Step Up for Students

By now, you may have read an article, Diversion of tax dollars hurts our public schools, in last week’s 32963 paper. The article was critical of Florida’s Step Up for Students program. While I understand those in public education would be critical of this program, I thought it was important to address some of the statements mentioned in the article.

In the article it states that “Neither private schools nor home-school parents are required to provide any of the accountability or transparency – pertaining to staffing, standards, facilities or finances – the state demands from its 67 public-school districts. Private schools, as well as home-schooling parents, operate independently of local school districts: They’re not required to be accredited by the state, provide state-certified teachers, or teach to state-mandated standards.”

While the statement may be true with some independent schools and home school situations, it is not the case with Saint Edward’s School. 

One of the most critical factors in choosing a school is ensuring it is properly accredited and that its teachers are experts in their fields. Florida’s public schools are held to state standards, such as the FSA testing, but non-public options, like independent schools, may not always be as transparent. This is where accreditation becomes essential, alongside ensuring that educators are highly qualified and experienced.

At Saint Edward’s, we are committed to providing a top-tier education in a nurturing, safe environment. More than just academics, we strive to develop students who possess strong moral and ethical principles. Our goal is to nurture future leaders grounded in integrity, compassion and resilience. But how do we measure success, and who ensures we deliver on this mission? 

Oversight for this process falls to our Board of Trustees and Leadership Team. Additionally, external bodies like the Florida Council of Independent Schools (FCIS), of which we are accredited, and the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS), of which we are a member in good standing, play a crucial role in holding us accountable. The FCIS accreditation process is a year-long, comprehensive effort, involving a detailed analysis of the school’s academic programs, governance, facilities/safety and financial health. This process includes both internal reflection and external evaluations, where outside experts conduct reviews and provide valuable feedback. These insights help us identify areas for improvement, refine our curriculum and ensure long-term sustainability. 

Beyond accreditation, we take immense pride in our faculty's expertise. Most of our teachers hold advanced degrees in their fields, and they engage in ongoing professional development through workshops, conferences and collaborative learning. This commitment ensures our students receive the highest quality education from passionate educators who are experts in their disciplines.

Accreditation reassures parents, students and the community that Saint Edward’s is committed to academic excellence and character development. It also ensures that our students are prepared to thrive in school and life. By adhering to FCIS standards and fostering a culture of continuous growth, we create an environment where students excel academically, socially and ethically.

In the college admissions process, accreditation plays a crucial role. Colleges and universities prefer students from accredited institutions because it assures them that students have received a rigorous, well-rounded education. This enhances our students' competitiveness when applying to top colleges, providing them with a solid foundation for future endeavors.

At Saint Edward’s, our college planning process begins as early as eighth grade, with one-on-one meetings between students and their college counselor. Over the next five years, the team helps students create a compelling portfolio aligned with their goals. By graduation, our students are not just applying to colleges—they are prepared to select the one that will help them make their dreams a reality.

As we move forward, our commitment to self-assessment and accountability remains unwavering. The accreditation process is not just a requirement, it is a key driver of growth and excellence. Through our ongoing dedication to these standards, Saint Edward’s continues to uphold its tradition of academic and ethical excellence while embracing innovation for the future.

I applaud Dr. Moore, his teachers and the Board for their work in strengthening our public schools. Our children deserve the very best in Indian River County, and our families deserve choices with respect to education. While we have no control over what happens in Tallahassee and the Step Up for Students program, we are held accountable for accepting these program dollars at Saint Edward’s, as we should be!

I look forward to seeing you around campus!

Stuart