DeSantis Deputy to Take Over Key Education Role
Florida Education Commissioner Anastasios Kamoutsas, a top DeSantis aide, was unanimously appointed, reinforcing the state’s conservative education agenda.
The move comes as Commissioner Manny Diaz shifts into an interim presidential role at the University of West Florida (UWF). Kamoutsas will begin the role once Diaz secures confirmation as UWF’s permanent president.
“Student safety and achievement will be my top priorities,” Kamoutsas said. “Parents will continue to be empowered. And teachers, you have my word that I stand in support of you.”
A DeSantis Loyalist with a History in Education Policy
Kamoutsas previously held roles as general counsel and chief of staff at the Florida Department of Education. He later transitioned into the Governor’s office as Deputy Chief of Staff, working closely on key education issues.
Gov. DeSantis praised the pick, saying Kamoutsas has championed priorities like parental rights, school choice, and combatting “radical ideologies” in classrooms.
“Stasi Kamoutsas has delivered on important issues,” DeSantis said. “I am confident he will serve our state well.”
Champion of Conservative Education Reforms
Kamoutsas plans to advance policies that have drawn national attention and sparked criticism. Among them:
- Banning public funding for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives
- Restricting the teaching of race and history in public schools
- Expanding Florida’s school voucher system, which directs public funds to private and religious schools
Endorsements from DeSantis Allies
Former Education Commissioner Richard Corcoran, now at New College of Florida, supported Kamoutsas during Wednesday’s meeting.
“Every major decision — DEI bans, critical race theory, opening schools, demasking students — Stasi has been in that room,” Corcoran said. “Not just as a participant. As a leader.”
Kamoutsas joins a growing group of former Republican lawmakers steering Florida’s higher education landscape.
The Bigger Picture
With this appointment, Gov. DeSantis’ conservative reshaping of Florida education deepens. The state continues to make national headlines for its policies on school content, civil rights discussions, and the public funding of private education.
Kamoutsas’ leadership may have long-term effects that extend beyond the DeSantis era, solidifying a political legacy across K-12 and higher ed systems.
Source: AP News
