MIAMI.- Miami-Dade Public Schools opened their doors this Thursday to receive thousands of students at the beginning of the 2026-2027 academic year, marked by new academic offerings, modifications to the feeding program and greater concern about the situation of some immigrant families.
During the previous day, schools and local authorities organized welcome activities in different sectors of the county. Hundreds of children received free backpacks and school supplies, met their teachers, and visited the classrooms where they will spend the next few months.
The district asked parents to confirm enrollment, update emergency contacts, review transportation routes and verify that immunizations and other required documents are up to date. The schools’ mobile application allows you to consult schedules, grades, menus, news and the location of buses in real time.
New programs and use of artificial intelligence
Among the new features of the course are several magnet programs. Booker T. Washington Senior High School launches SpaceHUB, focused on the areas of aerospace, robotics, engineering and manufacturing. Miami Killian Senior High School incorporates SportsPLEX, with options related to medicine, technology, communication and sports administration.
The offer of preschool education and programs based on the Reggio Emilia and Montessori models will also increase.
The district will also expand its use of Google Gemini for Education. According to school authorities, the tool will support creativity, critical thinking and problem solving, under the supervision of teachers.
Cell phone rules remain in place: elementary and middle school students will not be able to use or display personal devices during the day. In high schools they may use them outside of instructional hours or when the teacher authorizes it for educational purposes.
Changes to school meals
The beginning of the course also brings important changes for families. A total of 121 schools will continue to offer free breakfast and lunch to all their students.
At all other schools, parents must complete an application to determine if their children qualify for free or reduced-price meals. Full price lunch will cost $4.20. Students will receive meals at no cost for the first 30 days or until eligibility is established.
Children enrolled in programs such as SNAP, TANF, Medicaid, Head Start, foster care, or homeless assistance will retain the automatic benefit.
Message for immigrant families
Authorities are also trying to prevent immigration uncertainty from affecting assistance. The recent termination of Temporary Protected Status for Haitians has raised concerns among parents and district employees.
“Parents should not leave their children at home. Please take them to school,” said Superintendent José Dotres. The district assured that it individually examines the situation of its workers and will offer guidance to families who need support.
