Testing alternatives: A bill is filed in the Legislature that would allow students to use standardized tests, such as the SAT and ACT, instead of the Florida Standards Assessments to measure students' knowledge. Schools boards would choose the options, says State Sen. Don Gaetz, R-Niceville, the bill sponsor. Miami Herald. Orlando Sentinel.

School impact fees: The Manatee County Commission votes to impose school impact fees on new residential development for the first time since 2009. The collection begins in April. Bradenton Herald. Sarasota Herald-Tribune.

Soccer player dies: A 16-year-old T. Dewitt Taylor Middle-High School student collapses and dies during a soccer game Wednesday. Rosio Delao died of an apparent asthma attack. Daytona Beach News-Journal.

Community schools: C.A. Weis Elementary School in Pensacola becomes the second in the state to transform into a community school. A community school prioritizes health, growth and learning, community engagement and safety. Pensacola News Journal. Tallahassee City Commissioner Gil Ziffer criticizes Leon County school officials for their hesitation in moving ahead on building a community school. Tallahassee Democrat.

Quarterly assessments: As the Pasco County School District begins its quarterly assessments of students' progress, the controversy over the benefits of the program continues. Tampa Bay Times. (more…)

Teacher evaluations: The Florida Department of Education has told superintendents it intends to give greater weight to teachers with multiple years of success in the value-added model evaluation system. It also sent a list of 32 elementary teachers who meet the highly effective criteria in reading and math, and those from five districts who scored unsatisfactory in both. Gradebook.

Testing scores: The Florida Board of Education votes Wednesday on how to score the new Florida Standards Assessments tests. This Q&A touches on the controversy and the potential impact of the decision. Orlando Sentinel.

Legislative agenda: State Sen. John Legg, R-Lutz and chairman of the education committee, says class sizes and teacher bonuses are the most pressing education matters for the Legislature to tackle in the session that starts Jan. 12. WUSF.

Private investors: Two Florida legislators want the state to allow private investment "to solve social issues." Utah has adopted such a model to pay preschool costs for children who had been expected to need special-education services. Gradebook. New York Times. (more…)