Florida Bill Mandates Presidential Portraits in Classrooms

URGENT UPDATE: A new bill introduced in Florida mandates that all elementary school classrooms must display portraits of Presidents George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. This proposal, filed on Thursday, aims to enhance patriotic education as the legislative session approaches on January 13.

Under the proposed legislation, known as SB 420 and HB 371, the portraits must be prominently placed in classrooms primarily used for social studies instruction, particularly for grades 6-12. The initiative, sponsored by Sen. Danny Burgess (R-Zephyrhills) and Rep. John Snyder (R-Stuart), seeks to reinforce national history and values as the nation prepares for the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

The Florida Department of Education will oversee the selection and distribution of the portraits to school districts across the state. This move is part of a broader “patriotic program” that also mandates the display of the motto “In God We Trust” in school district buildings.

Burgess emphasized that the measure aims to “restore a proud tradition that reminds students of the nation’s history,” while Snyder referred to Washington and Lincoln as “shining examples of servant-leadership, grit, determination, and resolve in the face of adversity.”

This legislative proposal has the potential to spark significant discussions among educators, parents, and students about the role of historical figures in education. As schools prepare for the upcoming academic year, the implications of this bill will be closely monitored, and its support or opposition among various stakeholders will become clearer as the session unfolds.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as Florida lawmakers push to instill a sense of historical pride in the state’s classrooms.