I have proposed in my budget 3.8 billion dollars to meet the constitutional mandate of the class size amendment. This is a 19% increase over the current budget level and would bring state funding for the last five years to 10.7 billion dollars.
Smaller classes provide a better environment for learning and we must fulfill our obligation to provide that funding to reduce class sizes.
Source: State of the State Address
Mar 6, 2007
Early advocate for parental choice in education
As a State Senator, Charlie was an early advocate for parental choice in education by co-sponsoring legislation to implement the charter schools bill.
He believes that parents know best what their children need, and should have the freedom to pick the best schools for their kids.
Source: Campaign website, www.charliecrist.com, "Issues"
Nov 7, 2006
Allow vouchers for any public, private or religious school
Crist supports the following principles concerning education:
Support national standards and testing in reading and math.
Allow parents to use vouchers to send their children to any public, private or religious school.
Allow parents to use
tax-free savings accounts to send their children to any participating school: public, private or religious.
Support creation of more charter schools where teachers and professionals receive authorization and funding to establish new schools.
Source: Congressional 1998 National Political Awareness Test
Nov 1, 1998
Constitutional amendment for school prayer
Q: Do you support amending the U.S. Constitution to guarantee the right to religious expression and voluntary prayer in public places, including schools?
A: Yes.
Source: Congressional 1998 National Political Awareness Test
Nov 1, 1998
