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Florida
16th April 2026
 

THE HOT STORY

Florida launches new history classes

The Florida Department of Education has announced a pilot program for accelerated U.S. history classes aimed at high school students, allowing them to earn college credit at public universities. The initiative, part of a 2023 law, is designed to create an alternative to Advanced Placement courses. The program, known as the Florida Advanced Course and Test (FACT): U.S. History, will be implemented in the 2026-2027 school year, with full rollout expected by 2027-2028. "Students who pass the U.S. history exams will have earned credit upon enrolling in any public college or university in the state of Florida," the memo stated. The move follows Governor Ron DeSantis' push against the College Board's AP program, particularly regarding courses that address gender and race issues. The FACT program aims to provide students with college credit opportunities while adhering to state educational standards.

STATE NEWS

DeSantis delays redistricting session

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has postponed the special session on redistricting by one week, and it is now set to begin on April 28 and last until May 1. The delay allows lawmakers to address two of DeSantis' key priorities that failed during the regular legislative session: expanding vaccine exemptions for public K-12 students and regulating artificial intelligence. DeSantis said he expects these issues to be resolved “one way or another . . . within the next two weeks.” Senate President Ben Albritton indicated that the Senate will await a proposal from DeSantis rather than drafting their own map. The proposed legislation includes a new “conscience” category for vaccine exemptions and aims to establish rights regarding children's interactions with AI. Albritton noted that senators will file identical versions of the bills during the special session.

WORKFORCE

Teachers demand higher pay now

Teachers in the Palm Beach County School District are advocating for higher salaries, addressing the school board during a public meeting. Despite teacher pay not being on the agenda, 73 individuals signed up to voice their concerns, with many wearing red shirts to symbolize their frustration over stalled contract negotiations. "Let me be clear, this is not about luxury — it’s about survival," said one teacher. The Classroom Teachers Association is requesting a 3.5% salary increase, which aligns with a recommendation from a third-party magistrate. However, the district claims that the increase is unfeasible without job cuts, citing a 7,000-student enrollment shortfall. Florida currently ranks 50th in the nation for teacher pay, prompting teachers to express their financial struggles and urgency for action.

Broward School District cuts 353 jobs

The Broward School District has announced the elimination of 353 jobs as part of a cost-cutting reorganization plan. This includes various positions such as counselors, social workers, and clerical support staff. Superintendent Howard Hepburn said: “We are grateful for their service and the lasting impact they have made on our students and schools.” The district aims to “right size” due to declining enrollment, with a goal of cutting 1,000 jobs over the next three years. While some positions will be eliminated, others may be restructured into lower-paid roles, and affected employees can apply for new positions or be recalled if openings arise. The total savings from these cuts is projected to be around $45m.

Pinellas shrinks staff for fall

Pinellas County Schools expects to lose about 4,200 students next year and is cutting roughly 250 teaching positions as a result, while also reducing staffing tied to school closures and consolidations. District leaders said they are relying mainly on attrition rather than layoffs, though some educators could still lose jobs through non-renewals. Deputy superintendent Stephanie Woodford said: “We’re losing about 4,200 kids next year,” adding: “It’s basically a math problem.” Union leaders say the process is hurting morale and raising concerns about job security.

Teachers seek overtime recognition

Many educators are dedicating significant time beyond their contracted hours to tasks like lesson planning and grading, often without additional pay. A recent LinkedIn poll by Education Week revealed strong opinions on whether teachers should qualify for overtime pay, which they currently do not. Comments highlighted concerns about fair compensation, with one respondent stating: "Any answer other than 'yes' is simply ridiculous." Many teachers report working an extra 20-30 hours weekly, particularly for lesson preparation. The discussion also included suggestions for better salaries and adequate planning time during the school day.

ABSENTEEISM

Reframing school absenteeism solutions

School absenteeism is a pressing issue in the U.S., requiring a shift in perspective beyond mere compliance, according to Concentric Educational Solutions. Their white paper, “Redefining the Attendance Paradigm,” reveals that in the 2021-2022 school year, 4.7m students were chronically absent, nearly double pre-pandemic levels. Ivory A. Toldson, Ph.D., Chief of Research at Concentric, said: “True solutions will come from innovative, compassionate leaders who understand that a story is just as valuable as a number.” The report emphasizes that chronic absenteeism is driven by systemic issues like poverty and health challenges, rather than parental neglect. Concentric's model, which includes home visits and support, has proven more effective than punitive measures. Engaging families and addressing barriers are key to improving attendance and helping students reach their full potential.

CURRICULUM

Parents demand curriculum access

David Bernstein, founder and CEO of the North American Values Institute, argues that public schools are increasingly blocking parents from reviewing taxpayer-funded curriculum materials, even when lessons touch on contested views of American history and politics. He says these restrictions are not accidental but reflect a broader shift toward using schools for social change rather than knowledge transmission. Citing examples from Philadelphia, San Francisco, and Montgomery County, he warns that secrecy damages trust between families and schools. Bernstein points to laws in states such as Florida and Utah as models, arguing parents should be able to review materials online without barriers.

SCHOOL TRANSPORTATION

Pasco tightens choice transportation

Pasco County Schools plan to reduce bus service for magnet and gifted programs by moving as many as 17 buses back to neighborhood routes, cutting available choice-school seats by nearly one-third. District leaders say the change is needed to improve late and unreliable transportation for assigned schools. Superintendent John Legg said: “We have to prioritize that first and then go to our voluntary routes.” School board members and parents warned the rollout could limit access for families who depend on district transportation to keep students in their chosen schools.

DISTRICTS

Scholarships awarded to local seniors

The Palm Beach North Education Foundation awarded $162,000 in scholarships to local high school seniors during a ceremony in North Palm Beach. School Superintendent Mike Burke addressed attendees as four full-ride scholarships and two two-year scholarships were presented, made possible by contributions from local businesses. Among the recipients was Danielle Day from Jupiter High School, highlighting the community's commitment to supporting education. "It's a wonderful opportunity for these students," Burke said, emphasizing the importance of such initiatives.

EARLY EDUCATION

New incentives for kindergarten registration

Leon County Schools is enhancing kindergarten and pre-K registration with new incentives. The school choice window has been extended until August 1, allowing parents to select schools beyond their zoned options. "We've reopened the school choice window to allow those kindergarten and pre-K parents to opt for school choice if there's capacity," said LCS spokesperson Chris Petley. Parents who register by May 15 will have a chance to win a Florida Prepaid College Scholarship covering two years of tuition. 

STUDENT SUPPORT

Empowering students boosts school success

Districts and schools that actively seek student input on policy changes tend to see improvements in both engagement and academic performance. Amanda Austin, principal of Iberville Math, Science, and Arts Academy East, noted: “I have seen higher engagement, attendance, as well as pride in our school.” Effective strategies include providing multiple avenues for student participation, such as advisory groups and surveys, and creating leadership programs that empower students. Adam Lancto, principal of Grandville High School, emphasized the importance of including students in decision-making processes, which has led to significant changes like new classroom furniture and AI policies. Additionally, Matthew Epps, principal of the Career Technical Education Center, highlighted the need for teachers to embrace student feedback, even when it challenges their practices. By fostering an environment where students feel valued, schools can enhance their overall effectiveness.

TEACHING

Engaging students through outdoor learning

Shirley J. Brezzell, a fifth-grade science and social studies teacher at Mackenzie Elementary-Middle School in Detroit, is passionate about engaging her students through an outdoor garden she created. Brezzell, named the 2026 Elementary School Science Teacher of the Year by the Michigan Science Teachers Association, incorporates gardening into her lessons to teach about healthy eating and the science of matter. “When they see the process from seed to a piece of fruit that they can actually eat, it is mind-blowing,” Brezzell said. Her innovative “Garden in a Bag” project allows students to grow portable gardens, ensuring they have access to fresh produce even during summer. Brezzell emphasizes the importance of education and aims to empower her students to make informed choices about their health and lifestyle.

SOCIAL & COMMUNITY

Celebrating connections at PBDA

Students at Palm Beach Day Academy celebrated their annual Grandparents & Special Friends Day on April 1-2, welcoming over 500 family members. This cherished tradition highlights the bond between students and their loved ones. Activities included an outdoor musical performance, arts and crafts, and classroom tours.

CONSTRUCTION AND RENOVATION

Green roofs: A fresh perspective

O’Neill Cooper, a senior at Miami Palmetto Senior High, is spearheading a project to promote green roofs in South Florida. As a member of the Student Advisory Committee and the Youth Council, he aims to raise awareness through social media. Cooper emphasizes the importance of targeting middle-aged homeowners and businesses, as they are more likely to implement green roofs. He noted that initial surveys revealed many misconceptions about green roofs, with some thinking it meant painting roofs green. The initiative has received positive feedback, with many appreciating the short, engaging videos that make the topic accessible. Cooper believes that Florida's strong building codes can support green roofs, citing the University of Miami's 26 buildings with such designs. The Green Roof Initiative team includes Annika Adamo, Isabella Cardozo, and Nicolas Salas.

INTERNATIONAL

Sweden reverses classroom screen use

Sweden’s government is shifting schools away from screens and toward books, paper, and pen-based learning in response to falling literacy and concerns about classroom distraction. The policy includes grants for textbooks, a coming mobile phone ban, and curriculum changes favoring printed materials. Liberal Party education spokesperson Joar Forsell said: “We’re trying, actually, to get rid of screens as much as possible.” Critics, including edtech leaders and researchers, warn that reducing digital exposure could weaken workforce readiness, widen inequality, and leave students less prepared for AI-driven workplaces.
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