Virtual schools. In the wake of concerns about funding cuts to Florida Virtual School, the Senate Rules Committee approves an amendment that would require the DOE to study funding for online courses and offer recommendations. StateImpact Florida.

Charter schools. The town of Juno Beach says no to allowing a charter school to open in a shopping center. Palm Beach Post.

Parent trigger. Miami Herald columnist Daniel Shoer Roth doesn't like it, calling it a "scam" and part of the "crusade to privatize public education."

Diplomas. The Senate okays more options for earning a high school diploma, including tracks that emphasize career education. Coverage from Orlando Sentinel, Gradebook, News Service of Florida, Tallahassee Democrat,  Panama City News Herald.

School spending. The Senate approves a proposed budget that includes a $1.2 billion increase for public education, reports The Buzz and the Associated Press. The Palm Beach County school district is facing a $35 million capital budget deficit, reports the South Florida Sun Sentinel. But that's better than the $60 million initially predicted, reports the Palm Beach Post. The Pinellas school district is cutting some high school librarians, reports Gradebook. In Pasco, no raises for a sixth year in a row, reports the Tampa Bay Times. Escambia district employees will get 2 percent more, reports the Pensacola News Journal. (more…)