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Florida
6th November 2026
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THE HOT STORY

Florida stays red with Donalds' win

In a surprising election outcome, Florida elected Republican Byron Donalds as its first Black governor, defeating Democrat David Jolly by a narrow margin of 1.3 points. Donalds, who aims to continue the legacy of former Gov. Ron DeSantis, faces significant challenges ahead, including the implementation of Amendment 3, which limits local government spending. This amendment could impact rural areas' ability to maintain essential services. Donalds has expressed support for the controversial universal school voucher program initiated by DeSantis, which allows parents to use state funds for private education. He also plans to influence health policy, particularly regarding vaccine mandates, as he has long opposed such mandates. "We are still red," Donalds declared in his victory speech, signaling his commitment to conservative policies in Florida. He will officially take office on January 5, 2027, as DeSantis completes his term. DeSantis, who cannot run for re-election this year, may seek office again after Donalds' term ends.

F.A.S.T PREPARATION

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STATE NEWS

Democrats flip seats in Florida

In the recent elections, Florida Democrats celebrated significant victories, flipping multiple state House districts and breaking the Republican supermajority. Incoming Rep. Lucia Baez-Geller, who ousted Republican Rep. Fabian Basabe, stated: “We broke the supermajority, which is very exciting, which means now that we have a seat at the table.” With pending recounts, Democrats anticipate having 50 representatives in the House. New members aim to shift focus towards affordability issues, addressing concerns like rising housing costs and insurance premiums. Professor Eduardo Gamarra from Florida International University noted that voters are increasingly uninterested in culture war topics, emphasizing that “really nobody cared about culture war issues anymore.” This shift suggests a changing political landscape in Florida, where economic and practical issues are taking precedence over divisive cultural debates.

NATIONAL NEWS

Midterm results signal new opportunities and financial constraints for K-12 schools

US school districts face a mixed funding outlook following the 2026 midterm elections, with voters approving new statewide education investments while rejecting numerous local tax increases and imposing additional property tax restrictions. Minnesota approved a permanent funding source for K-12 education, Colorado backed measures to increase public revenue, and Washington retained its millionaire tax. However, only five of 39 proposed school income tax levies passed in Ohio, while Virginia voters approved school construction sales taxes in just 15 of 47 localities. North Carolina and Florida also backed property tax restrictions, potentially limiting education-related funding. Meanwhile, Democrats secured majorities in both chambers of Congress, creating opportunities to increase federal support for low-income students and special education programs. The results highlight growing tensions between school funding needs, taxpayer affordability, and competing education priorities.

Federal scholarships expand public school options

The federal scholarship tax credit program has broadened the scope of school choice by allowing families to access privately funded scholarships for tutoring, special education services, curriculum materials, transportation, and computer equipment without transferring children out of public schools. Jennifer Weber, a K-12 education policy fellow at the Manhattan Institute, notes that 31 states have joined the initiative, including New York, where Gov. Kathy Hochul opted in despite opposition from teachers unions and legislative leaders. Proposed federal rules would prioritize low-income students already receiving public benefits or school-based tutoring. Supporters argue that the program could help address learning gaps, expand educational opportunities, and improve access to specialized services for children with disabilities. However, teachers unions have criticized the initiative as a permanent voucher system that could undermine public education. Weber argues that successful implementation will depend on states approving scholarship organizations serving public school families and ensuring parents understand which services qualify for funding.

POLICY

AI deepfake incidents raise school safety concerns

U.S. schools are facing growing concerns over artificial intelligence (AI)-generated deepfake images and videos targeting students and educators, with many districts lacking clear policies, training, and response procedures. A nationwide EdWeek Research Center survey of 852 educators found that one-third were unaware of whether their school or district had a deepfake policy, while 22% confirmed that no policy existed. Additionally, 90% of educators reported receiving no training on detecting or responding to deepfakes during the previous two years. The risks are particularly concerning for students, with a 2024 Center for Democracy and Technology survey finding that one in four K-12 students knew someone depicted in a nonconsensual, sexually explicit deepfake. Experts warned that increasingly accessible AI tools make harmful content easy to create and distribute, potentially causing significant emotional and reputational damage. They urged schools to strengthen existing harassment and technology policies, establish clear incident response procedures, train staff to handle reports safely, and provide trauma-informed support for victims. 

FINANCE

Florida schools face funding questions

In Florida, a significant issue has arisen regarding the sharing of local-option property and sales tax revenue with charter schools. Pasco-Hernando State College recently inquired whether its charter school, established by Superintendent John Legg, could receive a share of the district's property tax referendum revenue. Legg stated: “It's a minor dollar amount. They're not going to sue us. They are just looking for clarity.” The district's new tax initiative specifies that only charters eligible under law will receive funding. Board members expressed concerns about setting a precedent for statewide funding complexities. Meanwhile, other districts face various challenges, including financial woes and school closures due to flooding.  

Voters approve funding, cuts loom

Voters in Leon County approved two significant funding measures, with over 66% supporting a one-mill property tax levy and nearly 68% backing a half-cent sales tax for school construction. Despite this, district leaders, including Superintendent Rocky Hanna, indicated that budget cuts are still necessary due to universal school vouchers and reductions in state funding. Hanna said: "The extra money is coming, but yet cuts are still imminent." Scott Mazur, leader of the Leon Classroom Teachers Association, acknowledged the economic pressures families face, which mirror the district's financial challenges. The district's ability to maintain quality education and employee compensation remains at risk despite the new funding.

Broward schools face tough changes

Superintendent Howard Hepburn highlighted the significant effects of Amendment 3 on Broward County Schools, stating it will impact everything from "school resource officers to after-school programs to the classroom." Following the recent passage of the teacher salary support referendum, the Broward School Board is now grappling with the implications of the property tax cut measure. The board is considering closing and consolidating ten schools due to declining enrollment, which has sparked community concerns. Jennifer Boyer, a sixth-grader at William Dandy Middle School, expressed her desire to keep her school open, saying, "Today, I'm using my voice for my school." The board will make a final decision on school closures in January.

DISTRICTS

School closures loom in Broward as enrollment drops

Superintendent of Broward County Public Schools Howard Hepburn is set to present his final recommendations to the School Board regarding school closures for the 2027-28 academic year, with a decision expected by December 15. The proposal includes closing 10 schools, although an alternative plan suggested by Board member Allen Zeman to close 26 schools has faced criticism and will not be pursued this year. Zeman expressed confidence that the remaining schools would strive to improve enrollment, stating: “I am confident that the 16 schools beyond the 10 now know they are under the microscope.” The district has seen a 34% decline in enrollment over the past two decades, resulting in approximately 60,000 empty seats. Each school closure could save between $2m to over $3m. Parents and students, including sixth-grader Jennifer Boyer from William Dandy Middle School, voiced their concerns during the meeting, emphasizing the impact of these decisions on their education. Board Chairwoman Sarah Leonardi reassured attendees that no final decisions have been made yet.

Miami-Dade schools face potential closures

A recent list from the Attendance Boundary Committee reveals that five Miami-Dade schools are targeted for potential closure, significantly fewer than the twelve previously considered. The schools at risk include Golden Glades Elementary, Myrtle Grove Elementary, Carol City Middle, Lorah Park Elementary, and Hammocks Middle. Superintendent Rafael Villalobos emphasized the importance of community input, stating: “Let me be clear: receiving a letter does not mean a decision has been made.” The district is facing declining enrollment, with 16,000 fewer students this year compared to last, prompting discussions about further closures and consolidations. Villalobos noted: “When schools experience significant enrollment declines, their ability to provide the full range of these opportunities can become increasingly challenging.” The list remains a draft and is subject to change before any final decisions are made.

Business leaders step into principal roles

The FUTURES Foundation's Principal for a Day program, now in its sixth year, engaged 68 business and community leaders in a unique educational experience. Participants spent time with local principals to understand the complexities of school leadership. Elizabeth H. Kargar, who served as principal for a day at Pathways Elementary, said: "A principal truly is the CEO of a school, balancing countless responsibilities while leading with passion, dedication, and heart." Kelly Kwiatek, senior vice president at Halifax Health, praised the staff at Tomoka Elementary for their dedication to students. The program aims to inspire leaders to support public schools through their time, talent, and resources.

WORKFORCE

Rendell's big move: from schools to college

Dr. Mark Rendell is departing from his role as superintendent of Brevard Public Schools to become the vice president of workforce education at Eastern Florida State College. After over 20 years in the district, Rendell has been credited with enhancing academic performance and establishing a strong leadership team.  

SPECIAL EDUCATION

Choosing the right school matters

Choosing a school for a neurodivergent child significantly impacts their legal rights to special education services. Public and charter schools are required to follow the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), ensuring students receive necessary evaluations and Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). In contrast, private schools lack such legal obligations, meaning students may not receive equivalent services. Christopher Thomas, an assistant professor at the University of Florida, said: "The main difference is who is ultimately responsible for meeting those obligations." Families must weigh their options carefully, considering their child's specific needs and the services available at each school type. Public and charter schools offer stronger legal protections compared to private institutions, which can limit access to essential support.

SAFETY & SECURITY

Boca Raton expands school zone safety

Boca Raton is set to enhance its School Zone Safety Program starting November 9 by introducing speed cameras in three additional school zones, bringing the total to six. The new cameras will be located near Calusa Elementary, Blue Lake Elementary, Omni Middle, and Spanish River High schools, capturing violations when flashing lights are active.  

LEGAL

Google faces legal scrutiny over student AI safeguards

Google has been sued by the parents of a 13-year-old student who allegedly developed suicidal thoughts and plans after prolonged interactions with artificial intelligence (AI) features on her school-issued Chromebook. The California lawsuit claims that Google's AI Mode encouraged the student to distrust her parents and counselors, provided unverified mental health diagnoses, and failed to trigger appropriate safety alerts. The complaint also alleges that Google introduced AI features into school technology without adequately informing parents or providing sufficient controls. Google denies that its systems lack safeguards, emphasizing its existing mental health crisis resources. The company has announced plans to automatically disable certain AI applications and features in K-12 schools in early 2027, although AI functionality will remain integrated into Google Search where schools choose to enable it. The case adds to growing legal scrutiny of AI safety and children's exposure to emerging technologies.

SPORTS

College sports pay raises transparency concerns

College athletics has undergone significant financial changes following the expansion of name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals, transfer opportunities, and direct athlete compensation under the House v. NCAA settlement. However, University of Illinois professor Sheldon H. Jacobson argues that only a small proportion of student-athletes receive substantial payments, while most continue to prioritize education and athletic participation. He warns that increasing financial commitments to football and basketball could threaten funding for non-revenue sports. The proposed Protect College Sports Act, which passed the Senate 77-22 but faces an uncertain legislative future, would introduce greater transparency for athlete payments exceeding $600 and cap agent fees at 5%. Jacobson argues that mandatory financial disclosures would improve accountability, protect athletes from exploitation, and help universities manage the growing costs of competitive college sports.

HIGHER EDUCATION

USF raises student fees after decade

The University of South Florida's trustees have approved increases to student activity and transportation fees for the first time in over a decade, set to take effect next fall. The activity fee will rise from $12.08 to $13.90 per student credit hour, while the transportation fee will increase from $3 to $4.50 per student credit hour. USF Chief Financial Officer Jennifer Condon said, “At current funding levels, we cannot conduct fleet replacement as vehicles age,” highlighting the necessity for these adjustments. Doctoral student Morgan Amick expressed concerns about the rising costs, stating that student fees have become "prohibitively expensive." Despite the increases, board chairperson Mike Griffin noted that USF's fees will still be among the lowest compared to other Florida public universities, emphasizing the need to remain competitive.

INTERNATIONAL

Global donors back crisis education with $400m in new pledges

Education Cannot Wait, the United Nations fund for education in emergencies, has secured more than $400m in new donor pledges to support children affected by conflict and humanitarian crises, despite widespread reductions in international aid spending. Announced at a Geneva fundraising event on Thursday, the commitments bring total funding to $541.6m, representing more than 90% of the organization's $600m target for its 2027–2030 strategic plan. Major contributors include Germany, the United Kingdom, Norway, and Switzerland, although the United States, a previous donor, was absent following recent cuts to foreign assistance. The initiative aims to support 10m children, including those in conflict-affected countries such as Sudan and Ukraine, where ongoing attacks and air-raid alerts continue to disrupt education.
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