‘Sends a harmful message:’ Education leader targets Florida teachers over student walkouts

February 21, 2026 - 18:25

The Florida State Board of Education has initiated a formal inquiry targeting the Florida Education Association (FEA), the state's largest teachers' union, following a series of student walkouts. The protests, which occurred at several high schools, were organized by students in response to recent state policies.

In a strongly worded statement, state education officials accused the union of potentially encouraging the walkouts, arguing such actions "send a harmful message" to students by disrupting the learning environment. The Board has demanded the FEA provide all communications related to the protests, suggesting a formal investigation into whether educators improperly influenced student activism.

Union leaders have firmly denied the allegations, stating they support students' rights to free expression but did not organize the events. They characterize the state's action as an intimidation tactic designed to silence teachers and discourage civic engagement. The FEA maintains that the walkouts were solely student-led, organized through social media channels independent of faculty direction.

This confrontation marks a significant escalation in the ongoing tension between Florida's education authorities and teacher advocacy groups. The outcome of the inquiry could lead to professional repercussions for individual teachers and potentially affect the union's standing. The situation highlights the deepening divide over the boundaries of political expression within the state's public school system.