State Board Criticizes Union for Encouraging Student Protests During Class

February 20, 2026

FDOE Press Office

850-245-0413

Florida’s Education Board Criticizes Union Over Student Protests

Tallahassee, Fla., February 20, 2026 – The State Board of Education has voiced strong opposition to recent activities by the Florida Education Association (FEA), which they believe have shifted focus from education to activism. The board is particularly concerned about FEA’s support for student protests during school hours, noting the impact this could have on students’ academic records. The board is also backing new legislative measures aimed at increasing accountability within teachers’ unions.

“Florida’s classrooms are for learning, not political activism,” stated Commissioner of Education Anastasios Kamoutsas. He emphasized that the union’s encouragement of student walkouts contradicts its mission to support educators and undermines the educational objectives of public schools.

Board Chair Ryan Petty praised legislative efforts, including Senate Bill 1296 and House Bill 995, for targeting union accountability. “Florida’s teachers’ unions are in urgent need of reform,” he remarked, highlighting the need for these measures to ensure that union representation truly reflects educators’ interests.

Vice Chair MaryLynn Magar added, “Senate Bill 1296 and House Bill 995 will give teachers a genuine choice in whether unions represent them or not. This legislation will allow our school leaders and teachers to stay focused on what matters most: serving our students.”

State Board Member Daniel Foganholi, Sr. shared his experience, stating, “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.”

The FEA recently held a press conference where a speaker defended student protests against law enforcement, describing the response as reasonable and necessary. FEA’s President, Andrew Spar, was present but only addressed the issue after public backlash.

The Florida Department of Education has issued guidelines to schools to manage student protests, emphasizing the importance of minimizing classroom disruptions and maintaining safety. While peaceful expressions of views are permitted, schools must ensure the continuity of instruction.