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Florida
10th April 2026
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THE HOT STORY

Florida investigates OpenAI over safety

Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier announced a probe into OpenAI, citing concerns over public safety, national security, and child protection. "Today, we formally launch an investigation into OpenAI, and subpoenas are forthcoming," Uthmeier said. The probe will assess whether AI tools are being misused, particularly in relation to the 2025 Florida State University shooting that resulted in two deaths and six injuries. Uthmeier emphasized that as technology evolves, it must not compromise safety. OpenAI acknowledged its awareness of the shooting and stated it shared relevant information with law enforcement. State Attorney Jack Campbell noted that AI records are increasingly important in understanding a suspect's actions and mindset prior to a crime. The investigation also aligns with a broader political movement against major tech companies, with calls for the repeal of Section 230 protections.

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NATIONAL NEWS

What researchers say about the four-day school week

A growing number of school districts are adopting four-day school weeks, primarily to save costs, enhance teacher recruitment, and reduce burnout. The trend has accelerated since the pandemic, with over 2,100 schools in 26 states implementing the schedule by the 2024-25 school year. While proponents argue that it provides teachers with more planning time and reduces student absences, research indicates mixed results regarding its effectiveness. A study from Oregon State University in 2022 found that students in four-day schools lagged behind their peers in traditional settings. However, when instructional time is maintained, academic outcomes appear similar. Additionally, a 2023 report highlighted that while two-thirds of educators expressed a willingness to work in districts with four-day weeks, actual teacher retention rates remain a concern. As noted by Caitlynn Peetz Stephens, "the payoff isn't always clear-cut."

STATE NEWS

Florida's unemployment rate rises again

Florida's unemployment rate increased to 4.5% in January, a rise of 0.2% from December, according to data from the Department of Commerce. The state added 23,800 private sector jobs, but the annual trend shows a loss of 9,000 jobs. While sectors like education and health services saw growth, financial activities lost 9,200 jobs, and construction shed 8,800 positions. Governor Ron DeSantis emphasized the importance of competition among states for business, stating: "We've shown a great framework for how you can succeed and really grow your economies." Meanwhile, Sen. Rick Scott expressed concern over the job losses, stating: "Florida shouldn't be losing so many jobs." The report indicates that 499,000 people are unemployed in a labor force of 11.12m, with the jobless rate now 1% higher than a year ago.

WORKFORCE

Teacher training bill expands scope

What began as a teacher support measure has transformed into a comprehensive education bill, SB 182, now awaiting Gov. Ron DeSantis' approval. Initially focused on enhancing teacher training, the bill has expanded to include provisions for private school zoning, handwriting instruction, and charter school enrollment. Notably, it mandates cursive writing for students in grades 3 through 5. "The bill started as a four-page plan," said Sen. Shevrin Jones, who sponsored the bill. The final version includes various amendments, such as allowing private schools to utilize non-traditional buildings without rezoning and limiting charter schools' ability to dismiss students for academic reasons. The House passed the amended bill with a 91-11 vote, and DeSantis now has 15 days to act on it.

Woltanski wins distinguished leader award

Sue Woltanski, a member of the Monroe County School Board, has been awarded the Distinguished Leader Award by the Florida School Boards Association (FSBA) for her exceptional leadership and commitment to effective school governance. "I am honored to receive this recognition from FSBA," Woltanski said, emphasizing the importance of strong public schools in building strong communities. 

FINANCE

Duval seeks teacher tax renewal

The Duval County School Board is advocating for a property tax extension, seeking an additional 1m tax to enhance teacher salaries. This measure, required to be placed on the ballot by the Jacksonville City Council, follows previous referenda, including a successful 2020 sales tax vote. Superintendent Chris Bernier highlighted a teacher shortage as a concern, emphasizing the need for better compensation to retain staff. The council appears receptive to the proposal, viewing it as a means for voters to decide on funding teachers and avoiding potential salary cuts if the tax is not reauthorized.

Pasco County seeks state guidance

The Pasco County School District is requesting state guidance regarding the distribution of shared property tax revenue with local charter schools. 

DISTRICTS

Pledge of Allegiance sparks legal debate

A substitute teacher in Florida raised concerns about a school's strict enforcement of the Pledge of Allegiance, questioning its legality. The educator, a Marine reservist, noted that while other schools had mixed participation, this campus demanded full compliance. Students reported that the principal enforced rules with punishments for non-participation, stating: "She requires all staff and students to stand and say it or they get a lunch detention." The First Amendment protects students' rights to opt out of the pledge, as confirmed by the Freedom Forum, which emphasizes that schools cannot punish students for refusing to participate. The situation highlights ongoing tensions between tradition and constitutional rights in schools, with the substitute teacher contemplating the next steps to address the perceived violation.

School district struggles as fuel prices surge

In Tallahassee, diesel prices have reached $5.80 per gallon, significantly impacting the Leon County School District, which is incurring an additional $3,000 weekly for its diesel buses. Superintendent Rocky Hanna noted: "The only good thing that's saving us is the number of our buses that run on compressed natural gas or otherwise it'd be a lot more than that." Approximately 80% of the district's fleet operates on compressed natural gas, which remains stable at $2.30 per gasoline-gallon equivalent. The district anticipates an extra $24,000 in fuel costs over the next eight weeks, affecting its budget. Funding for transportation fuel comes from the capital outlay budget, supported by a half-penny sales tax, which is set for renewal in November 2026.

Manatee County seeks school start time exemption

Manatee County school leaders are requesting an exemption from a Florida law mandating high school start times no earlier than 8:30 a.m. The district argues that this change could double transportation needs and worsen traffic. Currently, high schools in the area start at 7:30 a.m. Deputy Superintendent of Operations Willie Clark described the potential traffic impact as “catastrophic,” noting that doubling the bus fleet could put around 200 buses on the road during peak times. A survey revealed that 80% of families support the current schedule. Superintendent Laurie Breslin expressed confidence that the exemption request will be approved, while School Board Member Charlie Kennedy suggested a smaller shift of 15 minutes as a compromise.

CAREER & TECHNICAL EDUCATION

Gadsden County students explore careers

Employers gathered in Gadsden County to engage with upperclassmen at a career fair aimed at preparing students for post-graduation life. The event provided an opportunity for students to explore various career paths and connect with potential employers. Organizers emphasized the significance of such events, stating that they are "essential in helping students plan their next steps," particularly for those considering entering the workforce directly. This initiative comes as Florida's unemployment rate reached 4.5% in January, reflecting a slight increase from previous months. With approximately 499,000 Floridians unemployed, the fair aims to bridge the gap between graduation and employment, fostering long-term success for students.

HIGHER EDUCATION

FAMU welcomes new chief of staff

Florida A&M University has appointed Altony "Tony" Lee III as its new interim chief of staff, effective April 6. Lee, who previously served as associate vice chancellor of Public Affairs for the State University System of Florida, was selected by FAMU President Marva Johnson. "Dr. Tony Lee's breadth of experience across Florida's higher education landscape brings instant momentum and strategic insight to his new role," Johnson said. Lee replaces Carmen Cummings-Martin, who held the position since March 2025 and will return to the Division of University Advancement. Lee, a Florida State University alumnus, has over 20 years of experience in higher education and has raised millions for various institutions. He expressed his commitment to advancing FAMU's mission during this transformational time.

INTERNATIONAL

Ottawa expands evidence-based push to strengthen national school meal initiatives

The Canadian government has announced a C$12.6m ($9.1m) research funding program over three years to enhance the effectiveness and reach of school food initiatives, as part of its broader National School Food Program. The funding, delivered through the FRESH (Funding Research for Evidence in School Food and Health) Team Grant, will support up to 14 research projects across three key areas: health and socioeconomic outcomes, program design and delivery, and support for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities. Backed by contributions from Employment and Social Development Canada, the Public Health Agency of Canada, and the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, the initiative is designed to strengthen the evidence base underpinning school food policies. Officials say the goal is to ensure programs are equitable, data-driven, and aligned with real community needs, while improving child nutrition, educational outcomes, and long-term well-being.
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