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Florida
23rd October 2026
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THE HOT STORY

Calley Means leaves White House health team amid setbacks to MAHA food policy push

Calley Means, a key adviser to Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., has resigned from the Trump administration amid reported White House delays in implementing major food policy reforms. A prominent figure in the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) movement, Means helped advance efforts to eliminate synthetic food dyes, tighten oversight of chemical additives, and restrict soda and candy purchases through federal food assistance programs. His departure follows delays to proposals requiring food manufacturers to demonstrate the safety of certain ingredients in ultra-processed foods, alongside postponed guidance on defining these products. Kennedy and the White House praised Means’ contributions, while the administration has disputed claims that its food reform agenda has stalled. His resignation follows several other departures and leadership changes involving MAHA-aligned officials.

OUTCOMES-BASED CONTRACTS

Hillsborough County Public School Students Make Major Literacy Gains

Hillsborough County Public Schools reported significant literacy gains among participating high school students following the implementation of an outcomes-based partnership with HMH. District data showed the percentage of participating students reaching proficiency increased by 18 percentage points, while 49% achieved a full level of growth on Florida's FAST Achievement Levels scale. The agreement established shared accountability for implementation and student outcomes, with district leaders and HMH teams working together throughout the school year on professional learning, coaching, and ongoing reviews of student performance data. The district has since expanded the initiative following the results.

Read how the partnership was structured and what district leaders learned.

 

STATE NEWS

Florida teachers face pay cuts

In less than two weeks, voters in several Florida school districts will decide on renewing a $1m property tax referendum crucial for teacher salaries. Amrutha Murthy, a band teacher, expressed concern, saying: "We love our students and we want to be able to provide for them, but we don't want it to come at our cost of living." Nearly 900 teachers in the Palm Beach County School District could face an average pay cut of $8,000 annually if the referendum fails. The funding supports salaries for various specialty teachers and enhances school safety measures. Gordan Longhofer, president of the Classroom Teachers Association, noted that the referendum has significantly improved teachers' living conditions. Without renewal, many teaching positions may be eliminated, leaving veteran educators like Marie Chrisphonce anxious about their financial stability. "It's scary because that's a lot of pay. It's paying the bills," she said. Teachers are hopeful for voter support in the upcoming election.

Florida's education policies spark interest

Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush recently discussed the impact of Florida's education policies at a Leadership Summit in Fort Lauderdale, stating: “If you like policy, education is a good place to be because you've got 50 different laboratories.” He highlighted how Florida's accountability measures have influenced other states, leading to improvements in student performance, particularly in Mississippi, where fourth-graders' reading scores rose dramatically. Bush emphasized the need for a mindset shift regarding underserved populations, arguing that education should not be compromised due to socioeconomic status. He noted that the A+ Plan, which included school vouchers, has sparked debate but ultimately aims to enhance educational opportunities for all students. Bush concluded that competition among schools has led to better educational offerings in Florida.

POLICY

Majority of students oppose all-day cellphone bans

A national survey by Hopelab and Data for Progress has found that 80% of students oppose all-day cellphone bans in schools, citing concerns about their ability to communicate during emergencies, including school shootings and lockdowns. The survey, which included nearly 1,500 young people ages 13 to 24, found that 64% supported restrictions on cellphone use during classes, highlighting a preference for targeted measures rather than blanket prohibitions. Among high school respondents, 80% attended schools with cellphone restrictions, while 42% reported full-day bans. Approximately 42 states and Washington, D.C., have introduced school cellphone restrictions, with some districts implementing bell-to-bell bans. Researchers have urged schools to establish clear emergency communication protocols and provide accommodations for students who rely on assistive technologies, including translation and reading tools, while balancing safety concerns with efforts to reduce classroom distractions.

TECHNOLOGY

FCC reviews shifting E-Rate funding priorities

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has launched a review of the E-Rate program as new analysis reveals a significant shift in school technology funding toward internal network infrastructure. Between fiscal years 2017 and 2025, Category 1 funding requests for Internet connectivity declined 19% from $2.11bn to $1.71bn, while Category 2 requests for wireless equipment, switches, and cabling increased 62% from $895m to $1.45bn. Research by Funds For Learning also found that 71% of surveyed applicants expect to upgrade Wi-Fi networks within three years, while 76% anticipate increased bandwidth requirements. John Harrington, chief executive of Funds For Learning, highlighted the importance of maintaining flexible infrastructure funding, while Keith Krueger, CEO of the Consortium for School Networking, advocated expanding E-Rate eligibility to include cybersecurity services. The FCC's review is examining the program's educational purpose and its relationship to student screen time.

DISTRICTS

Pinellas schools face tough decisions

Pinellas County school officials are facing criticism as they prepare for future school closures, with about a third of campuses operating below 45% capacity. Parents expressed frustration over the lack of transparency and timely communication during the recent consolidation process, which involved phasing out six schools. Community members are urging the district to involve families earlier in the decision-making process and provide clearer timelines for potential closures. Board chair Caprice Edmond emphasized the importance of sharing all options considered in future proposals.

WORKFORCE

Hillsborough teachers get pay boost

The Hillsborough County School Board has approved new contracts for instructional employees and support professionals, with 92% and 94% approval rates, respectively. Eligible employees will receive a step increase on their salary schedule, while those at the top will get one-time payments of $1,500 or $2,250. Rob Kriete, president of the Hillsborough Classroom Teachers Association, expressed gratitude for the agreement, stating: “They're the foundation of us getting to an A school district.” However, some teachers, like Rebekah Boore, voiced concerns about the new salary schedule not keeping pace with living costs, highlighting increased expenses for childcare and gas. The article also touches on various educational issues in Florida, including book bans and enrollment declines in charter schools.

GOVERNANCE

Flagler school board chair seeks reelection amid challenges

Christy Chong, a family nurse practitioner and chair of the Flagler School Board, is running for reelection after her initial victory in 2022. Reflecting on her journey, she said: “I definitely didn't know what I was getting into at first.” Chong, who has been a nurse practitioner for over 10 years, emphasizes the importance of focusing on education amidst political turmoil. She defeated 12-year board member Trevor Tucker in her first election and is now facing him again in a runoff. Chong is proud of the district's achievements, stating: “I'm grateful I get to be a part of that and serve in this way.” She aims to maintain the district's A rating and address budget concerns in her next term, advocating for responsible financial decisions regarding community projects.

SAFETY & SECURITY

Polk State leads armed guardian initiative

The Florida Legislature has enacted a law allowing state colleges and universities to arm faculty and staff in response to a 2025 shooting at Florida State University. Currently, Polk State College is the only institution moving forward with an armed guardian program. "Polk State College is addressing all school safety requirements outlined in state statute," said spokesperson Madison Fantozzi. The ARMOR Act, signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis, permits colleges to appoint armed guardians after extensive training and evaluations. The law also mandates active assailant response plans and enhanced mental health training. Polk State President Anastasios "Stasi" Kamoutsas emphasized the importance of safety, stating: "Every student deserves the opportunity to learn in a safe and secure environment." The initiative follows a tragic mass shooting at Florida State University, highlighting the need for improved campus safety measures.

HEALTH & WELLBEING

Caffeine pouches face school bans as experts warn of health risks

Schools across the U.S. are introducing bans on caffeine pouches amid concerns about their potential health risks, discreet use, and resemblance to nicotine products. The small oral packets, placed between the lip and gum, can contain up to 200 milligrams of caffeine, equivalent to approximately two cups of coffee. Health experts warn that excessive consumption can cause anxiety, sleep disturbances, increased heart rate, and, in severe cases, seizures. School districts in New York, Kansas, Pennsylvania, and Missouri have restricted the products, citing difficulties identifying their contents and monitoring student use. Although there is no federal minimum purchase age, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children avoid caffeine. Experts are also concerned that teenagers may unknowingly consume excessive amounts by combining pouches with energy drinks and other caffeinated products.

SOCIAL & COMMUNITY

Empowering youth for a brighter future

The Urban League of Palm Beach County is dedicated to nurturing the next generation by connecting students with mentors and career opportunities. The annual Youth Empowerment Luncheon highlights this mission, celebrating both students and community leaders. Dr. Marcia Andrews, a Palm Beach County School Board member, will receive the Youth Advocate and Educator Award for her extensive service to students. “The Urban League is the heartbeat of any community,” Andrews said. The organization supports students through programs like the National Achievers Society, which fosters academic success and career readiness.

HIGHER EDUCATION

Trust in higher education plummets

A recent Gallup poll indicates a significant drop in Americans' belief in the importance of higher education, with only 31% considering it "very important," down from 70% in 2013. Kathleen Plinske, president of Valencia College, attributed the decline to rising tuition costs and student debt, leading families to question the value of a college degree. Valencia College aims to counter this trend by prioritizing affordable education, with over 40% of students paying no tuition out of pocket. The college guarantees admission to the University of Central Florida for students completing their associate in arts degree and is committed to ensuring that graduates of its associate in science programs earn an average of $42,000 annually. Plinske emphasized the need for programs to align with local job market demands to provide real value to students, stating: "We must ensure that our programs honor that trust."

INTERNATIONAL

Japan proposes paid teacher training program to cut qualification time

Japan’s education ministry has announced plans to introduce a one-year graduate school program allowing working adults to transition into teaching careers, as the government seeks to address teacher shortages. The proposed initiative, targeted for introduction in fiscal 2030, would enable university graduates to qualify for elementary, junior high, or high school teaching licenses after completing at least 36 credits, including classroom instruction and practical school training. Participants would receive pay during their practical placements while working under temporary teaching licenses, reducing financial barriers to career changes. The program would also recognize previous professional experience toward licensing requirements, significantly shortening the current three-year qualification process. The ministry plans to submit legislation to parliament in 2027.
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