Florida students are heading back to class — and Gov. Ron DeSantis says the state is entering the new school year with record academic gains and billions invested in teachers.
DeSantis kicked off the 2026-27 school year by touting Florida’s performance in the classroom, expansion of school choice and increased teacher salaries.
“We’ve led the way to champion policies that expand opportunities for students, strengthen workforce education, support great teachers, and ensure every child has access to a high-quality education,” DeSantis said.
For the first time, more than 60% of Florida students are performing at or above grade level in both English language arts and math, according to the state.
Florida has also poured more than $7 billion into teacher pay increases since 2019. The average starting salary has climbed from about $40,000 to $50,200 during that period.
The 2026-27 budget includes another $1.56 billion for teacher salary increases, including $200 million specifically aimed at boosting pay for experienced public school teachers with at least 10 years on the job.
DeSantis also pointed to Florida’s standing in several national education rankings. The state has ranked No. 1 in higher education by U.S. News & World Report since 2017 and has received top marks from several organizations for school choice, parental empowerment and education freedom.
Education Commissioner Henry Mack said the state intends to keep pushing students academically while preparing them for careers after graduation.
“Education changes the trajectory of a child’s life,” Mack said.
As classrooms reopen across the Sunshine State, DeSantis said his administration will continue focusing on teacher pay, school choice, workforce training and academic achievement.
