Yesterday, Commissioner Anastasios Kamoutsas and the Florida Department of Education acknowledged Governor Ron DeSantis for his continued focus on education in Florida. The announcement follows the release of the Governor’s Floridians First budget proposal for Fiscal Year 2026–2027.
The proposed budget includes an additional $200 million allocated for teacher and instructional personnel salaries or other compensation costs. This would bring total funding for these salaries to $1.56 billion, marking the seventh consecutive year of increased teacher pay. The budget also proposes a rise in per-student funding to $9,406, which is an increase of $279 per student compared to previous levels. Furthermore, the Safe Schools Allocation would be increased by $10 million, totaling $300 million to enhance campus safety across Florida.
“When I became Commissioner, I set two main goals: student achievement and school safety. I am proud to say the Governor’s recommended budget prioritizes both of these goals,” said Commissioner of Education Anastasios Kamoutsas. “I thank Governor DeSantis for his sustained efforts to ensure Florida remains the nation’s top state for education.”
The Governor’s recommendations reflect ongoing improvements in educational outcomes and demonstrate a commitment to providing students with various pathways suited to their needs.
The Florida Department of Education plays a significant role in community development by fostering economic self-sufficiency through its educational initiatives and workforce training programs (source). As part of Florida’s state government structure, it oversees public education and related services throughout the state (source). Serving about 2.8 million students across more than 4,400 public schools and 28 colleges at 175 locations statewide (source), its mission is focused on improving student proficiency through learning opportunities valued by students, parents, and communities (source). In addition to traditional academic programs, it offers apprenticeships and support for individuals with disabilities to promote self-sufficiency (source).
The Department continues its work as a state agency responsible for overseeing public education and ensuring access to resources throughout all regions of Florida (source).
