Focus on Safety: Florida’s Education System Takes the Lead at National Summit
In a gathering marked by solemn dedication and collaboration, Florida’s second annual National Summit on School Safety convened representatives from across Florida and 19 other states. Hosted by the Florida Department of Education and the Florida Education Foundation, this event brought together education leaders, law enforcement, policymakers, and specialists to discuss and enhance school safety practices. Families affected by the Marjory Stoneman Douglas shooting were also present, adding a poignant dimension to the proceedings.
Commissioner of Education Anastasios Kamoutsas welcomes attendees to the 2nd Annual National Summit on School Safety.
John Newman, Chief of Security and Emergency Management for Hillsborough County Public Schools, was awarded the 2026 School Safety Specialist of the Year.
John Newman, a stalwart in the field of school security, was recognized at the event as the 2026 School Safety Specialist of the Year. With a career starting in 2014 with Hillsborough County Public Schools and a previous 29-year tenure with the Tampa Police Department, Newman’s expertise was further acknowledged by his 2023 appointment to the Marjory Stoneman Douglas Public Safety Commission by Governor DeSantis.
“Florida continues to lead the nation with innovative policies that safeguard our schools, students and staff. I am grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with partners across the country to share Florida’s approach to school safety,” said Commissioner of Education Anastasios Kamoutsas. “Congratulations to Chief Newman on being named this year’s School Safety Specialist. With more than 40 years of experience in law enforcement and emergency management, he has made a profound and lasting impact on school safety in Florida.”
“I am proud that Florida continues to strengthen policies that improve school safety, with the belief that this work is never finished,” said Ryan Petty, Chair of the State Board of Education. “This Summit provided an important opportunity for school safety specialists to deepen their expertise and learn from Florida’s model, helping to further protect campuses nationwide. Our shared goal is to ensure that no family has to experience the pain we endure as the families of the victims of Marjory Stoneman Douglas.”
“School safety starts with preparation, coordination and strong partnerships,” said Florida Division of Emergency Management Executive Director Kevin Guthrie. “In Florida, we take an all-hazards approach, working alongside educators, law enforcement and community partners to ensure every school is prepared, protected and resilient. This is about safeguarding our future and ensuring every student can learn in a safe environment.”
The summit commenced with opening remarks from Commissioner Kamoutsas, emphasizing collaboration and innovation. A keynote from the United States Secret Service provided insights into threat identification and prevention. Sessions covered Florida’s safety advancements, partnerships with emergency management, and national safety challenges. The event concluded with a student-led panel, underscoring the importance of creating safer educational environments.
To learn more about Florida’s commitment to school safety, visit Safe Schools.
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