Does more gambling equal better education?

Clearwater, Florida - Some state legislators are betting more gambling will mean better education. The Governor, House and Senate each have a plan to expand gambling in Florida. The governor's plan would allow the Seminole Tribes seven casinos to use Class III slot machines like the one's used in Las Vegas and Atlantic City. The change would bring in $100 million a year for education.

Some teachers and parents at Belcher Elementary support the new source of revenue.

"It's there if we have it, let's use it, use it effectively," says Shelly Gundry, a teacher at Belcher Elementary. She adds that schools should be the one's deciding how to use its fair share.

After teaching in the classroom for more than three decades, Gundry has seen tough times before but never like this. "This is probably the worst economic time we've had in my 34 years," she says.

Pinellas is looking at up to $107 million in cuts next school year, cuts that may affect student services and jobs. Gundry has her reservations; she can't help but compare this source of revenue to the lottery. The lottery has reportedly given $19 billion to schools in 20 years.

"My problem is, when they give us the money, like lottery, [they should] not take away what we already have. That seems to be what happens," says Gundry.

The Florida School Board Association supports using gambling money. Before approving anything, Pinellas School Board member Carol Cook hopes legislators consider this.

"I'd like them to look to make sure this is going to be a stable source of funding, not a quick fix," she says.

Parent Kris Cousineau supports Crist's proposal. Since the gambling is already in Florida, she says schools should take advantage of it. Cousineau hopes state leaders can put education first.

"As the mother of four kids, all I care about is if you say you're going to support education, support it, and commit to it and stick to the plan."

If the state falls short, Gundry as always, will help keep the classroom moving forward.

"I'd go out and get it [the money] myself. That's what most teachers do, unfortunately, we have to. We want what's best for our kids."