Danny Burgess and John Snyder Propose Portraits of Washington and Lincoln in Classrooms
Danny Burgess (R-Zephyrhills) and Rep. John Snyder (R-Stuart) aim to reintroduce portraits of two iconic American presidents—George Washington and Abraham Lincoln—into public school classrooms throughout Florida.
Legislative Proposal Details
The bill, SB 420/HB 371, would mandate that portraits of Washington and Lincoln be displayed in K–5 classrooms as well as social studies classrooms for grades 6–12. The legislators believe this initiative will revive a tradition reflecting the nation's history, principles, and vision set by these presidents.
Purpose and Inspiration
"For years, Florida schools proudly displayed portraits of United States Presidents George Washington and Abraham Lincoln," Burgess wrote. "However, over time and as classroom designs and curricula evolved, these historic figures were slowly removed from classrooms."
Burgess shared that his inspiration for the bill came from visits to historic landmarks during family trips. He recalled,
"During a recent trip, I found myself in awe, standing in a historic classroom where portraits of Presidents Washington and Lincoln still hung on the wall. I couldn’t help but ask myself, why did we ever stop having these two historic figures displayed in Florida classrooms?"
Historical Context
This move seeks to restore a once-common practice in Florida schools, ensuring that students connect visually with leaders who shaped the country's foundational values.
Author's summary: Florida lawmakers propose requiring portraits of Washington and Lincoln in classrooms to reconnect students with American history and core national principles.