Don’t ‘force fit’ Florida test cut scores to NAEP, superintendents urge State Board

The lines have been clearly drawn in Florida’s approach to setting the “cut” scores for the Florida Standards Assessments five achievement levels. Some State Board of Education members have called for connecting the scores to NAEP proficiency levels, a position forcefully promoted by state business interests and former Gov. Jeb Bush’s education foundation. Education Commissioner…

Senate’s peace accord overshadows map meltdown

TALLAHASSEE — Any other day at the Capitol, a special redistricting session crashing and burning would be the dominate development in state government, but Thursday’s conclusion to a three-year battle for Senate president overshadowed what was yet another tough day for legislative leaders. Shortly before the Senate voted on a proposed redraw of the its…

Proposal aims to alter Florida school districts

Florida’s school districts would face fundamental changes in the way they operate under a newly filed bill by a Pinellas County lawmaker. Sen. Jeff Brandes, R-St. Petersburg, has joined Rep. Matt Caldwell, R-Fort Myers, to propose a constitutional amendment ending the requirement that all counties have independent school districts. If approved, the measure would result…