Florida Bill Would Require Educators to Take Oath to Nation and State

FLORIDA — A new proposal filed Friday by Sen. Clay Yarborough of Jacksonville would require state college and university administrators, instructors, and other education professionals to take an oath of allegiance to both the United States and the State of Florida.

The measure (SB 430) also extends to public school administrators and instructional staff, including prekindergarten teachers.

According to the proposal, educators must pledge to serve as positive role models, work in a “professional, independent, objective, and nonpartisan manner,” and “foster a respectful learning environment” that encourages critical thinking, civic responsibility, and lifelong learning. They must also affirm that they are properly qualified for employment in the state.

The bill is slated for consideration during the 2026 legislative session, which begins January 13.

A similar bill (HB 147) was filed by Rep. Tom Fabricio, R-Miami Lakes, requiring public school teachers to take nearly the same oath. Fabricio compared his measure to the professional oaths taken by lawyers, doctors, and public officials.

The proposed oath reads in part:

“I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support, protect, and defend the Constitution and Government of the United States and the Constitution and Government of the State of Florida; that I am duly qualified for employment as a classroom teacher in this state; that I will well and faithfully perform the duties of a classroom teacher in a professional, independent, objective, and nonpartisan manner; that I will uphold the highest standards of academic integrity and professional ethics; that I will foster a respectful learning environment for all students, which promotes critical thinking, civic responsibility, and lifelong learning; and that I will serve as a positive role model in both conduct and character, so help me God.”

If approved, both bills would take effect July 1, 2026.

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