Schools & Kids
Thursday, April 30, 2026 · Sarasota
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
Mohawk College Partners to Offer Training Aimed at Helping Seniors Live at Home Safer and Longer
Mohawk College has partnered to offer training programs aimed at helping Sarasota seniors live at home safer and longer, focusing on skills for caregivers and family members.
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
Athletics & Extracurriculars at Incarnation Catholic School
Incarnation Catholic School on Bee Ridge Road continues to offer a variety of athletic and extracurricular programs for its students, fostering teamwork and diverse interests.
Thursday, April 30, 2026
LWRHS Releases 2026-2027 School Calendar
Lakewood Ranch High School has released its 2026-2027 academic calendar, detailing key dates including the first day of school on August 10, 2026, and the last day on May 28, 2027.
Thursday, April 30, 2026
December Newsletter Highlights Community Happenings
Sarasota's December newsletter provided a comprehensive look at municipal actions, community recognition, public safety updates, and local events from the past month, keeping residents informed on various aspects of city life.
Thursday, April 30, 2026