The Florida Department of Education recently hosted 50 social studies teachers from across the state at the Capitol Complex Professional Learning Event in Tallahassee. The three-day event was designed to deepen participants’ understanding of Florida’s state government, expand their civics knowledge, and provide them with activities to use in their classrooms.
Commissioner of Education Anastasios Kamoutsas addressed the attendees alongside Mark Harrison, the 2026 Florida Teacher of the Year. The event included hands-on experiences intended to enhance teachers’ ability to deliver civics education.
“Under the leadership of Governor Ron DeSantis, Florida continues to lead the nation in civics education. This professional learning opportunity, along with the Department’s additional civics-focused initiatives, plays a critical role in strengthening civics education across Florida by enhancing teachers’ ability to deliver the highest-quality instruction to students statewide,” said Commissioner Kamoutsas. “It was an honor to address the participants at this event, and I am confident that the future of civics education in Florida’s schools is in excellent hands with this dedicated group of educators.”
Mark Harrison shared his perspective on the experience: “This wasn’t just a training, it was a full, immersive experience. For three days, teachers engaged in a hands-on exploration of the real world of government, and I found it both inspiring and energizing. After more than twenty years in the classroom, I can honestly say it’s one of my favorite professional learning experiences.”
Governor Ron DeSantis has proposed $17.5 million for civics engagement as part of his Floridians First 2026-2027 Budget.
The Civics Seal of Excellence Endorsement program offers a 55-hour course for educators aligned with revised standards for civics and government instruction. A new cohort opened for registration in January 2026 and filled all available seats within one minute; thousands remain on a waitlist.
Civics and debate programs such as FCDI and FDI have expanded significantly under Governor DeSantis’ administration—from fewer than 60 teams statewide to over 350 teams now participating throughout every school district.
Regional Civics Literacy Coaches support schools through visits and individualized coaching aimed at helping educators deliver effective instruction. Additional resources include instructional guides and curriculum materials aligned with updated standards for K-12 students.
The Florida Department of Education operates from its headquarters in Tallahassee and oversees public education from early childhood through higher learning across all regions of Florida. It partners with parents, educators, and communities to promote student achievement through academic resources, professional training opportunities for educators, school choice options, reading proficiency programs, career development initiatives promoting economic self-sufficiency, and comprehensive oversight spanning K-12 schools through higher education.
More information about these initiatives can be found on the department’s Civics Literacy page.
