The State Board of Education in Florida has criticized the Florida Education Association (FEA) for encouraging students to participate in protests during school hours. The board expressed concern that this action took time away from learning and noted that FEA did not respond when students faced disciplinary measures that could impact their permanent records.
Commissioner of Education Anastasios Kamoutsas stated, “Florida’s classrooms are for learning, not political activism. When the state’s teachers’ union encourages students to walk out of class to protest, it not only contradicts their claimed support for educators but also sends a harmful message about the role and purpose of public schools. Our focus must remain on students and their academic achievement.”
Ryan Petty, Chair of the State Board of Education, commented on pending legislation: “Florida’s teachers’ unions are in urgent need of reform. I applaud Senator Martin and Representative Persons-Mulicka for leading the charge with Senate Bill 1296 and House Bill 995. These measures are designed to hold unions accountable and ensure that representation in our schools actually reflects the educators it serves.”
MaryLynn Magar, Vice Chair of the State Board, added, “Senate Bill 1296 and House Bill 995 will give teachers a genuine choice in whether unions represent them or not. Once signed into law, this legislation will allow our school leaders and teachers to stay focused on what matters most: serving our students.”
Board member Daniel Foganholi, Sr., reflected on his previous experience: “When I served on the School Board of Broward County, it was challenging to work with teachers’ unions. Too frequently, their focus shifted from supporting educators and students to advancing their own agendas, which slows efforts to improve our schools. It’s essential that changes for unions provide clear accountability, so they can prioritize what truly matters, helping teachers succeed and students thrive.”
At an FEA press conference held on February 5, 2026, a speaker said student protests against law enforcement were “…a response, while framed by some political politicians as radical, is rather reasonable. It’s rational. And in moments like this, it is required.” Union leaders were seen nodding in agreement while FEA President Andrew Spar attended but did not comment until after parents voiced concerns.
The Florida Department of Education has recently provided guidance to districts about managing student protests to clarify expectations around safety and instructional time. While peaceful expression is permitted for students, districts are expected to avoid disruptions during classroom instruction.
The Florida Department of Education operates from its headquarters at 325 West Gaines Street in Tallahassee (official website). The department partners with parents, educators, and communities across Florida to advance student achievement through programs covering early childhood education up through higher education (official website). It oversees educational needs statewide—including reading proficiency initiatives and career development—and provides resources such as school choice options and professional training (official website).
