School enrollment: State economists predict that public schools enrollment in Florida will be 2.82 million next year, down slightly from the July forecast of 2.83 million. They say that will help with the state's budget problems, but they still expect lawmakers to have to deal with a $450 million shortfall. Last year's gap was covered by the Legislature from the state budget, but House Speaker Richard Corcoran, R-Land O'Lakes, has said not to expect that to happen again next year. Naples Daily News.

Spending splurge: Over the past two years, Orange County School Board members have spent about $500,000 with little public oversight. Each of the eight members receives $40,000 a year to spend at his or her own discretion. It's the only central Florida school district with such a fund. Board members say they use the money to pay for extras. Among the extras was $2,500 a board member spent for a school mural that depicts herself. Orlando Sentinel.

Teacher preparation: Many Florida colleges do a poor job of preparing prospective elementary school teachers to teach math, according to a study by the National Council on Teacher Quality. Most of the Florida colleges reviewed received an F grade in this category. Orlando Sentinel.

Administrator under fire: An investigation concludes a Broward County school administrator misused his position while carrying on an affair with a school district community liaison. The district's Professional Standards Committee recommends that Israel Canales be fired. Canales, 54, is a manager of administrative support for the district. Canales says he will fight any move to fire him. Sun-Sentinel. (more…)