Commissioner Kamoutsas launched the department’s first Go the Extra Mile (GEM) Pep Rally

Tallahassee, Fla., July 14, 2025 - On his first day as the newly appointed Commissioner of Education, Anastasios Kamoutsas launched the department’s first Go the Extra Mile (GEM) Pep Rally, an event to celebrate the monthly GEM Employee of the Month honoree and bring staff together to spotlight excellence and inspire teamwork. While the GEM recognition has been awarded each month, this marks the first time it has been celebrated with a dedicated event. The 2025 July GEM, Suzanne Houchins of the Commission for Independent Education, was honored for her outstanding contributions to the department.