The Florida Department of Education recently hosted 50 social studies teachers from across the state at the Capitol Complex Professional Learning Event in Tallahassee. The three-day event was designed to deepen participants’ understanding of state government, expand their civics knowledge, and provide them with activities to use in their classrooms.
Commissioner of Education Anastasios Kamoutsas addressed the group alongside Mark Harrison, the 2026 Florida Teacher of the Year. Senate President Ben Albritton also participated in welcoming attendees.
“Under the leadership of Governor Ron DeSantis, Florida continues to lead the nation in civics education. This professional learning opportunity, along with the Department’s additional civics-focused initiatives, plays a critical role in strengthening civics education across Florida by enhancing teachers’ ability to deliver the highest-quality instruction to students statewide,” said Commissioner Kamoutsas. “It was an honor to address the participants at this event, and I am confident that the future of civics education in Florida’s schools is in excellent hands with this dedicated group of educators.”
Mark Harrison commented on his experience: “This wasn’t just a training, it was a full, immersive experience. For three days, teachers engaged in a hands-on exploration of the real world of government, and I found it both inspiring and energizing. After more than twenty years in the classroom, I can honestly say it’s one of my favorite professional learning experiences.”
Governor Ron DeSantis has proposed $17.5 million for civics engagement as part of his Floridians First 2026-2027 Budget.
Florida offers several programs supporting civic education. The Civics Seal of Excellence Endorsement is a teacher training program aligned with updated state standards; its most recent cohort filled all available seats within one minute after registration opened in January 2026. Thousands are currently on a waitlist for future sessions.
Civics and debate programs under FCDI and FDI have grown significantly under Governor DeSantis’ administration—from fewer than 60 teams to over 350 teams statewide—giving students opportunities for civil discourse and reasoning skills development.
Regional Civics Literacy Coaches provide support through school visits and coaching sessions while helping educators deliver high-quality instruction aligned with revised standards. Additional resources include instructional guides and integrated K-12 curriculum materials that allow for civics content across multiple subjects.
The Florida Department of Education operates from its headquarters at 325 West Gaines Street in Tallahassee (official website). It oversees public education throughout Florida from early childhood through higher learning (official website), partnering with parents, educators, and communities to improve student achievement (official website). The department provides academic resources, professional training for educators (official website), administers K-12 schools as well as career development programs (official website), manages data on student progress (official website), and works toward economic self-sufficiency through educational initiatives.
More information about these efforts can be found on the Civics Literacy page of the department’s website.
