Broward County preparing for start of new school year

HALLANDALE BEACH, Fla. — The countdown is on before the start of a new school year, and Broward County Public Schools are gearing up.

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Superintendent Howard Hepburn says he’s ready for classes to begin on Monday.

“We’re excited to welcome all our students back,” he said. “Our teachers are already back. They’re preparing classrooms and readying themselves to welcome their students.”

The school district continues to face dwindling numbers in student enrollment, which means less funding.

School leaders say specialized curriculum will make a difference, including the space and aviation technology program at Miramar High School.

When it comes to food offerings, nearly 150 district schools are qualified for free meals, and families at remaining schools can apply for reduced lunches.

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“We had a surplus amount of money because of grants we received from COVID, and then we were able to have all of our students eat for free,” said Elizabeth Seeley with Broward County Public Schools. “But that surplus is now down.”

Even though full lunch prices will increase by $1 at all grade levels, all students can still enjoy breakfast for free.

“We are a very large district, and we have a lot of students, and all of them have different likes and dislikes and we want to be sure we’re offering a wide variety,” said Seeley.

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