Applauding Gov. Rick Scott and most Republican legislators, former Gov. Jeb Bush said Monday that Florida's "culture of reform" ensures future educational gains in the state.
Bush's Foundation for Florida's Future issued grades for lawmakers based on their support for school choice, competition and accountability measures at the 2011 Legislature.
"Reforms enacted this year reorganize schools around the success of every student in the Sunshine State," Bush said in unveiling this year's report card.
"For the first time in our history, teachers and principals will be evaluated and rewarded based on the success of their students. More Florida families will have the financial freedom to choose the education that gives their child the best opportunity for success in school and beyond. More students will be able to tap into technology to learn in their own style, at their own pace, ensuring they master the knowledge and skills to succeed in college and careers," said Bush, who launched Florida's ed-reform efforts during his eight-year tenure as governor.
Bush cited passage of five bills this year:
- Senate Bill 736: The so-called "Son of SB 6" bill that ended teacher tenure and links student performance to instructor compensation.
- Senate Bill 7197: Expands online learning programs.
- Senate Bill 1546: Rewards and facilitates more charter schools.
- House Bill 1331: Expands Opportunity Scholarships for parents to remove students from failing public schools.
- House Bill 1329: Expands McKay Scholarship program for students with disabilities to exercise greater school choice.
Based on their support for those measures, the Foundation awarded "A+" grades to Sens. J.D. Alexander, Thad Altman, Lizbeth Benaquisto, Anitere Flores, Mike Haridopolos, Joe Negron, John Thrasher and Stephen Wise.
Ranking slightly behind with "A's" were 17 more senators -- all Republicans, except for Democrat Gary Siplin.
At the bottom of the grading scale, nine senators -- all Democrats -- received "F's" for their opposition to the measures.
In the House, six representatives earned "A+" grades: Michael Bileca, Jeff Brandes, Dean Cannon, Erik Fresen, Scott Plakon and Kelli Stargel.
Seventy-eight more House members received "A's" -- all Republicans except for Democrat Leonard Bembry.
Thirty-two representatives received "F's" -- all Democrats.
See the full Senate report card here:
See the full House report card here.
The Florida Education Association, which is among the largest financial supporters of Democratic officeholders in the state and opposed virtually all of the legislation lauded by Bush, was not immediately available for comment.
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Reach Kenric Ward at kward@sunshinestatenews.com or at (772) 801-5341.
