The Florida Department of Education announced on March 31 that representatives from school districts across Florida and 19 other states attended the second annual National Summit on School Safety in Tallahassee. The event, hosted by the department and the Florida Education Foundation, brought together education leaders, law enforcement officers, policymakers, and school safety specialists to discuss best practices for protecting students and staff.
The summit highlighted the importance of collaboration in developing effective school safety strategies. Families of victims from the Marjory Stoneman Douglas shooting were present at the event, underscoring its significance for those directly affected by school violence.
John Newman, Chief of Security and Emergency Management for Hillsborough County Public Schools, was named 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 to the Marjory Stoneman Douglas Public Safety Commission by Governor DeSantis. “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 at Florida Division of Emergency Management said: “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 included welcoming remarks from Commissioner Kamoutsas followed by a keynote address from representatives from United States Secret Service focusing on threat identification and prevention. Sessions covered topics such as evolving safety measures within schools and national-level challenges.
The Florida Department of Education operates out of its headquarters at 325 West Gaines Street in Tallahassee according to its official website. The department works alongside parents, educators, and communities statewide to advance student success through academic resources as well as professional training opportunities for both educators and students. It administers programs covering K-12 public education through higher learning and career development.
As discussions continue about improving campus security nationwide following recent tragedies such as Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting—where families remain actively involved—the summit aims to foster ongoing improvements so all students can attend safer schools.
