Hillsborough school district plans financial advisory committee to stabilize budget

The Hillsborough County School Board is finalizing its plan to address its budget crisis and avoid a state takeover. The board held a special meeting this morning and voted to send their plan to the Florida Department of Education for approval.

With state takeover looming, Hillsborough school district gets $100M bailout

Just days before the state’s deadline, superintendent Addison Davis announced Monday that the district is receiving $100-million in federal COVID relief money that can be used to stabilize the budget and avoid a state financial takeover.

Masks likely optional in Pasco schools next year

The Pasco County School District has set an end date for their COVID-19 mask mandate. The order requiring students, staff, and visitors to wear face-coverings will go away at the end of the day on May 28 – two days after the end of school.

2 women kidnapped by Boko Haram terrorists graduate from Southeastern University

Tens of thousands of young people across Tampa Bay are graduating this time of year. But perhaps none have stories as amazing or terrifying as Joy Bishara and her cousin Lydia Pogu, who just graduated from Southeastern University in Lakeland.

Nova Southeastern University drops COVID-19 vaccine requirement, citing new state law

Nova Southeastern University will no longer require students and staff to get the COVID-19 vaccine in order to return to campus this fall, citing a new Florida law that only allows for voluntary vaccination programs.

Members of class of 2020 finally walk in graduation ceremony 1 year later

Hundreds of Polk State College students finally got their diplomas at a graduation ceremony at the R.P. Funding Center in Lakeland on Thursday.

All Florida public universities expected to be full capacity this fall

The State University System of Florida announced that all 12 public universities in the Sunshine State can return to pre-pandemic operations for academics, social activities, and sports.

Gov. DeSantis signs bills on literacy, early learning

One bill signed into law would establish the Division of Early Learning within the state’s Department of Education.

Teen to become youngest USF graduate

Four brothers from Apollo Beach became University of South Florida Bulls early. The youngest enrolled at age 14 after graduating early from high school. At ceremonies this Saturday, he’ll be the youngest graduate, at 17.

Hillsborough schools superintendent agrees to improve his performance

The Hillsborough County School Board and Superintendent Addison Davis agreed Tuesday on a plan for Davis to improve his performance from harsh criticism from some employees.

Some Black parents say pandemic remote learning has shielded students from racism in classroom

Many Black parents are finding another benefit to remote learning beyond avoiding potential COVID-19 infection: being better able to shield their children from racism in classrooms.

Norwegian Cruise Line to celebrate teachers with free cruise

Norwegian Cruise Line is giving away free 7-night cruises to 100 teachers to award them for their passion and dedication.

Sarasota Eagle Scout earns ever possible merit badge from Boy Scouts of America

Owen joined the Wolf Scouts in second grade. He's now a 16-year-old Eagle Scout and he's earned every merit badge possible. Since 1912, less than 500 scouts than out of 110 million have accomplished that feat.

COVID slide raises questions for kids with learning disabilities

Kids and parents have struggled to keep students up-to-date on their school work during a year of pandemic closures and online learning. Experts say children with learning disabilities have been hurt the most.

12-year-old boy genius graduates from high school, college in same year — and he’s already started 2 companies

A 12-year-old North Carolina boy graduated from high school and college all in the same year. Oh, and that’s not all — he’s also running two start-up companies that he founded.