Martin County School Board Weighs Future of High School Pool and Virtual Program Expansion

Overview: The Martin County School Board convened to deliberate on the future of the Martin County High School pool and the expansion of the virtual school program. The meeting saw public input advocating for the preservation of the pool, and discussions on the establishment of a virtual school program that could potentially include new courses such as driver’s education, hope, and Spanish.

Martin County School Board Expands Controlled Open Enrollment

Overview: In a recent emergency meeting, the Martin County School Board unanimously approved the addition of controlled open enrollment for two high schools, a decision set to impact student distribution and school capacities. The board focused on ensuring that new enrollments would be full-time equivalent students, including those engaged in dual enrollment, work study, or internships, rather than students with significant off-block schedules that could potentially distort the allocation of available seats. The enrollment form will become available to both residents and non-residents, with priority given to Martin County residents and other specific groups such as children of district employees, students in foster care, those with a court order, or children of active military members. A lottery system will be used for seat allocation.

Martin County School Board Addresses Teacher Retention and Health Insurance

Overview: During a recent Martin County School Board meeting, concerns regarding teacher retention and health insurance were brought to the forefront. Teachers aired grievances about low salaries and the difficulties of living on such wages in Martin County, while the board examined health insurance plan renewal options with Florida Blue.