Ready for the first day of school?

Monday, August 12, is the first day of school in Broward. As we say good-bye to summertime, I know our kids are ready for a fresh start. And this new school year is looking as bright as they are! We’ve done so much to make sure that Fort Lauderdale’s schools are providing students, teachers, and staff with the materials and support they need to thrive. We’ve been dedicated to education, because when our schools are strong, our children can achieve their dreams. During my time as Mayor, the city has:

• Made a huge commitment to school safety, and is providing school resource officers in all public middle and high schools.
• Coordinated with the school district and nonprofits to help children master new skills and enjoy their time outside of class at a successful summer enrichment program.
• Partnered with the Barbara Bush Foundation on the Book Explorers Reading program to boost literacy and help our kids fall in love with reading.
• Worked with Broward College to expand access to post-secondary education and workforce training so that our graduates are ready for the world.
• Provided educational options for those who want to work in sports business by bringing the Global Institute of Sport to Fort Lauderdale.
• Launched an avionics program at Atlantic Technical College in conjunction with local colleges and businesses so that students can soar.

There’s so much more I’d like to do. For example, other cities have seen success with a city-run charter school and I see promise in such a program in Fort Lauderdale. This could expand schooling options for our families and increase educational achievement in the community. Please support my campaign today, so that I can continue to innovate and implement ideas that further strengthen our education system. Have a wonderful first day back at school! Dean