The Future of Florida Education

Through the Race to the Top grant program, the U.S. Department of Education has offered states across the nation a chance at an unprecedented federal investment in education reform. This program will result in more kids learning, more excellent teachers in our classrooms and more young adults prepared to succeed in college and in the competitive global job market.

Florida has been identified by stakeholders across the nation as extremely well-positioned to win potentially as much as $700 million for education. I look forward to reviewing the Florida Department of Education's application for grant funding, and certifying that it is in accordance with existing Florida law.

I am still concerned about opposition from the Florida Education Association who has voiced objections to the Department of Education's reform plan and has dissuaded local teachers unions from participating in the grant program. It is unfortunate that during the most challenging economic times Florida has faced in decades, the FEA would oppose a program that could mean millions of dollars for Florida School districts.

I encourage my fellow Cabinet members and the Legislature to join me in supporting Florida's Race to the Top bid and in calling on the FEA to withdraw its opposition. The future of Florida's children is at stake.