Schools & Kids
Thursday, April 30, 2026 · Fort Lauderdale
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
Madelaine Halmos Academy Summer Camp Wraps Up with Unforgettable Experiences
Madelaine Halmos Academy's summer camp concluded, offering Fort Lauderdale children a summer filled with educational activities, creative arts, and outdoor adventures.
Thursday, April 30, 2026
Shark Sightings Prompt Caution Along Fort Lauderdale Coastline
Fort Lauderdale residents are urged to be cautious after local fisherman Arjun Mote and others reported increased shark sightings along the coastline, prompting lifeguards to advise vigilance.
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
Westpine Middle School Launches Modern Dance Program
Westpine Middle School in Fort Lauderdale is launching a new modern dance program, expanding artistic opportunities for students.
Thursday, April 30, 2026
Fort Lauderdale City Commission Approves New Park Benches for Las Olas Boulevard
Fort Lauderdale City Commission approved the purchase and installation of 25 new park benches for Las Olas Boulevard, enhancing pedestrian comfort and accessibility.
Thursday, April 30, 2026
Westpine Middle School Highlights Specialized Programs for Students
Westpine Middle School in Sunrise, serving many Fort Lauderdale families, offers specialized programs to cater to diverse student interests and academic needs.
Thursday, April 30, 2026
Westpine Middle School Launches Innovative 3D Art Program
Westpine Middle School in Fort Lauderdale has launched an innovative 3D art program, offering students hands-on experience in sculpture, ceramics, and digital design.
Thursday, April 30, 2026
Fort Lauderdale Schools Continue Focus on Exceptional Student Services
Fort Lauderdale schools are reaffirming their commitment to providing robust and comprehensive services for students with exceptional needs, ensuring every child has the resources to thrive.
Thursday, April 30, 2026
Fort Lauderdale City Commission Approves New Park Improvements for Holiday Park
Fort Lauderdale City Commission has approved significant improvements for Holiday Park, including new playground equipment and shaded seating areas, with construction expected to begin in late summer 2026.
Thursday, April 30, 2026
Meet Our Teachers: Dedicated Educators with a Passion for Faith and Learning
Fort Lauderdale's faith-based schools are home to dedicated teachers who blend academic instruction with spiritual guidance, fostering well-rounded students.
Thursday, April 30, 2026
Fine Arts Flourish at St. Thomas Aquinas High School
St. Thomas Aquinas High School continues to be a hub for fine arts in Fort Lauderdale, showcasing student talent in theater, music, and visual arts.
Thursday, April 30, 2026
Fort Lauderdale Prepares to Celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week
Fort Lauderdale schools and local businesses are preparing to celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week from May 5-9, 2026, with various events and discounts to honor educators.
Thursday, April 30, 2026
No Community Events Scheduled for Fort Lauderdale This Week
Fort Lauderdale residents will find no public community events scheduled for this week, offering a quiet period to enjoy the city's permanent attractions and local businesses.
Thursday, April 30, 2026
Spooky, But Not Too Spooky, Fun!
Fort Lauderdale's Secret Woods Nature Center is preparing for the return of its popular "Haunted Hammock" event this Halloween season, promising family-friendly spooky fun.
Thursday, April 30, 2026