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On Friday, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of the Trump administration, allowing the termination of approximately $65m in education grants aimed at teacher training. The case involved grants awarded under the Teacher Quality Partnership and Supporting Effective Educator Development programs. The 5-4 decision overturned a lower court's ruling that had blocked the administration's move, which was based on a new policy opposing diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives (DEI). Chief Justice John Roberts sided with the dissenting liberal justices, while Justice Elena Kagan expressed concern that grant recipients would face significant program cancellations. The Department of Education argued that the grants promoted "objectionable DEI material," leading to their cancellation. A lawsuit was filed in March by eight states, including California, Massachusetts and New York, on behalf of entities that receive the grants, such as universities and nonprofits, saying the decision to rescind the awards violated the federal Administrative Procedure Act. The case only involves grants issued to entities in the states that sued. In total, the Department of Education canceled about $600m in grants for teacher training.

 

CNBC

Los Angeles Times

Politico

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As President Donald Trump implements significant changes to the U.S. Department of Education, disability advocates are expressing deep concern over the future of special education services. Robyn Linscott, director of education and family policy at The Arc of the United States, said: “Parents are reaching out to us, calling and feeling really scared.” The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) ensures a free public education for students with disabilities, but recent cuts and proposed shifts to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services have raised questions about the department's ability to fulfill its responsibilities. Jennifer Coco, interim executive director at the Center for Learner Equity, stressed that separating the education of students with disabilities from their peers “further pathologizes disability.” The Education Department has assured that no actions have been taken to transfer federally mandated programs at this time.

 

The Bradenton Times

Bruno V. Manno, senior adviser at the Progressive Policy Institute, argues the Trump administration can expand K-12 public school choice without Congress by leveraging existing federal programs and executive orders. He outlines five strategies: boosting charter and magnet schools; funding microschools and learning pods through Title I and IDEA; expanding open and dual enrollment; and growing career pathway programs using Perkins and Labor Department funds. He urges rigorous accountability to ensure quality outcomes. Manno says this strategy supports family choice, decentralizes education authority, and aligns with the administration’s January executive order promoting alternatives to geographically assigned schools.

 

The 74 (Online)

Thousands marched across South Florida—including in Broward, Palm Beach, and Miami-Dade—on Saturday to protest the Trump administration. Protesters cited a range of concerns including education, immigration, and threats to democracy. Donna Greene, a substitute teacher and Broward school volunteer, dressed as Marie Antoinette to highlight education funding, said: “It’s the foundation of everything.” Broward School Board Member Sarah Leonardi spoke at the Hollywood Boulevard rally, and a counter-protester debated the Department of Education’s role. Turnout far exceeded expectations, with young people and first-time protesters joining. Organizer Holly Litt said she hopes the demonstrations signal to lawmakers that “we want the administration to listen.”

 

Sun Sentinel

The House Education and Employment Committee has passed a significant bill (HB 981) aimed at protecting student athletes and ensuring transparency in name, image, and likeness (NIL) compensation. Presented by Rep. Yvette Benarroch, the legislation imposes a 5% cap on fees that athlete agents can collect from NIL contracts and establishes a public database of agents. Benarroch stated: “This bill protects student athletes by placing a 5% cap on the fees athlete agents can collect.” The bill also allows high school athletes to earn NIL compensation during recruitment, with parental consent required for minors. While some representatives expressed concerns about the implications for high school coaches and the registration of advisers, support for the bill remains strong among lawmakers.

 

Florida Politics

Escambia County Public Schools Superintendent Keith Leonard is challenging outdated perceptions by spotlighting the district’s real progress. Writing in the Pensacola News Journal, Leonard praises the district’s passionate and compassionate staff, noting their deep commitment to student success and community impact. Leonard also highlights flexible learning options, such as Success Academy and Acceleration Academy, which support students in unique situations. Looking ahead, the district will expand K–6 and K–8 models, open new magnet programs for high-achieving students, and launch the Automotive Technology Academy at Tate High School.

 

Pensacola News Journal

Janice Dyall, a senior at South Fork High School in Martin County, has received the Florida Prepaid Superintendent's Scholarship from Superintendent Michael Maine. This $8,000 award, funded by the Florida Lottery, is unique as it is the only one awarded countywide. Dyall has faced various learning challenges but has excelled academically.

 

WPTV

The United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades has expanded its School Resource Center to support children in need across both counties. This initiative, which began in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, provides essential items like clothing, hygiene products, and school supplies to K-12 students. Adriana White, a dedicated volunteer, recalled: “We put together packs containing masks and sanitizing lotions to provide to the kids.” Over the years, the program has distributed more than 351,000 items valued at over $9.2m. As the demand for assistance grows, especially after Hurricane Ian, the need for volunteers to support this vital program is increasing. Edelyn Castellon, the senior program manager, encourages community members to get involved and make a difference.

 

Naplesnews

Multiple students were hospitalized after drinking alcohol during Winter Springs High School’s prom at SeaWorld Orlando. Seminole County Public Schools said students smuggled alcohol into the event in their clothing. Officials identified those involved and confirmed disciplinary action will follow. The district stated it “will not tolerate this type of behavior at any school-related event.” Emergency crews responded on-site, and the incident has raised concerns about prom safety and student behavior at off-campus events.

 

News 13

Click Orlando

Fox 35 Orlando

School gardens provide a unique learning environment that transcends traditional education. Through hands-on experiences, students engage in lessons that encompass various subjects, including math and English/language arts. In Washington, D.C., the FoodPrints program by FRESHFARM collaborates with 21 public elementary schools to integrate gardening, cooking, and nutrition into the curriculum. This program equips teachers with resources and lessons that connect food to core subjects, such as exploring the “Three Sisters” planting method or using cooking to reinforce multiplication.

 

Education Week News

The College of Central Florida has launched the Going Gator program, which guarantees admission pathways to the University of Florida's College of Liberal Arts and Sciences for CF graduates. The program offers 19 academic pathways, including philosophy and physics, in response to student demand for guaranteed transfer options. Cote noted that the initiative aims to increase the number of CF students transferring to UF, which previously saw 62 transfers in 2023 without this program. Students can express interest during the CF application process or consult their academic adviser for more information.

 

Ocala.com

Florida Atlantic University (FAU) Police Department may be the first college campus police agency to collaborate with the Department of Homeland Security's Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This partnership has raised concerns among students, particularly those who are undocumented or part of the Dreamer community. The FAU police will have the authority to stop and detain students suspected of being undocumented under the ICE 287(g) program. The university stated it is adhering to state policy, as mandated by Governor Ron DeSantis. As of now, no other Florida university police departments have followed FAU's lead.

 

NBC Miami

In a ruling on Friday, U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian mandated that Columbia University must provide detained activist Mahmoud Khalil and other students with 30 days' notice before releasing any documents to Congress regarding antisemitism investigations on college campuses. While the judge did not block the university from complying with congressional requests, he allowed the students to amend their request for a temporary restraining order. U.S. Rep. Tim Walberg described the ruling as a “victory for credible oversight,” emphasizing the importance of investigating antisemitism in education. Khalil, facing deportation for his protests against Israel, and his legal team expressed their commitment to challenging the congressional efforts, stating, “We now know that the government is testing the First Amendment's limits.”

 

U.S. News

In Afghanistan, the Taliban's ban on girls' secondary education has led to significant internal conflict among its officials. Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanikzai, the acting deputy foreign minister, publicly criticized the ban, stating: "The Taliban was committing an injustice" by denying girls education. This division is particularly evident between hardline members in Kandahar and more moderate officials in Kabul. Despite some officials advocating for girls' education, the Taliban's leadership remains resistant to change. As a result, many families are risking their lives to flee Afghanistan for better educational opportunities for their daughters. Currently, around 2.2m girls are deprived of education, with little indication that the Taliban will reverse its policies.

 

NBC Miami