Stay informed about education news and updates in Tampa Bay, FL.
Aquilla J. Morgan High School, named after a pioneering African American educator, opens in Wimauma, highlighting the significant contributions of its namesake as the first African American employee at Wimauma Elementary in the 1960s. This development underscores the importance of recognizing educational trailblazers in the community.
Aquilla J. Morgan High School, named after the pioneering educator and first African American employee at Wimauma Elementary, will open in August 2025 in Hillsborough County. Advocated by Morgan's granddaughter, Latoya Lovett, the school symbolizes a long-awaited recognition of Morgan's contributions to education in the community. The new high school is anticipated to be the largest in the county, welcoming thousands of students and honoring Morgan's legacy.
A new Florida law mandates that all school volunteers must pass a Level 2 background check, effective March 1, 2025. Senate Bill 676, passed in the 2023 legislative session, aims to enhance safety in schools, though the $97 cost of the checks raises concerns about accessibility for some individuals. Polk County Schools temporarily halted volunteer applications to assess the financial impact of the legislation but plans to resume accepting applications soon.
The Medical Sales College in St. Petersburg is experiencing a surge in applications, with a 40% increase reported in 2024, reflecting the growing demand for medical sales representatives in a booming $190 billion medical device industry. With 16 campuses across the U.S. and plans for expansion, the college is dedicated to equipping students like Juhmal Eastland with the necessary skills to succeed in this fast-paced field.
Dogs Inc, a nonprofit organization in Manatee County, hosted pre-veterinary students from Florida Southern College for an educational tour aimed at addressing the veterinary shortage. Students gained practical insights into veterinary practices, with a focus on the importance of expanding career pathways in animal medicine.
Stephanie Ferreira, a former teacher in Pinellas County, has launched the Mobile STEM Academy to provide engaging, hands-on STEM experiences for students directly in the classroom. By creating lesson plans that incorporate fun activities, Ferreira aims to inspire a love for science, technology, engineering, and math among young learners.
Stephanie Ferreira, a seasoned educator with over 20 years of teaching experience, has launched the Mobile STEM Academy to innovate classroom learning by bringing field trips directly to students in the Bay area. This initiative not only enriches the educational experience but also inspires curiosity and engagement among young learners.
Pasco County Schools are set to enhance learning environments by constructing permanent walls in 700 open classrooms, addressing increased distractions and improving student safety. The initiative, driven by teacher feedback, reflects a shift from outdated classroom designs to more conducive academic settings, with repairs expected to be completed over the next 18 to 24 months at a cost of $3,000 per classroom.
The Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI) in Tampa has announced plans to open the second-largest planetarium in the United States by 2025. This development is significant for the local community, providing enhanced educational and recreational opportunities.
Pinellas County elementary students showcased their artistic talents at the annual Creative stART exhibit held at the Dunedin Fine Art Center. This event highlights the creativity and skills of young artists in the community, emphasizing the importance of art education. Local families and art enthusiasts enjoyed the vibrant displays created by the students.