Governor Ron DeSantis Approves $20 M for Improving Security in Jewish Schools!

In a significant legislative move aimed at addressing rising antisemitic sentiments, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has signed a bill that allocates $20 million to enhance security measures at Jewish day schools and preschools across the state. This funding is part of a broader effort to ensure the safety and well-being of Jewish students in response to increasing threats and incidents of antisemitism.

Governor DeSantis emphasized the urgency and importance of this initiative during the signing ceremony. “We have seen a troubling increase in antisemitic rhetoric and actions, and we must protect all students, especially those who are being targeted,” he stated. “This funding will provide the necessary resources to ensure that Jewish day schools have the security they need.”

The allocated funds, which will be distributed by the Department of Education, are earmarked for a range of security enhancements. These include the installation of security cameras, the construction of perimeter fencing, the addition of shatter-resistant glass for windows, and the hiring of extra security personnel. These measures are designed to create a safer learning environment and to prevent potential threats from escalating into violent incidents.

Several private Jewish schools in Tampa, including the Hillel Academy of Tampa, are among the beneficiaries of this funding. The Hillel Academy, which has recently welcomed students from Israel in the wake of the October 7 attack by Hamas that claimed the lives of 1,200 Israelis, has already implemented some security measures but will greatly benefit from the additional support.

Carolyn Fink, a representative of the Hillel Academy of Tampa, expressed relief and gratitude for the state’s support. “It’s extremely helpful for us because right now, we do have security, and we have systems, and we have an armed guard, but we have to spend a significant amount of our own profits and financial resources to pay for it,” Fink said. “And so this will really help ensure that we can navigate our resources and use them in other areas, knowing that our security is being taken care of.”

Fink highlighted the funding’s dual benefit: enhancing security while allowing the school to allocate more resources to educational and developmental activities. “This funding ensures that we can focus on providing a quality education and enriching experiences for our students without constantly worrying about security costs,” she added.

Representative Randy Fine, who co-sponsored the bill, echoed the sentiment, pointing out the unfortunate necessity of such measures. “It’s the kind of security that, frankly, no school should need. But unfortunately, we live in a time where Jewish kids need a little bit of extra security,” Fine remarked. He stressed that while it is disheartening that such precautions are necessary, it is vital to ensure the safety of the students.

Despite some opposition in the Florida House, where six members argued for similar security funding for all public schools, the bill received overwhelming support and was signed into law by Governor DeSantis. The legislation will take effect on July 1, marking a significant step towards enhancing the safety of Jewish educational institutions in Florida.

This initiative is part of a broader effort by the state to combat antisemitism and ensure the protection of all its residents. Governor DeSantis and other state officials have reiterated their commitment to creating a safe and inclusive environment for all students, regardless of their background.

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The $20 million allocation for Jewish day schools is seen as a crucial part of this mission. It provides the necessary resources to protect vulnerable communities and foster a sense of security and peace of mind for students, parents, and educators alike.