The School District of Lee County received $1 million from the state to modernize the student transportation system.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis project will modernize the School District of Lee County\u2019s student transportation system by implementing a fully integrated system that incorporates real-time GPS and GIS data, enabling precise routing, live bus tracking, and streamlined operational adjustments,\u201d district spokesperson Krissy Houlihan said. \u201cThe upgraded platform will support multi-user collaboration, improve workflow efficiency, and offer enhanced communication tools that provide parents and guardians with accurate and timely updates. The initiative includes professional implementation, staff training, and ongoing support to ensure a smooth transition and sustained long-term success.\u201d<\/p>\n
The funding in the state budget also expands the district\u2019s existing weapons detection program and equipment, ensuring systems remain operational at all school entry points and that backup units are available for coverage during equipment downtime and after-school events to support continued student, staff, and community safety.<\/p>\n
Houlihan said the Southwest Florida Public Service Academy\u2019s Critical Fire Responder Facility, Safety and Security updates received $374,000 \u2014 which includes four training law enforcement vehicles to replace aging ones, and bathroom and locker room updates, as well as construction of a secure staff safety vestibule.<\/p>\n
Meanwhile, the K-12 public school funding from the state is the highest ever at $9,338 per student, an increase of $150 from last year.<\/p>\n
Houlihan said the approved budget also includes $1.56 billion for teacher\/instructional personnel salaries for the state, which is more than $200 million over the fiscal year 2025-26 budget.<\/p>\n
Other highlights for the state include $1.65 billion for early childhood education \u2014 including $431 million for voluntary prekindergarten, $290 million for the Safe Schools Allocation, and $15.4 million for civics engagement programs \u2014 including $7 million for the Florida Civics Seal of Excellence Program.<\/p>\n
The state budget also includes $732 million for workforce education \u2014 $473.5 million in operational funding for Career and Technical Education programs, $130 million for nursing education, and $20 million for the Governor\u2019s Pathways to Career Opportunities Grant Program.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe appreciate the continued investment in education reflected in this budget,\u201d she said. \u201cThe increases in per-student funding and teacher salary support are meaningful, and we\u2019re glad to see recurring funding streams that will continue to benefit our district and students moving forward.\u201d<\/p>\n
Houlihan said the district would like to thank state leadership and the local legislative delegation for their continued support and partnership on behalf of the district.<\/p>\n
\u201cTheir advocacy and commitment to education made a meaningful difference in this budget, and we\u2019re grateful for the collaborative relationship that continues to benefit our students and community,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n