U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL14) released the following statement after Hillsborough County Public Schools Superintendent Jeff Eakins announced that he will step down on June 30, 2020:

“Hillsborough County students have been well-served by Superintendent Jeff Eakins and I wish he was not leaving.  Hillsborough County public school students and teachers need an outspoken Superintendent who understands the challenges of our diverse and growing community.  Jeff’s focus on early childhood education, school readiness, modern and safe schools, and preparation for careers was on point.  It is not easy to stand up to state policy makers who elevate for-profit, private charter schools over the needs of the overwhelming majority of students in traditional public schools, but Jeff Eakins successfully led a referendum to invest in the capital needs of our public schools at a time when state lawmakers kept diverting needed funds.  I wish him well, and urge the School Board to find a strong leader for our community’s most important economic driver and for students from every neighborhood.”

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