Schools & Kids
Thursday, April 30, 2026 · Escambia County
Miami-Dade Schools Win $1.37M Grants to Boost Voc-Tech Amid Teacher Crunch
Facing a persistent teacher shortage, Miami-Dade County Public Schools is doubling down on vocational training with $1.37 million in state grants for apprenticeships in auto tech and culinary arts. Partnerships with local businesses promise hands-on paths to high-demand jobs, easing the educator crisis by steering students toward trades. This expansion cements M-DCPS as Florida's CTE leader.
Florida Lawmakers Advance Teacher Pay Reforms Amid Shortage Crisis
As Florida's teacher vacancies surge, lawmakers in the 2026 session are pushing bills to boost salaries, restore multiyear contracts and tackle retention head-on. From Tallahassee to Tampa Bay classrooms, these measures aim to value educators with higher minimum pay and incentives. The proposals signal a pivotal shift in addressing the state's education staffing emergency.
Thursday, April 30, 2026
Lake Mary Coach Becomes Guardian to Orphaned Wrestler
A Lake Mary High School wrestling coach stepped up as legal guardian for student-athlete Maryellen Wingate after she lost both parents to cancer. The heartfelt act provides stability for the teen on and off the mat in Central Florida. Wingate's story highlights compassion amid tragedy.
Thursday, April 30, 2026
Fall Orientation Week Set for Pensacola Students
Pensacola's colleges and universities are preparing for Fall Orientation Week in mid-August, welcoming new students with campus tours, academic advising, and community integration.
Thursday, April 30, 2026
Florida Public Libraries Weigh Impact of Digital Textbook Shift
Florida's accelerating adoption of digital textbooks in public schools is prompting libraries to reassess their role in providing learning resources. Concerns are rising about equitable access for students without home internet or devices.
Thursday, April 30, 2026
Florida Students' Tobacco Use on the Rise, National Report Shows
A recent report in the Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR) indicates a rise in the use of emerging tobacco products like e-cigarettes and hookahs among middle and high school students. The study highlights a trend in tobacco use within this demographic.
Thursday, April 30, 2026
PSC Alumnus Sandy Sansing Inspires, Provides Scholarships for Future Generations
Pensacola State College alumnus Sandy Sansing continues to inspire and provide crucial scholarship opportunities, fostering educational success for future generations in the Pensacola community.
Thursday, April 30, 2026
PSC Student Thanks Benefactor for Scholarship
A Pensacola State College student recently expressed gratitude to a benefactor whose scholarship made her academic pursuits possible, highlighting the vital role of community support in local education.
Thursday, April 30, 2026
Molly McGuire Endowed Scholarship Grows by $50,000 After McGuire’s/IPC Donation
The Molly McGuire Endowed Scholarship in Pensacola received a significant $50,000 donation from McGuire’s Irish Pub and the Irish Politicians Club, bolstering its support for local students.
Thursday, April 30, 2026
Gene and Maureen Valentino’s Gift Will Propel PSC Entrepreneurship Program
Pensacola State College's Entrepreneurship Program is set to receive a significant boost thanks to a generous gift from local philanthropists Gene and Maureen Valentino.
Thursday, April 30, 2026
PSC Alumnus Sandy Sansing Inspires, Provides Scholarships for Future Generations
Pensacola State College alumnus Sandy Sansing continues to inspire and provide vital scholarships, supporting current and future students in their educational pursuits.
Thursday, April 30, 2026
Gene and Maureen Valentino’s Gift Will Propel PSC Entrepreneurship Program
Local philanthropists Gene and Maureen Valentino have made a significant gift to Pensacola State College's Entrepreneurship Program, aiming to foster innovation and support aspiring business leaders in Pensacola.
Thursday, April 30, 2026
Welding Technology Program Sees Strong Local Interest
Escambia County residents are showing significant interest in local welding technology programs, preparing them for in-demand industrial and construction roles within the region.
Thursday, April 30, 2026
PSC Student Thanks Benefactor for Scholarship
Pensacola State College student Maria Rodriguez recently thanked an anonymous local benefactor whose scholarship is helping her pursue her nursing degree.
Thursday, April 30, 2026
Molly McGuire Endowed Scholarship Grows by $50,000 After McGuire’s/IPC Donation
The Molly McGuire Endowed Scholarship at Pensacola State College received a $50,000 donation from McGuire’s Irish Pub and the Irish Politicians Club, bolstering support for local students.
Thursday, April 30, 2026