Crist Still Unsure on Education Veto

The Florida Legislature has passed a sweeping education reform bill -- but will Governor Charlie Crist sign it? That's the question on the minds of a lot of educators, parents and members of his own party.

At a highway dedication ceremony in Tampa today, Crist met with several teachers opposed to the bill. They asked him if he'd sign it.

“I don’t know. I honestly don’t know yet. I think one of the most important things a public servant can do is listen. God gave me two ears and one mouth. I’m going to listen this week,” Crist said.

Crist had earlier signaled his support for the bill, but he says he's worried now about some of the specifics.

“I’m concerned how this would treat special needs teachers, about the five percent budget issue in the districts, among others,” he said.

That five percent is what school districts will have to set aside to pay for the proposed changes. The bill would end tenure for new teachers, and tie their pay to student performance on beginning and end-of-course exams.

Crist also said, “I think all of us like the accountability aspect of it. But it’s gotta be done right.”

Crist must decide what to do with the bill by next Friday.

CLICK HERE to listen to Crist's full remarks on Senate Bill 6.