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St. Pete Times Reports on Blog: “Count Charlie In”

Encouraged by an opinion editorial penned by six of Florida’s former governors who crossed party lines in support of degreed pre-k teachers, and Rhea Chiles, wife of the late Lawton Chiles, Governor Charlie Crist told the St. Petersburg Times editorial board on Monday that he supports the call for degreed teachers.

Generations United through its joint project with the Children’s Campaign, Seniors 4 Kids, was elated that the op-ed has been so well received. Donna Butts, GU Executive Director, said, “It confirms that our former governors, who spoke on behalf of grandparents throughout the state, understand the importance of pre-k and degreed teachers in the attainment of a quality education for all children.”

Other Florida leaders such as Martha Barnett, partner with Holland & Knight and former President of the American Bar Association, also have called on Governor Crist to make lead degreed teachers in every Florida pre-k classroom a stated “goal” rather than an “aspiration”.

Hundreds of letters have also been sent to the Governor. We must keep the momentum going!

There are two ways you can help:

If you haven’t already, send a letter to Governor Crist showing your support of his stance on qualified teachers, and education reform, and encourage him to continue to push for degreed lead teachers for pre-k.

Visit Jeff Solochek’s “The Gradebook” early education blog and leave a comment in support of Governor Crist, and degreed lead pre-k teachers.

The full article will be published in the St. Petersburg Times on Tuesday.

You are making a difference. Support Governor Crist. Support the former Governors. Support Florida leaders. Now more than ever it is time for advcocates of high quality pre-k to join together. Add your voice today.