The school system in Broward County, Florida , United States, known as Broward County Public Schools , stands as a colossal entity in the landscape of American education. It’s not just a school district; it’s a sprawling metropolis of learning, a veritable universe of students, educators, and facilities dedicated to shaping the future. Its motto, “Educating Today’s Students For Tomorrow’s World,” is a promise etched in the very fabric of its operations, a constant reminder of the profound responsibility it carries.

Broward County Public Schools

This public school district is the lifeblood of education for Broward County, Florida , a significant region within the United States. Its sheer scale is staggering; it proudly holds the title of the sixth largest public school system in the entire nation. Imagine that. A system so vast it rivals the populations of many small countries, all focused on the singular pursuit of knowledge. The administrative heart of this empire beats in the downtown area of Fort Lauderdale, Florida , a city that serves as the central hub for this educational behemoth. It’s worth noting, with a certain dry amusement, that Broward County Public Schools is the only school district within the county, a testament to its comprehensive reach.

As of the 2023–2024 academic year, a staggering 251,106 students were enrolled across its 326 schools and various educational centers. That’s a number that demands respect, a sea of young minds navigating the complexities of learning. The district’s budget, a hefty $3.86 billion in 2017, reflects the immense financial undertaking required to sustain such an operation. And then there are the educators: 14,403 teachers, supported by a total staff of 31,691 individuals in 2023. These are the architects of intellect, the guardians of potential, working tirelessly to fulfill that ambitious motto. The district is affiliated with the Florida Education Association , a key player in the state’s educational ecosystem.

History

The history of Broward County Public Schools is, like many institutions, a narrative of evolution, struggle, and adaptation. It’s a story that, frankly, could use a bit more depth, more of the raw, unvarnished truth. But for now, we have what we have.

Before 1966, the educational landscape was starkly, tragically divided. The county maintained entirely separate school systems for White and Black students, a relic of a deeply unjust past. The year 1966 marked a hesitant step towards a more equitable future, with the school district initiating experiments that allowed a select number of Black students to learn alongside their White peers. This tentative integration eventually blossomed, culminating in the full racial integration of the schools in 1969. It’s a period that deserves more than just a footnote; it was a seismic shift, a necessary dismantling of ingrained prejudice.

The leadership of the district has seen its share of changes, each superintendent leaving their mark, for better or worse. William J. Leary helmed the district until 1988. It’s reported that the school board, for reasons that remain somewhat opaque, decided not to let him complete his term, opting instead to pay him a severance package of $113,516. A rather substantial sum, one might observe, for a premature departure.

Virgil “Sam” Morgan took the reins in 1988, serving for over five years before retiring in 1994. His tenure was followed by that of Frank Petruzielo , who served as superintendent from 1994 until 1999. Then came Frank Till, appointed in 1999. His time was cut short in 2006 when he was dismissed by the school board, reportedly for no discernible reason. This abrupt termination raises more questions than it answers.

James Notter stepped into the role in 2006, only to resign his position in 2011. The subsequent appointment of Robert Runcie in 2011 ushered in a period marked by significant, tragic events. The devastating Parkland school shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High occurred during his leadership, a wound that continues to shape the district. This was followed by the unprecedented disruption of the COVID-19 pandemic . Runcie’s tenure ended controversially in 2021 when he was arrested by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement on a felony charge of perjury, stemming from a grand jury investigation commissioned by Governor Ron DeSantis in 2019 to examine safety and security protocols post-Parkland. His subsequent resignation in 2021 was a dramatic conclusion to a turbulent period.

Dr. Vickie Cartwright was appointed interim superintendent in 2021, navigating a process that was apparently fraught with controversy. Despite this, she was eventually named permanent superintendent. However, her tenure was short-lived. In November 2022, following a shift in the school board composition due to gubernatorial appointments, Dr. Cartwright was fired. The board’s decision was later rescinded in December 2022 by newly elected members, but she ultimately resigned in 2023.

The current chapter is being written by Superintendent Howard Hepburn, who took office in August 2023. His predecessor, Peter B. Licata , served for a mere ten months before retiring in April 2024 due to health concerns, with Hepburn assuming the role immediately.

A recent development, since 2023, has been the emergence of a citizen group known as Truth Matters. They have been a consistent presence at school board meetings, vocally opposing motions supported by gubernatorial appointees and championing those put forth by elected board members. It suggests a growing engagement, perhaps a healthy skepticism, from the community regarding the district’s governance.

School Board

The governing body of this vast educational enterprise is the School Board, comprised of elected officials who hold the ultimate oversight. The current Superintendent, Dr. Howard Hepburn, serves under their direction. The members of this board, as of the current data, are:

• District 1 – Maura McCarthy Bulman
• District 2 – Rebecca Thompson
• District 3 – Sarah Leonardi (Vice Chair)
• District 4 – Lori Alhadeff
• District 5 – Dr. Jeff Holness
• District 6 – Adam Cervera, Esq.
• District 7 – Nora Rupert
• District 8 (At Large) – Dr. Allen Zeman
• District 9 (At Large) – Debra Hixon (Chair)

Superintendent of Schools

A chronological list of those who have held the esteemed, and often beleaguered, position of Superintendent provides a stark overview of the district’s leadership history:

• William J. Leary (1984–1988)
• Sam Morgan (1988–1994)
• Frank Petruzielo (1994–1999)
• Frank Till (1999–2006)
• James Notter (2006–2011)
• Robert Runcie (2011–2021)
• Vickie Cartwright (2021–2023)
• Earlean C. Smiley (2023)
• Peter B. Licata (2023–2024)
• Howard Hepburn (2024–present)

Controversies

It would be an oversight, a rather egregious one, to discuss Broward County Public Schools without delving into the controversies that have, at times, overshadowed its educational mission. These are not minor skirmishes; they are significant events that have tested the resilience of the district and the community.

Handling of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Shooting

The tragic events of February 14, 2018, when a former student unleashed unspeakable violence at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida , murdering 17 people and injuring 17 more, cast a long, dark shadow over the district. Superintendent Robert Runcie and the School Board found themselves under intense scrutiny regarding their handling of policies and the perceived lack of adequate guidance provided to the shooter during his time as a student.

A particular point of contention, voiced by some parents of Stoneman Douglas students, was the district’s creation of an alternative discipline program called “Promise.” This program was designed for students accused of nonviolent misdemeanors, and the Parkland shooter had been referred to it. Critics argued that this program, intended to offer a second chance, may have inadvertently contributed to the circumstances that allowed the tragedy to unfold.

The political ramifications were swift. During the lead-up to the 2018 gubernatorial election, Ron DeSantis , then a Republican candidate, publicly vowed to remove Runcie from his position, acknowledging, however, that the authority to do so rested with the school board. In February 2019, Governor DeSantis announced a statewide grand jury investigation into safety and security matters, a move that set the stage for further developments. In May 2021, the grand jury indicted Runcie for perjury during their investigation, prompting his announcement to step down. Supporters of Runcie, however, characterized the investigation and indictment as politically motivated, adding another layer of complexity and division to an already fraught situation.

School Closures and Mask Mandates During the COVID-19 Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic presented Broward County Public Schools with unprecedented challenges, leading to significant disruption and heated debates. In March 2020, the district made the drastic decision to shift almost entirely to online classes, a move that, while perhaps necessary, created its own set of educational and logistical hurdles. The gradual return to in-person instruction in the fall of 2020 was a complex process, marked by ongoing tension between the school board and the state government regarding the precise timing and protocols for reopening.

Throughout the 2020–2021 school year, the district implemented a strict mask mandate for all students and staff, a measure deemed essential for mitigating the spread of the virus. However, by the fall of 2021, mounting public opposition to mask mandates, fueled by various political and social currents, led Governor Ron DeSantis to issue an executive order prohibiting local school districts from enforcing such requirements.

In a bold act of defiance, the Broward County School Board chose to override the state government, continuing to mandate masks, aligning themselves with several other school districts across Florida. This stance provoked a strong reaction from the state. The Florida Board of Education responded by voting to prevent the district from enforcing its mask mandate and even threatened the replacement of elected board members. Governor DeSantis further escalated the conflict by withholding state funding from districts that refused to comply.

The federal government eventually intervened, offering to replace the withheld funds with federal dollars. However, the state then moved to block this federal funding as well. In response, the US Department of Education issued a warning to Florida, suggesting that the state’s actions might be in violation of federal law. This protracted battle highlighted the deep divisions and intense political pressures surrounding public health measures in educational settings during the pandemic.

List of Schools

The sheer number of educational institutions within Broward County Public Schools is a testament to its scale. During the 2023-2024 academic year, the district was responsible for a total of 326 institutions. This diverse array includes:

• 137 elementary schools, the foundational pillars of early learning.
• 35 middle schools, the crucial transition points for adolescents.
• 32 high schools, where students prepare for their futures.
• 9 combination schools, offering a blend of grade levels.
• 3 technical colleges, providing specialized vocational training.
• 23 educational centers, catering to specific needs and programs.
• And a significant 87 charter schools , operating with a degree of autonomy within the public system.

6-12 Secondary Schools

• Dillard High School 6-12 (established 1907)
• Lauderhill 6-12 STEM-MED
• Millennium 6-12 Collegiate Academy
• Pines Collegiate Academy 6-12

High Schools

The high school landscape is particularly rich, with institutions catering to a wide range of academic and vocational pursuits:

• Atlantic Technical College and Technical High School (1973)
• Blanche Ely High School (1951)
• Boyd H. Anderson High School (1971)
• Broward Virtual Education High (2001)
• Charles W. Flanagan High School (1996)
• Coconut Creek High School (1971)
• Cooper City High School (1971)
• College Academy @ BC (2001)
• Coral Glades High School (2004)
• Coral Springs High School (1975)
• Cypress Bay High School (2002)
• Dave Thomas Educational Center - formerly North County Educational Ctr. (1986)
• Dillard High School (1907)
• Deerfield Beach High School (1970)
• Everglades High School (2003)
• Fort Lauderdale High School (1899)
• Hallandale High School (1973)
• Hollywood Hills High School (1967)
• J. P. Taravella High School (1980)
• McArthur High School (1961)
• McFatter Technical College and Technical High School (1985)
• Miramar High School (1970)
• Monarch High School (2003)
• Northeast High School (1962)
• Nova High School (1960)
• Piper High School (1971)
• Plantation High School (1963)
• Pompano Beach High School (1928)
• Sheridan Technical College and High School (1967)
• South Broward High School (1952)
• South Plantation High School (1971)
• Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School (1990)
• Stranahan High School (1953)
• West Broward High School (2008)
• Western High School (1981)

Middle Schools

The district’s middle schools form a critical bridge between elementary and high school, nurturing students through their formative adolescent years:

• Apollo Middle School
• Arthur Ashe Middle School (now a campus of Atlantic Technical College)
• Attucks Middle School
• Bair Middle School
• Broward Virtual Middle
• Coral Springs Middle School
• Crystal Lake Middle School
• Deerfield Beach Middle School
• Driftwood Middle School
• Falcon Cove Middle School
• Forest Glen Middle School
• Glades Middle School
• Indian Ridge Middle School
• Lauderdale Lakes Middle School
• Lyons Creek Middle School
• Margate Middle School
• McNicol Middle School
• New Renaissance Middle School
• New River Middle School
• Nova Middle School
• Olsen Middle School
• Parkway Middle School of the Arts
• Pioneer Middle School
• Plantation Middle School
• Pompano Beach Middle School
• Ramblewood Middle School
• James S. Richtards Middle School
• Sawgrass Springs Middle School
• Seminole Middle School
• Silver Lakes Middle School
• Silver Trail Middle School
• Sunrise Middle School
• Tequesta Trace Middle School
• Walter C. Young Middle School
• Westglades Middle School
• Westpine Middle School
• William Dandy Middle School

Elementary Schools

The bedrock of the system, elementary schools, are numerous and widespread, providing the initial spark for countless young learners:

• Annabel C. Perry PreK-8
• Atlantic West Elementary School
• Banyan Elementary School
• Bayview Elementary School
• Beachside Montessori Village (K–8)
• Bennett Elementary School
• Mary M. Bethune Elementary School of the Arts
• Boulevard Heights Elementary School
• Broadview Elementary School
• Castle Hill Elementary School
• Central Park Elementary School
• Challenger Elementary School
• Chapel Trail Elementary School
• Coconut Creek K-8
• Coconut Palm Elementary School
• Colbert Elementary School
• Collins Elementary School
• Cooper City Elementary School
• Coral Cove K-8
• Coral Park Elementary School
• Coral Springs Elementary School
• Country Hills Elementary School
• Country Isles Elementary School
• Cresthaven Elementary School
• Croissant Park Elementary School
• Cypress Elementary School
• Dania Elementary School
• Davie Elementary School
• Deerfield Beach Elementary School
• Deerfield Park Elementary School
• Dillard Elementary School
• Discovery Elementary School
• Dolphin Bay Elementary School
• Charles Drew Elementary School
• Driftwood Elementary School
• Eagle Point Elementary School
• Eagle Ridge Elementary School
• Embassy Creek Elementary School (1992)
• Endeavour Primary Learning Center
• Everglades Elementary School
• Fairway Elementary School
• Flamingo Elementary School
• Floranada Elementary School
• Forest Hills Elementary School
• Stephen Foster Elementary School
• Fox Trail Elementary School
• Gator Run Elementary School
• Griffin Elementary School
• Gulfstream Academy of Hallandale Beach K-8
• Hawkes Bluff Elementary School
• Heron Heights Elementary School
• Harbordale Elementary School
• Hollywood Central K-8
• Hollywood Hills Elementary School
• Hollywood Park Elementary School
• Horizon Elementary School
• James S. Hunt Elementary School
• Indian Trace Elementary School
• Martin Luther King Elementary School
• Lake Forest Elementary School
• Lakeside Elementary School
• Larkdale Elementary School
• Lauderdale Manors Elementary School
• Lauderhill Paul Turner Elementary School
• Liberty Elementary School
• Lloyd Estates Elementary School
• Manatee Bay Elementary School
• Maplewood Elementary School
• Margate Elementary School
• McNab Elementary School
• Meadowbrook Elementary School
• Miramar Elementary School
• Mirror Lake Elementary School
• Morrow Elementary School
• Nob Hill Elementary School
• Norcrest Elementary School
• North Andrews Gardens Elementary School
• North Fork Elementary School
• North Lauderdale Elementary School
• North Side Elementary School
• Nova Blanche Forman Elementary School
• Nova Dwight D. Eisenhower Elementary School
• Oakland Park Elementary School
• Oakridge Elementary School
• Orange Brook Elementary School
• Oriole Elementary School
• Palm Cove Elementary School
• Palmview Elementary School
• Panther Run Elementary School (1998)
• Park Lakes Elementary School
• Park Ridge Elementary School
• Park Springs Elementary School
• Park Trails Elementary School
• Parkside Elementary School
• Pasadena Lakes Elementary School
• Pembroke Lakes Elementary School
• Pembroke Pines Elementary School
• Peters Elementary School
• Pines Lakes Elementary School
• Pinewood Elementary School
• Plantation Elementary School
• Plantation Park Elementary School
• Pompano Beach Elementary School
• Quiet Waters Elementary School
• Ramblewood Elementary School
• Riverglades Elementary School
• Riverland Elementary School
• Riverside Elementary School
• C. Robert Markham Elementary School
• Rock Island Elementary School
• Royal Palm Elementary School
• Sanders Park Elementary School
• Sandpiper Elementary School
• Sawgrass Elementary School
• Sea Castle Elementary School
• Sheridan Hills Elementary School
• Sheridan Park Elementary School
• Silver Lakes Elementary School
• Silver Palms Elementary School
• Silver Ridge Elementary School
• Silver Shores STEAM Academy K–8
• Stirling Elementary School
• Sunland Park Academy
• Sunset Lakes Elementary School
• Sunshine Elementary School
• Tamarac Elementary School
• Tedder Elementary School
• Thurgood Marshall Elementary School
• Tradewinds Elementary School
• Tropical Elementary School
• Village Elementary School
• Walker Elementary School
• Watkins Elementary School
• Welleby Elementary School
• West Hollywood Elementary School
• Westchester Elementary School
• Westwood Heights Elementary School
• Wilton Manors Elementary School
• Winston Park Elementary School
• Virginia Shuman Young Elementary School

Education Centers

Beyond traditional schools, the district operates a network of Education Centers, providing specialized services and programs:

• Atlantic Technical College
• Arthur Ashe Campus
• Beachside Montessori Village
• Bright Horizons Center
• Broward Estates Early Learning Center
• Charles Drew Family Resource Center
• Cross Creek School
• Cypress Run Education Center
• Endeavour Primary Learning Center
• Gulfstream Academy North
• Pine Ridge Ed. Center
• Quest Center
• Gulfstream Academy North
• Gulfstream Early Learning
• Henry Perry Center
• Whiddon Rogers Education Center
• Whispering Pines Center
• Wingate Oaks Center

Former Segregated Schools

The legacy of segregation is etched into the history of Broward County Public Schools , with a number of institutions serving as poignant reminders of a divided past. Initially, non-White schools were primarily elementary. However, through the dedicated efforts of educators like principals Blanche General Ely and Joseph A. Ely , by the end of the segregation era, Broward County boasted three high schools for Black students: Crispus Attucks in Hollywood, Dillard in Ft. Lauderdale, and Blanche Ely in Pompano Beach. These schools, and others like them, represent a crucial part of the district’s history, a history that must be remembered and understood.

• B.F. James Elementary School, Hallandale
• Bethune Elementary, 2400 Meade St., Hollywood
• Blanche Ely High School , Pompano, opened 1952, still in use.
• Braithwaite School, a Rosenwald school , opened 1929, later demolished.
• Carver Ranches Elementary School, 2201 S. 44th Ave., West Hollywood, now West Park .
• Charles Drew Elementary School.
• Chester A. Moore Elementary School, 912 Pembroke Rd., Hallandale, demolished.
• Collins Elementary School, 1050 NW 2nd St., Dania.
• Colored School No. 11, NW 3rd Ave. and 2nd St., Deerfield Beach, later known as Dillard School , then Walker Elementary School, established in 1925. The building now houses the Old Deerfield School Museum.
• Crispus Attucks High School, Hollywood.
• Dania Colored School, established 1905, located within the St. Ruth Missionary Baptist Church . A subsequent school was built in 1917.
• Davie Negro School.
• Deerfield Colored School, opened in 1903, marking the first school for African Americans in Broward County.
• Dillard Elementary School, established in 1959. This facility once served as Dillard High School in Ft. Lauderdale.
• Fort Lauderdale Colored.
• Hallandale Rosenwald School, established in 1929.
• Lanier Junior High School, 1st Ave. and 9th St., Hallandale.
• Hammondsville Colored School.
• Liberia Rosenwald School, also known as Attucks School, located at 3600 NW 22 Ave., Hollywood, established in 1929.
• Lincoln Park Elementary, 600 NW 19th Ave.
• Markham Park Elementary School.
• Oakland Park Negro School, later renamed Carter G. Woodson Elementary School, located at 3721 NE 5th Ave.
• A one-room school situated at the Pompano Migratory Labor Camp.
• Pompano Colored School , 718 NW 6th St., established in 1928, renamed Coleman Elementary School in 1954, and subsequently demolished.
• Pompano Project Elementary School.
• Sanders Park Elementary School.
• Sunland Park Elementary, 919 NW 13th Ave.

See Also

• Florida portal
• Schools portal
• WBEC-TV (Broward Schools’ educational channel)
• WKPX (Broward Schools’ radio station)
• List of school districts in Florida