Edwards makes first post-election speech in Lake Charles

LAKE CHARLES, LA (KPLC) - Amid a crowd of people waving smiley face signs to the song "Happy" by Pharrell, Governor-elect John Bel Edwards made his first official post-election speech Monday at the Louisiana Federation of Teachers annual convention in Lake Charles.

Edwards told the group of educators that his main mission is to "improve education on all levels" and to work with teachers to make this happen.

He said he wants to start with early childhood education, so children start school prepared to learn.

Contrary to what has been said about him, Edwards said he is not against charter schools. He does believe they need to be held accountable.

"I'm going to make sure they have accountability. It's not about ending choice; it's about informed choice," he said.

As for the voucher program, Edwards said he thought it was unconstitutional and he voted against it.

"It doesn't make sense to me. Some of the worst-performing schools in the state are voucher schools," he said. "I don't plan on taking out the voucher program completely. We're going to stop diverting resources that don't make sense."

Edwards said he's listened to teachers' concerns, and he knows there's a lot of work to do. He needs the help of all teachers — and all residents — to make it happen.

"I need your help. Change is not easy. I am going to work with everyone. I mean it when I say I will be a the governor of all the people, whether they voted for me,  against me, or whether they didn't vote," he said.

A product of public education, Edwards said he has a deep-seated respect for teachers.

"Whatever success I have had in my life...I've attributed to my teachers. I respect teachers and know what a powerful role teachers' play," he said. "We have to band together. I still believe in the power and promise of public education."

The LFT's 51st annual convention started Sunday at the Golden Nugget Casino and continues until Tuesday morning. Delegates from around the state are in attendance.

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