More records given to family of Riverview High student with special needs after choking death

New information is coming to light about what happened to a Riverview High School senior who died after her parents said she choked on a meatball at school. Records the district released to the family Tuesday reveal what happened in those frantic moments and how staff members responded.

After choking death of teen with special needs, parents seek clarity on staff response at Riverview High

After an 18-year-old with cerebral palsy died after choking at school, the school wrote in a report that the girl had a seizure. Her parents hope the school will provide clarity around what happened and the staff response, in order to prevent another tragedy.

Affirmative action in jeopardy after Supreme Court justices raise doubts

The survival of affirmative action in higher education appeared to be in serious trouble Monday at a conservative-dominated Supreme Court after hours of debate over vexing questions of race.

Fragrance and flavor research company looks to Florida Poly for top talent

Florida Polytechnic University set out to draw in big tech companies with world-class STEM programs and graduates in Polk County. Now, Florida Poly has landed its first big firm, with hopes that more will follow. 

EPA awarding nearly $1 billion to schools for electric buses

Only about 1% of the nation’s 480,000 school buses were electric as of last year. Funding comes from the federal Clean School Bus Program, which includes $5 billion from the bipartisan infrastructure law.

Hillsborough County earns top scores on nation’s report card, despite nationwide drop

Despite those nationwide declines, Hillsborough County school leaders said fourth grade students in the district obtained the highest scores in reading and math, leading the way among 26 large urban school districts across the country.

US math scores drop to lowest levels ever recorded during pandemic, report says

Findings from the “nation’s report card,” the first since 2019, showed the pandemic spared no state or region as it caused historic learning setbacks for America’s children.

Student loan forgiveness: 22 million people have applied for relief, Biden says

Biden said more than half of the people eligible for student loan relief have submitted their applications in the week since the website went live.

Full repairs to Sarasota County schools could take months

Sarasota County school leaders said they’ve come a long way to get all schools open this week after Hurricane Ian, but full repairs could take months.

Hillsborough school board approves new mascot at Chamberlain High

School board members in Hillsborough County are approved a new logo and mascot at Chamberlain High. The former Chamberlain Chiefs will officially become the Chamberlain Storm.

How to apply for student loan debt forgiveness

Wondering how to get the ball rolling on your student loan forgiveness? Here is the information you need to know.

North Port schools prepare to reopen after Hurricane Ian

Crews are working hard to ensure North Port schools that were hit hard by Hurricane Ian are ready for students to return to class on Monday.

St. Petersburg College celebrates 95 years

For 95 years, St. Petersburg College has provided a quality college education for Bay Area residents. 

Multiple 'swatting' calls prompt lockdowns at several South Florida schools

Authorities in South Florida responded to multiple calls reporting active shooters in schools Tuesday morning, but they all turned out to be fake reports.

Schools in parts of Sarasota County reopen after Hurricane Ian

Kids in the Sarasota and Venice areas returned to classrooms Monday for the first time since Hurricane Ian hit the state nearly two weeks ago. 

Student loan forgiveness eligibility scaled back; here's what you need to know

The Department of Education said last week that borrowers with federal student loans held by private banks would be ineligible for loan forgiveness unless they already consolidated their loans.

Pinellas school district sending skilled workers, supplies to Lee County to help repair damaged schools

A caravan of Pinellas County school employees drove to Lee County before sunrise Thursday to help the school district rebuild its schools that were damaged by Hurricane Ian. They included 18 skilled workers specializing in electrical work, plumbing, air conditioning, roofing and carpentry — bringing much-needed supplies and even 1,500 meals for people in need.