The Florida Education Association (FEA) has criticized the State Board of Education and Governor Ron DeSantis for what it describes as politicizing education issues and targeting educators. At a recent board meeting, Education Commissioner Anastasios Kamoutsas was accused by the FEA of spreading misinformation about an Alachua County School Board meeting, blaming teachers for funding problems, and intimidating educators across the state.
According to the FEA, Commissioner Kamoutsas stated that the “culture” in Alachua County—referring to community members expressing their views—“needs to change,” suggesting that state intervention would occur if necessary. The association sees this as a threat to those who disagree with current state policies.
The FEA contends that these actions are part of a broader pattern led by Governor DeSantis and his allies to limit dissent and reduce local control over schools. The organization argues that such measures undermine the freedoms of educators, school boards, and communities.
“We know that he is only acting out the desires of Governor DeSantis.The truth cannot be ignored: districts are facing million-dollar budget shortfalls exacerbated by federal money that has not yet been delivered; classrooms are plagued with mold, lead, and broken ACs; Florida remains 50th in average teacher pay for the second year in a row; and thousands of students began this school year without a certified educator in their classroom. When our Governor turns a blind eye to the problems, our students pay the price in the form of overcrowded classrooms, declining SAT scores, and slipping performance on math and reading tests,” said representatives from FEA.
The association also criticized recent efforts by state leaders related to book bans and curriculum restrictions. They claim these actions restrict whose stories can be told in schools rather than upholding every child’s right to quality education.
In its response to proposed budget allocations for teacher salaries—$145 million statewide—the FEA calculated this would amount to approximately $708 per teacher before taxes each year. The group argues this is insufficient given inflation rates.
“The Legislative Budget Request (LBR) only further highlights the hypocrisy. Despite claims about supporting student learning and educators, the LBR actively undermines that goal. The proposed $145 million for teacher pay averages out to about $708 (pre-tax) per teacher—less than $30 per paycheck before taxes, far from what’s needed to keep pace with rising inflation. The Florida Education Association will continue to track budget funding requests to ensure students are put first.”
As noted by members of the State Board themselves: “student achievement isn’t a partisan ideal. Every child—not just a select few—deserves a rich and diverse education that allows them to see themselves in their learning and challenges them to think for themselves.”
The FEA represents more than 120,000 members across PreK-12 teachers, higher education faculty, educational staff professionals, college students preparing for teaching careers, and retired employees throughout Florida.
