Education Slice
Become more informed in minutes....
Education Slice Logo
Florida
17th April 2026
 

THE HOT STORY

McMahon defends education overhaul

U.S. Education Secretary Linda McMahon has told a Yale audience she wants to reduce the federal role in schools and “shut down the bureaucracy of education,” while continuing funding through block grants that give states more discretion. She said the goal is to leave states a “toolkit of best practices” and defended using funding pressure to influence universities. McMahon also highlighted literacy, school choice and career education, while describing criticism of her canceled Fairfield school visit as driven by “a minority of a few loud voices.” She also said literacy was her top priority and argued universities should ensure equal opportunity while meeting Yale leaders and discussing grade inflation during her Connecticut stop earlier that day.

STATE NEWS

Florida colleges propose strict admission rules

The Florida Department of Education has proposed a rule that would bar undocumented immigrants from admission to state colleges. Under the proposal, each board of trustees in the Florida College System must ensure that all admitted students are either U.S. citizens or lawfully present in the U.S. Students will need to provide "clear and convincing documentation" of their status. Additionally, the rule allows colleges to consider past misconduct in admission decisions. A hearing on the proposal is scheduled for May 14 at Miami Dade College. The move follows efforts by some Republican lawmakers to limit non-American students in public higher education, with various bills introduced to restrict admissions for non-citizens. Florida has already enacted legislation that repealed in-state tuition for approximately 6,500 immigrant students brought to the U.S. illegally as children.

Florida's gun laws face scrutiny

The 2025 Florida State University shooting has had minimal effect on the state's gun regulations, which have been progressively loosened over the past 40 years. Following the 2018 Parkland shooting, the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Public Safety Act was enacted, raising the minimum age for long gun purchases and introducing waiting periods. However, since then, gun rights advocates have continued to push for fewer restrictions. Rep. Michelle Salzman, who experienced the FSU shooting firsthand, emphasized the need for proactive measures, saying: "This is not a campus carry bill. This bill specifically allows guardians, or more law enforcement on campus, trained people to do this work." Despite calls for stricter regulations, several proposed bills aimed at enhancing gun control have failed to gain traction in the legislature.

HEALTH & WELLBEING

Vaccination rates plummet in Florida

Florida's childhood vaccination rates have declined for the second consecutive year, with kindergartners now at 88%, down from over 90% pre-pandemic. Dr. Jennifer Takagishi, vice president of the Florida Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics, said: “This means that fewer children are protected against vaccine-preventable illnesses.” The drop in immunization rates is attributed to increased vaccine hesitancy and a rise in exemptions. Despite some counties showing slight improvements, overall rates remain below the 95% threshold needed for herd immunity. The state has reported 144 measles cases in 2026, ranking fourth nationally, with most cases occurring in unvaccinated individuals. Major medical groups continue to advocate for vaccinations, emphasizing their importance in preventing outbreaks of diseases like measles and pertussis.

GOVERNANCE

O’Neal enters Orange County school race

Gloria Reina O’Neal has announced her candidacy for the Orange County School Board District 2, following incumbent Maria Salamanca's decision not to seek re-election. “As a mom with a child and a graduate of Orange County Public Schools, this is personal for me,” O’Neal said. She emphasized the need for strong academics, safe learning environments, and support for students and teachers. Salamanca, who endorsed O’Neal, said: “We must defend and strengthen public education.” Currently, Marisol Lusol is the only other candidate on the ballot.

DISTRICTS

Parents outraged over school relocation

Parents in Lee County are expressing frustration over the relocation of Buckingham Exceptional Student Center to the Royal Palm Exceptional Student Center for the upcoming school year. Felishia Wilson, a parent, emphasized the importance of the current school environment, stating: "Buckingham is a family away from home. A sense of normalcy." Concerns were raised about the adequacy of the new facilities for students with special needs, as Katie Peterson noted that her daughter Grace, who has medical needs, requires specific care. Parents are urging the School District of Lee County to reconsider the decision and involve them in the process, with Peterson pleading: "I just beg the district to pause this and to stop and actually hear from the people who are impacted by this." The relocation is scheduled for August.

Riverview Learning Center relocation sparks debate

Volusia County Schools is considering relocating Riverview Learning Center to Holly Hill School due to the high annual costs of $3m for maintaining its current location at the former Osceola campus. Superintendent Carmen Balgobin described the review of Riverview as part of a "reimaging" process, emphasizing the importance of the program for students with emotional and behavioral needs. However, Holly Hill City Manager Joe Forte expressed concerns about the appropriateness of the elementary school as a location, citing community perceptions. Balgobin acknowledged the need for collaboration with city leaders and criticized misinformation about the program. "These are our children," she said, highlighting the program's significance.  

Matanzas High School earns national honor

Flagler Schools has been named Cambridge’s U.S. District of the Year in the Small District Division, recognizing strong student outcomes and broader access to college-level coursework through the Cambridge AICE program at Matanzas High School. Superintendent LaShakia Moore said: “This award reflects the dedication of our educators and the ambition of our students.” District leaders said the program, launched in 2018-19, helps academically proficient students build critical thinking skills and prepare for college, honors degree programs, and future careers.

CHARTERS

Orange County launches first charter school

The Orange County School District has approved its first public-private charter school, a K-8 STEAM institution aimed at "preparing students for the future." In collaboration with Lift Orlando, the school will offer enhanced flexibility and resources for students and their families. Eddie Moratin, president of Lift Orlando, emphasized the importance of this partnership in providing valuable educational opportunities.

SCHOOL TRANSPORTATION

Join the Bike Bus revolution!

Safe Kids North Central Florida is inviting students and families to participate in National Bike and Roll to School Day on May 6, 2026. This community event aims to promote safe, active transportation and coincides with National Bike Month. Jordyn Zyngier, coordinator for Safe Kids North Central Florida, said: “The Bike Bus is about more than just getting to school; it's about building confidence, creating connections, and showing kids that being active can be both safe and fun.” The event will introduce High Springs' first “Bike Bus,” where students and families will ride together along planned routes, supported by local safety agencies.

HIGHER EDUCATION

Civil rights violation at USF event

An incident at the University of South Florida (USF) during an event on Holocaust Remembrance Day has raised serious civil rights concerns. Gubernatorial candidate James Fishback's team managed security, leading to the denial of entry for three visibly Jewish students. They were labeled as "threats" despite no threatening behavior. Sylvie Feinsmith, a Jewish professional present, described the atmosphere inside as reminiscent of "going back in a time machine," noting Fishback's comments that included blaming various groups for societal issues. Feinsmith reported overhearing derogatory remarks about Jews and witnessing Nazi salutes. The incident highlights the need for funding to protect Jewish students on Florida campuses, said bipartisan lawmakers Sen. Alexis Calatayud and Rep. Allison Tant.

FSU and FAMU bar exam triumphs

New data from the Florida Board of Bar Examiners reveals impressive pass rates for first-time test takers from Florida State University (FSU) and Florida A&M University (FAMU). FSU achieved the highest pass rate in Florida's university system, with six out of seven students passing. Jami Ferrell, director of bar success at FSU College of Law, said: "It rewarded them for their hard work, their effort." Meanwhile, FAMU saw 10 out of 15 first-time test takers pass, with Dean Cecil Howard emphasizing the school's commitment to student success. He said: "We have the mindset that you are preparing for the bar exam when you get here." With these results, many graduates are poised to start their legal careers soon.

INTERNATIONAL

AI becomes math study aid

A SIAM survey of more than 1,300 top math students in the U.S., England, and Wales found AI is now a regular support tool, with 68% using it for math assignments or exams. Students said AI helps explain concepts, check answers, and reduce the need for tutoring, though many still prefer it alongside teacher support. “I certainly believe that AI has a role to play if integrated thoughtfully and in the right way,” said SIAM CEO Dr. Suzanne Weekes. The findings come as educators search for ways to improve national math performance.
Industry Slice Logo

Education Slice delivers the latest, most relevant and useful intelligence to key educators, administrators, decision makers and teaching influencers, each weekday morning..

Content is selected to an exacting brief from hundreds of influential media sources and summarised by experienced journalists into an easy-to-read digest email. Education Slice enhances the performance and decision-making capabilities of individuals and teams by delivering the relevant news, innovations and knowledge in a cost-effective way.

If you are interested in sponsorship opportunities within Education Slice, please get in touch via email sales team

Follow us on FacebookFollow us on XFollow us on Linkedin

This e-mail has been sent to [[EMAIL_TO]]

Click here to unsubscribe