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U.S. News & World Report has released its annual ranking of Best K-8 Schools, highlighting two Tampa Bay-area elementary schools for their outstanding performance. Pine View School in Sarasota County was named the second-best elementary school in Florida, tied with Somerset Academy Miramar South, while Tarpon Springs Fundamental secured the sixth position. "At Pine View School, 100% of students scored at or above the proficient level for math, and 100% scored at or above that level for reading," the report noted. Additionally, Pine View was recognized as the third-best middle school in Florida. Tarpon Springs Fundamental reported that 98% of its students achieved proficiency in math, and 92% in reading. The report indicated that statewide, only 50% of students tested at or above the proficient level for reading and 52% for math.

 

Tampa Bay Fl News

More than Answers: Growing Mathematical Minds

Mathematical modeling is a dynamic process that teaches students to solve real-world problems using math. It moves beyond simple answers and encourages a deeper, more flexible understanding of mathematical concepts.

The modeling process follows a cycle: identify a problem, make simplifying assumptions, formulate a mathematical model, solve it, and interpret the results. The key is to validate the model against real-world data and refine it as needed. 

Learn how this approach boosts students’ critical thinking, problem-solving, and engagement by connecting abstract concepts to tangible applications, like optimizing a delivery route. By integrating modeling into the classroom, educators can better prepare students for future STEM careers and informed decision-making.

Download a Modeling Infographic and Student Checklist!

 

Two U.S. federal judges have ordered the Trump administration to use emergency funds to continue SNAP benefits for 42m Americans amid a government shutdown, though the timeline and extent of payments remain unclear. The U.S. Department of Agriculture planned to freeze payments to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program starting November 1, and said it lacked both the funds and the authority to pay them until Congress passes a spending bill to end the shutdown. However, on Friday, Judge Indira Talwani in Boston gave the administration until Monday to decide on issuing at least partial payments, while Judge John McConnell in Rhode Island mandated immediate disbursement and a compliance plan, citing the potential harm to individuals and local economies. Both judges indicated, however, that the administration had the ability to fund SNAP benefits in full if it used its discretion to tap other funding to cover the shortfall. Despite the rulings, delays in disbursing aid are expected due to logistical processing times.

 

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The Orlando Sentinel has uncovered serious issues within Florida's taxpayer-funded voucher schools, revealing a pattern of discrimination and flawed education. The report highlights that some schools refuse to serve gay students and those with disabilities, while others promote factually inaccurate teachings. "Our teaching is Bible-based and we will make no apology for that," stated a headmaster, reflecting the unapologetic stance of many institutions. The situation has drawn attention from political figures, particularly after it was revealed that Muslim-run schools also receive funding. Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier expressed concerns about Islamic schools, saying: “Sharia law seeks to destroy and supplant the pillars of our republican form of government.”

 

Sun Sentinel

In a unique approach to artificial intelligence (AI) education, Clayton Dagler, a certified teacher in both computer science and math at Franklin High School in Elk Grove, California, encourages his students to create their own AI tools rather than merely using existing technologies. His machine-learning class, one of the few in the nation, requires students to have a background in precalculus and often Advanced Placement Statistics. Dagler emphasizes the importance of understanding the mathematical principles behind AI, stating: "Some students will [have] careers in this and other students will have more of an understanding of how their world works, at a deeper level than everyone else." This foundational knowledge is intended to prepare students for a future where AI will significantly impact various industries.

 

Education Week News

An opinion piece co-signed by educator union presidents representing teachers and education staff professional members across parts of Southwest and Central Florida says Florida's public schools are facing severe underfunding and political challenges that prioritize profits over students. They highlight the importance of providing every child with access to a high-quality education, stating: "To accept every child is an unshakeable promise we make to our communities." Currently, Florida ranks 50th in average teacher pay, leading to a critical shortage of qualified educators and resources. This situation has resulted in overcrowded classrooms and declining student performance.

 

News-Press.com

A recent incident involving Arielle Everett, a middle school teacher, has ignited a debate over corporal punishment versus child abuse. Everett was arrested for allegedly physically assaulting her son after being called to pick him up due to behavioral issues. Witnesses reported that she "grabbed and forced him down onto a sidewalk," resulting in a slight injury. Everett's attorney, Josh Zelman, argued that her actions were within her parental rights. The Department of Children and Families has requested to place Everett's children in shelter care, citing concerns over the physical discipline they receive.

 

Tallahassee.com

In Dunedin, Florida, one in five children experiences bullying in school, with nearly half fearing it will recur. The Children's Home Network's Pinellas Support Team (PST) has seen a surge in referrals, prompting requests for increased funding. This program offers free, short-term support for children facing behavioral and emotional challenges, including bullying. Carol Hajdinak, a community counseling programs director, said "We're funded to provide services to 250 kids a year," but the demand has led to waiting lists.

 

News 13

Wendy W. Amato, chief academic officer at K12 Coalition, emphasizes the importance of utilizing student errors to enhance learning in mathematics. She draws a parallel between the growth of trees in the Biosphere 2 project and the necessity for students to encounter challenges to develop resilience. Amato advocates for a shift in mindset, encouraging educators to normalize mistakes as part of the learning process. She suggests strategies such as the "My Favorite No" practice, where teachers highlight common errors for discussion, and classifying mistakes to help students understand their learning gaps. "By celebrating and spotlighting errors rather than fearing or hiding them, we equip students to develop confidence, curiosity, and lifelong resilience in math," Amato concludes.

 

Education Week News

Broward County School District, the sixth largest in the U.S., is facing a significant decline in enrollment, losing 37,700 students over five years, including 10,000 in 2025. This has led to plans for closing or consolidating several schools in areas like Miramar and Fort Lauderdale. Board member Rebecca Thompson expressed concern, stating, “People want to know, is my school closed or not?” Dr. Valerie Wanza, chief of strategy and innovation, emphasized the need for difficult discussions regarding the district's future.

 

Local10

The Heights Foundation has secured a $2.5m state appropriation for the Heights CareerTech Institute, a new technical school in Fort Myers aimed at training over 500 students annually in high-demand fields such as healthcare, welding, and HVAC. Construction is currently underway, with the school expected to open in fall 2026. The project aims to address workforce development needs in the region, which is projected to require 200,000 skilled workers in the next few years.

 

News-Press.com

The Broward School District is officially ending the “SMART Bond” program, a renovation initiative that has faced significant criticism for mismanagement and delays. Initially funded by an $800m bond approved in 2014, the program was supposed to conclude in 2021 but has seen only partial completion of its projects. “The resolution wasn't to get rid of the projects. It was not to call them SMART projects anymore because the SMART money is gone,” said School Board Chairwoman Debbi Hixon. With over 100 projects still incomplete, the district plans to transition to calling these initiatives capital projects. Despite the challenges, officials believe that the data collected will help in future funding efforts, as the total capital improvement needs are estimated at $10bn.

 

Sun Sentinel

Alberta's Education Ministry has canceled all January Grade 12 diploma and Grade 9 achievement exams across the province due to a teachers' strike that began October 6 and ran until last Wednesday, when educators were ordered back to work. Students can choose to write the exams voluntarily in April or June 2026, while marks for students who choose not to take the tests will come entirely from school work. This exemption will be noted on transcripts and will not impact graduation or post-secondary applications. Normally, diploma exams are worth 30% of a Grade 12 student’s overall grade, with 70% of their mark coming from coursework and other tests.

 

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