Over the weekend I was in Orlando to receive the FEA “Champion of Education” Award. It was especially gratifying because my middle child Hannah went on a “field trip” with me and I know she was proud of her Daddy. I don’t believe there is a more important battle in Florida than the fight to create a school system that is high quality. It determines the industries we attract, the opportunities we give our workers, and defines us in every way as a state. Joan and I see the challenges up close with our own kids who attend public school. The cutting of a popular program or classrooms that lack instructional material or paper products. And don’t get me started on the FCAT.

When we talk to friends who live in other states, they are in disbelief.  As the chief legal officer of the state it is the Attorney General’s job to protect Florida’s citizens from violations of our Constitution. A few years ago Floridians changed their Constitution to make a “high quality” system of public education the “paramount” duty of the state. I don’t believe the current budget of the state allows for that level of service and I will take any action necessary – including suing the legislature – to guarantee our children get the public education to which they are entitled.

That’s a promise.