December 11, 2025
FDOE Press Office
850-245-0413
Florida’s Education Budget Strengthened with Increased Funding for Teachers and Safety
Tallahassee, Fla., December 11, 2025 — The Florida Department of Education and its Commissioner, Anastasios Kamoutsas, have expressed strong support for Governor Ron DeSantis’s newly proposed budget, which continues to prioritize education in Florida. For the seventh year in a row, teacher salaries are set to increase, with an additional $200 million earmarked for compensating teachers and instructional staff, bringing the total funding to a significant $1.56 billion for the 2026–2027 fiscal year. The per-student funding level is also proposed to rise to $9,406, marking a $279 increase per student. Furthermore, the Safe Schools Allocation is recommended to receive a boost, reaching $300 million, up by $10 million.
“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 Floridians First budget for Fiscal Year 2026–2027 signifies the state’s ongoing commitment to educational excellence, ensuring students have access to tailored learning opportunities. Key budget highlights include:
- An additional $200 million dedicated to increasing teacher and instructional staff salaries, culminating in a total investment of $1.56 billion.
- A commitment of $300 million towards school safety, with a $10 million increase, ensuring secure educational environments.
- A $190 million allocation for mental health resources, including $5.5 million for Mental Health Awareness and Assistance Training.
- Over $106 million designated for enhancing school facility security at both K-12 schools and higher education institutions.
- A total of $12.5 million for the Guardian Program, aimed at expanding safety measures at state colleges and universities.
- $483.4 million allocated for the Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK) program to ensure early access to quality education.
- An increase to $10 million for the Florida Civics Seal of Excellence Endorsement, providing stipends to educators for civics education enhancement, alongside $1.5 million for expanding civics and debate initiatives.
- A commitment of $800 million to workforce education, including $20 million for the Pathways to Career Opportunities Grant and $5 million for the Teacher Registered Apprenticeship Program, supporting Florida’s workforce education goals.
- Investment of $130 million in nursing education, with $100 million for the PIPELINE initiative and $30 million for the LINE fund, fostering collaboration between educational programs and healthcare sectors.
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