Charter schools: The Broward County School Board approves 19 new charter schools, including two Hebrew-language schools and a sports-themed academy. Sun Sentinel. An Immokalee charter school faces closure for mismanagement, including uncertified teachers. Naples Daily News. A state lawmaker has filed a bill that would ban charters from dismissing students for failing the FCAT. Tallahassee/Herald. Pepin Academy, a highly regarded charter school for students with special needs, wins initial approval to open in Pasco County. Tampa Bay Times.
School choice: Lee County district officials recommend a plan that would make school choice options easier for parents and principals. Fort Myers News-Press.
Digital learning: Lee County school board members consider a policy that allows students to use their own electronic devices, like e-readers or smart phones, at school. Fort Myers News-Press.
Advanced Placement: Miami-Dade County schools has earned top honors for successfully expanding access to tough, college-level courses while improving passing scores. Miami Herald.
School arrests: The Broward School Board and several law enforcement agencies agree to reduce the number of school arrests for minor offenses. Sun Sentinel. More from the Miami Herald.
Crowding: Orange County school officials may consider a lawsuit to win approval for a new high school to ease crowding. Orlando Sentinel.
School leaders: Fifty-three applicants want to become the new second in command at Indian River County schools, the nation’s 11th-largest public school district. Palm Beach Post.
Data leader: Pinellas County school superintendent Mike Grego is one of four finalists for the state’s 2013 District Data Leader of the Year award. Tampa Bay Times.
Grad requirements: Florida lawmakers want to clarify their overhaul of the requirements for high school graduation. Tallahassee Democrat.
Name change: A Duval County School Board member formally requests a new name for a high school named for a Confederate soldier. Florida Times-Union.
Smoke free: As early as next school year, Hillsborough County public school employees may no longer be able to take smoke breaks on district property. The Tampa Tribune.
Conduct: A settlement is reached in the case of a reading mentor accused of molesting a St. Lucie County elementary student. TC Palm. A Hernando County teacher is suspended after requiring a fourth-grader to participate in the Pledge of Allegiance. Tampa Bay Times. More from Hernando Today.
