Political Quotes

“Duuuval. Mr. Speaker, football fans across the Southeast will recognize that as the rallying cry for the Jacksonville Jaguars. You may wonder how many u's are in that rallying cry. The answer is: No one really knows. How about that? Everyone knows that there is one ``a'' in that rallying cry, and that is the reason, Mr. Speaker, I want to focus on that ``a'' because, for the first time ever, Duval County schools received an A grade from the State of Florida Department of Education. It is a big deal. It is a big deal in northeast Florida. This momentous accomplishment reflects the hard work and unwavering commitment of our students, educators, administrators, families, and parents. It reflects years of progress, innovation, and a community-wide effort to achieve educational excellence. Under the leadership of Superintendent Dr. Christopher Bernier, the school board, and the steadfast efforts of teachers and staff across the district, Duval County has not only met the State's rigorous standards, but it has surpassed them, Mr. Speaker. To the parents who have stayed involved, to the students who rose to the challenge, and to every member of Team Duval, I thank them. Their success is a shining example of what happens when a community believes in its children and backs that belief with action. I congratulate Duval on this well-deserved recognition. Duuuval--I can't say it enough.”