DeSantis Slams 'Woke Academia' in Florida, Touts Education Accomplishments

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis delivered a speech at New College of Florida, criticizing the educational establishment and highlighting his administration's efforts to reshape the state's public education system. DeSantis emphasized his commitment to traditional values and opposition to "woke ideology" in academia.

In a speech at New College of Florida, Governor Ron DeSantis took aim at the educational establishment, accusing it of promoting "woke ideology" and neglecting traditional values. DeSantis highlighted his accomplishments in reshaping the state's public education system, including reforms to curriculum and teacher certification.

DeSantis's speech was part of his ongoing efforts to assert control over higher education in Florida. He has appointed conservative trustees to the boards of several universities and proposed legislation to restrict teaching on critical race theory and gender identity.

In his address to students and faculty at New College, DeSantis outlined his vision for a "free and open" university environment, where students are not "indoctrinated" with liberal viewpoints. He criticized the "woke" agenda, which he claimed was stifling academic freedom and promoting a "culture of victimhood."

DeSantis touted his educational reforms, including the elimination of "Common Core" standards and the promotion of "civics education." He also discussed his administration's efforts to improve school choice and parental involvement.

"We need to get back to the basics," DeSantis said. "We need to focus on teaching our children the skills they need to succeed in life, not indoctrinating them with political ideologies."

The governor's speech drew both praise and criticism. Supporters applauded his commitment to traditional values and his willingness to challenge liberal orthodoxy. Critics accused him of politicizing education and undermining academic freedom.

DeSantis's educational agenda has been met with resistance from some faculty members and students at public universities in Florida. Faculty at the University of Florida have passed a resolution condemning DeSantis's efforts to control university governance. Students at New College have protested the appointment of conservative trustees.

Despite the opposition, DeSantis has continued to push his educational reforms. He has proposed legislation to give parents more control over their children's education and to restrict tenure for college professors.

DeSantis's efforts to reshape higher education in Florida are part of a broader national trend of conservative politicians seeking to exert greater influence over educational institutions. These efforts have raised concerns about the future of academic freedom and the ability of universities to serve as centers of independent thought.