The Highlands County School Board is continuing discussions on proposed changes to the Code of Student Conduct, with ongoing concerns surrounding the future of the Academy program in Sebring. Board members remain divided over a proposal to move students to virtual learning at home, citing concerns about attendance, supervision, and overall student success. Officials say revisions are still needed before any final decision is made, as conversations continue on balancing budget cuts with student support.
A Bartow man is facing murder charges after deputies say he shot his neighbor in the head for an unknown reason. The Polk County Sheriff’s Office identified the suspect as David Richard Morris, who is accused of killing Jeffrey Lee Blevins outside his apartment on March 26. Investigators say there were no witnesses or video, but evidence—including a 9mm casing and a firearm found in the suspect’s apartment—led to the arrest. Morris is now charged with second-degree murder and is being held without bond, with officials saying charges could be upgraded as the investigation continues.
Local leaders in Highlands County are working to expand tourism efforts following increased attention from the HGTV Sebring makeover. During a recent meeting in Sebring, officials discussed strategies to attract visitors to stay longer and explore more across the county. Ideas included highlighting unique local features like Sebring International Raceway and Lake Placid, as well as adding billboards and live webcams to promote the area. Leaders say the goal is to turn visitors into long-term residents, investors, and supporters of the community.
The Sebring Soda Festival is back April 11–12 in Sebring, bringing over 200 craft sodas and a full weekend of family fun to the downtown Circle. New this year, the DockDogs competition makes its debut, alongside crowd favorites like the pet costume contest, kids zone, and soda tastings starting at $8. The event features 100+ vendors, food trucks, and interactive activities, kicking off Saturday at 10 a.m. and continuing through Sunday with finals and live entertainment. For more details, visit sebringsodafest.com.