The Florida Department of Education announced on March 31 that it hosted the second annual National Summit on School Safety, bringing together representatives from school districts across Florida and 19 other states. The event was held in partnership with the Florida Education Foundation and included education leaders, law enforcement officers, policymakers, school safety specialists, and families of victims from the Marjory Stoneman Douglas shooting.
The summit aimed to highlight Florida’s approach to school safety and foster collaboration among stakeholders. According to the department’s official website, it operates from its headquarters at 325 West Gaines Street in Tallahassee and oversees education throughout the state—from early childhood through higher learning according to the official website.
During the event, John Newman, Chief of Security and Emergency Management for Hillsborough County Public Schools, was recognized as the 2026 School Safety Specialist of the Year. Newman has served in his current role since 2014 after a nearly three-decade career with Tampa Police Department. In 2023, he was appointed by Governor DeSantis to serve on the Marjory Stoneman Douglas Public Safety Commission.
“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.”
Ryan Petty, Chair of the State Board of Education said: “I am proud that Florida continues to strengthen policies that improve school safety, with the belief that this work is never finished… Our shared goal is to ensure that no family has to experience the pain we endure as families of victims.” Kevin Guthrie, Executive Director for Florida Division of Emergency Management added: “School safety starts with preparation, coordination and strong partnerships… This is about safeguarding our future and ensuring every student can learn in a safe environment.”
The summit featured welcoming remarks by Commissioner Kamoutsas followed by a keynote address from members of United States Secret Service focused on threat identification and prevention strategies. Additional sessions covered evolving trends in campus security as well as collaborative efforts between emergency management officials statewide.
As outlined by its official website, The Florida Department of Education partners with parents, educators, and communities while offering academic resources such as professional training for teachers; administering K-12 programs; providing support for higher education; promoting career development; advancing student achievement; fostering comprehensive educational outcomes; supporting public education initiatives including various forms of school choice options.
