With Florida’s 2025 legislative session nearing its conclusion, the outcome of various education-related initiatives remains uncertain. Among these is a proposal designed to increase transparency and reduce political influence in university presidential searches. Although Governor Ron DeSantis has threatened to veto the measure due to its exclusion of the governor’s office, the House and Senate have largely supported the bill’s intentions. However, as discussions progress, their proposals have begun to diverge, with the Senate recently introducing two amendments. Despite these differences, lawmakers are optimistic about resolving the issue before the session adjourns on May 2.
In related developments, a bill permitting lower wages for students engaged in work-study, internships, and apprenticeships encountered an unexpected halt in the Senate Rules Committee. Meanwhile, a House proposal mandating increased cursive writing instruction appears unlikely to advance, as the Senate version has yet to receive consideration in any committee.
In Tallahassee, the Senate Ethics and Elections Committee will review the nominations of several college and university trustee appointees during its 8:30 a.m. meeting. Additionally, the Senate Fiscal Policy Committee will evaluate six education-related bills at 11 a.m.
Several hot topics continue to stir debate across the state. A former Pinellas County teacher who is transgender has sued the school district, alleging discrimination for not addressing him as “Mr.” following changes in state laws concerning sex, gender, and pronouns. Meanwhile, in Brevard County, some teachers faced investigations for using a student’s preferred name without parental consent, with only one teacher disciplined.
In Volusia County, efforts to find a suitable site for a new elementary school have been unsuccessful thus far. In Escambia and Santa Rosa counties, over 200 children await mentors from Big Brothers and Big Sisters. Brevard County has opened its summer enrichment programs to students outside the district, and the St. Lucie Sheriff’s Office plans to enhance its presence in county schools.
Broward County is nearing the implementation of speed detection cameras near two schools experiencing high incidences of speeding. Meanwhile, the Orange County school district anticipates a reduction of over $28 million in state funding due to a projected decrease of approximately 3,000 students next year. A review of New College’s background check procedures for a recently arrested communications director highlighted an omission of Sarasota County clerk records.
Florida State University resumed classes in a somber atmosphere following a recent mass shooting, while in Hendry County, a middle school substitute teacher was arrested for allegedly encouraging students to fight.