EDUCATION

We must ensure that every child has an equal opportunity for an excellent public education, regardless of income, socio-economic status, race or any other factor. Our city should work with Escambia County and the Escambia County School District to make sure that every educator has the funding, training, development, resources, and institutional support that an education professional would need. This includes recruiting and supporting educators who enjoy teaching, are passionate about achieving academic success, and are committed to making a difference in the lives of young people. 

Pensacola should soon be known as an “Early Learning City,” where quality education from a young age is given the utmost priority from a variety of cross-sector community partners. The essential years for developing a baby’s brain are from birth through 3. It is our job, as community members, to foster this development in all children, as they are the leaders of tomorrow. The future of our city depends on them. 

Looking at our community’s data to develop solutions on addressing the educational disparities of specific neighborhoods and populations is key to addressing the quality of life of our entire community. Now is not the time to assign blame, but to brainstorm creative ideas and to implement long-term solutions. Through this prioritization on equitable education, we can cultivate a community that truly loves learning.