School budgeting: Property owners in Orange and Seminole counties can expect to pay more in school taxes this year. The millage rates for the districts will be slightly lower, but increases in property values will more than offset the millage declines. Orange County is projecting a school budget of more than $3.5 billion. Seminole County's budget is set at $951 million. Orlando Sentinel. The Volusia County School Board will consider a budget of $847 million that still leaves the district $9 million short of what it had hoped to spend. Daytona Beach News-Journal. The Manatee County School District will use about $4 million from its general reserves to balance its $608 million budget. But its reserves will still meet the state minimum of 3 percent, officials say. Bradenton Herald.

School suspensions: Bay County School District suspensions hit a seven-year high, even as state suspensions are at a three-year low. More than 3,000 students - 1 in 10 - were suspended in 2014-2015 school year. School officials say they are working on alternatives. Panama City News Herald.

School construction: School construction projects could be moved up under a Broward County School District proposal that will be reviewed by the school board this week. The projects originally scheduled for 2018 and 2019 would be undertaken in 2017. Voters approved a bond proposal in 2014 to repair schools. Sun-Sentinel.

Gifted program: The Duval County School District plans to expand the number and type of gifted middle school programs. But so far, the school board has called for revisions to the district's plans. Florida Times-Union.
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