On Thursday, January the 14th in the Governor’s conference room two leading business groups lead by current and former Governors Charlie Crist and Jeb Bush issued a report aimed at education reform in the state of Florida.
Included as a key recommendation was the call for degreed teachers in pre-k classrooms, an education reform championed by the Children’s Campaign.
Joining the governors were former Florida House Speaker Allan Bense, state education officials and the CEOs of several companies. The Florida Chamber of Commerce and the Florida Council of 100 issued a press release with statements of support from political leaders including; CFO Alex Sink, Attorney General Bill McCollum, Florida Senate President Jeff Atwater and Florida House Speaker Larry Cretul.
The citizen leaders and staff of the Children’s Campaign have worked tirelessly to mandate degreed teachers for every pre-k classroom. Networks have formed throughout the business and political community. Steve Halverson, Chair of the Florida Chamber of Commerce was one of the featured speakers at the press event. Mr. Halverson serves on the Justice for Girls leadership council, which is affiliated with the Children’s Campaign.
This recommendation can get legs quickly. Bills have been filed in the Florida House and Senate that would put degreed teachers in pre-k classrooms by 2013. SB 848 is sponsored by Sen. Rich (D-Sunrise) and supported by Sen. Fasano (R – New Port Richey), HB 383 is sponsored by Rep. Long (D-St. Petersburg) co-sponsored by Rep. Porth (D-Coral Springs) and supported by Rep. Weatherford (R – Wesley Chapel). The bills fulfill the recommendation from the report.
Rep. Long stated in a press release, “I have filed a bill in the Florida House of Representatives to require teachers in the state-sponsored pre-kindergarten program hold a bachelor’s degree. …I am inviting legislative leaders to join me and the state’s business community in embracing this bold initiative.”
Children’s Campaign has been informed that the legislative leadership is convinced that the business community is right on this issue.
A Pre-K Town Hall in December allowed advocates in person and online to voice their opinions and questions about degreed teachers. If you missed the opportunity, see for yourself, watch the video today.
In addition a quick 9-question survey will provide yet another opportunity to be heard.
Results of the survey will be analyzed and shared. Please take the time to let us know what you think.