Central Florida schools looking to restrict artificial intelligence use by students
The School Board in Seminole County is set to sign off on the Code of Conduct and Honor Code for the 2024-2025 school year, and it includes consequences for students who submit Artificial Intelligence-generated work without credit or consent.
Your Florida Daily: Former school board member accused of stealing $100K from district, Orlando preps for Olympic trials
Former Miami-Dade School Board Vice Chair Lubby Navarro is accused of using her district credit cards for personal purposes, like buying groceries, appliances, beauty products and vacations.
2022 Election: Here are all the school board races happening in Central Florida
Central Florida school board candidates are gearing up for the stateโs 2022 primary election, running on platforms that address everything happening in education from school safety and COVID-19 protocols to book banning and new laws introduced in classrooms.
Federal judge rules Brevard School Board speaker policies donโt violate First Amendment
An Orlando judge dismissed a lawsuit by the Brevard chapter of Moms for Liberty and four Brevard parents who said the School Board and Brevard Public Schools discriminated against conservative parents who criticized the board with its public speaker policy, according to News 6 partner Florida Today.
Orange County Public Schools look at security policies in wake of Texas school shooting
The school board for Orange County Public Schools held a workshop Tuesday to discuss their safety program and, in the wake of the shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, board members had a lot of questions regarding their policies.
Kindergartenerโs parents allege sexual assault by another student, sue Orange County schools
The School Board of Orange County is facing a lawsuit over allegations a kindergartner was sexually assaulted by another student during a P.E. class. The girl's family is now seeking monetary damages, claiming the school failed to protect her.
Brevard School Board agrees to teacher union deal, will revise school name change policy
The Brevard County School Board voted Tuesday in favor of a new contract with the Brevard Federation of Teachers, though the unionโs president warned board members that an agreement wouldnโt be possible next year without raises.
Despite threats to board member salaries, Brevard Public Schools stick to mask mandate
Education Commissioner Richard Corcoran demanded that Brevard Public Schools withdraw its classroom facemask mandate by Wednesday morning or the Florida Department of Education would withhold School Board member salaries.
![Judge signs order giving Florida school boards power to issue mask mandates to combat COVID](https://www.clickorlando.com/resizer/1BjK9nrqwUvaV3DF9En-axm4iP0=/800x600/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/RCXFI2V645GSJFIFRGZITPFPKA.jpg)
Judge signs order giving Florida school boards power to issue mask mandates to combat COVID
Florida school districts can legally require their students to wear face masks to prevent the spread of COVID-19 after Leon County Circuit Judge John C. Cooper filed his decision he made during a ruling last week.
![Volusia County School Board considers making masks optional](https://www.clickorlando.com/resizer/bL-OaVtIQiyKvJG7_2Mh--fDUTI=/1600x900/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/d1vhqlrjc8h82r.cloudfront.net/03-29-2021/t_e6dd46bd0dd3476087e5684ec49c89ee_name_image.jpg)
Volusia County School Board considers making masks optional
VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. โ The Volusia County School Board is set to discuss its mask requirement Tuesday and how long it would be in effect. Encouraged by the number of people projected to be eligible for the vaccine soon, school board member Carl Persis brought the mask mandate up for debate recently, wondering if it could become optional. At Tuesdayโs workshop, the Volusia County Health Department will bring its recommendations to the school board. โI donโt anticipate the recommendations of the health department to be to remove the mask policy,โ he said. The health department is sticking with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines for all its recommendations.
![School board fires Florida teacher for medical marijuana use](https://www.clickorlando.com/resizer/IfxXrj72dUo99uC4FVmJOZmo9uE=/1600x900/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/d1vhqlrjc8h82r.cloudfront.net/03-25-2021/t_024b99bb02d544e4b07c257534875b43_name_image.jpg)
School board fires Florida teacher for medical marijuana use
BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. โ The Brevard County School Board voted Tuesday to terminate a teacher for using medical marijuana, News 6 partner Florida Today reported. Though medical marijuana has been legalized in Florida, it remains a โschedule 1โ narcotic at the federal level, placing it in the same category as heroin, LSD and methamphetamines. To meet the federal definition, the district canโt allow teachers to use marijuana, School Board General Counsel Paul Gibbs said. The school district has had a policy since 2019 allowing students to use medical marijuana, the school board did not address the issue for teachers. Allison Enright, a teacher at Space Coast Junior/Senior High School, disclosed her medical marijuana use when she took a drug test after an injury at work.
![Judge rules Seminole school board can continue with superintendent selection](https://www.clickorlando.com/resizer/qWErAry-1CKLtC8FQlie7aU38fI=/2048x900/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/d1vhqlrjc8h82r.cloudfront.net/03-23-2021/t_9e38022a8ef847f79206d3b5f9c78a55_name_image.jpg)
Judge rules Seminole school board can continue with superintendent selection
SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. โ A judge denied a temporary injunction Tuesday to stop the Seminole County School Board from moving forward to make Serita Beamon the districtโs new superintendent just hours ahead of the school board meeting. An injunction was filed in Seminole County civil court March 9, seeking to stop the Seminole County School Board from continuing negotiations with Beamon to become superintendent. On Tuesday, Circuit Judge Michelle Naberhaus denied the temporary injunction allowing the school district to continue with Beamonโs contract negotiations. A school board meeting took place Tuesday evening. She is qualified to be the superintendent of Seminole County Public Schools,โ he said.
![Singing in schools? Brevard to discuss easing COVID-19 safety rules](https://www.clickorlando.com/resizer/FR_rYbx3OgnT2F9fuh18QE2Qtds=/2048x1365/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/VERLYCDAF5HI3MQTGKOPNQHN6A.jpg)
Singing in schools? Brevard to discuss easing COVID-19 safety rules
BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. โ Members of the Brevard County School Board are set to discuss easing some of the COVID-19 safety rules that were put in place at the start of the pandemic. During a meeting Tuesday, board members are set to discuss adjusting the current restrictions on indoor singing at schools. A district task force recently came up with a series of recommendations for both elementary and secondary schools. The task force also said that students should not be penalized if they do not feel comfortable singing indoors. If any changes are made to the indoor singing policy, they would go into effect Wednesday.
![Judge to determine if Seminole County can move forward with superintendent pick](https://www.clickorlando.com/resizer/bDkl3M-mcUxO6bmJjWBJWPvmCeY=/1600x900/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/d1vhqlrjc8h82r.cloudfront.net/03-22-2021/t_c1f0a224b638428da6adfba5e8548e35_name_image.jpg)
Judge to determine if Seminole County can move forward with superintendent pick
SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. โ A judge will decide Tuesday if the Seminole County School Board can move forward to make Serita Beamon the districtโs new superintendent after an injunction was filed earlier this month against the board following a vote to withdraw its original offer to another candidate. An injunction was filed in Seminole County civil court March 9, seeking to stop the Seminole County School Board from continuing negotiations with Beamon to become superintendent. AdDuring a hearing Monday morning, Seminole County Circuit Judge Michelle Naberhaus heard both sides over a Microsoft Teams virtual meeting. AdNaberhaus will make her ruling at noon Tuesday, just hours ahead of the school board meeting when members are scheduled to vote on Beamanโs contract. Current Seminole County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Walt Griffin announced last fall his plans to retire at the end of the 2020-21 school year.
![Former Brevard School Board member opposed to LGBTQ guidelines mailed bag of excrement](https://www.clickorlando.com/resizer/PeSiE4eRKF0uYyAu32hdMJ9mIbk=/2048x900/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/d1vhqlrjc8h82r.cloudfront.net/03-11-2021/t_46be9abd536d4866947c7876b1aae343_name_image.jpg)
Former Brevard School Board member opposed to LGBTQ guidelines mailed bag of excrement
BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. โ It could be an unfunny scatological prank or a sign that political passions have reached a new low in Brevard County. Tina Descovich, a one-time Brevard County School Board member and co-founder of the conservative group Moms for Liberty, took to social media Sunday to report that someone mailed her a bag of excrement. The School Board defended the guidelines, saying they were circulated by the district to keep staff in compliance with state and federal law and that the board did not have the power to change them. She and former Indian River County School Board Member Tiffany Justice founded Moms for Liberty in January. โI worry about the message that they are trying to send,โ Descovich said of whoever sent the package.
![Seminole school board responds after injunction filed against them over selection of next superintendent](https://www.clickorlando.com/resizer/15umLVoM6gbMMT1dIn4PTqDaAt0=/1600x900/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/d1vhqlrjc8h82r.cloudfront.net/03-10-2021/t_4d0378f22fc041038eaea3368593bada_name_image.jpg)
Seminole school board responds after injunction filed against them over selection of next superintendent
SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. โ Seminole County School Board members steered clear of discussing the legal battle centered around the districtโs next superintendent Tuesday night, but they did respond to the injunction filed against them prior to the meeting. โBoth candidates, whoever is chosen will start under a cloud, that has never happened in Seminole County,โ one parent said. On March 4, Brittany Walker filed a temporary injunction in Seminole County court against the school board to stop the board from signing a contract with Serita Beamon. [RELATED: Injunction filed against Seminole County school board over new superintendent pick]The board selected Beamon as the next superintendent on Feb. 23. The Seminole County school board filed a response to the lawsuit brought by the mother.
![Brevard school board discusses LGBTQ+ guidelines for anti-discrimination policy](https://www.clickorlando.com/resizer/LhjoHD8I8FuXf_azDDA6U2uWGgM=/1600x900/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/d1vhqlrjc8h82r.cloudfront.net/03-10-2021/t_c3a93335958c4090a3b83ca4df85dc99_name_image.jpg)
Brevard school board discusses LGBTQ+ guidelines for anti-discrimination policy
BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. โ One protestor shouted โshame on youโ toward another person Tuesday night as they entered the Brevard County School Board meeting. A large group outside of district headquarters said they are opposed to the guidelines from Brevard Public Schools for LGBTQ+ students and staff. The district last week shared the guidelines which include dress codes, bathrooms and sports for its anti-discrimination policy first adopted in 2016. Fine called on those who oppose the guidelines to attend the board meeting. โI hope every parent who cares will let the local politicians know this will not work,โ Fine said.
![Injunction filed against Seminole County school board over new superintendent pick](https://www.clickorlando.com/resizer/qhCigSwG74V6mDNdpBxwnvAZ9iY=/1600x900/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/d1vhqlrjc8h82r.cloudfront.net/03-05-2021/t_098cf23eafd64a7cb50e3414a35505be_name_image.jpg)
Injunction filed against Seminole County school board over new superintendent pick
SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. โ An injunction was filed in Seminole County civil court on Thursday trying to get a judge to stop the Seminole County school board from moving forward with its new superintendent. Attorney Philip Kaprow is asking for the injunction on behalf of his client, who is a Seminole County mother. The complaint claims school board members didnโt follow their own rules last month when they reversed their decision on who the next superintendent will be. Kaprow said the school board follows the Roberts Rules of Order. Kaprow claims because the board broke the rules, the Feb. 23 vote to rescind is null and void.
![Seminole County School Board needs to โheal and uniteโ after controversial vote](https://www.clickorlando.com/resizer/qy436epqZNdjfkDsgjWoG_q5eYY=/1600x900/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/d1vhqlrjc8h82r.cloudfront.net/03-03-2021/t_7b7b4807c6f3403e92b24bb8f3f16440_name_image.jpg)
Seminole County School Board needs to โheal and uniteโ after controversial vote
SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. โ After hours of heated public comment, in yet another split decision, the Seminole County Board voted 3-2 to select newly-resigned school board attorney Serita Beamon as the districtโs next superintendent Monday night. โThis is incredibly uncomfortable and awkward having to take a deeper dive into hiring decisions while balancing transparency,โ School Board Vice Chair Amy Pennock said. A month earlier, board members voted 3-2 to select Lake County Assistant Superintendent Chad Farnsworth as the next superintendent. Despite Beamonโs lack of administration experience, other speakers praised her time as the school board attorney. Since the vote Monday night, 67 people have posted on the Seminole County School Districtโs Facebook page, most of them blasting the school board for its flip-flop.
![Seminole County School Board votes Serita Beamon to be next superintendent](https://www.clickorlando.com/resizer/l3k1DANa0ENfw4-h5qd0bbC51JA=/1600x900/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/d1vhqlrjc8h82r.cloudfront.net/03-02-2021/t_1e49ecdddf854971b6b53c215b574fb8_name_image.jpg)
Seminole County School Board votes Serita Beamon to be next superintendent
SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. โ The Seminole County School Board voted Serita Beamon to be named the districtโs next superintendent. Last month, board members voted 3-2 to select Farnsworth, the Lake County Assistant Superintendent, over Beamon. The school board confirmed Beamon submitted her resignation on Feb. 16 as the districtโs attorney after she was not selected as the next superintendent. Beamon announced her resignation as Seminole County School Board Attorney after she was not selected during the first vote. To salvage this mess - the school board will need to bring their A-Game tonight.โSmith said the boardโs indecision makes the school district look bad.
![Seminole County School Board votes to revoke decision on next superintendent](https://www.clickorlando.com/resizer/5E8spsse7BnS4OwA4GvPP2I4RRs=/1600x900/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/d1vhqlrjc8h82r.cloudfront.net/02-25-2021/t_35db1b4b7e4b4b3ba4b98145ebeb4f7a_name_image.jpg)
Seminole County School Board votes to revoke decision on next superintendent
SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. โ The Seminole County School Board voted to revoke a decision on its next superintendent. On Feb. 9, the school board announced Chad Farnsworth would be the next superintendent of the district. The announcement came after Farnsworth received three votes and SCPS attorney Serita D. Beamon received two votes during a school board meeting on Feb. 9. A special school board meeting will be held Monday, March 1, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., according to the district. Farnsworth has been the assistant superintendent of the Lake County School District since 2017.
![Justice at last: Brevard School Board acknowledges unjust firing of civil rights leaders](https://www.clickorlando.com/resizer/vC4XBCBPz1xLguBuUd85len0aHI=/1280x720/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/XAV4JGIPU5ELPOIUKRBQRMPSIA.jpg)
Justice at last: Brevard School Board acknowledges unjust firing of civil rights leaders
BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. โ In 1946, the civil rights activism of Brevard County educators Harry and Harriette Moore took their jobs. โThe Brevard County Public School Board publicly acknowledges the unjust act of refusing to renew Harry T. and Harriette V. Mooreโs teaching contracts by the serving School Board of 1946, and will forever recognize the Moores for their outstanding service and significant contributions ... to the Brevard County School District, State of Florida and the nation,โ the resolution read. โThere truly is no better way to celebrate Black History Month than with the signing of this proclamation recognizing these local civil rights heroes,โ said teachers union President Anthony Colucci. He founded the Brevard County NAACP in 1934 and spent the next 15 years starting or aiding nascent chapters in towns across the state. In 1937, in consultation with the legendary civil rights attorney Thurgood Marshall, he filed a lawsuit against the Brevard School Board for equal pay for Black teachers, the first of its kind in the Deep South.
![UPDATE: Seminole County School Board votes to revoke decision on next superintendent](https://www.clickorlando.com/resizer/Lc6SSxSxkNMPQkoe9b6ZNAz3ef0=/640x360/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/DTGA6LUB25HN7HKB2WHEC47W44.jpg)
UPDATE: Seminole County School Board votes to revoke decision on next superintendent
SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. โ ***8:48 p.m. Feb. 23, 2021 UPDATE***During the middle of a school board meeting on Feb. 23, school board member Dr. Tina Calderone said there was not enough discussion on who should be the next superintendent. A special school board meeting will be held at a future date to announce the next superintendent. ***ORIGINAL***The Seminole County School Board announced Chad Farnsworth will be the next superintendent of the district. The announcement came after Farnsworth received three votes and SCPS attorney Serita D. Beamon received two votes during a school board meeting on Tuesday. Farnsworth has been the assistant superintendent of the Lake County School District since 2017.
![Group wants to remove school resource officers from Lake County Schools](https://www.clickorlando.com/resizer/ZBCXEMVSjKZiU1NHLzpaXztr7Bo=/1600x900/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/d1vhqlrjc8h82r.cloudfront.net/02-09-2021/t_f226c3b9ab2d4ecbbd7cf37515ddb521_name_image.jpg)
Group wants to remove school resource officers from Lake County Schools
LAKE COUNTY, Fla. โ A group of people gathered outside the Lake County School Board ahead of Mondayโs school board meeting calling for the removal of school resource officers. Lake County resident Cassandra Brown has two daughters; she spoke at the meeting on Monday. โWhen was it OK for that man to pull out a taser and tase a child in front of everyone?โ questioned Aryana Brown from Lake County. AdThe Lake County School Board Chairman said taxpayers recently voted to have more security in schools and theyโve also used the funding for more services. The Lake County Sheriffโs Office said theyโre always working to better bridge the gap with kids and that law enforcement is needed in schools.
![School Board rejects mascot policy as Edgewood heads to final vote on โIndianโ mascot](https://www.clickorlando.com/resizer/GKFEXXl95oUkF0w7lys6dDXKRfc=/660x440/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/HSHKIG5EEFFXDPELBU45ZYAPNI.jpg)
School Board rejects mascot policy as Edgewood heads to final vote on โIndianโ mascot
BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. โ The Brevard County School Board on Tuesday rejected a policy allowing it to rein in future changes to school mascots, over the objections of board member Matt Susin. High School is slated for a final vote on a controversial proposal to retire its longtime โIndianโ mascot and nickname, according to Florida Today. โBy putting it into policy, itโs solid and it has to take board action,โ Susin said, calling administrative procedures a โnetherworld.โโWe, as School Board members, itโs our responsibility to govern,โ he said. โI have a hard time with that, as a mascot is a community (and) school unifier, and thatโs what we want from a mascot,โ McDougall said. Susin asked to temporarily halt the Edgewood mascot change in September while the board considered formulating a policy, arguing it had the authority to intervene in the process.
![Volusia County Schools considers creating police force](https://www.clickorlando.com/resizer/hHX0YgN7aRU7TCxtcCxJkj7iDeo=/640x360/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/PZMVSFIINBE5DBPFT72A767KLA.jpg)
Volusia County Schools considers creating police force
VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. โ The Volusia County School Board on Tuesday is expected to discuss whether to create the districtโs very own police force. Currently, the school district has 22 sworn officers on campuses and 80 school guardians. Under the proposal, some of the guardians would become sworn officers and members of the districtโs own police force. Supporters say the move would help improve security at schools throughout the district and ease the burden placed on other law enforcement agencies. Tuesdayโs meeting is set for 3:30 p.m.
![Volusia school board member finds out he received COVID-19 vaccine in trial run](https://www.clickorlando.com/resizer/KUJgF5OvE19zjFHjtKHD_nKcahg=/1600x900/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/d1vhqlrjc8h82r.cloudfront.net/01-12-2021/t_2393c9d4cfac4eb9b6cd3d3da6d81496_name_image.jpg)
Volusia school board member finds out he received COVID-19 vaccine in trial run
VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. โ Volusia County School Board member Carl Persis found out on Sunday he received the COVID-19 vaccine as a participant in Modernaโs trial. But Persis said it was a blind trial, meaning that he didnโt know if the shots he received were the vaccine or placebos. On Sunday, Persis said he was told that he had, in fact, received the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine. Volusia County School Board member Reuben Colon said he has contacted Gov. Ron DeSantisโ office, along with Oliva to ask for teachers to be prioritized for receiving the COVID-19 vaccine.
![Volusia school district urging Gov. DeSantis to prioritize school employees for COVID-19 vaccine](https://www.clickorlando.com/resizer/lIvt5AZtY94ZoABj2ADHlj_5c1U=/1600x900/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/d1vhqlrjc8h82r.cloudfront.net/12-24-2020/t_f92183ae51c94bf6b602ef47c7f4b90d_name_image.jpg)
Volusia school district urging Gov. DeSantis to prioritize school employees for COVID-19 vaccine
VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. โ The Volusia County School District is urging Gov. Ron DeSantis to prioritize school employees for COVID-19 vaccinations. School Board Member Ruben Colon has joined the list of school letters who wrote to the governor and the Florida chancellor of K-12 education. News 6 also spoke with Volusia United Educators Union President Elizabeth Albert who said she agrees with the school board on prioritizing school employees for the vaccinations. So, we need to be aware of that, we need to be intentional and strategic about how we prioritize this vaccine,โ said Albert.
![General Election Results for Central Florida School Board Races on Nov. 3, 2020](https://www.clickorlando.com/resizer/UhQ2dIliIvFqhw0qPrAbDG9S4hU=/1280x720/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/QF7YVWZJ6ZHQPIBNRVJIN3WPX4.jpg)
General Election Results for Central Florida School Board Races on Nov. 3, 2020
Marion CountySchool Board District 1 SeatCandidates for the District 1 are now vying for the role in a runoff election. School Board District 5 SeatMichael โMikeโ ScottScott is an Air Force veteran who was born and raised in Orlando. Osceola CountySchool Board District 2 SeatOsceola County voters will get to make the final call in a run-off race for school board. Julius MelendezMelendez is hoping to return to the Osceola County School Board after furthering his education in computer programming. Volusia CountySchool Board District 2 SeatPeople will once again select who they believe is fit to fill the District 2 school board seat.
![โItโs wearing teachers down:' Seminole educator shares struggles of teaching both online, in person](https://www.clickorlando.com/resizer/Ds2oGI0Ts-H5JGCyNv9jVdYv8J0=/1600x900/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/d1vhqlrjc8h82r.cloudfront.net/10-30-2020/t_8ee97737f1dd47b3ac0f4298da4d876b_name_image.jpg)
โItโs wearing teachers down:' Seminole educator shares struggles of teaching both online, in person
Winter Springs High School teacher Jenn Devine spoke as a representative of the Seminole Education Association at the Seminole County School Board meeting Tuesday night. โThe school board is not listening to us,โ Devine said at the school board meeting. She said many teachers are tired and overwhelmed, especially those teaching both Seminole Connect and face-to-face at the same time. โWe know itโs very difficult for the teachers, the ones that are teaching the hybrid, face-to-face and Connect,โ he said. In the meantime, the Seminole Education Association is hoping to suggest ideas to get teachers to teach either purely in person or purely on Seminole Connect.
![VIDEOS: Maskless mothers kicked out of Volusia County School Board meeting](https://www.clickorlando.com/resizer/LCtCAvGI_Lxpuo5JS0ndt9aOiSQ=/1600x900/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/d1vhqlrjc8h82r.cloudfront.net/10-27-2020/t_49c5c6b608fe48118b90b29b406203aa_name_image.jpg)
VIDEOS: Maskless mothers kicked out of Volusia County School Board meeting
VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. โ A Volusia County School Board meeting that was set to start at 1 p.m. Tuesday was instead delayed when a group of maskless mothers refused to put on facial coverings. Volusia County School Board meeting off to an explosive start. Below are couple of parents/ demonstrators arguing with the school district that they can't be forced to wear a mask at the board meeting. LISTEN: School board attorney says they're now waiting for the district attorney on whether they can be here without a mask. #News6School board meeting is now starting.
![Anti-mask protesters rally as Brevard School Board indefinitely extends mask mandate](https://www.clickorlando.com/resizer/bR28tRNMjSPtr-6LsVYeV3fuR1E=/1280x806/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/CQJBB6RAS5FYHCMYKTTUN55EYE.jpg)
Anti-mask protesters rally as Brevard School Board indefinitely extends mask mandate
School Board members defended the policy as critical to protect vulnerable staff at a time when positive test rates for COVID-19 continue to climb in the county. The group gathered outside School Board headquarters before the meeting to wave signs and rally against the move. Hallโs own group, โBrevard County Parents for Freedom of Choice,โ has acquired more than 700 members in a little less than three weeks. Youโre responsible for you.โPrior to the vote, School Board members said the rising infection rates and the need to protect their staff, along with preventing further disruptions to a school year already shaken by school closures and widespread quarantines, were behind the measure. โThis is the first policy Iโve seen the board put into place that does not do that.โ
![As Orange County deliberates, Volusia schools march on with band during coronavirus pandemic](https://www.clickorlando.com/resizer/Neo0LmeOLqbSjntbaO2yqfTaXy8=/1600x900/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/d1vhqlrjc8h82r.cloudfront.net/09-29-2020/t_b75f547a35454091aff9569a35b59627_name_image.jpg)
As Orange County deliberates, Volusia schools march on with band during coronavirus pandemic
ORLANDO, Fla. โ As the Orange County School Board hosts a work session to revise its mask policy for band and chorus, Volusia County high school band directors say they are marching on with bands wearing specialized personal protective equipment. On Tuesday, Orange County School Board officials discussed revising their mask policy for recess, chorus and band. โAs of right now, they are recommending 30 minutes of masked playing time,โ Evans said as he took the Orange County School Board through the study. However, this is something Volusia County high schools have been doing since the beginning of the school year. โIt works,โ said DeLand High School Band Director Monica Leimer.
![School board votes to rename Stonewall Jackson Middle School after this baseball hero](https://www.clickorlando.com/resizer/Ne1QrDMS7v4UvAMPW1g5tLR6L18=/1600x900/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/d1vhqlrjc8h82r.cloudfront.net/09-23-2020/t_216c237534e84b4cb0c29daa52af7782_name_image.jpg)
School board votes to rename Stonewall Jackson Middle School after this baseball hero
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. โ After months of debate about renaming Stonewall Jackson Middle School, the Orange County School Board voted to rename the school named after a confederate general during Tuesday nightโs school board meeting. โIโm pleased to offer a motion to rename Stonewall Jackson Middle school to become Roberto Clemente Middle School,โ School board member Johanna Lopez said. The board unanimously voted to rename the school Roberto Clemente Middle. Diversity Middle School and Seminole Creek Middle School were the two others that were on the table. โIโm so happy to tell my son that he can probably go to Roberto Clemente Middle School now,โ a parent said.
![Group raises concern with Orange Countys plan for increased officers in schools](https://www.clickorlando.com/resizer/ad1_82_3WTeF5oENRTlCqw81tR8=/1600x900/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/d1vhqlrjc8h82r.cloudfront.net/09-08-2020/t_e2792ec164654f58b6f0ea49d11fe58d_name_image.jpg)
Group raises concern with Orange Countys plan for increased officers in schools
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. On Tuesday, the Orange County School Board is set to approve a proposed budget that includes more than a million-dollar increase in school safety. A local activist group said that it is pushing for that money to go elsewhere. With more law enforcement on campus, the group said that it helps promote a school to prison pipeline. He said that his coalition has spoken with several Orange County school board members, urging them not to increase the school policing budget. Last school year there were 183 student arrests, but that number only reflects until March when students transitioned to online learning.
![Volusia schools create COVID-19 dashboard showing amount of students and employees who tested positive](https://www.clickorlando.com/resizer/UeBqI1P31sNz8CBkakWAs6ong0A=/1600x900/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/d1vhqlrjc8h82r.cloudfront.net/09-02-2020/t_2a4a1f36051947b3b0aa6c2f6a7bc42b_name_image.jpg)
Volusia schools create COVID-19 dashboard showing amount of students and employees who tested positive
VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. On Wednesday, the Volusia County School District changed its policy and released some data about the number of positive COVID-19 cases in schools. The school district said the Florida Department of Education has requested COVID-19 reporting at the district level. This announcement came a day after the school district addressed a picture of a crowded hallway at Spruce Creek High School. The school district told News 6 that its doubling down to ensure no large group gatherings and will continue practicing health and safety guidelines. Albert said knowing the numbers, locations and potential hotspots of positive cases can only help keep everyone safe.
![Volusia teachers union seeks more COVID-19 protection before students return](https://www.clickorlando.com/resizer/djbuZID3IX-4FmR9vwEZflTy6dI=/1600x900/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/d1vhqlrjc8h82r.cloudfront.net/08-25-2020/t_611543a04f15459fa157a857a07a85e5_name_image.jpg)
Volusia teachers union seeks more COVID-19 protection before students return
โWeโre very happy with the judgeโs decision,โ Union president Elizabeth Albert said. [Everything you need to know about Volusia Countyโs back to school plan]"In some cases, the supplies are limited and these items are on back order. The state has already appealed the judgeโs ruling but Albert said it doesnโt affect the school board to start a conversation about other options. This, after the local teacherโs union declared an impasse Tuesday morning, regarding the school districtโs re-opening plan. The Volusia County School Board briefly discussed the lawsuit during a workshop meeting.
Orange County School Board to vote on middle, high school student start date changes
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. The Orange County School Board will meet Monday to vote on possible changes to the districts reopening plan after receiving recommendations from the medical advisory committee created to help schools reopen amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The Medical Advisory Committee sent its formal recommendation to the school district Friday afternoon, after a two-hour meeting earlier in the day. During the committee meeting, the group of doctors, nurses and hospital leaders agreed to recommend face-to-face learning starting on Aug. 21 is reasonable, with caveats. The medical committee made the following recommendations to the school board:Allow for school reopenings but with staggered start dates for elementary, middle and high schools. Reopen only elementary schools scheduled on Aug. 21Reopen middle, high schools at a later date, possibly Aug. 31.
![Seminole County provides updates on school preperations](https://www.clickorlando.com/resizer/I_7vj38eWS0TGCgCPHsw27XiNkc=/1600x900/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/d1vhqlrjc8h82r.cloudfront.net/08-14-2020/t_6cbbce768daf4acc869a8fa584d254aa_name_50210693291_5913b9a5b7_k.jpg)
Seminole County provides updates on school preperations
SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. Leaders in Seminole County are expected to hold a news conference Friday to discuss new updates regarding safety and school preparations ahead of the 2020 school year. The discussion will include updates from Superintendent Dr. Walt Griffin, Seminole County, Sheriff Dennis Lemma, School Board Chair Karen Almond and School Safety & Security Director Captain Rick Francis. You can watch the live news conference in the video player atop this story. Check back here for updates following the news conference.
Orange County Schools medical committee suggests more changes to prevent COVID-19
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. On Monday the Orange County School Board will have an emergency meeting to discuss recommendations made by the districts new Medical Advisory Committee regarding the reopening of schools. There is no doubt if you were listening, that some of us dont feel like that is necessarily the best thing to do, Dr. Ajayi said. "For children below 5-6 age, they do not transmit the virus as easily, for a number of reasons," Dr. Ajayi said. "I was very strong and insistent that we can't compromise on our opinions for any reason, " Dr. Ajayi said. The emergency school board meeting is scheduled for Monday.
![Meet the candidates: Heres whos running for school board seats in your district](https://www.clickorlando.com/resizer/KTAR19C080y-_wijO4IIXME-1IM=/1600x1066/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/G4FTHRH4QNBY3NOTLLOGDRGCQA.jpg)
Meet the candidates: Heres whos running for school board seats in your district
Flagler County School Board District 5Maria Pinto BarbosaBarbosa is the current District 5 school board member for Flagler County. Lake County School Board District 2Dr. Kristi BurnsBurns, of Leesburg, is the current school board member for District 2. That plan involves need assessments for schools, transparency within the school board, working with teachers and improving the relationship between the school board and local law enforcement agencies. Orange County Board District 6Karen Castor DentelDentel is running for re-election hoping to build upon her accomplishments on the Orange County School Board. Volusia County School Board District 2Anita BurnetteBurnette is a Mainland High School graduate and UCF alumna and said she was asked by educators to run for school board.
![Orange County School Board to hold special meeting before in-person learning begins](https://www.clickorlando.com/resizer/7RydI-060qfAIWxzC59D9RRUWaw=/1600x900/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/RBTP24WZEBBK7ATRN4QIFAV2IU.jpg)
Orange County School Board to hold special meeting before in-person learning begins
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. The Orange County School Board will meet for a final time to discuss possible changes to the school districts reopening plan before some students return to campus for in-person learning. While the semester started virtually for all Orange County Public School students on Monday, those who opted for face-to-face learning will make their first trips to campus on Aug. 21. The School Board filed a public notice that it will meet on Aug. 17 at 4:30 p.m., a few days before in-person learning starts. The special meeting announcement comes a day after the Medical Advisory Committee for the Orange County Public Schools met for the second time to discuss how to safely reopening schools during a global pandemic. The medical group can make recommendations to the School Board on reopening but ultimately it will be up to the school board to make changes, according to Orange County School Board Chairwoman Teresa Jacobs.
![Orange County school board passes revised face covering policy](https://www.clickorlando.com/resizer/CgYZKjXgE6D2TFV8ySSW1DD7iMQ=/1600x1066/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/D4ZELFU47NDKRJYXPUY3F4FVOM.jpg)
Orange County school board passes revised face covering policy
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. The Orange County School Board passed a revised face covering policy during Tuesdays school board meeting. The revision presented to the board when students would not be required to wear face masks. I want you to face the same consequences, that you are making us face. Chair of the school board Teresa Jacobs spoke up in response to the criticism. The medical advisory committee plans to meet twice this week and board members said they expect some type of guidance ahead of the districts face to face reopening on Aug. 21.
![DELAYED: Flagler County School Board votes to push back reopening date](https://www.clickorlando.com/resizer/ZZWCISNgHJUlVSSECjFumtThDcA=/1600x1115/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/P5K3MNHDTRA7HHAR2JTUUMCPBI.jpg)
DELAYED: Flagler County School Board votes to push back reopening date
FLAGLER COUNTY, Fla. The Flagler County School Board has voted to delay the reopening of schools for the upcoming semester, according to a release from the school district. Members voted 4-1 on Tuesday to push the districts school start date to Aug. 24, two weeks later than the original start date of Aug. 10. [SUBMIT YOUR QUESTIONS: News 6 hosts town hall on reopening Central Florida schools]Prior to Tuesdays vote, Flagler County Schools had also postponed fall sports due to COVID-19 concerns. With the updated school year calendar, district leaders said school board officials asked staff members to look for opportunities to add more teacher planning and professional development days throughout the school year. For all the latest developments related to returning to school amid the ongoing pandemic, visit ClickOrlando.com/backtoschool.
![Everything you need to know about Volusia Countys back to school plan](https://www.clickorlando.com/resizer/VqZj8pBMRYC5FodSCxU92ROuj1w=/1600x900/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/d1vhqlrjc8h82r.cloudfront.net/07-22-2020/t_56708b5bc93c431282c4d79c52360a2a_name_image.jpg)
Everything you need to know about Volusia Countys back to school plan
VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. As Florida continues to see a surge in coronavirus cases, Volusia County school leaders are working to welcome students back for the 2020-2021 academic year with adjusted learning options. Volusia County Public School leaders has been working on details to reopen for in-person learning after the Florida Department of Education issued an executive order telling schools to physically reopen in August. Heres what you need to know about the districts back to school plan:Start date: August 31After a meeting that went into the early morning hours Wednesday, the Volusia County School Board voted to send its reopening plan to the state for approval. Enhanced Volusia Online Learning allows students to work at their own pace using an online platform. Enhanced coronavirus-related health and safety measuresAs part of Volusia Countys public schools reopening proposal:All students and staff will go through temperature checks before entering schoolsDesks and workstations will be spaced between three and six feetRooms will be disinfected between each classClick here to read VCPS entire reopening plan.
![Latino organizations ask Orange County school board to minimize language barriers](https://www.clickorlando.com/resizer/OHkwrbvSUrd_FNy_Ob-9uqsZxiw=/1600x900/smart/filters:format(jpeg):strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/d1vhqlrjc8h82r.cloudfront.net/07-21-2020/t_8bec6ebc9a5d41dd9f54f82284e0fa10_name_image.jpg)
Latino organizations ask Orange County school board to minimize language barriers
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. โ A number of Latino organizations held a press conference outside of the Orange County Public Schools School Board building on Tuesday. The organizations included Organize Florida, Voices Unidas para la Educaciรณn, and Pa'lante por mas. Organizers ended the news conference by heading inside the building and delivering a letter to the OCPS school board. In that letter, they request that live closed captioning be provided during every meeting in the top five non-English languages in Orange County schools, which they list as Spanish, Haitian Creole, Portuguese, Arabic, and Vietnamese. Orange County Public Schools tells News 6, translations are provided for those who attend the meetings in person.