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Florida school voucher reforms proposed

Florida school voucher reforms proposed

School voucher advocates on Wednesday recommended increased oversight of private schools that take state-backed scholarships, including more campus visits by state inspectors, new rules aimed at preventing schools from falsifying fire inspections and requiring more schools to turn in financial reports. [Source: Orlando Sentinel]

Florida Virtual School leaders oppose teacher union initiative

The movement to organize Florida Virtual School's teachers has met strong pushback from the the school's administration, which calls the effort a "serious" matter. In an email to staff, FLVS CEO Jodi Marshall said unionization would interfere with the school's individual recognition and respect of teachers. [Source: TBO.com]

See also:
» Republican legislation could reduce ranks of unionized teachers in Florida

University of South Florida named Institution of the Year by Education Dive

The University of South Florida has been named higher education’s “Institution of the Year” by the Washington D.C.-based publication Education Dive. USF earned the recognition for using data analytics to eliminate the graduation rate gap between race, ethnicity and socioeconomic status, as well as improving student retention rates. More from Education Dive and Florida Trend.

FSU strikes agreement with Israeli University

Florida State University now has a new partner, all the way in Israel! On Monday, Governor Rick Scott signed a memorandum of understanding between FSU and Tel Aviv University. This agreement includes student and staff exchange programs, research collaborations, and academic seminar opportunities. [Source: WJHG]

Suspension of Greek life social events bringing changes to college campuses in Florida and beyond

Actions taken by state universities across the country have many wondering what’s the future of Greek life. “At Florida Atlantic University we are always building traditions and we are building new traditions,” FAU Interfraternity Council President Brandon Sirota said. [Source: ]

ALSO AROUND FLORIDA:

› States unite to boost teaching of students with disabilities
The successful five-year launch of a University of Florida-led effort to help states across the nation vastly improve teaching and school leadership for students with disabilities has received a $21 million boost to further strengthen and expand the ambitious program for another five years.

› Florida could expand challenges to school textbooks
A controversial new state law that makes it easier for Florida residents to challenge books used in public schools could get overhauled next year so those who dislike certain texts could also suggest replacements they find more appropriate

› Palm Beach schools chief Avossa gets near-perfect evaluation
Palm Beach County Schools Superintendent Robert Avossa will likely get a raise after getting near-perfect evaluations from School Board members.

› Hillsborough teachers keep the heat on after $92 bonus offer
The second Hillsborough County School Board meeting in less than a month took place Tuesday against a backdrop of honking car horns, cheering teachers and audience members moving through the room in shifts.

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