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Despite denials by officials, University of Florida academics continue to insist the chill on academic freedom is real. Its affecting critical research, they said in a new report. The role of universities on society should not be ignored. A new study shows they have major effects. Read on for those stories and more Florida education news.

The fear of upsetting state officials has become pervasive at the University of Florida. Some faculty members said they felt compelled to destroy COVID-19 data in the midst of the pandemic.

How much does a university impact its community? Researchers pegged the University of South Floridas economic effect at $6 billion a year.

Masking: A Flagler County School Board member told students they didnt have to wear masks during their SAT test. The SAT had issued rules requiring masks, the Palm Coast Observer reports. More from Flagler Live.

Security: The Escambia County school district is looking to hire 20 additional school guards for elementary schools, the Pensacola News Journal reports.

Culture wars: Students at a Sarasota County middle school were disciplined for chanting (expletive) Joe Biden. Their parents support the punishment, the Herald-Tribune reports.

Construction costs: The Palm Beach County school districts construction plans are delayed as costs increase. The district has taken on additional loans to cover the rising expenses, the Palm Beach Post reports.

Teacher pay: The Orange County school district said it cannot afford longevity supplements for veteran teachers as union officials have requested, the Orlando Sentinel reports.

A University of Miami football booster wants to build a new stadium on the Coral Gables Senior High campus. Miami-Dade County school district leaders are not on board, WFOR reports.

The Flagler County school district is seeking an impact fee increase. Officials find themselves needing to correct political rhetoric criticizing the proposal, Flagler Live reports.

The Duval County school district wants a new administration headquarters. First, it has to sell the current one, the Jacksonville Daily Record reports.

Yes, threats of school violence get you arrested even if a hoax. A 12-year-old Broward County girl was arrested for an Instagram threat to shoot up a middle school, WPLG reports. A 15-year-old Sarasota County boy was arrested over social media threats of violence against his high school, WFLA reports. A 15-year-old Miami-Dade County student faces felony charges after allegedly posting a threat against a high school, the Miami Times reports.

Dont miss a story. Heres the link to yesterdays roundup.

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Florida's universities have major effects on their communities - Tampa Bay Times