Florida Education Association President Andrew Spar joined the America's Workforce Union Podcast to discuss the challenges teachers and students face with the state’s current education system and how labor can make a difference.
With 150,000 members, the FEA advocates for better funding, improved working conditions and equitable policies for educators across the state.
Spar highlighted the severe teacher shortage in Florida, exemplified by Polk County's reliance on 614 substitute teachers to fill vacancies. According to Spar, this shortage is a direct result of inadequate pay and a lack of respect for the teaching profession, leading to a decline in educational quality.
In Spar’s opinion, Florida needs additional investment in public schools to improve the state’s education system. Spar proposed an additional $1,000 per student to elevate Florida from near the bottom to the top 10 in national education funding. This investment would not only improve teacher salaries but also provide additional staffing resources like school counselors and psychologists.
The diversion of Public Educational Capital Outlay (PECO) funds to charter schools has left public schools struggling to maintain a safe and healthy environment. Spar criticized this practice, noting that charter schools— often privately owned— receive more funding than public schools, despite serving fewer students. To combat these issues, Spar advocates for: legislative reform, redirecting funds and building a relationship between educators, parents and lawmakers.
Listen to the full episode above for more on the FEA's efforts to improve Florida's education system.