Governor Scott made over $1 billion in additional education funding the centerpiece of his legislative agenda in 2012.
“Over the last year I have traveled the state to hear from Floridians what issues they care about most. That’s why this budget should be known as an education budget,” Governor Scott said. “The two issues that Floridians care most about are jobs and education, and the two go hand-in-hand since a good education is critical to getting a good job.”
The more than $1 billion allows for:
• A $405 million increase in per-student funding or roughly $150 per student.
• An extra $47 million for enhanced reading programs.
• $663 million to fill funding gaps due to the influx of 31,000 expected new students next year and lower property taxes.
• Funding that will enable districts to reward the best teachers.
Governor Scott signed legislation that increases funding to Florida schools by over $1 billion.
This historic increase in funding will ensure that Florida’s schools are in a position to educate our state’s future workforce. With this increased funding comes increased responsibility. It is important that we continue to hold Florida’s schools to a high standard. The state must ensure that our educational system is held accountable to educate our children properly.
Governor Scott is confident that continuing to invest in Florida’s schools will prepare our state to be the best place to live, work and play for years to come.
Governor Scott also knows that with an increased investment in Florida’s education system comes an increased responsibility. That is why Governor Scott set the bar high on Florida’s learning standards to ensure our children receive the best possible education.
