Education Leaders Applaud Governor Scott’s “Keep Florida Working” Budget
June 23, 2015
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Education Leaders Applaud Governor Scott’s “Keep Florida Working” Budget
Tallahassee, Fla., June 23, 2015 – Today, education leaders throughout the state applauded Governor Scott’s “Keep Florida Working” Budget that provides historic levels of education funding.
Education Commissioner Pam Stewart said, “We are fortunate to have Governor Scott leading our state for many reasons, but most importantly because he is determined to make Florida the best place to receive an education, get a job and raise a family. He has been a true champion for our state’s students and, as a result, our education system is receiving historic funding that will help ensure our schools have the resources they need to prepare our students for success in college, career and life.”
Marva Johnson, State Board of Education Chair, said, “Thanks to Governor Scott’s commitment to providing Florida families with access to a world-class education, our education system has been funded at a record level and per-pupil funding has increased. In the blink of an eye, the students in today’s classrooms will be joining the workforce, and this funding is essential to ensuring they have the skills necessary to compete in a global economy.”
John R. Padget, State Board of Education Vice-Chair, said, “There is no greater investment opportunity than our state’s students, and we must recognize that Florida's economic future is linked to today's education priorities. As a former superintendent of schools and now Vice-Chair of the State Board of Education, I am keenly aware that this historic education funding will make a major difference in the lives of our state’s students and Florida’s economy. I appreciate Governor Scott’s dedication to Florida’s students and our state’s future.”
John A. Colón, State Board of Education Member, said, “I commend Governor Scott for proposing historic education funding and urging the Legislature to make it a priority. Florida’s students deserve the best chance at a successful future and the additional funding allocated to Florida’s education system will be vital in preparing our students to excel in whatever higher education and career fields they choose to pursue.”
Michael Olenick, State Board of Education Member, said, “Every family deserves access to a quality education and Governor Scott fought this session to make that a reality. With these additional resources, schools will best be able to meet the needs of Florida’s students. As a State Board of Education member, I take seriously our responsibility to ensure our state’s education system serves Floridians well, and this is another step in the right direction.”
Andy Tuck, State Board of Education Member, said, “As a father and lifelong Floridian, I am incredibly proud of the tremendous success our students have achieved in recent years. We already have the brightest students and hardest working teachers, and this increase in education funding will supplement their efforts and help us remain at the top of the nation for student achievement. I am thankful that Governor Scott has placed an emphasis on our state’s students and I am confident we will continue seeing a great return on the money we invest in our education system as we prepare our future workforce!"
Council of Presidents Chair Dr. James D. Henningsen said, “The Florida College System does an outstanding job educating our state’s students and preparing them for success in career and in life. On behalf of the Council of Presidents, I thank Governor Scott and the Florida Legislature for recognizing the vital role our colleges play in contributing to Florida’s workforce and championing for funding to enhance the services we provide.”
Daytona State College President Dr. Tom LoBasso said, “At Daytona State College, we’re proud to offer quality education opportunities for students of all ages, backgrounds and interests. Governor Scott has been a strong proponent of higher education, and we’re delighted that he signed a budget that increases overall college funding, as well as provides an additional $20 million for performance funding. We also appreciate the governor’s approval of funding for a Classroom/Student Services/Workforce-Transition Building at DSC as a critical component for student success and economic growth in our region.”
Seminole State College President Dr. Ann McGee said, “Florida’s colleges are a national model because of our state’s rich diversity and an absolute conviction by our leaders that education is the key to success. Governor Scott’s budget continues that commitment with an increase in funding and specifically in our area with an $11.5 million boost for our Student Center in Sanford/Lake Mary. Our students and team appreciate this great support.”
Doug Tuthill, President, Step Up For Students, said “I applaud Governor Scott and the Legislature for their commitment to making sure every student gets a quality education. The increase of $36.6 million for Personal Learning Scholarship Accounts will help fund specialized services for an additional 3,600 students with disabilities.”
Broward County Public Schools Superintendent Robert W. Runcie said, “We thank Governor Scott for his commitment to making Florida a leader in education. We applaud his proposal for per-pupil funding, and know that the increase in funding will help to provide Florida students with a high-quality education enabling them to compete in a highly-skilled, global job market.”
Holmes County Schools Superintendent Eddie Dixon said, “We commend Governor Scott for focusing on education, and we are especially thankful for the $18.7 million to further improve our education facilities. Additional funding is particularly meaningful in rural communities like ours, and I look forward to putting this money to work for our students.”
Levy County Schools Superintendent Robert O. Hastings said, “I speak for the entire county when I say we are thrilled Levy is receiving $11.5 million to fund construction projects in our schools. Just this year, four of our schools were recognized as being among the best in the nation and this funding that Governor Scott fought for will enable us to ensure our schools provide an environment that fosters student learning and growth.”
Miami Dade County Schools Superintendent Alberto M. Carvalho said, “Governor Scott understands that an investment in our students is an investment in Florida’s future. Thanks to his determination and persistence, education funding is at an all-time high. The increase of more than $200 per student will go a long way in providing students the best education possible.”
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