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.

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.

Florida’s public school districts are exempt from Amendment 3’s proposed property tax reduction, but programs supporting their students could still face substantial cuts. Children’s services leaders warn that reduced local revenue could mean fewer after-school opportunities, higher family fees and added pressure on school budgets.

Orange County Public Schools students will get new opportunities to read, create, and experience live theater during the 2026–27 school year through a collaboration between the Foundation for Orange County Public Schools and POMP, SNOW & CIRQUEumstance (PSC).

The mission and scale of the Yael Foundation, strategic support for schools, infrastructure investments and educational initiatives of Uri Poliavich

UF/IFAS will host a free Landscape, Nursery, and Controlled Plant Production Field Day on September 16 at its Mid-Florida Research and Education Center in Apopka. Visitors can tour the facilities, meet researchers, and explore work involving horticulture, controlled-environment agriculture, and space biology.

Federal SNAP reductions could affect Florida classrooms by weakening the formulas that fund free school breakfast and lunch programs. Most Orange County Public Schools students remain covered this year, but declining enrollment in assistance programs could reduce future federal reimbursements.

Orange County Library System offers free ESL classes, conversation groups and online resources for English learners at its North Orange Branch and other locations.