Schools & Kids
Wednesday, May 6, 2026 · Mount Dora
UF Eyes $500M Engineering Boom to Tackle Florida Tech Shortage
The University of Florida is pushing for $500 million in state funding to expand engineering facilities, aiming to supercharge STEM education amid Florida's booming tech sector. The proposal targets workforce gaps in high-demand fields like data science and advanced manufacturing. With Gainesville at the epicenter, UF's multibillion-dollar building spree could reshape the state's innovation landscape.
Florida Senate OKs Bill Capping Teacher Tenure at 4 Years
In a bold move to elevate classroom performance, the Florida Senate has passed legislation limiting teacher tenure to just four years while mandating merit-based evaluations. The measure, aimed at statewide public school gains, reignites a decade-old debate on accountability versus job security. Backed by GOP leaders, it heads to the House amid teacher union pushback.
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
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.
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
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.
Wednesday, May 6, 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.
Wednesday, May 6, 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.
Wednesday, May 6, 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.
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
Music Studies for Mount Dora Adolescents
Mount Dora adolescents aged 12-15 can benefit from local music studies programs, enhancing cognitive skills and creativity.
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
The Magic of Halloween: A Look Back at Mount Dora's Spooky Season
Mount Dora's Halloween 2025 celebrations brought the community together with decorated storefronts, bustling trick-or-treaters, and a popular event at Donnelly Park, setting a high bar for future festivities.
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
The Magic of Halloween: Mount Dora's Spooky Season
Mount Dora residents are already anticipating the city's annual Halloween festivities, with beloved traditions expected to return for a spooky and safe celebration.
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
Practical Life Activities in the Children's House
Mount Dora residents can explore the Montessori method's "Practical Life Activities" in the Children's House, focusing on hands-on learning for young children.
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
The Magic of Halloween: Mount Dora Prepares for Spooky Season
Mount Dora is already looking ahead to Halloween 2026, with local businesses and city organizations beginning to plan for downtown trick-or-treating and family-friendly events.
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
The Magic of Halloween: Mount Dora's Spooktacular Tradition
Mount Dora residents and businesses are already buzzing with excitement and early plans for this year's Halloween festivities, promising another enchanting community celebration.
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
Primary/Children's House: A New Educational Venture for Mount Dora
Mount Dora welcomes the Primary/Children's House, a new educational venture expected to offer unique learning opportunities for local families.
Wednesday, May 6, 2026