executive order

A USF epidemiologist testified that a Brown University study referenced by Gov. Ron DeSantis to defend his executive order is problematic.

The change would be in violation of rules enacted to enforce Gov. Ron DeSantis’ executive order requiring parents to make mask decisions for their children.

The mandate allows opt-outs only for medical reasons or for special needs students on Individual Education Plans who can't wear masks.

Education Commissioner Richard Corcoran has recommended both districts be punished, which could include withholding funds or even removal of leaders from office.

After a largely procedural Zoom hearing Friday, a state judge scheduled a Thursday hearing unless he decides to dismiss the case beforehand.

The Board of Education will allow vouchers if parents feel their children are being bullied under a district’s COVID safety policies. Also, the Health Department gave parents the right to opt out of mandates.

Gov. Ron DeSantis said he won't back down from his executive order, saying that parents in Florida will decide whether their children wear masks in schools.

Hillsborough County School District officials talked about COVID-19 safety precautions — and expressed frustration with state restrictions — at a press conference Wednesday morning.

Gov. Ron DeSantis issued an executive order that prohibits school districts from imposing mask-wearing requirements. He says parents should have the option to decide for their children.

School districts across the state can still decide whether face masks will be required following Gov. Ron DeSantis' executive order. Some have already made that determination.