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Florida
22nd January 2026
 

THE HOT STORY

Florida's teacher shortage crisis deepens

Florida is facing a significant teacher shortage, particularly in special education, math, and English, according to a recent report from the Florida Board of Education. In the 2024-2025 school year, nearly 21% of special education courses were taught by teachers lacking certification in that area. Board Chair Ryan Petty said the high-demand subjects come as "no surprises," urging more support for teachers dealing with student disciplinary issues. The state anticipates nearly 2,000 vacancies in special education by the 2026-2027 school year, with a total of about 6,500 vacancies across all subjects. The Florida Education Association expressed concern over the impact of these shortages on students, emphasizing the need for qualified educators. They said: "If even one student is left without a permanent, certified teacher, the problem isn't fixed."

NATIONAL NEWS

Trump administration drops DEI appeal

The Trump administration has decided to withdraw its appeal against a federal court ruling that blocked its campaign against diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in schools and colleges. On Wednesday the U.S. Department of Education filed to dismiss its appeal, upholding a decision made by U.S. District Judge Stephanie Gallagher in Maryland, who stated that the anti-DEI guidance violated the First Amendment and federal procedural rules. The guidance had warned educational institutions that they would lose federal funding if they continued DEI practices. The case had been brought by the American Federation of Teachers, the American Sociological Association and a school district in Eugene, Oregon. 

Texas, Louisiana defend school displays of Ten Commandments in court

A federal appeals court is reconsidering Louisiana and Texas laws mandating the display of the Ten Commandments in public school classrooms, which had previously been blocked by federal district judges due to potential violations of the First Amendment. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit heard arguments on January 20, with Texas Solicitor General William R. Peterson asserting that the law represents a "historical document" integral to American heritage. However, Jonathan K. Youngwood, representing families challenging the laws, argued that these displays impose religious dictates on students, commenting: "From kindergarten to senior year, a student in public school will face an unavoidable constant: government-mandated religious dictates in every single classroom." The outcome of this case may set a precedent, with many legal observers anticipating a potential appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court.

STATE NEWS

Rural educators unite for breakfast talk

On Thursday, educators from rural counties will gather for a breakfast at the Governor's Club in Tallahassee to discuss pressing issues affecting Florida's small school districts. John Selover, executive director of the Panhandle Area Educational Consortium, emphasized the community aspect of these schools, remarking: "In rural school districts, everybody knows each other." The event aims to facilitate dialogue between superintendents and lawmakers during the Legislative Session, addressing challenges such as universal school choice and the expansion of charter school operations. Jim Norton, Gulf County Superintendent, noted the unique understanding that long-serving superintendents have of families' educational needs, highlighting that "one size does not fit all." The breakfast serves as a platform for collaboration among Florida's 37 small counties, allowing them to share resources and advocate for their educational priorities.

DISTRICTS

Broward County schools face closures

The Broward County School Board has decided to close seven public schools due to declining enrollment, which has left over 50,000 seats vacant. Superintendent Howard Hepburn emphasized the necessity of these closures to save funds, noting: "It's a tough decision, but it's the decision we have to make to really ensure the quality of learning opportunities our students receive day in and day out does not change." While schools like Sunshine Elementary and Palm Cove Elementary will close, Bair Middle School was saved after a last-minute effort from students and supporters. The board also voted to consolidate Plantation Middle School into Plantation High, reconfiguring it as a 6-12th grade institution. District staff will meet with affected principals to discuss the transition timeline. Dr. Valerie Wanza assured that communication with families will be prioritized to avoid confusion.

LEADERSHIP

Bobby Bossardet named Principal of the Year

Principal Bobby Bossardet of Flagler Palm Coast High School has been named Principal of the Year, attributing his success to his dedicated team. "I think it's about the team approach," Bossardet said, emphasizing the importance of collaboration among teachers, support staff, and parents. Under his leadership, the school improved from a C to a B rating, with significant advancements in academic performance, particularly in the ESE subgroup. Bossardet is proud of the alumni who have returned to work at the school, fostering a strong community connection. He believes in providing diverse opportunities for all students, remarking: "This school is about the people and the relationships." As he prepares for the Teacher and Employee of the Year gala on January 26, Bossardet remains focused on teamwork and the shared mission of educational excellence.

Broward County's best educators revealed

The five nominees for Broward County Public Schools Teacher of the Year showcase diverse backgrounds and experiences, united by their passion for education. Mabel Colon, who teaches exceptional education students at Orange Brook Elementary School, emphasized the importance of her role, saying: "What drives me every day to come into this classroom is knowing that my presence matters, my impact is felt." Other nominees include Ilona Tinerino-Allen, who finds joy in teaching first-graders, and Dr. Saima Sanaullah, a former dentist who now teaches science at Plantation High School.

Tara Elementary's beloved principal moves on

Laura Campbell, principal at Tara Elementary School since 2016, has been appointed to lead the new Veterans Elementary School in Palmetto. Her last day at Tara will be February 19. Campbell has created a supportive environment, emphasizing the importance of joy in teaching. "My biggest hope is that this school continues to have a balance of joy and a joy for teaching," Campbell said. Colleagues and parents, including Linda Haluska and Stephanie Martinez, praised her leadership and ability to instill confidence in the community. Haluska noted: "Sometimes they say that our schools are like flowers... she has blossomed." Kali Anges will serve as the interim principal for the remainder of the school year.

SAFETY & SECURITY

Miami-Dade speed cameras cash in

Miami-Dade's speed cameras, operated by RedSpeed, issued approximately 252,000 citations in eight months, generating around $17m in revenue. Each citation, carrying a $100 fine, targets drivers exceeding speed limits in school zones. County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava noted that only 531 of these citations were successfully appealed. The revenue distribution includes $6.5m for the Sheriff's Office, nearly $3m for school expenses, and $4m for Florida. Despite the current revenue, concerns arise among commissioners about meeting future budget forecasts, especially as 82,000 tickets remain unpaid. Commissioner Keon Hardemon expressed worries about the impact on neighborhood reinvestment if revenue projections fall short.

LEGISLATION

Florida coaches push for pay boost

Florida lawmakers are considering two bills aimed at increasing compensation for high school coaches through performance incentives and booster club funding. Both House Bill 731 and Senate Bill 538 passed their subcommittees unanimously, signaling potential change. Immokalee High School football head coach James Delgado expressed concerns about sustaining his lifestyle, claiming: "There've been times I've worried if I can sustain the lifestyle that I have or even justify the amount of time I put in." The legislation, if signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis, would take effect on July 1, and coaches hope it will help retain quality talent across the state.

INTERNATIONAL

Underfunded schools force Pakistan's parents to pay for children’s education

Families in Pakistan are increasingly forced to spend their own money on their children’s schooling as government funding and support for education fall short. Chronic underinvestment in public education—Pakistan spends far below recommended levels of GDP on schooling—has led to deteriorating infrastructure, shortages of qualified teachers and high dropout rates, with more than 25m children out of school and many families turning to private or informal schools due to poor quality in the public system. As government resources fail to meet demand, parents are shoulderin the financial burden to secure better education opportunities, widening inequalities in access and quality.
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