For the past few years, state representatives John Legg and Will Weatherford have spent one afternoon sharing their thoughts about education policy with Pasco County principals, and asking for opinions to bring back to Tallahassee.

This year, the two lawmakers  -- each of whom chairs a key education committee -- are bringing Florida education commissioner Eric J. Smith (shown) to town for the conversation.

Their goal is to connect the state level discussion to the people who actually make school happen every day, so whatever decisions emerge are more grounded in reality. Weatherford and Legg also have spoken of putting together focus groups of teachers and parents to guide their effort.

Smith will be in town to talk to principals on Dec. 3 at Sunlake High School in Land O'Lakes. Is there something you think he needs to address? Call a Pasco principal, or post a comment here. The folks at FDOE do read the Gradebook, we've heard.