Schools & Kids
Monday, April 27, 2026 · Tampa
USF Ranks Among Top Universities for Communication and Media Studies
The University of South Florida's Department of Communication has been recognized as one of the top programs in the nation for communication and media studies.
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.
Monday, April 27, 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.
Monday, April 27, 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.
Monday, April 27, 2026
Fall Orientation Week Set to Welcome New Students to Tampa
Tampa colleges and universities are preparing for Fall Orientation Week in mid-August, welcoming new students with campus tours, academic advising, and social events.
Monday, April 27, 2026
Florida State Fair Exhibitor Ethics Under Scrutiny
Tampa residents are discussing ethical considerations for exhibitors at the Florida State Fair, focusing on animal welfare, product transparency, and vendor marketing.
Monday, April 27, 2026
Understanding the Constitutional Powers of Courts in Tampa
Tampa residents can better understand how justice is administered by learning about the constitutional powers governing local and federal courts, from the Supreme Court to the U.S. District Court and Hillsborough County's judicial system.
Monday, April 27, 2026
Tampa City Council Approves Funding for Riverwalk Expansion
Tampa City Council has approved $7.5 million for the next phase of the Riverwalk expansion, extending the popular pathway further south along the Hillsborough River.
Monday, April 27, 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.
Monday, April 27, 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.
Monday, April 27, 2026
Woodbridge Elementary School to Host Annual Spring Carnival
Woodbridge Elementary School in Tampa will host its Annual Spring Carnival on April 20, 2026, featuring games, bounce houses, and food to benefit school programs.
Monday, April 27, 2026
Hillsborough County School Board Approves 2026-2027 Academic Calendar
The Hillsborough County School Board has approved the 2026-2027 academic calendar, setting the first day of school for August 10, 2026, and outlining key breaks for Tampa students.
Monday, April 27, 2026
Service Project Supports Youth Facing Homelessness
Tampa volunteers recently completed a service project to support youth experiencing homelessness, collecting and distributing essential items across the community.
Monday, April 27, 2026
Pride Elementary School Celebrates Student Achievements
Pride Elementary School in Tampa recently celebrated its students' academic and community achievements during its annual awards ceremony, recognizing hard work and dedication.
Monday, April 27, 2026
6th Grade Visits Great Explorations Children's Museum
Tampa's sixth-grade students recently visited the Great Explorations Children's Museum for an interactive and educational experience.
Monday, April 27, 2026
USF’s Muma College of Business Earns High Marks from U.S. News & World Report
The University of South Florida's Muma College of Business has received strong rankings from U.S. News & World Report, highlighting its commitment to excellence in business education for the Tampa community.
Monday, April 27, 2026
Berkeley Preparatory School Announces Seventh Head of School
Berkeley Preparatory School in Tampa has announced Dr. Ryan Kimmet as its seventh Head of School, effective July 1, 2026, succeeding the retiring Mr. Joseph W. Seivold.
Monday, April 27, 2026
Berkeley Families Give Back
Families from Berkeley Preparatory School recently dedicated their time and efforts to various local organizations across Tampa Bay as part of their "Berkeley Gives Back" initiative.
Monday, April 27, 2026
Seventh Grade Students Build Large Cell Models
Seventh-grade science students in Tampa are showcasing their creativity and understanding of biology by constructing large-scale models of plant and animal cells.
Monday, April 27, 2026