Jeb Bush Working on Reform in Florida and Nationwide (FL)

May 3, 2011

Since leaving office in 2007, former Florida Governor Jeb Bush has dedicated his time to edu cation reform, writes Carol Cain for the Detroit Free Press. Although his name has been floated as a possibility for the 2012 Republican ticket, he’s dismissed such speculations and continues to focus on running his Foundation for Excellence in Education.

Bush recently he gave his approval to Michigan Governor Rick Snyder’s newly unveiled plan for an overhaul of the state’s school system.

    “I’m very impressed,” Bush said after examining Snyder’s full slate of plans. “It’s a comprehensive sweep of reforms rather than just one thing.”

Snyder’s proposal includes changes to teacher tenure, merit pay, charter schools and online learning. The last one is an issue of particular importance to Bush — himself a big supporter of digital learning — and considers it integral to his “Florida Formula.” He often touts that aspect of his educational overhaul in Florida when he consults with governors and legislators on their own efforts towards reform.

Glen Taylor and Beth Baker, co-founders of WAY — Widening Advancement for Youth, a digital learning company based in Belleville, Michigan — met with Bush during their recent visit to Florida. They are currently looking to expand into the state.

Although not usually a target for controversy, Bush recently took some heat for holding a joint meeting with President Barack Obama at a Miami school where they discussed education. Bush said that although they do not see eye on eye on every issue, he feels that cooperation is the way forward:

    “The president’s heart is in the right place on education. It’s better to embrace the things we agree on than fight over the things we don’t.”