Feb. 20, 2026 – Duval County Public Schools will join districts across the state in recognizing National Public Schools Week, taking place February 23–27, 2026. Coming off record graduation rates and continued progress monitoring test improvements, district leaders say this week serves as a powerful reminder of the tremendous value public education brings to our students, families, and local communities.
“Public education is the foundation of strong communities,” said Chief Academic Officer Paula Renfro. “Here in Duval County, we are proud to offer innovative programs and meaningful opportunities that prepare every student for life after graduation.”
Public schools remain the top choice for Florida families, with 85% of parents choosing to educate their children in public schools. In Duval County Public Schools, that commitment is reflected in continued growth, diverse course and program offerings, and real-world training across multiple career pathways. This includes:
A robust Career and Technical Education (CTE) program featuring 68 Career Academies, with students earning more than 8,500 certifications during the 2023–2024 school year
High school acceleration programs that allow students to earn college credit — and even associate degrees — while still in high school
Inclusive education tailored to meet the needs of students with disabilities and multilingual learners
Comprehensive mental health and student support services designed to support the whole child
Fine arts, athletics, and extracurricular activities that inspire creativity, build teamwork, and boost confidence
A record-breaking graduation rate of 97.6% among traditional public schools is evidence that more students are leaving the district prepared for their post-secondary pathways — whether college, career, or military service. In addition, the Class of 2025 earned more than $193 million in scholarship dollars.
Team Duval is also home to 23 Florida Department of Education Schools of Excellence, more than a dozen Purple Star Schools of Distinction, and 12 schools recognized among U.S. News & World Report’s Best High Schools.
As Duval County Public Schools observes National Public Schools Week, we take pride in celebrating the collective efforts of our educators, students, families, and community partners who make these achievements possible. Their dedication and collaboration continue to drive meaningful progress across our district, and are further proof that Florida’s future is truly Powered by Public Schools.