TALL ORDER: Gov. Rick Scott faces some major challenges to put in place his plans on education and other matters as he enters the second half of his term, the Herald-Tribune reports. • Money is pouring in from both sides trying to influence the outcome, the Palm Beach Post reports. (AP photo)

DIPLOMA DREAMS DASHED: The Lee Alternative Charter High School closes down during winter break, the Fort Myers News-Press reports.

ONLINE ASSISTANCE: The University of Florida develops a virtual system designed to help Florida students prepare for the mandated Algebra I end-of-course exam, the Gainesville Sun reports. 

SUCH A BARGAIN: Twelve Florida universities make Kiplinger's annual list of best values in public education, the Miami Herald reports.

IN TRANSITION: Florida schools will begin to experience changes in curriculum, testing and other areas in the new year, the Fort Myers News-Press reports.

SIGN ME UP: Three leaders apply for two trustee positions at the State College of Florida, the Bradenton Herald reports.

EXTRA DEFENSE: Several Palm Beach County mayors call for metal detectors at the entrance to all public schools, the Palm Beach Post reports.

TOP SECRET: The Flagler School Board stops providing public information about why students are expelled, the Daytona Beach News-Journal reports.

WAITING GAME: Leon County seniors anxiously look forward to learning whether they are accepted to the college of their choice, the Tallahassee Democrat reports.