When Ms. Shaunte Jemison of Re-imagine Communities set out to transform Phillis Wheatley Elementary’s media center and create a community art project, she had no idea just how impactful this initiative would become.

Despite being sheathed in reflective gear and stationed in what should be the safest part of the street, Streetsblog reported that as many as 73 crossing guards were struck between 2012 and 2022 in New York City.

The Foundation for OCPS has received a $400,000 grant from the Florida Blue Foundation to strengthen school-based food pantries and expand access to nutritious food. The funding will support students and families facing food insecurity throughout Orange County Public Schools.

Florida health officials are considering removing four vaccination requirements for school and childcare entry. Epidemiologist Katrine L. Wallace explains the diseases these vaccines prevent and why declining vaccination rates could put more children at risk.

Scientists are studying mitochondria from three angles – the fuel they burn, the messages they send and the structure that holds them together. Here’s what key NAD+ and peptide studies have found so far.

Orange County School Board members reviewed initial student assessment results and campus micromobility enforcement during their Oct. 27 work session. Approximately 1,150 devices are registered at district high schools, with repeated violations potentially leading to confiscation and loss of campus privileges.

The road to Nov. 3 runs through debates over housing costs, traffic, health care, and government accountability. This voter guide examines five races affecting Apopka-area residents and reintroduces the candidates, their priorities, and the choices awaiting voters.

AI hiring tools can streamline recruitment, but they can also reinforce biases and leave qualified applicants struggling to get an interview. Second Harvest’s Keonna Yearwood-Branch explains how job training and direct employer relationships can help candidates move beyond automated screening.

Strong Towns Apopka and local partners will host West Orange Trail Beautification Day on Saturday, Oct. 24, from 8 to 10 a.m. Residents and families can help with native plantings, participate in art activities and attend a dedication celebrating the collaborative project.

UF/IFAS Extension Orange County’s November schedule features eight programs ranging from financial education for renters and homebuyers to backyard chicken care and wildlife habitat. Events run Nov. 4-19, with registration required and fees ranging from free to $12.51.

Lightning interrupted Apopka’s Senior Night matchup against Timber Creek with the Blue Darters leading 12-7 and 10:42 remaining in the second quarter. The occasion also highlighted the contributions of Apopka’s graduating seniors and younger players poised to take on bigger roles next season.

Orange County Public Schools will host its Parent Academy School Choice Expo on Saturday, October 17, from 9 am to 12:30 pm at Lake Buena Vista High School. Apopka families and others across the district can explore magnet schools, scholastic academies, virtual learning, and alternative education programs.

Florida Education Commissioner Henry Mack defended a proposed rewrite of public school science standards, saying it still includes evolution and climate science. An October 27 listening session in Orange County will give Apopka families and educators an opportunity to discuss the changes before a planned December vote.