National Public Schools Week, celebrated February 23 – 27, 2026, is a time to celebrate the incredible work happening every day in classrooms across Flagler Schools and all Florida school districts. Public schools are the clear choice for Florida families, with 85% of parents choosing Florida public schools and public charter schools to educate their children and that is something to proudly celebrate!

In 2026, a high school diploma from a Florida public school is so much more than a milestone and it is a launchpad to success. Public schools offer unmatched choice and flexibility, preparing students for college, careers, and civic life through personalized learning pathways that meet students where they are and help them soar, while building local and state talent pipelines. From inspiring lessons to meaningful connections,
public schools are where students discover their talents, pursue their dreams, and build bright futures.

Here in Flagler Schools, that success story comes to life every day for our students through educational offerings like our Diploma Plus programs offered at both Flagler Palm Coast and Matanzas High Schools. At Flagler Palm Coast High School, Diploma Plus programs include JROTC, Agritechnology, Allied Health, Building Construction Technology, Culinary, Digital Media, Digital Video Technology, Entrepreneurship, Fire Academy, and Vet Assisting. At Matanzas High School Diploma Plus programs include JROTC, Allied Health, Building Construction Technology, Culinary, Cybersecurity, Digital Media, Future Educators, Hospitality and Tourism, Law and Justice, and Marketing and Finance. Right now, families across Flagler County are taking part in Controlled Open Enrollment which runs through February. All Diploma Plus program opportunities begin with a completed Controlled Open Enrollment application. Visit School Choice for more information.

Acceleration Pathways, Dual Enrollment opportunities and innovative Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs tied to the local workforce also provide a wide array of hands-on opportunities that build leadership, teamwork, and confidence. Florida school districts have continued to rise and not only meet, but often exceed the parameters and academic standards put before them. The recent announcement of the historic, record-breaking high school graduation rates for Florida public schools for the 2024-25 school year is a prime example of how Florida’s Future is Powered by Public Schools. At Flagler Schools, the graduation rate most recently
climbed to 90-percent.

As we celebrate National Public Schools Week, we proudly recognize the educators, students, families, and community partners who make this success possible. Together, Flagler Schools and Florida public schools are building strong communities, a skilled workforce, and a brighter future for all, because Florida’s future truly is “Powered by Public Schools.”