During this and every political season, issues that are important to the residents of Broward, Palm Beach, Miami-Dade and Monroe counties are discussed, analyzed, pondered, and analyzed some more. Among the many issues of concern and one that is always at the top of the list is education. The education of our children and how it should be accomplished dominated the dialogue as nearly 400 people, including parents, students, community members, business leaders, School Board members, Broward County Public Schools (BCPS) Superintendent Robert W. Runcie and District employees participated in Ed Talk 2014. The third annual event took place at the Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center on Saturday, November 1, from 9 a.m. – 1:15 p.m.

The community forum engaged participants in discussions centered on the new Florida Standards, tests vs assessments, and five special areas of focus: Exceptional Student Education, Gifted and Talented Student Initiative, English for Speakers of Other Languages, Minority Male Mentoring Initiative, and Early Childhood Education. Additionally, there was discussion on the District’s $800 million General Obligation Bond referendum that was approved in voting on the November 4th ballot and its potential impact on schools, students, teachers and Broward communities. Interactive sessions allowed participants to provide input and feedback.

“This is our third annual Ed Talk, and we had an incredible turnout today. The hundreds of people who took time out of their busy weekend to join today’s dialogue is a great testament to our Broward County community, as we continue to move the District forward,” said Superintendent Runcie. “This is a unique opportunity for the entire community to come together with the District to talk about the future of our schools and students.”