Former Gov. Jeb Bush visits SWFL for ‘Annual Celebration of Reading’

Author: Mike Walcher
Published: Updated:

BONITA SPRINGS, Fla.-  Not yet ready to confirm a run for the White House, former Florida Governor Jeb Bush and his family arrived in Southwest Florida Friday.

“No changes. I am seriously considering the possibility, I am spending a lot of time traveling,” said Bush.

Hundreds of people are attending the Annual Celebration of Reading put on by the Barbara Bush Foundation for Family Literacy.

Bush plays host to Friday’s dinner and celebration which is in its 15th year.

WINK News asked  Bush how he felt about high stakes testing for students.

“I think fewer, smarter tests is what we need,” said Bush.

“I think content and curriculum ought to be dictated by school districts, standards ought to be created by states and they ought to be higher,” he said.

Those in attendance looked for him to clarify his position on education standards and common core.

First Lady Ann Scott and others gave out awards to the winning writers from Collier and Lee County schools.

Many of the educators who attended the breakfast Friday morning, applaud what Bush did as governor to promote school choice, and charter schools. But, his stands on testing, and one-time support for the Common Core standards, cause concerns for some.

Some parents believe the Common Core tests are “un-American,” and should not be imposed by the federal government.

They’re waiting for Bush and other potential candidates, to clarify their positions, before supporting anyone.

Others say it’s way too soon to start picking candidates for the Republican ticket. But they do have deep concerns about standardized testing.

Bush is considered a favorite for the Republican nomination.

 

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