The Florida Department of Education announced on April 1 that it is celebrating April as Florida College System (FCS) Month, highlighting the role of the state’s 28 colleges in providing access to higher education and supporting economic growth. Commissioner of Education Anastasios Kamoutsas said the FCS is a primary gateway for postsecondary education in Florida, which ranks first nationally in higher education, workforce education, graduation rates, affordability, and talent retention.
The month-long recognition aims to draw attention to the importance of accessible and affordable college programs for students across the state. The department operates from its headquarters at 325 West Gaines Street in Tallahassee, according to the official website. The agency works with parents, educators, and communities to improve student achievement and provide a comprehensive education system from early learning through higher education.
“I’m proud to celebrate our Great 28,” said 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 recognized the contributions of Florida’s college system: “Florida’s college system is second to none, leading the nation with innovation and purpose,” he said. “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 throughout Florida. In just one academic year (2024-25), FCS students 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 has risen fifty-four percent since 2018-19.
The department oversees public education throughout Florida—including K-12 schools as well as higher learning—and provides support through resources such as school choice options and professional training opportunities for both educators and students according to its official website.
