As voters across Florida head to the polls to determine the direction of their local school boards, the spotlight is on these nonpartisan positions that have increasingly become the target of political agendas. Despite being nonpartisan, the school board elections have seen a surge in political influence, with Gov. Ron DeSantis and groups aligned with his views on education making a late push to support candidates they believe will further their agenda.
These groups have not shied away from their Republican affiliations, arguing that a recent federal court ruling invalidated Florida law that barred candidates for nonpartisan seats from campaigning based on party. This move has raised concerns among observers throughout the state, who are closely watching to see if the efforts to “flip” the board majorities in counties like Pinellas and Hillsborough will succeed.
Early voting tallies have shown that about 10% to 20% of registered voters in several counties have turned out, indicating that small segments of the county populations could have an outsized influence on the outcomes. Precincts will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., with results expected soon after.
In addition to the school board elections, several hot topics are making waves in the education landscape of Florida. Tax referendums have been a point of contention, with a Hillsborough County appellate court rejecting the county commission’s attempt to alter the date of a school district local-option property tax referendum. This decision allows the district to hold its vote in November, rather than two years from now as suggested by commissioners.
On the topic of immigrant student services, the Hillsborough County school district is launching a new center aimed at helping immigrant families get their children registered and prepared for school. In terms of campus safety, Volusia County’s sheriff is calling on parents and volunteers to help improve the safety of children walking to school, while Polk County law enforcement has increased enforcement of school zone rules to protect students.
Education savings accounts have also been in the spotlight, with Florida families being able to use the funds for expenses like theme park passes. However, the Florida Department of Education has disputed the Florida Education Association’s accounting of teacher vacancies, stating that the number is lower than reported by the union.
In terms of campus life, a former cigar factory has been converted into new apartments for University of Tampa students, while the University of South Florida Sarasota Manatee has unveiled its first on-campus student housing. However, controversies have arisen over book removals at New College, with the school’s president defending the disposal of hundreds of books as part of an annual weeding process.
As Floridians await the results of the school board elections and navigate the various education-related issues in the state, it is clear that the direction of education policy and governance is at a critical juncture. Stay tuned for more updates on these developments and their impact on the future of education in Florida.
