This week in Tallahassee, a powerful message echoed through the halls of Florida’s Capitol: our Jewish day schools are not just educational institutions—they are sanctuaries, community centers, and safe havens for our children. A delegation of over 150 rabbis, educators, and parents walked the halls with a simple, urgent plea: keep our children safe.
Teach Florida, the advocacy arm of the Orthodox Union, coordinated the effort, emphasizing the growing need for robust school security funding. With antisemitism on the rise and Jewish enrollment in Florida schools growing by over 50% in the past year, the need for security has never been greater.
The day began early, with the Community Voice accompanying Teach Florida at a private terminal in Fort Lauderdale at 6:00 AM for Shacharis before heading to the Capitol. By 10:00 AM, the group arrived in Tallahassee with a strong sense of purpose. The atmosphere throughout the day was extremely positive, with everyone eager to connect with lawmakers and advocate for increased education funding.
At one point, the group gathered in a committee room where an anti-BDS bill had just passed—a meaningful and symbolic moment that energized everyone in attendance. Later in the afternoon, the delegation davened Mincha and reflected on the progress made. It was, by all accounts, a successful and uplifting day.
Last year, the state allocated $20 million for Jewish school security. This year, the Senate’s proposed budget sets that number at $17 million, a move many in the community fear sends the wrong message.
“Our need hasn’t gone down—it’s gone up,” one principal told lawmakers. “Our parents won’t send their children to school if a guard isn’t present. Safety is not optional.”
Senators and aides listened attentively, some visibly moved by the emotional appeals. Senator Tom Lee spoke proudly about Florida leading the nation in anti-BDS legislation, noting that the state is now expanding its laws to include educational institutions, showing a continued commitment to protecting Jewish communities.
Staffers explained the complexities of the budgeting process and the different pressures they face during appropriations. Still, they made it clear that security funding for Jewish schools remains a priority, especially with the increased threats faced across the country. One aide acknowledged, “If we allocated $20 million last year, and the risk has only increased, it makes sense that we maintain or increase that number.”
Beyond funding, concerns about local regulations surfaced. One advocate highlighted a state requirement for private schools to have a minimum of 45 acres, calling it a senseless barrier that disproportionately affects Jewish schools. Lawmakers expressed a willingness to look into such regulations and reduce red tape where possible.
The delegation didn’t come to protest—they came to partner. They expressed gratitude for past support and appealed for continued protection. As one educator put it, “When our schools feel safe, our children can learn, grow, and thrive.”
The message was clear: safety is not negotiable. The Jewish community in Florida is flourishing, in large part because families feel secure. Lawmakers were reminded that their support isn’t just about numbers on a spreadsheet—it’s about children, families, and the future of a vibrant and growing community.
The ask is simple: keep the funding at $20 million. Our children deserve nothing less.
