Polk County Public Schools joins other districts in banning smart glasses

Polk County Public Schools joined other school districts in the Tampa Bay area by banning Ray-Ban Meta glasses and similar wearable smart technology from classrooms.

Tampa police warning: Why back-to-school photo boards pose risks

As children across the Tampa Bay area head back to school this week, police are warning parents to think twice before posting those popular first-day-of-school photos on social media.

These are the best community colleges in the US for 2026, data says

Community college can offer a more affordable route to a degree — but some schools stand out among others. See which community colleges ranked highest in a new analysis.

Pinellas County School District launches 2026 school year with 'A' rating

Pinellas County Schools launched the 2026 school year Tuesday morning with high academic marks alongside strict new technology policies.

Back to school spending: Bay Area families face record costs as students return

It's the first day back at school for students across the Tampa Bay area, including thousands of students in Hillsborough County. For families, the return to the classroom also comes with the cost of getting students ready for a new school year.

Back to school begins: When is the first day of school in Florida?

Students across the region will return to public school classrooms next week as local districts launch the new academic year. 

101 first-year teachers join Pinellas County Schools before classes resume

Pinellas County Schools welcomed 276 newly hired educators this week as staff returned to classrooms to finalize preparations for students returning to school on Tuesday. 

DOJ: Duke Law illegally used race in consideration for admission

The Justice Department accused Duke University’s law school of wrongfully using race-based factors in its admissions process, as the Trump administration continues its enforcement on diversity practices in higher education.

Florida Southern College turns citrus groves into 'living laboratories' to help rescue state's industry

Florida Southern College has planted 45 young citrus trees across its Lakeland campus to create a hands-on living laboratory aimed at helping growers revitalize Florida's struggling citrus industry.

Hillsborough schools to start year with top grades and fewer teacher openings

Hillsborough Schools Superintendent Van Ayres was joined by Dr. Henry Mack, the new Florida education commissioner, during a kickoff event for the school year.

Lakeland Kiwanis Club holds 25th annual Stuff the Bus

Volunteers and community partners gathered Wednesday morning at the RP Funding Center to launch the 25th Annual Stuff the Bus campaign for Lakeland elementary students.

Mother of child with autism creates safe space, play area for other neurodivergent kids

A New Port Richey mother transformed her personal challenges raising a son with autism into a community haven by launching a sensory-friendly play café designed for neurodivergent children.