GOVERNOR CRIST ANNOUNCES PLAN TO INCREASE HIGH SCHOOL ACHIEVEMENT

April 15, 2008

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GOVERNOR'S PRESS OFFICE
(850) 488-5394

TALLAHASSEE – Governor Charlie Crist today announced Florida’s participation in the American Diploma Project Network, a nationwide movement designed to improve preparation of high school students for the 21st century workforce. The Governor’s announcement came after discussing the benefits of participation with Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty.

“Florida has a proven record of improving student performance across all grade levels,” Governor Crist said.“By working collaboratively with other states, we can maximize our efforts on behalf of our students.”

In October 2007, the Go Higher, Florida! Task Force recommended that Governor Crist join 32 other Governors whose states are currently participating in the American Diploma Project Network. The task force developed recommendations for preparing all Florida students for a successful transition to college or other career preparation. The group’s other four recommendations, endorsed and approved by both the Board of Governors and the State Board of Education, are as follows:

—Develop and adopt a definition of college and career readiness.
—Require all high school students to take courses that prepare them for future education and employment.
—Adopt assessments which demonstrate readiness for college.
—Increase public awareness and understanding of Florida’s education assessments and their uses.

Later today, the State Board of Education will learn more about how the project can be integrated into Florida’s future education goals from Michael Cohen, president of Achieve Inc., the organization that has formed the project network. Governor Crist designated Education Commissioner, Dr. Eric J. Smith, to lead Florida’s participation in the American Diploma Project.