Orange County School Board could call for mask mandate
Teachers and parents have been sounding off about Governor Ron DeSantis and his ban on mask mandates in schools. On Monday, a judge will hear a lawsuit arguing that the governor's executive order infringes on student safety.
Kids getting home late; OCPS considers bonuses to attract bus drivers
Some parents of students enrolled in Orange County Public Schools (OCPS) are frustrated with late school bus pick-ups and drop-offs.
Jacobs: Orange County exploring school mask mandate with no opt-out
Four of the five largest school districts in Florida are now defying an executive order by Gov. Ron DeSantis barring them from imposing strict mask mandates in schools. Orange County may join that list when the school board convenes next Tuesday.
Orange County Public Schools looking to offer rapid testing during school
Winegard Elementary School on Thursday will offer rapid COVID testing after school for students. It’s part of a new initiative by the Florida Department of Health to increase access to testing and prevent the spread in schools.
Orange County Public Schools to offer COVID-19 testing on campuses
Orange County Public Schools hopes to keep curbing coronavirus cases in classrooms by making it easier for students, staff and their families to get tested for COVID-19 at different schools each day.
School districts post COVID dashboards for first week of school
The COVID dashboard is up for week one at Orange County Public Schools (OCPS) with just a fraction of Orange County students and staff testing positive for coronavirus.
Florida school mask battle heads to court
A legal battle over Gov. Ron DeSantis’ July 30 executive order seeking to block local school districts from requiring students to wear masks will move forward Thursday.
Youth sports programs suspended in Orange County over COVID worries
Orange County has suspended its youth sports league due to the resurgence of the coronavirus. This includes practices and games. Mayor Jerry Demings said this impacts roughly 1,100 children.
Seminole to face Jones after COVID concerns leads to cancellation of Edgewater football game
Edgewater High cancels game out of caution over possible COVID cases. Seminole High rebounds with match against Orlando Jones.
Orange County prepares for school by detailing COVID protocols
Over 209,000 students are ready to return to the classroom. Orange County says the key to keeping schools safe is by keeping the community safe.
Central Florida parents file lawsuit over mask mandate ban in schools
The group wants an executive order signed by the Governor to be rescinded. The order bars schools from requiring students to wear masks.
Orange County to require masks in schools with opt-out choice
Students and staff in the Orange County Public Schools (OCPS) will be required to wear a face mask when classes resume, according to Superintendent Dr. Barbara Jenkins. However, parents can send a note stating their child will be "opting out" if they disapprove of the face coverings.
Orange County Public Schools to require masks for employees
Gov. Ron DeSantis recently signed an executive order prohibiting mandatory masks for students.
Orange County Public Schools offering $200 vaccine incentive to employees
Orange County Public Schools is offering a cash incentive for employees to get vaccinated.
CDC recommendation re-ignites mask debate in schools
Passionate debate over masking in schools is re-ignited in Orange and Seminole Counties over the CDC's masking recommendation.
Orange County's optional mask policy in schools could be back up for debate
With coronavirus cases rising, Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings said he is very concerned about schools reopening because masks are optional for Orange County Schools this year.
VA announces COVID-19 vaccine mandate for medical employees, staff
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs announced on Monday that VA health care personnel will be required to get vaccinated against COVID-19.
Father and son, both former Central Florida police officers, arrested in Capitol riot investigation
Federal prosecutors have identified Kevin A. Tuck, 51, and his son, Nathaniel A. Tuck, 29, as the subjects of arrests related to the Jan. 6 Capitol Riot.
Orange County School Board votes to make masks optional in upcoming school year
The public will be allowed to weigh in.
Orange County Schools to hold vote on making masks optional
During the meeting on Tuesday, the public will be allowed to make comments. If a ‘yes’ vote goes through, the new policy will take effect on August 2, 2021.