Florida becomes first state to adopt Phoenix Declaration as guiding education principles

The Florida State Board of Education has unanimously approved The Phoenix Declaration: An American Vision for Education as the foundational set of principles for the state's education system. This decision makes Florida the first state in the country to officially adopt the declaration.

Commissioner of Education Anastasios Kamoutsas commented on the move, stating, “Throughout Governor Ron DeSantis’ tenure, education in Florida has been guided by many of the principles embodied in the Phoenix Declaration. By formally adopting this Declaration, we are reaffirming our commitment to an education system that pursues truth and virtue, empowers parents, and always prioritizes our students.”

Ryan Petty, Chair of the State Board of Education and one of the original public officials who endorsed the declaration, said, “As one of the original public officials who signed on to the Phoenix Declaration, I knew how important it was for the State Board of Education to adopt it to serve as the unifying foundation for education in Florida. The Phoenix Declaration will challenge us, as leaders, to resist complacency and ensure that Florida remains a national model for academic freedom, parental partnership and educational excellence.”

The Heritage Foundation introduced The Phoenix Declaration on February 17, 2025. It was developed with input from over 50 scholars and education policy experts along with support from 10 educational and public interest organizations.