Hillsborough schools

When Cristina Vega stumbled upon the Redland Migrant Christian Association's Community Academy, which runs a dual-language program with cultural awareness, she "fell in love with the place."

The Florida Department of Education released the 2023-24 school grades report this week. One of the highlights for the greater Tampa Bay region was Pinellas County's first districtwide A in two decades of reports.

The Classic Learning Test made national headlines last fall when the state approved it as a college admissions exam. It can also be used to fulfill high school graduation requirements and secure state scholarships.

The Hillsborough County School Board voted 4-3 to approve new school boundaries. The plan will take effect in the 2024-25 school year.

After hours of public comment, board members voted Tuesday to close Just Elementary. A second vote will be held on May 9.

Board members voted unanimously against making a decision on the boundary changes at Tuesday's meeting. They will hold another workshop on March 9.

Hillsborough County School Board members heard a fourth proposal that was touted late last week by Superintendent Addison Davis.

Though the margin of defeat for the referendum narrowed a bit since election night, it still failed to pass by 590 votes, or .26%.

Under the Legislature’s plan, districts in Hillsborough, Sarasota, and 10 other counties would have been ineligible for the money because they had mask requirements.

Hillsborough Superintendent Addison Davis said these changes will be explained to officials at upcoming principal meetings and the summer leadership institute.

The programs will equip students for these fields, while their other courses will also prepare them for college.

While many Florida school districts are facing complaints about books deemed inappropriate for minors, not all officials are in full support of banning them.