Statement By: Education Commissioner Gerard Robinson Regarding Proposed Budget from the Governor

Wednesday, December 7, 2011

DOE Press Office (850) 245-0413

Statement By: Education Commissioner Gerard Robinson Regarding Proposed Budget from the Governor

"Florida's teachers have done an incredible job providing a learning culture that fosters academic success and growth for each of their students. Today, I want to thank Governor Scott for proposing a budget that will provide significant additional resources that our classroom teachers need to make student dreams a reality. The Governor's commitment to a high quality education is demonstrated by infusing one billion dollars in state funds to:

• fund 30,000+ new students,
• replace one-time state funding,
• overcome diminishing local revenue, and
• increase per student funding.

The Governor has also made a commitment to public higher education and student financial aid by maintaining funding in these areas. This ensures that our students are able to continue to achieve their higher education goals.

This budget will help students gain the tools to master increased standards and graduate from high school college- and career-ready. I also want to thank the State Board of Education for its continued support of increasing our legislative budget to sustain our public education system. The Department's Strategic Plan aligns with the Governor's mission and the proposed budget will help preserve what our schools have accomplished in the past and stand to achieve in the future."