Become more informed in minutes....

The U.S. Department of Education has proposed eliminating a requirement for states to submit detailed data on racial disparities in special education from their annual IDEA Part B grant applications, aiming to reduce administrative burdens. While states would still have to comply with the Equity in IDEA rule requiring them to identify and address significant disproportionality in special education, they would no longer need to report methodological changes to the federal government. Critics, including civil rights advocates, researchers, and parents, warn the change would undermine transparency and oversight, making it harder to detect and remedy racial inequities in how students are identified, placed, and disciplined in special education. They point to persistent disparities, as students with disabilities represent 17% of enrollment but up to 29% of suspensions, and argue that without reporting, states could weaken their monitoring standards, eroding federal accountability and effectively obscuring inequities that the 2016 Equity in IDEA regulations sought to expose.

 

K-12 Dive

In a heartfelt tribute, schools across Florida commemorated Veterans Day with various activities. Alayna Caldwell honored her relatives by placing carnations on Palm Harbor Middle School's Wall of Remembrance during its 40th Annual Veterans Day Salute in 2024. This initiative reflects the commitment of Florida's educational institutions to recognize and celebrate the sacrifices made by veterans.

 

Tampa Bay Times

Polk County Public Schools recently celebrated its Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year at the Inspire Awards. Elizabeth Heaton, an AP computer science and IB business teacher at Bartow High, received the Teacher of the Year award, while Angelica Ortiz, the school nutrition manager at Winston Academy of Engineering, was named School-Related Employee of the Year. Both winners will compete for state titles. The event was sponsored by MIDFLORIDA Credit Union and highlighted the achievements of many outstanding employees in the district.

 

Midfloridanewspapers

Volusia County Schools and Volusia United Educators have finalized a bargaining agreement that includes a 2% cost-of-living adjustment and a one-time, non-reoccurring 1% stipend for support staff. Superintendent Carmen Balgobin emphasized that "this agreement is more than a contract; it's a reflection of our shared values and commitment to the dedicated professionals who support our schools every day." The agreement also introduces a leave increment change and two days of paid bereavement leave. VUE President Elizabeth Albert noted that the stipend was agreed upon "so that everyone could get something."

 

Ormond Beach Observer

Some Broward legislators are expressing concerns about their ability to repeal a controversial law permitting charter schools to co-locate on existing school campuses. They believe, however, that they can mitigate the law's impact on school districts. The legislation allows specific charter schools, referred to as "Schools of Hope," to occupy space rent-free at traditional schools. This issue was a focal point during a joint meeting held on Monday. Broward State Rep. Robin Bartleman and state Sen. Rosalind Osgood discussed strategies to address the new law's implications for local education.

 

Sun Sentinel

Orange County Public Schools plans to transform a historic downtown Orlando campus into a specialized arts and technology high school, the School of Arts & Entertainment at Cherokee, set to open in the 2028-29 school year. This magnet school will cater to around 650 students, focusing on cinematic arts, sound design, and emerging media, with classes in animation, visual effects, and audio engineering. The projected cost is $92m, with hopes that private donations will cover $25m. The school will also feature audition-based enrollment and a blend of arts and online core curriculum classes.

 

Bradenton.com

Polk County Commissioner Becky Troutman emphasizes the importance of clarity regarding the 1-mill school tax referendum, stating, "The voters deserve to know the facts." She highlights that the Polk County Commission's role is strictly ministerial, as they are required by state statute to place the referendum on the ballot once approved by the School Board. Troutman expresses concern over misinformation and the perception that the Commission is raising property taxes. She believes that public discussions are essential for transparency and understanding, and she is committed to ensuring that voters are informed before making decisions at the ballot box. The referendum is expected to appear on the 2026 general election ballot, allowing citizens to make an informed choice.

 

Midfloridanewspapers

Superintendent LaShakia Moore received high evaluations from the Flagler Schools Board, with four out of five members giving her ratings of 4 and 5 on a scale of 1-5. The evaluations, conducted several months prior to the Nov. 4 workshop, highlighted Moore's leadership and community engagement. The board plans to develop goals for Moore as part of the strategic planning process.

 

Ormond Beach Observer