The Highlands County School Board convened on September 23, 2025, to discuss various topics, with a focus on educational achievements and the celebration of Freedom Week. Board members expressed gratitude for the dedication of teachers and staff at local schools, particularly highlighting Lake Placid High School and Highlands Virtual School for their welcoming environments and commitment to student success.

During the meeting, board member Mr. Whitton praised students inducted into the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, noting the rigorous work required and the potential future careers of these students, including aspirations to attend prestigious institutions like MIT. He commended Joanna Cochlin for her leadership in the IB program, referring to it as a "crown jewel" of the Highlands County Public Schools.

The board also acknowledged the significance of Freedom Week, which includes daily recitations of the Declaration of Independence in schools. Members emphasized the importance of teaching students about the Constitution and the values of democracy. They encouraged educators to incorporate lessons about civic responsibility and the freedoms enjoyed in the United States into their curricula.

In addition, board member Mrs. Howerton expressed appreciation for the faculty's long-standing service and passion for teaching, while also recognizing the efforts of Woodlawn School in promoting civic education through projects like a freedom quilt. The meeting concluded with a call for continued emphasis on civil discourse and respectful debate among students, reinforcing the importance of these skills in a democratic society.

Overall, the meeting underscored the board's commitment to fostering an educational environment that values civic education and recognizes the hard work of both students and educators in Highlands County.