The Florida State Board of Education has raised concerns about the Florida Education Association (FEA) for promoting student protests during school hours, stating that such actions disrupt instructional time. The board highlighted its commitment to keeping classroom time focused on academics and noted that union encouragement of walkouts sends a message at odds with the intended purpose of public schools.
“Florida’s classrooms are for learning, not political activism,” said Commissioner of Education Anastasios Kamoutsas. “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.”
Board members voiced particular concern over the FEA’s public support for protests and subsequent silence as students faced disciplinary consequences that could impact their records. They also expressed approval for proposed legislation aimed at increasing accountability within unions.
“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,” said Ryan Petty, Chair of the State Board of Education.
 “Senate Bill 1296 and House Bill 995 will give teachers a genuine choice in whether unions represent them or not,” said MaryLynn Magar, Vice Chair of the State Board of Education. “Once signed into law, this legislation will allow our school leaders and teachers to stay focused on what matters most: serving our students.”
“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,” said Daniel Foganholi, Sr., State Board of Education Member. “It’s essential that changes for unions provide clear accountability, so they can prioritize what truly matters, helping teachers succeed and students thrive.”
At a February 5 press conference, an FEA speaker described recent student protests against law enforcement as “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 appeared supportive during these remarks; however, FEA President Andrew Spar did not respond until after parents objected publicly.
The Department recently clarified expectations for districts regarding student protests by issuing guidance about maintaining safety and instructional time. While peaceful expression is permitted, districts are directed to prevent classroom disruptions and keep learning environments secure.
The Florida Department of Education operates from its headquarters in Tallahassee at 325 West Gaines Street (official website). It oversees education throughout Florida from early childhood through higher education (official website), working with parents, educators, and communities to enhance student achievement (official website). The department supports K-12 schools as well as career development programs (official website) by providing academic resources and professional training opportunities (official website).
