Yesterday, Commissioner Anastasios Kamoutsas and the Florida Department of Education recognized Governor Ron DeSantis for his continued focus on education in the proposed Floridians First Fiscal Year 2026–2027 budget. The recommendations include an increase in teacher pay for the seventh year in a row, with an additional $200 million proposed for teacher and instructional personnel salaries or other compensation costs. This would bring total funding to $1.56 billion for the next fiscal year.
The budget proposal also raises per-student funding to $9,406, which is an increase of $279 per student compared to previous years. Additionally, there is a recommended allocation of $300 million for Safe Schools, representing a $10 million increase aimed at improving safety and security across Florida campuses.
“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 proposed budget reflects ongoing progress among Florida students and reaffirms the state’s commitment to providing educational pathways tailored to student needs.
The Florida Department of Education operates as part of Florida’s state government structure and oversees public education programs throughout the state (https://www.fldoe.org/about-us/). It serves about 2.8 million students across 4,471 public schools and 28 colleges with 175 locations statewide (https://www.fldoe.org/about-us/). The department’s mission is to enhance student proficiency through integrated learning systems valued by students, parents, and communities (https://www.fldoe.org/about-us/). Its services include workforce training, apprenticeships, support for individuals with disabilities, and programs designed to foster economic self-sufficiency through education (https://www.fldoe.org/about-us/).
The department extends its reach across all regions of Florida (https://www.fldoe.org/about-us/) as it works toward improving educational outcomes and supporting community development.
