South Ocala Elementary School welcome back over 700 students.
Local
5 months ago
First day of school brings smiles to South Ocala Elementary | PHOTOS

South Ocala Elementary School welcomed students back for the first day of the 2025–26 school year with bright smiles, new backpacks, and an unmistakable sense of excitement.

Man experiencing homelessness sitting on sidewalk receiving money from passerby.
Local
5 months ago
Marion County leaders push for broader homelessness definition to capture hidden cases

Advocates say school-based McKinney-Vento data offers a more accurate picture than HUD’s Point-in-Time count.

MCPS Starts August 11th
Education
5 months ago
What parents need to know before school starts-August 11 in Marion County

Marion County students head back to school on Monday, August 11, and parents are gearing up for a smooth start. From orientation schedules and bell times to transportation info and afterschool care, here’s everything families need to know for the first day of school in Ocala.

A yellow marquee sign in front of Sunrise Elementary School displays the message: "LAST DAY OF SCHOOL 5/29 ENJOY YOUR SUMMER." The sign is set against a backdrop of trees and a quiet road, indicating a peaceful school environment.
Education
5 months ago
Schools to start adhering to House Bill 1105 banning cell phone use in schools in late August 

Marion County and Alachua County public schools begin adjusting phone policies to adhere to House Bill 1105 banning phones in elementary and middle schools while limiting high school use.

Scarlett Phillips sits in a vehicle wearing a green dress and pearl necklace, smiling at the camera.
Features
5 months ago
Ocala teen inspired to pursue law and sign language after life-changing encounter

Florida Cyber Charter Academy student Scarlett Phillips plans to advocate for the deaf community through a legal career sparked by a meaningful moment of connection.

Eliot Kleinberg wearing glasses and a suit speaks during a lecture.
Education
5 months ago
Florida author Eliot Kleinberg to explore World War II’s surprising impact on the Sunshine State

The “Weird Florida” writer headlines CF’s Stearns Speaker Series with a deep dive into how the war reshaped Florida’s history.

To the left in the background, bookcases with books and other items, along the far wall items on bookcases, tiny chairs and desks, an American flag by the window, a couple in the middle of the room standing on a carpeted floor. to the right in the foreground, tiny desks and chairs.
Education
5 months ago
Belleview Montessori School to open Aug. 2, offering hands-on learning for ages 2–5

Husband-and-wife team brings decades of Montessori experience to Belleview with a focus on early education, child-led discovery, and strong academic foundations.

State
5 months ago
Florida’s back-to-school tax holiday returns August 1: Save on supplies, clothing, and tech

Families can enjoy a full month of tax-free shopping on school essentials, with savings on laptops, backpacks, and more through August 31.

Mark Harrison holds oversized check on stage after winning 2026 Florida Teacher of the Year award.
Education
6 months ago
CF alumnus named 2026 Florida Teacher of the Year

Mark Harrison honored for excellence in education, community leadership, and student advocacy.

Education
6 months ago
Marion County schools expand with new programs, campuses, and major upgrades

From aviation mechanics to new school openings, Superintendent Brewer outlines bold plans for growth and improvement across the district.

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