Sara-James Ranta

Dec 11, 2024 | alligator.org | Sara-James Ranta

The Alachua County School Board introduced new board policies to align with state law at a meeting Tuesday night. Challenges to materials  The introduced board policies change the way instructional, library or reading materials are challenged within ACPS. They aim to streamline the process for challenging, while implementing stricter controls on objections to ensure a more efficient review process.

Dec 9, 2024 | wuft.org | Sara-James Ranta

In Gainesville, residents sat along the streets of University Avenue for the annual holiday parade this weekend. Over 100 community organizations participated on Saturday, including the parade's grand marshal, Shaquille O'Neal. Officials began planning the parade about four months ago.

Dec 3, 2024 | alligator.org | Sara-James Ranta

The Alachua County School Board unanimously passed a series of amendments to administrative job descriptions and kept four books on shelves. The changes, approved by the school board on Monday, emphasize compliance with evolving state laws while addressing the district's operational and educational goals. The updates reflect broader themes in recent Florida education legislation, including deregulation of public schools, curriculum content oversight and limitations on diversity programs.

Nov 20, 2024 | alligator.org | Sara-James Ranta

Over 75 people gathered Tuesday night to watch two community members take the oath of office to the Alachua County School Board. Each candidate gave a small speech at the end of their ceremonies. Gainesville resident Leanetta McNealy was sworn in for another four-year term leading District 4.

Nov 13, 2024 | alligator.org | Sara-James Ranta

The Alachua County School Board discussed changing board policy for magnet programs at its special meeting Wednesday. The policies aimed to establish consistency for student selection between all programs, including those recommended by the District Magnet Review Committee. It also addresses the increasing competition in school choice by making magnet applications open earlier, so the district can compete with charter and private school applications open around the same time frame.