Following the tragic shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High in Parkland in 2018, Florida schools have made school security a top priority. Measures taken include redefining the role of resource officers, installing cameras, and improving communication with law enforcement agencies to prevent future incidents. Lawmakers have consistently passed bills each year to enhance safety on campuses.
A new proposal requires teachers to undergo active shooter training before receiving state certification, with sponsor Rep. Dan Daley emphasizing the importance of keeping kids safe. Meanwhile, Orange County superintendent Maria Vazquez is considering placing school guards if agreements with law enforcement agencies cannot be reached.
In other news, the Alachua County school board is revising a book challenge policy to allow non-parents to make only one objection per month. The DeSantis administration has allocated funds for a searchable database of instructional materials and library books. A proposal to expand a Miami-Dade County charter school into a public park is moving forward despite community opposition.
Teachers in Leon and St. Johns counties are pushing for better pay packages and raises, respectively. A survey in Manatee County shows that many educators struggle to afford housing in the communities they serve. State Rep. Alex Rizo is seeking to refine the school finance formula, noting current inequities.
For more education news in Florida, visit WCTV, WMFE, MainStreet Daily News, Bay News 9, the Miami Herald, the Tallahassee Democrat, Florida Politics, and WJAX. Stay informed on important developments in education by reading our daily roundups.
Source
Photo credit www.tampabay.com