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FCAT Scores Become Source of Controversy - 05/16/2012
Months after announcing that they would toughen up the FCAT standards, Florida education officials are lowering the passing score on the writing portion of the test. The number of student scoring a four or higher out of six fell from 81 percent last year to 27 percent this year.
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Fla. Students Take New, Tougher FCAT - 04/17/2012
Just as they did last year at this time, Florida students in public schools will be taking the Florida Comprehensive Achievement Test (FCAT). However, this year, the FCAT has been altered to uphold a higher standard. Not only has the test been made harder, but students now have to score hire to pass and the testis now being tied to teacher evaluations, adding to the pressure.
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Gov. Scott Signs School Prayer Bill - 04/06/2012
Last week Florida Governor Rick Scott signed a bill, SB 98, that would allow schools to have an 'inspirational message' delivered during school events. However, the language of the bill, and how 'inspirational message' is defined, has critics worried that the law will open up the state for new lawsuits.
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Florida Approves School Grading Changes - 03/01/2012
After facing criticism and controversy he Florida State Board of Education has approved revised changes to the state’s school grading system. Initially the proposed changes to the grading system were deemed too strict by parents, teachers, administrators and business leaders, which forced the board to revise their proposal.
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Florida Releases Achievement Rankings - 01/24/2012
The Florida Department of Education released its new rankings and grades of the 67 Florida school districts. The ranking’s implementation is aimed at providing a “user friendly” way for the public to gauge school progress. However, the list, a first of its kind, has garnered both support and criticism as school officials see the list potentially stigmatizing poor scoring districts.
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FL Gov. Promises $1 Billion to Education - 01/18/2012
Florida governor, Rick Scott announced that he will be adding $1 billion in new education funding during his State of the State address, stating that education is a key component in bolstering the state’s struggling economy.
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Florida High Schools Post High Scores - 01/11/2012
After implementing a new grading system two years ago, Florida high schools are posting markedly improved grades, with more schools posting A or B scores than ever. A record 78 percent of schools scored either an A or a B and only the number of failing schools dropped from 15 percent to 6 percent.
