Big story: Florida schools have made no secret of their inability to find enough qualified candidates for jobs ranging from bus drivers to teachers.
To help fill the shortage of school psychologists, the University of South Florida announced this week that it will offer a new degree program to train more psychologists. The three-year program is offered through the Faculty of Education.
So it may seem strange that school districts are preparing to cut staff and potentially lay off teachers at the end of the year. Volusia County is one of the systems that is adjusting its staffing model downward.
Funding is an issue.
Federal coronavirus relief aid is set to expire in the fall. And as of now, there is no similar amount available to replace it.
As a result, districts are looking to eliminate grant-paid positions while also talking about the need to retain more staff. Officials have expressed hope that the changes will not lead to layoffs.
“If you're putting adults at risk, it's only going to have a negative impact on kids,” said Elizabeth Albert, president of Volusia's teachers union. “So we just want to make sure everyone is in the best place for them.” Learn more about Spectrum 13.
One possible intervention: The Biden administration is proposing an additional $8 billion in pandemic relief for schools, Chalkbeat reported.
hot topic
How to ride the bus: WKMG reports Brevard County Schools will begin a pilot program to better track students as they ride school buses.
Charter school: Two charter schools in Manatee County will share campus and transportation services to avoid financial stress, the Bradenton Herald reports.
Early education: Bay News 9 reports that Florida educators are optimistic about the potential impact of Congress adding $1 billion to early education programs, including Head Start.
Friday night lights: More Florida high school football coaches are leaving for higher-paying jobs in Georgia, the Palm Beach Post reports.
Legal advisor: The Sun Sentinel reports that Broward County School Board members have proposed firing the school district's general counsel for advice on the district's legal obligation to share referendum tax revenue with local charter schools. .
School closure: The Duval County School District is considering closing some schools as it faces a lack of construction funds, the Florida Times-Union reported.
Virtual school: Florida Virtual School is hiring 190 teachers and support staff in preparation for launching a new academy for youth in the juvenile justice system, WMFE reports.
Don't miss the story. Here is the link to yesterday's summary.
Before you go… “Yes, he's a rabbit. But a rabbit that lays eggs. He's a freak of nature.”
