A Florida teacher tells Obama he disappointed her

03-08-2011

Guest blog by Jennie Smith/Washington Post

I had the honor not only of attending President Obama’s speech at Miami Central High School, but also of participating in the President’s Education Roundtable following his speech. Of the 14 participants, I was the only teacher, and the only representative of a teacher’s union. Although the Chamber of Commerce had more than one representative, the leadership of United Teachers of Dade was not even invited. It was my responsibility therefore to represent not only Florida teachers but also our unions. Obama, in his speech, spoke about why investing in education is a priority even in tough fiscal times: "When we sacrifice our commitment to education, we’re sacrificing our future. And we can’t let that happen. Our kids deserve better. Our country deserves better." This is a statement that any educator or parent would agree with. However, it is not a statement with which the new governor of the state of Florida, Rick Scott, agrees, as his proposed budget would slash education funding by 10%--after repeated budget cuts over the past 2 1/2 years. (more...)

Also: Education Week

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