Florida’s largest association of professional educators has expressed disappointment with the Governor’s proposed budget, arguing that it does not adequately support students, families, or teachers in the state.
In a statement released on December 10, 2025, the Florida Education Association (FEA) criticized the budget for failing to address what it describes as critical issues facing public education. According to FEA, Florida currently ranks near the bottom nationally in both per-student funding and average teacher pay.
“A budget demonstrates values, and this proposal makes it clear that Florida’s students are not valued by the Governor,” said FEA. The organization stated that while they hoped for investments in curriculum improvements and solutions to teacher shortages, “the Governor has failed Florida’s students.”
The FEA highlighted ongoing concerns about funds being diverted from public schools to private interests: “Instead of fixing these failures, his budget doubles down on them, continuing to support policies that divert billions of taxpayer dollars into the hands of unelected private interests while leaving public schools and their students behind.” The statement also challenged claims about increased educator pay: “And while the Governor continues to tout ‘record’ investments in educator pay, the lived experiences of educators tell a different story. Eight years of broken promises have left them in a financial crisis…”
The group called on lawmakers to take action as they consider the budget proposal. “It is now up to them to right the ship. We’re calling on the Florida Legislature to stand boldly for public schools… and to pass a budget that strengthens our schools so every child can have the education and future they deserve.”
The FEA represents approximately 120,000 members across PreK-12 teachers, higher education faculty, educational staff professionals, college students preparing for teaching careers, and retired education employees.
