Florida News Straight From the Source
The State Board of Education will meet tomorrow in Leesburg.
The agenda is available at State Board Meeting.
The meeting may be viewed on The Florida Channel.
WHAT: State Board of Education Meeting
WHEN: 9:00 am
Tuesday, November 28, 2017
WHERE: Lake-Sumter State College
Everett A. Kelly Convocation Center
Magnolia Room
9501 U.S. Highway 441
Leesburg, FL 34788
For more information about the Florida Department of Education, visit www.fldoe.org.
Governor Rick Scott’s Securing Florida’s Future budget makes historic investments in Florida’s public education system, with record high per-student funding; provides additional resources for school safety; and provides Florida teachers additional money to purchase classroom supplies.
Governor Scott said, “Florida has renowned K-12 public schools and nationally recognized colleges that ensure every Floridian has access to educational opportunities that meet their individual needs. We also have the best teachers in the world, and I am proud to support their efforts by increasing the supply grants each teacher receives to prepare their classrooms at the start of the school year. The Securing for Florida’s Future budget invests historic funds into our state’s public education system, enabling Florida’s students, educators and education leaders to continue building on the progress we have made to ensure this success continues for generations to come.”
The Securing for Florida’s Future budget includes:
RECORD K-12 PUBLIC SCHOOLS FUNDING:
RECORD FLORIDA COLLEGES FUNDING:
BRIGHT FUTURES:
EDUCATIONAL FACILITY IMPROVEMENT:
Education Commissioner Pam Stewart said, “With his Securing Florida’s Future budget, Governor Rick Scott has once again proven that he is committed to helping our state’s students reach their full potential. Year after year, Florida’s students have improved their academic performance and narrowed the achievement gap. This continued investment in our state’s public education system will help to maintain the momentum to the benefit of current and future generations.”
Marva Johnson, State Board of Education Chair, said, “As job growth in Florida soars, it is essential that students at every level of our state’s public education system receive a high-quality education that prepares them to meet workforce demands and positions them to enjoy the high quality of life Florida has to offer. Governor Rick Scott’s Securing Florida’s Future budget is paramount to students’ academic, career, and life success, and I commend him for his ongoing support.”
Andy Tuck, State Board of Education Vice Chair, said, “Every student deserves access to safe learning environments and, as a Board, we have continually prioritized funding to ensure our school and district leaders have resources to protect Florida’s greatest asset – our children. For four consecutive years, we have proudly proposed a $10 million increase in school safety, and I look forward to working with the Legislature to make this a reality.”
Dr. Tom LoBasso, Daytona State College President, said, “I appreciate Governor Rick Scott for proposing an increase of $30 million in state investment in performance funding for the Florida College System. Our 28 colleges serve more than 800,000 Florida students and lead the nation with graduation rates topping nearly every other state.”
Tammy Jerkins, 2018 Florida Teacher of the Year, said, “Our state’s teachers work hard to develop engaging lessons that help their students connect to the content. I have spent my own money to ensure successful classroom activities, and I know that many of my colleagues have as well. I am grateful to Governor Rick Scott for recognizing this great need and taking action to help our state’s dedicated teachers as they prepare the next generation for lifelong success.”
Click here to view the Securing Florida’s Future Budget highlights.
For more information about the Florida Department of Education, visit www.fldoe.org.
Governor Rick Scott today directed the Florida Department of Education (DOE) to waive rules and regulations to ensure Puerto Rican students impacted by Hurricane Maria are able to continue their education in Florida. The Governor has also directed DOE to waive the educator certificate application fee and other requirements to help Puerto Rican educators displaced by the storm more easily continue their teaching careers in Florida.
Governor Scott said, “As Puerto Rican families work to rebuild their lives following the unbelievable devastation caused by Hurricane Maria, we are doing everything we can to help them throughout this process. I have directed the Department of Education to take additional action today to ensure students from Puerto Rico can more easily continue their education here in Florida and that teachers from Puerto Rico have every opportunity to continue to succeed in their careers. We will continue to work together to make sure Puerto Rican families have all the support they need.”
Education Commissioner Pam Stewart said, “As a result of the devastating effects of Hurricane Maria, families from Puerto Rico and elsewhere have relocated to Florida. Entire communities were destroyed and we do not know how long it will take to restore schools and other essential infrastructure. Therefore, it is critical that these students and teachers have the opportunity to participate in our state’s outstanding public education system. We are pleased to remove barriers to enrollment and help these students and teachers return to the classroom.”
K-12 Public Schools
Due to the devastation left in the wake of this record-setting storm, some displaced families may not have immediate access to the records that are typically required to enroll in school. Therefore, at the direction of Governor Scott, DOE has temporarily waived statues and rules that will allow Florida public school districts to enroll Puerto Rican students whose education records are unavailable due to the storm. Upon receiving a request from a school superintendent, DOE will waive the application fee for an initial educator certificate and will allow the acceptance of an unofficial transcript of teaching degrees or copies of a valid teaching certificate issued by another state or U.S. territory.
The supplemental order relating to K-12 public schools is posted HERE.
Florida College System
At the direction of Governor Scott, Commissioner Stewart also signed a supplemental order authorizing state colleges to waive existing rules and requirements to help Puerto Rican students more quickly enroll in college. At the request of Governor Scott, all 28 Florida College System institutions have agreed to offer in-state tuition to Puerto Rican students who were impacted by Hurricane Maria.
The supplemental order relating to Florida College System institutions is posted HERE.
The Florida Department of Education (FDOE) tomorrow will kick off Disability History and Awareness Weeks with an opening ceremony at the Turlington Building. This observance serves as an opportunity to reflect on the valuable contributions individuals with disabilities make to our state. Speakers include K-12 Public Schools Chancellor Hershel Lyons, Division of Blind Services Director Robert L. Doyle III, and Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Director Allison Flanagan. There will also be a special performance by the Electric People.
The first two weeks of October are Disability History and Awareness Weeks. This is a time for all Floridians to increase their understanding and awareness of individuals with disabilities, disability history and disability rights.
WHAT: Disability History and Awareness Weeks Opening Ceremony
WHEN: 3 p.m.
Wednesday, October 4, 2017
WHERE: Florida Department of Education
Turlington Building
325 W. Gaines Street
Tallahassee, Florida
For more information about the Florida Department of Education, visit www.fldoe.org.
The Florida Department of Education teamed up with the Center for the Visually Impaired of Central Florida to help local blind and visually impaired students experience the joys of summer reading and learn about the upcoming solar eclipse.
“It is critical that all Florida students read throughout the summer to maintain and enhance the skills they gained during the school year,” said Commissioner of Education Pam Stewart. “The timing of this partnership is particularly important as it enabled these students to take part in the excitement surrounding the solar eclipse. This is a great example of state and local entities working together to benefit Florida students, and we are thrilled to join in the fun.”
Participants, ages 6-12, were provided embossed braille excerpts of children’s books and teaching tools from the National Library Service (NLS). NASA also presented participants with a braille tactile map, to learn about the upcoming solar eclipse, which will take place August 21.
Using the national 2017 Collaborative Summer Library Program’s theme, “Build a Better World,” the reading program kept the traditional goal of encouraging reading during summer vacation, while concurrently building a community among visually impaired children. “Build a Better World” exposed the students to engineering, architecture and astronomy in the reading materials and crafts. The students also enjoyed the merits of volunteering in their community by donating a project to a cause – creating dog toys for the local animal shelter.
“The ‘Build a Better World’ summer reading program offered students an enhanced learning environment and provided them with the opportunity to engage with their peers, participate in hands-on activities and learn more about STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) fields,” said Division of Blind Services Director Robert Doyle. “This collaboration brought together the expertise and resources of organizations that are committed to the betterment of the blind and visually impaired community.”
The NLS Braille and Talking Book Library has more than 2.4 million items (audio books, braille, large print, etc.) available. The NLS Braille and Audio Download (BARD) collection contains 97,324 books, 17,086 braille and 80,238 digital. There are nearly 32,000 patrons, individuals and institutions, around the state enrolled in the Florida Talking Books network. For more information about the Division of Blind Services, visit dbs.myflorida.com.
For more information about the Florida Department of Education, visit www.fldoe.org.
As Florida families begin preparing for another school year, Department of Education Commissioner Pam Stewart and Department of Revenue Executive Director Leon Biegalski are reminding Floridians that they can save money on school supplies and clothing during the 2017 Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday August 4 – 6.
“This is a wonderful opportunity for families to save money while purchasing the supplies their students will need for school,” said Commissioner of Education Pam Stewart. “The start of a new school year is always an exciting time for Florida students, and the back-to-school sales tax holiday makes it easier for parents and students to prepare for a successful year.”
“The Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday is an event Florida’s families look forward to at this time of the year. We encourage Floridians to visit floridarevenue.com to learn more about the sales tax holiday and to share the available promotional materials with friends and family,” said Executive Director Biegalski. “Additionally, the Department is available to assist businesses and individuals with any questions they may have during this time.”
The 2017 Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday was passed by the Florida Legislature and signed into law by Governor Rick Scott. It runs Friday, August 4 – Sunday, August 6. During this sales tax holiday period, qualifying items will be exempt from tax including most school supplies selling for $15 or less per item; clothing, footwear and accessories selling for $60 or less per item; and personal computers and computer-related accessories purchased for noncommercial home or personal use selling for $750 or less per item.
For more information and to view the lists of qualifying items, visit the Department of Revenue’s Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday website at floridarevenue.com/backtoschool.
For more information about the Florida Department of Education, visit www.fldoe.org.
Ten Florida schools were recognized today by the Florida Department of Education (FDOE) and the Florida Parent Teacher Association (PTA) with the Family and Community Involvement Award. Schools were honored during the PTA’s annual leadership conference.
“It is an honor to recognize these schools with the Family and Community Involvement Award,” said Commissioner of Education Pam Stewart. “As a former teacher and principal, I have seen firsthand the importance of positive family impact and community involvement, and the effect it can have on the lives of our students. I applaud these schools for going above and beyond by proactively developing meaningful engagement with family and community members.”
“It is our extreme pleasure to host the Department of Education’s Family and Community Involvement Awards Breakfast,” said Florida PTA President Cindy Gerhardt. “Florida PTA has enjoyed many years of partnership with this event and I feel that it is the perfect opportunity to not only showcase the outstanding programs being created in our schools, but a way to bring together school leaders who believe that parent engagement is paramount. Whether the award winning schools have a PTA or not, it is the shared belief that ALL children do better when a parent or caregiver is engaged in their education that draws us together and inspires us to keep working side by side.”
The Family and Community Involvement Award is sponsored by the Florida Department of Education, Florida PTA, Wells Fargo and State Farm Insurance. It recognizes exemplary school practices that focus on increasing family involvement, welcoming families into the local school system, providing effective communication, supporting student success, and promoting collaboration with the community.
The 2016-17 Family and Community Involvement Award Winners are below.
REGION I
Santa Rosa County
Bagdad Elementary School
Bulldogs in the House
Leon County
Fort Braden K-8 School
Fort Braden Reads
REGION II
St. Johns County
Ocean Palms Elementary School
Change for a Change
Duval County
Mandarin High School
For the Love of Reading
REGION III
Orange County
Bay Lake Elementary School
Back to School Food Truck
Orange County
Freedom Middle School
Freedom Middle School Title I Family Involvement and Community Events
REGION IV
Manatee County
Daughtrey Elementary School
The Walking School Bus
Pinellas County
Countryside High School
Countryside High School Career Center and its College and Career Fair
REGION V
Palm Beach County
South Olive Elementary School
Latino Community Cares Event
Palm Beach County
Congress Middle School
Boys and Blue at Congress Middle School
For more information on Family and Community Outreach programs, visit http://www.fldoe.org/family/.
For more information about the Florida Department of Education, visit www.fldoe.org.
Governor Rick Scott and First Lady Ann Scott today joined Florida Department of Education and Macy’s to announce Tammy Jerkins as the 2018 Teacher of the Year. Tammy is a secondary mathematics teacher from Leesburg High School in Lake County with 25 years of experience in public education.
Governor Rick Scott said, “First Lady Ann Scott and I are proud to join Macy’s and the Florida Department of Education to recognize the 2018 Teacher of the Year, Tammy Jerkins. I’d like to thank all of these educators for their incredible impact on Florida students and I applaud their commitment to preparing them for higher education and successful careers. The workers and leaders of tomorrow are in our classrooms today and every day, Florida teachers go above and beyond to ensure their success.”
Tammy Jerkins, secondary mathematics teacher from Leesburg High School in Lake County, was named the 2018 Macy’s/Florida Department of Education Teacher of the Year at the awards gala held tonight at Hard Rock Live at Universal Studios Orlando. Educators from throughout the state of Florida attended the event to celebrate excellence in education as well as Tammy’s friends and family to celebrate her accomplishment. The event was hosted by journalist Neki Mohan. Governor Rick Scott, First Lady Ann Scott, Florida Commissioner of Education Pam Stewart, and Macy’s Executive Vice President Regional Director of Stores Dennis Witte were on-hand to make the announcement.
Governor Rick Scott said, “First Lady Ann Scott and I are proud to join Macy’s and the Florida Department of Education to recognize the 2018 Teacher of the Year, Tammy Jerkins. I’d like to thank all of these educators for their incredible impact on Florida students and I applaud their commitment to preparing them for higher education and successful careers. The workers and leaders of tomorrow are in our classrooms today and every day, Florida teachers go above and beyond to ensure their success.”
Dennis Witte, Macy’s Executive Vice President Regional Director of Stores said, “Teachers generously give of themselves every day to educate, inspire and motivate their students. By doing this, they elevate and empower future generations to achieve great things. Macy’s is thankful to have the opportunity to celebrate and honor Tammy Jerkins for the contributions she is making by ensuring our students are equipped with critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are vital to Florida’s success.”
This marks the 29th year of Macy’s sponsorship of the Florida Teacher of the Year program. Macy’s and the Florida Department of Education presented Jerkins with a check totaling $25,000, a $1,000 wardrobe, a $1,000 check for her school and an all-expense paid trip for four to New York City to attend this year’s Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
Commissioner of Education Pam Stewart said, “Congratulations to Tammy Jerkins on being selected as Florida’s 2018 Teacher of the Year. Mrs. Jerkins’ career has been marked by her commitment to excellence and service to Florida’s students. I look forward to working with her over the next year during her term as the Christa McAuliffe Ambassador for Education.”
The remaining four finalists were presented with a $17,535.00 check from the Florida Department of Education and Macy’s – Elementary school teacher Katelyn Fiori from Vero Beach Elementary School in Indian River County; Exceptional Education teacher Diego Fuentes from the Hillcrest School in Marion County; Elementary school teacher Michael Miller from Kissimmee Elementary School Elementary School in Osceola County; and Mathematics and AVID teacher Vanessa Ko from Palm Harbor Middle School in Pinellas County. Each of the finalists’ schools received a $1,000 check during each of the announcements.
For the 2018 Teacher of the Year program, Governor Rick Scott secured additional state funds for teachers in the program to significantly increase these awards honoring Florida’s top educators.
Additionally, Macy’s presented the Magic of Engagement Award to Keli Sare from Sallie Jones Elementary School in Charlotte County; the Magic of Believing Award to April Wallace from the Florida School for the Deaf and Blind; the Magic of Leadership Award to Jason Kester from Mainland High School in Volusia County; and the Magic of Giving Back to Lauralee Mitchell from Shadeville Elementary School in Wakulla County. Each of these awards were presented to four educators who went beyond the basic job description with unique abilities to continue positive growth in their students.
For the past 29 years, Macy’s has annually contributed to the state-run Teacher of the Year program, making it one of the largest corporate cash contributions to Florida public schools. To date, Macy’s has contributed almost $3 million to teachers throughout the state.
The Florida Teacher of the Year was chosen from 195,744 public school teachers throughout the state by a Department of Education-appointed selection committee representing teachers, principals, parents and the business community. Florida’s top educator was selected on the basis of the superior ability to teach and communicate knowledge of the subject taught, professional development, philosophy of teaching and outstanding school and community service. The most important qualification was the teacher’s ability to inspire a love of learning in students of all backgrounds and abilities.
During the gala event, the remaining 68 district winners from around the state were also recognized for their achievements and excellence in teaching. Each of the nominees were presented with a $10,880 personal cash award from the Department of Education and Macy’s.
About Macy’s
Macy’s, the largest retail brand of Macy’s, Inc. (NYSE:M), delivers fashion and affordable luxury to customers at approximately 775 locations in 45 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and Guam, as well as to customers in the U.S. and more than 100 international destinations through its leading online store at macys.com. Via its stores, e-commerce site, mobile and social platforms, Macy’s offers distinctive assortments including the most desired family of exclusive and fashion brands for him, her and home. Macy’s is known for such epic events as Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks® and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade®, as well as spectacular fashion shows, culinary events, flower shows and celebrity appearances. Macy’s flagship stores including Herald Square in New York City, Union Square in San Francisco, State Street in Chicago, Dadeland in Miami and South Coast Plaza in southern California are known internationally and leading destinations for visitors. Building on a more than 150-year tradition, and with the collective support of customers and employees, Macy’s helps strengthen communities by supporting local and national charities giving more than $69 million each year to help make a difference in the lives of our customers.
For more information about the Florida Department of Education, visit www.fldoe.org.
The Florida Department of Education released school grades for the 2016-17 school year and applauded Florida’s students and educators for contributing to significant improvement over last year.
Governor Rick Scott said, “When I was growing up, I had access to a great public education which helped me achieve my goals and build a great career. Every student in Florida deserves the same opportunity. Floridians should be proud of the continuous improvement of our K-12 schools. I am thankful for the dedicated teachers, students and parents who work every day to advance education in our schools.”
“I am incredibly proud of our state’s students, parents, teachers and leaders for their hard work, which led to these exceptional outcomes,” said Commissioner of Education Pam Stewart. “Today’s announcement is further evidence that Florida’s accountability system is integral to ensuring all students have access to the high-quality education they deserve. It is particularly important in identifying low-performing schools that need additional assistance to help their students reach their full potential. I am proud that more than two-thirds of the schools that were being monitored through the school improvement program improved to a C or better.”
The Florida Department of Education calculates school grades annually based on up to 11 components, including student achievement and learning gains on statewide, standardized assessments and high school graduation rate. School grades provide parents and the general public an easily understandable way to measure the performance of a school and understand how well each school is serving its students.
Statewide Highlights
Low-Performing Schools
In addition to school grades, the department also calculates district grades annually based on the same criteria. Eight school districts improved their district grade from a “B” in 2015-16 to an “A” in 2016-17, and 10 school districts improved their district grade from a “C” in 2015-16 to a “B” in 2016-17. Forty-eight of Florida’s 67 school districts are now graded “A” or “B,” up from 38 in 2015-16. Additionally, 50 of Florida’s school districts have no “F” graded schools in 2016-17.
For more information about school grades, visit http://schoolgrades.fldoe.org/.
For more information about the Florida Department of Education, visit www.fldoe.org.
