English language learners. The U.S. Department of Education ends a standoff over school accountability, giving Florida flexibility over how it measures performance for students who are still learning English. Miami Herald. Orlando Sentinel. Associated Press. Tampa Tribune. Tampa Bay Times.
Testing. The Florida Department of Education plans to convene a panel to investigate testing, standards, and related issues. Tampa Bay Times. Orlando Sentinel. Lakeland Ledger. Fort Myers News-Press.
Charter schools. Students at a Lake Wales charter school post above-average scores on college entrance exams. Winter Haven News Chief. The school's students run a recycling program. News Chief.
Title I. The Pensacola News-Journal looks at federal grant programs in local schools.
Growth. Orange County school officials explore a potential location for a new high school to relieve crowding. Orlando Sentinel.
Libraries. A Brevard library plans to add a new technology lab with 3-d printing and other digital tools aimed at young people. Florida Today.
Reading. South Florida teachers write a children's book about surfing. Palm Beach Post.
Debate. Broward schools offer debate in all high schools and are expanding debate programs in middle schools, citing benefits for students. Sun-Sentinel.
School grades. Volusia administrators look to boost performance at "C" schools. Daytona Beach News-Journal. Programming note: This is our last Florida Schools Roundup of 2014. We'll resume daily news roundups on Jan. 5. Until then, have a happy holiday break and enjoy our ongoing series of school choice wishes.
