A bill recently filed in the House of Representatives would require Florida teachers to take an oath to the nation and state before starting their duties as an instructor.  

State Rep. Tom Fabricio, R-Miami Lakes, filed House Bill 147 on Oct. 13, which calls for teachers to swear to “support, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution and Government of the State of Florida.” 

The oath that teachers would be required to say is below in its entirety. 

“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 the 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.” 

Florida statutes already requires all state employees, including those who work for school boards and districts, to take an oath to support the state and federal constitutions.  

Additionally, state educators are also required to follow the Florida Department of Education’s (FDOE) Code of Ethics of the Education Profession and Principals of Professional Conduct for the Education Profession.  

Fabricio, Alachua County Public Schools (ACPS), Alachua County Education Association (ACEA) President Carmen Ward and the Florida Education Association (FEA) were contacted for comment but had not responded by press time.  

According to Encycolpedia.com, almost two-thirds of states have adopted teacher loyalty oaths since 1863.  

The 2026 Florida legislative session is scheduled to begin on Jan. 13, 2026.  

If the bill were to pass, it would go into effect on July 1, 2026. 

Nick Anschultz is a Report for America corps member and writes about education for Mainstreet Daily News. This position is supported by local donations through the Community Catalyst for Local Journalism Fund at the Community Foundation of North Central Florida.