Gov. DeSantis speaks to education at the Freedom Institute of Collier County

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis held a press conference regarding choice in education at the Freedom Institute of Collier County.

The press conference began at 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday at 2706 Horseshoe Drive South in Naples.

During the conference, DeSantis mentioned his commitment to education while acknowledging the rise in homeschooling and charter school attendance during the last few years. DeSantis emphasized that no two students’ educations can be the same because no two students are the same.

“Not every school is going to work for every kid,” said DeSantis.

DeSantis expressed his firm belief in school choice during his talk at the Freedom Institute. He stressed the importance of giving parents a “robust” lineup of education choices.

The governor expressed pride in how quickly public schools returned to normal following the COVID-19 pandemic while commending Florida schools for curriculum transparency so parents can be aware of what’s being taught and intervene when necessary.

DeSantis then shifted focus toward making a concerted effort to teach American civics because he believes students must have a foundation in whatever they go on to do.

He then mentioned a financial bonus for teachers if they choose to participate in the civic program.

The conversation then moved toward speaking about higher education in Florida, stating that the purpose of higher education is not to impose an ideological agenda on students.

“Who made the better decision,” DeSantis asked rhetorically. “Someone that went and got a certification in welding and was started to make $80 or $90 grand a year right out of high school, or someone that went to school for six years, went on $100,000 in debt to get a degree in gender studies?”

He then concluded the speech by discussing the importance of different career pathways from Florida schools.

Among DeSantis’ accomplishments he is most proud of was his push for curriculum transparency.

“Parents in Florida have a right to know what’s being taught, what materials are being used, and their kid’s school. Why would you oppose that? There’s no reason to oppose that,” said DeSantis.

DeSantis finished by saying the mission is to have an education system producing powerful, patriotic students.

“We’re proud to be a state that’s embraced education choice for parents,” said DeSantis.

While the Freedom Institute of Collier Collier DeSantis also participated in a question and answer segment. He said the institute, which works with home school students and families, is setting an example for the options parents should have when it comes to educating their students.