complex policies, diverse professional backgrounds can strengthen community representation, financial oversight, and decision-making. Previous research has linked greater educator representation on school boards to higher teacher salaries, but not improved student achievement or graduation rates. Studies also suggest that teachers' union endorsements significantly influence school board elections. Researchers emphasize that effective governance depends less on prior education experience than on appropriate training, collaboration, and the ability to represent community priorities.

Pinellas County candidates clash over school closures

Dawn Peters and Curtis Campogni are vying for the Pinellas County School Board District 3 seat amid declining enrollment and impending school closures. Peters, who has been in office since 2022, emphasizes her record of academic progress, stating: "The District earned an 'A' rating from the Florida Department of Education." In contrast, Campogni seeks a more independent approach, advocating for scrutiny of school closure decisions. He has raised concerns about the administration's recommendations and aims to reduce screen time in younger grades. Both candidates have garnered support from various political and community groups, with Peters receiving endorsements from Republican representatives and Campogni backed by education and labor organizations. The election highlights differing philosophies on managing the district's challenges.

SAFETY & SECURITY

Protecting students: a call to action

Tony Montalto, President and co-Founder of Stand with Parkland, emphasizes the ongoing need for school safety eight years after the tragic shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, where his daughter Gina was killed. He advocates for Jared Moskowitz, a Democrat and graduate of the school, stating: "We need experienced, committed leaders who will keep pushing for progress." Moskowitz has worked to prioritize school safety in Congress, collaborating with both parties to establish practical solutions and secure federal funding for safety programs. Montalto highlights the importance of bipartisan cooperation and the need for continuous improvement in safety measures, urging voters to support Moskowitz to ensure that the fight for safer schools continues.

WORKFORCE

South Florida voters asked to boost teacher salaries

South Florida school districts are urging voters to renew funding for teachers' salaries in the upcoming general election on November 3. Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach counties will have referendums on the ballot that aim to maintain existing one mill taxes without increasing taxes for voters. "Without this support, Palm Beach County would struggle to remain competitive with surrounding regions," said the district. The funds are crucial for improving teacher compensation, enhancing school safety, and supporting mental health services. If not renewed, Broward County could lose approximately $358m in funding, while Palm Beach County's funding has been supporting schools since 2019. Early voting is already underway, running until November 1.

FINANCE

Duval schools face funding vote

In Duval County, voters are deciding on renewing a one-mill property tax that generates over $100m annually for local schools, crucial for teacher pay and recruitment. “This referendum is a cornerstone of our local education funding,” states the Clay schools' website. The millage supports traditional schools with about $102m and charter schools with $24m each year. The funds primarily benefit teachers and staff, with 88% allocated for salaries and 12% for arts and athletics enhancements. The renewal comes after the district earned an "A" grade from the Florida Department of Education, emphasizing the importance of continued funding for educational progress. The millage is separate from other tax initiatives, ensuring dedicated support for school operations through June 30, 2031.

DISTRICTS

Pinellas MycroSchool closure shocks students

The Pinellas County School District faced an unexpected challenge when Pinellas MycroSchool closed immediately, leaving staff and approximately 80 alternative-education students in disarray. Superintendent Kevin Hendrick said: “They were told to go home and not come back,” highlighting the abruptness of the situation. The district had anticipated a more organized transition before the charter's scheduled closure on October 31. Melissa Gray, whose husband worked at the school, criticized the lack of coordination, stating: “This closure appears to have been handled with an extraordinary lack of coordination and consideration for the people most affected.”  

Santa Fe High student wins big!

Oliver Flanagan, a 2026 graduate of Santa Fe High School, achieved first place in the National Agricultural Education Invitational during the National FFA Convention and Expo in Indianapolis. This competition encourages high school FFA students to explore agricultural education careers, requiring participants to submit lesson plans, teach a lesson, and complete a written exam. Flanagan credited his success to the inspiration he received from his teachers.

New faces, new lease for YMCA

The Flagler County School Board is set to vote on a 35-year lease for a new Palm Coast Family YMCA, with discussions continuing at workshops on November 10 and November 17. The final vote coincides with the board's reorganization and the installation of new members, Cathy Moon and Rob Wood, who will be participating in the discussions for the first time.

HIGHER EDUCATION

UCT students voice concerns over rising costs

Students at the University of Central Florida (UCF) are expressing significant concerns about rising costs, particularly gas prices and housing affordability. Kenneth Saget, a UCF student, said: “Especially gas, and that’s a product of unnecessary actions overseas that claim to be in the name of America or our profit.” Many students, including Isabella Jusino and Sylvia Smith, echoed worries about the impact of overseas conflicts on gas prices and the challenges of finding affordable housing. Smith emphasized the need for candidates who value diverse opinions, stating, “I want a candidate that’s going to value everyone.” Additionally, students are concerned about job security in the face of advancing artificial intelligence and the implications for their future careers. UCF students are calling for leaders who prioritize the American Dream and address the pressing issues affecting their lives.

Students challenge FIU's disciplinary actions

Four Florida International University students—Abel Carvajal, Dariel Gonzalez, Ethan Ratchkauskas, and Dante Mojena—are contesting their suspensions and expulsions in federal court, claiming violations of their First Amendment rights. The trial, overseen by Chief U.S. District Judge Cecilia Altonaga, will assess whether the university had the authority to discipline them for private group chat messages that included racist remarks and violent threats. The university argues that it acted to ensure campus safety, citing over 60 incident reports from concerned students. "FIU and its Board of Trustees will not accept, tolerate, or condone any form of racism and antisemitism at FIU," stated President Jeanette Nuñez. The outcome could clarify the balance between free speech and the university's responsibility to maintain a safe environment.

INTERNATIONAL

Nearly 70% of Japanese children enjoy books, but most spend little time reading

A nationwide survey has revealed a significant gap between Japanese children's enthusiasm for reading and the time they actually spend doing it. According to research by the Hakuhodo Foundation Child Research Institute, 69.3% of elementary and junior high school students say they enjoy reading, including 12.8% who describe themselves as loving books. However, 55.2% spend less than an hour reading each week, while 17.4% do not read books at all, meaning 72.6% spend less than an hour a week reading. Fewer than 30% read for at least an hour weekly. The survey, conducted in August among 1,200 children and their parents, also found that junior high school students are less likely to enjoy reading and devote less time to books than younger students. The findings were released during Japan's national reading promotion campaign, which runs through November 9.
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