Representatives from school districts across Florida and 19 other states gathered in Tallahassee for the second annual National Summit on School Safety, hosted by the Florida Department of Education and the Florida Education Foundation, according to a March 31 announcement. The event brought together education leaders, law enforcement officers, policymakers, and school safety specialists to discuss best practices and learn about Florida’s approach to school safety. Families of victims from the Marjory Stoneman Douglas shooting were also present at the summit.
The summit is significant as it provides a platform for sharing knowledge and strategies aimed at protecting students and staff in schools. The gathering reflects ongoing efforts by state officials to strengthen policies that improve campus security nationwide.
John Newman, Chief of Security and Emergency Management for Hillsborough County Public Schools, was named the 2026 School Safety Specialist of the Year during the event. Newman has served in his current role since 2014 after a long career with Tampa Police Department. In 2023, he was appointed by Governor Ron DeSantis to serve on the Marjory Stoneman Douglas Public Safety Commission.
“Florida continues to lead the nation with innovative policies that safeguard our schools, students and staff. I am grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with partners across the country to share Florida’s approach to school safety,” said Commissioner of Education Anastasios Kamoutsas. “Congratulations to Chief Newman on being named this year’s School Safety Specialist. With more than 40 years of experience in law enforcement and emergency management, he has made a profound and lasting impact on school safety in Florida.”
Ryan Petty, Chair of the State Board of Education said: “I am proud that Florida continues to strengthen policies that improve school safety, with the belief that this work is never finished… Our shared goal is to ensure that no family has to experience the pain we endure as families of victims.” Kevin Guthrie, Executive Director for Florida Division of Emergency Management added: “School safety starts with preparation, coordination and strong partnerships… This is about safeguarding our future and ensuring every student can learn in a safe environment.”
The summit included keynote remarks from Commissioner Kamoutsas as well as expert presentations from agencies such as United States Secret Service. Sessions covered topics like evolving threats facing schools nationally and collaborative emergency management strategies.
The Florida Department of Education operates from its headquarters at 325 West Gaines Street in Tallahassee according to its official website. The department partners with parents, educators, and communities statewide to boost student achievement through comprehensive programs spanning early learning through higher education according to its official website. It supports public education by offering academic resources, professional training for educators and various support services, while overseeing K-12 schools as well as higher education institutions across Florida.
The summit concluded with a student-led panel emphasizing commitment toward safer learning environments moving forward.
