NewsFox 13 News (WTVT) — Local NewsAugust 11, 2026Hillsborough
Pinellas County Schools implements new e-bike and smart glasses policies for 2026 school year
Pinellas County Schools has introduced new campus rules requiring students to follow municipal e-bike laws and prohibiting the use of smart glasses for recording. The district launched the 2026 school year maintaining an 'A' rating, despite ongoing challenges with declining enrollment and recent school closures.
Read the full story at Fox 13 News (WTVT) — Local NewsWhy It Matters
Students and families must now comply with new restrictions on personal technology and transportation on campus, while the district continues to manage the impact of a shrinking student population on school facilities.
Key Facts
- Pinellas County Schools maintained an 'A' rating from the Florida Department of Education for the third consecutive year.
- 92 percent of district schools earned an 'A' or 'B' grade, with the remainder receiving a 'C'.
- New campus policies prohibit the use of smart glasses for recording unless for medical reasons.
- Students using e-bikes on campus must follow municipal laws, wear helmets, and park in designated areas.
- Cross Bayou Elementary and Disston Academy were closed due to declining enrollment.
- Annual hospital births in the county dropped below 7,000 last year, down from a previous 10,000.
- Melrose Elementary School received its first-ever 'A' grade.
Who's Mentioned
personDr. Carmen Harris“Principal of Melrose Elementary School.”locationDisston Academy“School closed due to low enrollment.”personKevin Hendrick“Superintendent of Pinellas County Schools.”organizationPinellas County Schools“The school district managing the 2026 academic year.”organizationFlorida Department of Education“The state body that assigned the 'A' rating to the district.”locationMelrose Elementary School“A school that earned its first 'A' grade.”locationCross Bayou Elementary“School closed due to low enrollment.”