Charlotte County, Fla --- Board Chairman John LeClair, along with Board Members Kim Amontree and Wendy Atkinson, representing the Charlotte County School Board, convened with more than 125 esteemed school board members and leaders in education in Tallahassee on March 19-20, 2025, to actively participate in the 38th Annual Day in the Legislature hosted by the Florida School Boards Association (FSBA).

On Wednesday afternoon, Commissioner Manny Diaz Jr. of the Florida Department of Education opened the event with remarks that set the tone for the day’s conversations on the future of education in Florida. Following his address, Dr. David K. Moore, Superintendent of the School District of Indian River County, led a session on Advocating for Public Education, where he shared effective strategies for engaging in the legislative process and advancing public education priorities. The day concluded with a detailed session on Best Practices in Advocacy and FSBA Platform & Bill Updates, where FSBA leadership provided attendees with the latest legislative developments, offering valuable insights into current policy changes and the association's ongoing efforts. On Thursday, participants had the privilege of visiting the Capitol, engaging with their respective legislative delegations, attending legislative committee meetings and closed out with remarks by Senate President Ben Albritton.

Dr. Danielle Thomas, FSBA Director of Advocacy and Legislative Services, emphasized the significance of the event, stating, "This event serves as a vital platform for school board members to engage directly in the legislative process, advocating for the students, families, and educators they represent. By collaborating with lawmakers, they help shape education policy that directly impacts their communities."

Reflecting on the event's legacy, Andrea Messina, FSBA Chief Executive Officer, expressed pride in celebrating the 38th anniversary of this advocacy initiative. "Since 1930, FSBA has proudly served as 'the Voice of Education in Florida.' For 38 years, this advocacy event has provided school board members with the opportunity to engage directly with legislators, ensuring that the needs of our students and districts are heard. Their dedication and advocacy are more important now than ever before," said Andrea Messina, FSBA Chief Executive Officer.

“We are incredibly grateful to Senate President Albritton, Representative Oliver, and Representative Nix for championing our appropriation request to launch an advanced manufacturing training facility,” said Kim Amontree, Legislative Liaison. “This initiative will provide critical workforce training opportunities and support the growing demand for skilled labor in our region, benefiting both students and local industry.”