The Florida Department of Education announced on April 1 the start of Florida College System Month, with Commissioner of Education Anastasios Kamoutsas highlighting the contributions of the state’s 28 colleges to education and economic growth. The announcement recognizes Florida’s leading position in higher education, workforce training, graduation rates, affordability, and talent retention.
The initiative is intended to draw attention to the role that state colleges play as a primary entry point for postsecondary education and as drivers of economic opportunity. The department operates from its headquarters at 325 West Gaines Street in Tallahassee, according to its official website.
“I’m proud to celebrate our Great 28,” said Commissioner Anastasios Kamoutsas. “Florida is the number one state in workforce education, and our colleges are essential to that success. With high-quality, affordable programs that limit student debt, the FCS sets the national standard for excellence. Governor DeSantis continues to invest in expanding career pathways and strengthening campus safety, and our colleges are putting those investments to work with student results that speak for themselves.”
Senior Chancellor Kevin O’Farrell also commented on the achievements: “Florida’s college system is second to none, leading the nation with innovation and purpose. With more than 800 career and academic programs, the FCS puts students on a path to prosperity and equips them with hands-on experiences and the skills needed for Florida’s future workforce. I am honored to recognize our dynamic colleges for helping students succeed and for delivering workforce solutions statewide.”
Since 2019, over $12 billion has been invested in workforce education across Florida. For the academic year 2024-25 alone, students within these institutions earned more than 137,000 degrees or certifications; industry certifications grew by over eight percent this year after a fifteen percent increase last year. Career and Technical Education enrollment rose fifty-four percent since 2018-19.
The department partners with parents, educators, and communities throughout Florida as it oversees public education from early childhood through higher learning according to its official website. It provides support through academic resources such as school choice options and professional training opportunities as noted by department sources.
Looking ahead during this month-long recognition period, officials say they will continue efforts aimed at advancing student achievement statewide by fostering collaboration among families schools communities while supporting both K-12 schools higher educational institutions according to information provided by department officials.
