Press Release
By Nassau County School District
11/19/25
Nassau County, FL — At the School Board meeting on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, Nassau County School Vice-Chair Joe Zimmerman introduced a policy proposal that would allow graduating seniors with verified military enlistments to wear authorized military stoles, cords, and regalia during commencement ceremonies.
Zimmerman said the initiative reflects Nassau County’s longstanding respect for military service while maintaining the dignity, uniformity, and ceremonial standards expected at graduation.
“When one of our seniors raises their right hand and commits to serving this nation, that deserves to be honored,” Zimmerman said. “This policy ensures schools give our students the recognition they’ve earned while preserving the structure and decorum of graduation.”
Zimmerman emphasized that the proposal aligns with existing state protections.
“Florida already has statewide protections under Senate Bill 292, which prevents school districts from prohibiting students from wearing their dress military uniforms at graduation,” he said.
The proposed policy also mirrors successful precedents already in place across Florida—most notably in Flagler County Schools, which explicitly lists “Military: Any branch of service” as an approved graduation stole and includes a VFW Active Military Service Commitment cord in its official regalia guidelines.
“Other districts in Florida have already taken steps to honor students entering the armed forces,” Zimmerman added. “Flagler County has demonstrated that a clear and respectful policy can both honor military-bound students and maintain the formality of the ceremony. Nassau County should do the same.”
The proposal will move to discussion in the near future. If adopted, the policy would take effect beginning with the next graduating class.
Zimmerman encouraged parents, veterans, and community members to participate as the district considers the policy.
Our mission is to develop each student as an inspired life-long learner and problem-solver with the strength of character to serve as a productive member of society.
The Nassau County School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, age, disability or marital status in its educational programs, services or activities, or in its hiring or employment practices.
