The Florida Board of Education on Wednesday unanimously approved Anastasios Kamoutsas to serve as the state’s next Commissioner of Education.

Kamoutsas currently serves as deputy chief of staff to the governor, where he oversees policy related to education, public safety, and emergency management. He previously worked at the Department of Education as general counsel and later as chief of staff after joining the agency in 2019. He joined the governor’s office in 2023.

Gov. Ron DeSantis recommended Kamoutsas to succeed Diaz, citing his involvement in key education policies advanced during the administration, including expanded school choice, the removal of public funding for diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives, and revisions to classroom instruction on race and U.S. history.

“Stasi Kamoutsas has delivered on important issues like parental rights, school choice, and fighting back against radical ideologies in education,” said Gov. DeSantis. “I am confident that he will continue to serve our state well as the next Commissioner of Education, and I thank Commissioner Manny Diaz Jr. for his dedicated and productive service.”

Kamoutsas told board members that student achievement and safety would be his priorities, and he pledged continued support for parental involvement and teacher advancement. The selection drew praise from multiple state education leaders and political figures, including former Education Commissioner Richard Corcoran, according to the Associated Press.

“I’m honored to have the trust and support of Governor Ron DeSantis to be Florida’s Commissioner of Education,” said Kamoutsas on Tuesday. “Under my tenure, the Florida Department of Education will remain committed to student safety and success, empowering parents, and supporting teachers. I look forward to working with the State Board of Education to ensure that Florida remains the education state.”

Outgoing Commissioner of Education Manny Diaz, who has served as commissioner since 2022, is expected to depart for University of West Florida in July.