How The Governor Plans To Cut the Red Tape In Education

FLGOVSCOTT

The Governor and First Lady on listening tour at Ocoee Middle School.

Gov. Rick Scott says he wants to reduce the burden on teachers by cutting down on paperwork and unnecessary regulations.

During Tuesday’s Cabinet meeting, Scott said he wants teachers spending as much time as possible teaching.

He’s convening a group of five superintendents to recommend ways to cut the red tape.

“We’re asking everybody to come to us with their ideas on what can we do to allow teachers to spend more time in the classroom, less time just working on reports and on testing,” Scott said.

The five superintendents will represent large and small districts.

“We’re going to ask them to give us a thirty-day report of state requirements that can be eliminated,” Scott said. “What are we doing that just is not helping get our kids ready for college or a career?”

Over the last week, Scott has been on an education listening tour with Interim Education Commissioner Pam Stewart. They visited nine districts and a dozen schools.

“It was a wonderful opportunity to listen to parents and students and educators,” Stewart said.

“I believe that everyone walked away feeling as though they had been heard and that the governor is focused on and wants to support education.”

The governor has been showcasing the school visits on his blog.

Another blog is available for visitors to post ideas and make comments.

Scott’s desire to scrap potentially unnecessary requirements stems from his days as a businessman. As a business grows, he said the paperwork does, too.

“Our goal is to get ready for next session,” Scott said. “To come up with ideas to make sure we’re clearly on the track to become the number one place in this country for our kids to get an education.”