Protecting our public schools
To the editor:
The current legislative session in Florida is pivotal, and now more than ever, our voices must be heard. As a parent with a child in the public school system, I am deeply concerned about the future of our schools and the dedicated teachers who support our children’s education.
Right now, our county alone is facing a shortage of 200 teachers — a crisis that threatens the quality of education for our students. Rather than addressing these challenges, legislation like HB 123 /SB 140 undermines public schools by stripping local control and forcing school conversions without meaningful community input.
Public schools serve as the foundation of our society, offering quality education to all children, regardless of their background. While school choice can play a role in our education system, policies that weaken enrollment and funding for neighborhood schools are harmful. These proposed bills would mandate charter conversions for schools that don’t maintain an “A” grade for five consecutive years, limit the autonomy of school districts, and shift decision-making power away from elected school boards.
Instead of dismantling our public education system, we should be working to strengthen it. I urge readers of the Cape Coral Breeze to contact our state representative to reject HB 123/SB 140 and focus on policies that truly support students, teachers, and families.
Let’s stand together to ensure our public schools remain strong, equitable, and fully resourced — so that every child has the opportunity to succeed.
Aishia Glasford
Cape Coral