News

Empowering Educators with Innovation: Okaloosa Teachers Complete FSU InSPIRE Certification Program

Last week, eighteen outstanding Okaloosa County educators recently completed the FSU InSPIRE teacher certification program—an immersive, week-long professional learning experience focused on artificial intelligence (AI) prompt engineering and robotics integration in the classroom. Hosted by Florida State University’s InSPIRE (Institute for Strategic Partnerships, Innovation, Research & Education), this transformative opportunity equips teachers with the tools and knowledge to create future-ready learning

Destin Middle School’s Noah Finkler Wins Florida State Civics Championship, Advances to National Finals

Okaloosa County is proud to celebrate an outstanding accomplishment by Destin Middle School 8th grader Noah Finkler, who has been named the Florida State Champion of the 2025 National Civics Bee. Noah earned first place at the Florida State Finals, held May 31, at Florida State University in Tallahassee, and received a $1,000 prize. His victory secured him a spot in the National Civics Bee Championship this fall in Washington, D.C., where he will represent Florida against top students from across the

Okaloosa County Schools Participating in the 2025 Summer Food Service Program

Okaloosa County Schools is proud to announce its participation in the 2025 Summer Food Service Program, ensuring that children in the community continue to have access to nutritious meals during the summer months. Through Summer Break Spot, balanced breakfasts and lunches will be available at no cost for children 18 and under at designated school sites. Meals will be served on-site, in accordance with USDA and FDACS guidelines, and must be consumed at the designated location. Grab-and-go meals will no

Okaloosa Students Explore Career Pathways at TeCMEN Industry Day

On Wednesday, May 14, students from Baker School, Laurel Hill School, Choctaw, Niceville, Fort Walton Beach, and Crestview High School participated in the 8th Annual 2025 TeCMEN Industry Day at the Emerald Coast Conference Center. This incredible event allowed students to gain hands-on exposure to various industries, connect with professionals, and explore future career opportunities. By engaging with engineering, manufacturing, technology, and aerospace experts, students developed a deeper understanding of

Okaloosa County School District Celebrates Project SEARCH Graduates

For the third consecutive year, five Okaloosa County School District students graduated from the Project SEARCH High School Transition Program. This groundbreaking initiative equips young adults with disabilities with essential job skills and workforce training. The graduation ceremony occurred on Friday, May 23, at the Hilton Garden Inn on Okaloosa Island. In a heartfelt ceremony, each graduate shared their journey and growth, filling the room with pride and emotion—not just from families and mentors but

Okaloosa County School District Celebrates Okaloosa UP Graduates

The Okaloosa County School District, along with families and friends, proudly celebrated five outstanding Okaloosa Unique Professionals (Okaloosa UP) program graduates on Thursday, May 22. William Shoebrook, Ken Edwards, Paul Wade, Lindsey Trippe, and Miranda Rouissin completed the program, gaining invaluable career training and earning occupational completion points, career certificates, and industry certifications. Each student completed the Specialized Career Instruction course, earning a Unique

Okaloosa STEMM Academy Excels at 2025 Florida History Day State Competition

Students from the nationally recognized Okaloosa STEMM Academy earned top honors at the 2025 Florida History Day State Competition, showcasing their excellence in historical research, academic achievement, and creative expression. Olivia Scopac received the Florida Digital History Award for her compelling documentary, Vietnam Above the Treetops, highlighting her deep understanding of digital storytelling and historical analysis. Aurora Preston earned the Women’s Heritage Award for her documentary, The Night

Cox Recognizes Inspirational Students in Okaloosa County

Niceville, FL - Cox Communications hosted the annual Cox Inspirational Student Hero Awards yesterday at Northwest Florida State College in Niceville. The 37 students honored were selected by a committee of school leaders to honor their resilience in the face of adversity. Whether they have overcome the loss of a family member, medical issues, difficult family situations, or other hardships, they have done so with optimism while continuing to encourage and inspire those around them. "Cox is proud to

Two Okaloosa County Middle School Teachers and One Student Receive Prestigious National 180 Awards for Excellence in Literacy

The Okaloosa County School District is proud to announce that two dedicated educators and one exceptional student have been selected as recipients of the 2025 National 180 Awards, a prestigious national recognition celebrating outstanding achievement in literacy and academic growth. Donna Born of Pryor Middle School and Tracy Lott of Shoal River Middle School have been honored with the 180 Educator Award for their unwavering commitment to student success, mentorship, and helping students achieve significant

Celebrating 29 Years of Success with Take Stock in Children

For nearly three decades, Take Stock in Children has transformed students' futures—and this year was no exception. The Okaloosa Public Schools Foundation proudly hosted the Take Stock in Children S.T.A.R.S. Ceremony at the Niceville Community Center on Monday, May 12, celebrating 29 years of impact through this transformative program. Seventeen graduating seniors were honored for completing the Take Stock in Children program and were awarded more than $700,000 in scholarships, including their two-year

Summer Bridge Program Helps VPK Students Gear Up for Kindergarten Success

The Early Learning Coalition of the Emerald Coast, in partnership with the Okaloosa County School District, is proud to announce the Summer Bridge Program, a vital initiative designed to support Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK) students as they prepare for a successful transition into kindergarten. Running Monday through Friday, June 4 – July 7, 2025, from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., this program focuses on strengthening early literacy and math skills for children who may benefit from additional preparation

Okaloosa County School District Celebrates Mental Health Awareness Month

In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month this May, the Okaloosa County School District (OCSD) will engage students, staff, and families in activities designed to foster mental wellness, promote conversation, and provide mental health resources. This year’s theme is “Turn Awareness into Action,” with a special focus on resilience and thriving. The district will observe Mental Health Month through various initiatives, from fun activities to open dialogues about mental wellness. These efforts are designed to

Okaloosa County School District Announces Graduation Ceremonies for the Class of 2025

The Okaloosa County School District is excited to announce the schedule for the 2025 graduation ceremonies, which will celebrate the achievements of our high school seniors. These milestones mark the culmination of years of hard work and dedication, and we are proud to share in the moment with our students, families, and the community. All ceremonies will be streamed live, allowing family and friends to participate virtually in this momentous occasion. The links to each live stream are provided below:Baker

Okaloosa County School District and Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation Celebrate Student Talent at the 2025 K-12 Art Show

The Okaloosa County School District, in partnership with the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation, proudly hosted the 2025 K-12 Student Art Show on April 23rd and 24th at the C.H. “Bull” Rigdon Fairgrounds (formerly the Northwest Florida Fairgrounds). This annual celebration of creativity featured over 2,000 stunning works of art created by students from over 15 elementary schools and 15 middle and high schools across the district. The event was free and open to the public, welcoming families, educators, and

Okaloosa County School District Honors Over 600 Seniors at Annual Anne T. Mitchell Academic Awards Ceremony

The Okaloosa County School District proudly celebrated the academic achievements of 619 high school seniors during the Anne T. Mitchell Academic Senior Honors Assembly held on Tuesday, April 22, at Northwest Florida State College’s Raider Arena. Students from Baker, Choctawhatchee, Crestview, Fort Walton Beach, Laurel Hill, and Niceville High Schools were recognized for their exceptional academic performance. Each honoree has earned a weighted GPA of 3.75 or higher, achieving the distinctions of Cum Laude,

Okaloosa County JROTC Cadets Awarded Prestigious Scholarships by Air and Space Forces Association

The Okaloosa County School District is proud to recognize the outstanding achievements of five exceptional JROTC cadets recently awarded scholarships by the Air and Space Forces Association (AFA) Eglin Chapter Education Foundation. The scholarship awards were presented during a special reception held on Tuesday, April 15, at the Air Force Armament Museum at Eglin Air Force Base. The honored cadets represent the strength and dedication of our JROTC programs at Choctawhatchee, Fort Walton Beach, and Niceville

NFB 25/26 Pre-Professional Program, Company and Trainee auditions scheduled for May 3

FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. – April 14, 2025 – Northwest Florida Ballet (NFB) Pre-Professional Program (PPP), Company and Trainee auditions are now open for the 2025-2026 season. Auditions will take place on May 3 at the main studio building in downtown Fort Walton Beach and are by reservation only. Trainee auditions will occur from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., and auditions for the Pre-Professional and Company programs will be conducted from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Company auditions are open to students entering

Okaloosa County School District to Offer Free Parenting Event: “Parenting Through Emotions”

The Okaloosa County School District Title I Department, in partnership with Beachside Community Church, is proud to present a free, in-person event for parents and guardians: Parenting Through Big Emotions will be held on Friday, April 11, from 5:30 to 7:30 PM at Beachside Community Church (200 Racetrack Road NW, Fort Walton Beach). If you're raising a child with big feelings, this is an event you won't want to miss! This session will provide parents with practical tools and insights to better support

Niceville High School Principal Charlie Marello Named Northwest Florida Regional Director for FASSP

The Okaloosa County School District proudly announces that Niceville High School Principal Charlie Marello has been named the Northwest Florida Regional Director for the Florida Association of Secondary School Principals (FASSP). FASSP, a Florida Association of School Administrators (FASA) division, is dedicated to supporting and empowering secondary school leaders across the state. Founded in 1977, FASA's mission is to enhance Florida's education quality by equipping administrators with the tools and

Okaloosa County Students Shine at State Science Fair

Fifteen students from Okaloosa County Schools demonstrated exceptional talent and dedication at the State Science Fair, held from March 25-27 at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland, Florida. Competing against nearly 700 students from across the state, these young scientists earned numerous awards and recognitions, showcasing the remarkable depth of knowledge and passion for science in Okaloosa County.Category Awards These awards were selected by subject area experts and professionals, honoring the top

Okaloosa County School District Recognized as a 2024 Florida Purple Star School District

The Okaloosa County School District (OCSD) has been awarded the prestigious Purple Star District of Distinction certification by the Florida Department of Education, recognizing the district's exceptional commitment to supporting military-connected students and families. During the school board meeting on Monday, March 24, Superintendent Marcus Chambers highlighted this significant achievement, emphasizing the district's dedication to creating a welcoming and supportive environment for military families.

Wright Elementary’s Vanessa Wesbur Shines in Regional Spelling Bee

Wright Elementary second grader Vanessa Wesbur made history as the youngest competitor in the Envision Credit Union Regional Spelling Bee in Tallahassee on March 8, 2025. Vanessa, who won Wright Elementary's school spelling bee earlier this year, advanced to the regional competition and impressively tied for sixth place after making it to the fifth round. Vanessa's achievement continues a long-standing tradition at Wright Elementary, which remains the only Okaloosa County School District school

Okaloosa Public Schools Foundation Awarded $100,000 Career Catalyst Grant for ''Growing Laurel Hill'' Program

A significant investment in agricultural education is coming to rural Okaloosa County students. The Consortium of Florida Education Foundations, in partnership with The Frederick A. DeLuca Foundation, has awarded $100,000 to the Okaloosa Public Schools Foundation (OPSF) through its new Career Catalyst initiative. This grant program specifically targets rural, underserved areas by funding innovative Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs that prepare students for high-skill, high-wage jobs. The funds

Dr. Donna Kelley Named the 2025 Florida NAESP National Distinguished Principal

The Okaloosa County School District proudly announces that Dr. Donna Kelley, Principal of Northwood Elementary School, has been named the 2025 Florida National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) National Distinguished Principal. Established in 1984, this prestigious honor recognizes outstanding elementary and middle-level principals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and made a lasting impact on their schools and communities. Dr. Kelley stated, “I am deeply honored and humbled to

Okaloosa STEMM Academy Celebrated History with National History Day Showcase

The Okaloosa STEMM Academy celebrated history in a big way on February 27th with a National History Day (NHD) Showcase. Students presented their projects, highlighting extensive research and historical analysis tied to this year's theme, "Rights & Responsibilities in History." The theme encouraged students to explore significant historical moments through the lenses of time and place, cause and effect, and long-term impact. Over the last several weeks, students worked diligently to research and develop

Superintendent Marcus Chambers Announces Two Florida Prepaid 2-Year College Scholarships for OCSD Students

Superintendent Marcus Chambers is excited to announce the opportunity for two Okaloosa County School District (OCSD) students to receive Florida Prepaid 2-Year College Scholarships!Who Qualifies? • Student must be a Senior • Student must attend a public high school in the Okaloosa County School District • Student is going to pursue a career in education • Student must meet the basic requirements to hold a Florida Prepaid College PlanApplication Deadline: Applications are available now and must be

Okaloosa County School District First Semester Highlights 2024-2025

As we enter a new semester, it is my pleasure to share the incredible achievements and milestones of the first half of the school year with our families and community members. It is truly inspiring to witness our students excel in academics, the arts, and athletics while our teachers and staff dedicate themselves to fostering a positive and dynamic learning environment. These highlights are a testament to everyone's collective hard work and commitment to the Okaloosa County School District. Let's take a

Okaloosa County School District Congratulates 2025 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Oratorical and Poster

The Okaloosa County School District proudly recognizes the outstanding students who competed in the 2025 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Oratorical and Poster Contests hosted by Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Sigma Omicron Omega Chapter. The event occurred on Saturday, January 11, 2025, at Niceville High School, where students from kindergarten through 12th grade showcased their talents in honor of Dr. King's legacy. Participants beautifully illustrated this year's theme, "Mission Possible: Protecting

Okaloosa County School District Announces 2025 Teacher of the Year

The Okaloosa County School District proudly announces Ms. Katrina Brownsburger (Brominguez) as the 2025 Teacher of the Year! The announcement was made during last night's school board meeting, recognizing Ms. Brownsburger's exceptional dedication and educational contributions. Ms. Brownsburger, a tenth-grade English Language Arts teacher at Fort Walton Beach High School, has made a significant impact both in and out of the classroom. As the sponsor of the Speech and Debate team, she has guided her

Okaloosa County School District Kindergarten & New Student Registration Now Open

It is that time of year! Incoming kindergarteners and students new to the Okaloosa County School District for the 2025-2026 School Year can begin registering for school now. Parents will need to create a Focus Parent Portal Account to start the process. Parents will use their Focus Parent Portal Account to:•View their student (s) class schedule and grades•View attendance•View discipline•Communicate with teachers Create a Parent Portal Account To enroll, families must use their child's legal name and a valid

Fort Walton Beach High School’s Reese Armstrong Named Okaloosa County’s 2024-2025 Sunshine State Scholar

The Okaloosa County School District is proud to announce that Reese Armstrong, a Fort Walton Beach High School junior, has been selected as the district’s 2024-2025 Sunshine State Scholar. This prestigious honor is awarded to just over 100 of Florida’s highest-achieving 11th-grade students who plan to pursue careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math). Reese is an exemplary student, excelling academically and in her extracurricular activities. She has been a standout member of the varsity

Niceville High School Seniors Max Diehl and Sophie Broutin Win Prestigious 2025 All Sports Association Scholastic Awards

The Okaloosa County School District proudly announces that Maxwell Diehl and Sophie Broutin, seniors at Niceville High School, have been named the 2025 All Sports Association Scholastic Award winners. This prestigious honor recognizes student-athletes in Okaloosa, Walton, and Santa Rosa counties who excel in academics and athletics. Surrounded by peers, family members, school staff, and representatives from the All Sports Association, Diehl and Broutin received the exciting news in Niceville High School's

Okaloosa County Schools to Celebrate the Legacy of President Jimmy Carter in the Classroom

President Jimmy Carter, who served from 1977 to 1981, passed away on Dec. 29, 2024, at the age of 100. An executive order issued by President Joe Biden on Monday, Dec. 30, designates a National Day of Mourning to honor President Carter's legacy.  The Okaloosa County School District will remain open on Thursday, Jan. 9, including Eglin Elementary School, located on Eglin Air Force Base. Superintendent Marcus Chambers emphasized the district's commitment to honoring President Carter's legacy: "President

Niceville High School’s NaGISA Program Shines on International Stage in Japan

Eight students and four chaperones from Niceville High School's NaGISA program recently returned from an extraordinary 11-day journey to Japan over Thanksgiving break. Representing the only high school in the United States affiliated with the NaGISA program, the group attended the 2nd World Congress of Marine Stations in Shizuoka, Japan, where they presented their groundbreaking work on marine biodiversity. NaGISA, which stands for Natural Geography of In-Shore Areas, is a Japanese-based international

Okaloosa County School District Earns Prestigious Purple Star District Designation

Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced that the Okaloosa County School District has been named one of only five districts in Florida to earn the prestigious Purple Star District designation. This honor reflects the district’s unwavering dedication to supporting military-connected students and their families, ensuring smooth transitions, access to vital resources, and academic success. The Purple Star District designation means that every Okaloosa County School District school has met the rigorous

Niceville High School Web Programming Students Win Congressional App Challenge

Congratulations to Niceville High School's Web Programming students for outstanding performance in the Congressional App Challenge for Florida's 1st Congressional District! NHS students showcased their creativity, innovation, and technical expertise, earning 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place in this prestigious competition. The 1st place team has been invited to the House of Code reception in Washington, D.C., in April 2025. There, they will present their winning app to members of Congress, further highlighting the

Okaloosa County School District Celebrates Oath of Office Ceremony and Organizational Meeting

The Okaloosa County School District (OCSD) proudly held its Oath of Office Ceremony and annual organizational meeting this morning, marking an important milestone for district leadership. Superintendent Marcus Chambers, School Board Member Tim Bryant, and newly elected School Board Member Parker Destin were officially sworn into office during this special event, reaffirming their commitment to serving the students, staff, and families of Okaloosa County. The meeting began with Superintendent Chambers

Okaloosa County Public Library Cooperative Helps Over 50 Adults Earn High School Diplomas

The Okaloosa County Public Library Cooperative (OCPLC) is proud to announce the successful graduation of 52 students from the Career Online High School program over a five-year period. The program seeks to help adults achieve their high school diploma despite many obstacles they have encountered in their lives. Individuals who participate in Career Online High School are stay-at-home moms, working parents and business owners with dreams of bettering their life through education. Their high school education

Okaloosa County School District Releases 2023-2024 Annual Report Highlighting Educational Excellence

The Okaloosa County School District is proud to present its 2023-2024 Annual Report, which comprehensively looks at its remarkable achievements and ongoing commitment to educational excellence. As an A+ school district, the report highlights the accomplishments of our students, teachers, staff, and administrators, reflecting a shared dedication to fostering academic success and preparing future leaders. It also showcases key milestones in safety, modern innovation, continuous learning, and community

Okaloosa County School District STEMM Academy Student Recognized Among Top 300 Junior Innovators

Okaloosa County School District Celebrates the Grand Opening of Lewis School's New Football Stadium

Okaloosa County School District Announces Graduation Dates for the Class of 2025

Mark Your Calendars! The Okaloosa County School District is thrilled to announce the graduation dates, times, and locations for the Class of 2025. For those unable to attend in person, we’ve got you covered—these special events will be live-streamed. Stay tuned for streaming links, which will be available in May!

Stay Connected with the Okaloosa County School District: Two Essential Apps

Are you staying informed about the latest news from the Okaloosa County School District? Parents and guardians can easily access their student's schedule, grades, and attendance by downloading the FOCUS App. Additionally, stay updated with school and district news, events, documents, and emergency notifications through the OCSD Apptegy App. Both apps are available for download on the Apple App Store and Google Play. For more information, visit www.okaloosaschools.com.

Community Comes Together for Students: Nine Schools, 90 Volunteers, and 540 Volunteer Hours

In a display of community spirit, 90 dedicated volunteers successfully prepared nine schools in the Okaloosa County School District (OCSD) for the 2024-2025 academic year. The collective effort, totaling 540 volunteer hours, underscores a strong partnership between the district and local organizations, ensuring an enriched educational environment for students. Volunteers from HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital, Eglin Federal Credit Union, Florida Power and Light, and Hurlburt Field Air Force Base were

Okaloosa County School District Encourages All Families to Apply for Free or Reduced School Meals for the 2024-25 School Year

As the new school year begins on August 12th, we invite ALL families to apply for Free or Reduced School Meals by visiting www.myschoolapps.com. Even if your family was approved for Free or Reduced meals last year, you must reapply for the 2024-25 school year. A 30-day grace period will be in effect, but it's crucial to complete your application as soon as possible. Why should ALL families apply, even if you think you might not be eligible? Because you might be surprised—many families qualify without

Superintendent Marcus Chambers Welcomes Students and Families Back to the 2024 – 2025 School Year

Hello Students and Parents, I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits. As we embark on another exciting academic year, I want to extend a heartfelt welcome to each and every one of you. Whether you’re returning students or new faces, we’re thrilled to have you as part of our Okaloosa County family. Having been an educator for over two decades, I understand the importance of creating a nurturing and supportive environment for our students. As a parent myself, I share your hopes and dreams

Okaloosa County School District Transportation Department Announces 2024-2025 School Bus Schedule

The Okaloosa County School District Transportation Department has released the bus routes for the 2024-2025 school year. Families and guardians can easily find their students' bus routes by visiting Bus Routes. In addition, the district is excited to introduce Bus Bulletin, a notification system designed to keep parents informed of any unexpected delays or schedule changes affecting their student’s bus. Understanding the importance of student safety and punctuality, this system provides timely updates to

Okaloosa County School District Hosts Kindergarten Kickstart for Students 2024

The first day of kindergarten often brings a blend of excitement, confusion, and anxiety for young students. Successful transitions from preschool to kindergarten depend on strong connections between schools and families and between preschool and kindergarten teachers. The Okaloosa County School District offers various activities to support this transition, including the "Kindergarten Kickstart" program at ten Title I schools. This initiative allows incoming kindergarteners to enter the classroom before

Okaloosa County Receives A Rating from the Florida Department of Education

The Florida Department of Education (FLDOE) has released school grades for the state, and the Okaloosa County School District (OCSD) has again earned an A rating for the 2023-2024 school year. OCSD earned 772 out of 1200 possible points, achieving 64% of the total possible points under a new grading scale approved by the State Board of Education. The newly approved grading scale for the 2023-24 school year establishes different criteria for elementary schools versus middle, high, and combination schools.

Okaloosa Continues Top Ten Tradition

On Monday, July 1, 2024, the Florida Department of Education released this year’s results for the Florida Assessment of Student Thinking (FAST) and End of Course Exams. Each year, students are required to take statewide assessments in ELA grades 3-10, Mathematics grades 3-8, Algebra, Geometry, Science grades 5 and 8, Biology, Civics, and US History. A combined analysis of all test results show Okaloosa Schools continue to rank in the top ten school districts out of 67 in the state of Florida for the 2023-24

Ruckel Middle School Teacher and Golf Coach Qualifies for U.S. Senior Open Championship

The Okaloosa County School District is proud to recognize Mr. Jon Olson, who qualified on Thursday, May 30, at the 2024 U.S. Senior Open Championship at Wynlakes Golf & Country Club in Montgomery, Alabama. Eighty players competed to advance to the 44th U.S. Senior Open Championship. Jon Olson of Niceville, Florida, and Robbie Cotton of Brewton, Alabama, each carded four under 68. After a playoff, Olson claimed the final qualifying spot.  "Entering the U.S. Senior Open Championship is a cherished milestone

Fort Walton Beach High School Digital Video Students Win KinderVision/The Greatest Save Teen PSA Competition in the Technical Category

Fort Walton Beach High School (FWBHS) is proud to announce that three students, Maverick Hendley, Michael Dixon, and Kiera Stover, clinched victory for the submission of their video called "Poison" as the 2024 Teen PSA Contest Technical Winner. Poison will be the Teen PSA entry into the After-School Film Institute's Film Festival in Miami in January 2025. Reflecting on the win, Maverick Hendley shared, "This award is my first bit of recognition, and the experience I learned from making this video and being

Okaloosa County Schools Participate in Summer Food Service Program 2024

Okaloosa County Schools will be participating in the Summer Food Service Program this summer. Summer Break Spot offers balanced breakfasts and lunches at no cost for kids 18 and under. Meals will be served on site, at no cost. A list of sites and service times is available on the District’s website at the following link: https://www2.okaloosaschools.com/article/1616150.  Summer feeding sites that are located at schools provide meals to all children in the immediate vicinity in addition to those enrolled in

Okaloosa Technical College Ranks 55th in the 2024 National Cyber League Cyber Power Ranking

The National Cyber League (NCL) concluded the Spring 2024 NCL Competition with participation from all over the United States, representing all 50 states. Each season, the NCL publishes its Cyber Power Rankings of the top 100 schools in the competition. These rankings measure students' abilities to work individually and as a team in performing a wide range of cybersecurity tasks. Okaloosa Technical College (OTC) ranked 55th in the nation, with 29 students competing in this competition amongst 7,412 other

Okaloosa County School District Highlights Graduates of Okaloosa Up

On Tuesday, May 21, the Okaloosa County School District, families, and friends celebrated the achievements of three remarkable individuals - Reid Soria, Bailey Lamonte, and Diana Dowart, for completing the Okaloosa Unique Professionals program, also known as “Okaloosa UP.” Through Okaloosa UP, they have gained invaluable training and support, enabling them to develop essential career skills and earn occupational completion points, career certificates, and even industry certifications or licensure. All three

Okaloosa County School District Students with Disabilities Graduate from Project Search High School Transition Program for the Second Year

The Project SEARCH program, in collaboration with the Okaloosa County School District (OCSD), has been incredibly successful in providing valuable opportunities for students with disabilities to gain essential job skills and transition into the workforce. For the second year, six students with disabilities from the Okaloosa County School District successfully graduated from the Project SEARCH High School Transition Program on Tuesday, May 21, at the Hilton Garden Inn on Okaloosa Island. The program is for

Okaloosa County School District Announces 2024 Graduation Ceremonies

The Okaloosa County School District announces the schedule of graduation ceremonies for the High School Class of 2024. All graduations will be live streamed and links are provided below.    Baker School – Friday, May 17, Doug Griffith Stadium at 7:30 pm.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aeuP4WPLT3U   Choctawhatchee High School – Thursday, May 23, Joe Etheridge Stadium at 7:30 pm.    https://youtube.com/live/6U5w9MCQITs   Crestview High School – Friday, May 24, Jack Foster Stadium at 7:00 pm.   

Okaloosa County School District Highlights Mental Health Awareness Month

During May, Okaloosa County Schools and District offices will observe Mental Health Awareness Month by engaging in fun activities focused on helping our school communities, students, and staff promote mental wellness, providing mental health resources, and helping foster conversations at home around mental wellness. Mental Health is not merely the absence of illness but rather a state of thriving and resilience.  By empowering teachers, engaging parents, fostering community support, and addressing stigma,

Okaloosa County School District to Offer Education Summer Camps

In June, the Okaloosa County School District will host several Career and Technical Education (CTE) Summer Camps for rising 5th and 8th graders. The camp's design is to inspire young students to learn more about CTE career fields. Campers will have options ranging from hands-on skills in building trades, welding, and bio-medical to learning web and app design and coding in computer camps. All camps will be operated by experienced Okaloosa County teachers and will take place at Choctawhatchee High School,

Florosa Elementary Music Teacher Selected as a Country Music Association Foundation 2024 Music Teacher of Excellence

In celebration of Teacher Appreciation Week, the County Music Association (CMA) Foundation partnered with 30 Country Music stars to surprise music teachers nationwide that they were selected as a Music Teacher of Excellence. Florosa Elementary Music Teacher Sarah Theres was surrounded by co-workers when the announcement was made on Tuesday, May 7, via a special congratulatory video by Country artist Caitlyn Smith that she was selected as a 2024 CMA Foundation Music Teacher of Excellence (MToE). As part of

Fort Walton Beach High School Receives National Recognition from Project Lead the Way for Commitment to Empowering Students

On Thursday, May 2, Fort Walton Beach High School was recognized as a 2023-24 Project Lead the Way (PLTW) Distinguished School. This honor reflects the dedication to providing students with broad access to transformative learning experiences through PLTW Biomedical Science and Engineering. “Being named a PLTW Distinguished High School is a true honor. We pride ourselves on preparing students for a future in STEM fields related to biomedical sciences and engineering. We strive to foster a passion for

Okaloosa County School District Graduation Schedule

The Okaloosa County School District announces the schedule of graduation ceremonies for the High School Class of 2024. All graduations will be live streamed and links are provided below.    Baker School – Friday, May 17, Doug Griffith Stadium at 7:30 pm.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aeuP4WPLT3U   Choctawhatchee High School – Thursday, May 23, Joe Etheridge Stadium at 7:30 pm.    https://youtube.com/live/6U5w9MCQITs   Crestview High School – Friday, May 24, Jack Foster Stadium at 7:00 pm.   

Okaloosa County School District Seniors Recognized for Academic Achievement

On Tuesday, April 16th, the Northwest Florida State College Raider Arena hosted the 50th annual Anne T. Mitchell Senior Honor Award Reception. The event recognized 591 high school seniors from Baker, Choctaw, Crestview, Fort Walton Beach, Laurel Hill, and Niceville High Schools who will graduate with honors in May. These students have achieved a weighted GPA of 3.75 or higher, which designates them as Summa Cum Laude, Magna Cum Laude, or Cum Laude. Superintendent Marcus Chambers expressed his pride and

Team Okaloosa Captures First Place in State Academic Challenge

In an impressive display of academic prowess, Team Okaloosa, comprising eight talented high school students, secured the top spot in the prestigious Commissioner’s Academic Challenge (CAC) held from April 10-13. The CAC, a long-standing tradition since 1986, is Florida’s premier academic competition, celebrating the scholarly achievements of high school students across the state. This spring event tests participants in various subjects, including language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, the fine

Okaloosa Technical College's Practical Nursing Program Achieves 100% Pass Rate Once Again

Okaloosa Technical College (OTC) is proud to announce that all sixteen students of the 2023-2024 Practical Nursing Program class have passed the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) with flying colors. This means that all of them have earned their licensed practical nurse certification (LPN). This program is approved by the Florida State Board of Nursing and is designed to prepare students to become safe and competent practical nurses in all areas of the medical field. The program lasts for

Niceville High School Web Programming Student Wins First Place in Annual Congressional App Challenge

On November 18, 2023, U.S. Congressman Matt Gaetz announced Niceville High School Junior Andrew Putman as the 2023 Congressional App Challenge winner in Florida's First District at Northwest Florida State College. Andrew's app, Assets4Kids, won first place in the competition, which aims to alleviate child poverty. He was inspired to develop the app after witnessing child poverty during a mission trip to the Dominican Republic.   Congressman Matt Gaetz invited Andrew and his teacher, Carrie Foxhall, to the

NFB Pre-Professional Program, Company and Trainee Auditions

Northwest Florida Ballet (NFB) Pre-Professional Program (PPP), Company and Trainee auditions are now open for the 2024-2025 season. Auditions will take place on May 11 at the main studio building in downtown Fort Walton Beach and are by reservation only. Trainee auditions will take place from 9:00 am to 10:30 am, and auditions for the Pre-Professional and Company programs will be conducted from 11 am to 12:30 pm.   Company auditions are open to students entering the eighth grade and up with no less than

Eglin Federal Credit Union Partners with Okaloosa County School District to Bring Financial Literacy

Eglin Federal Credit Union and the Okaloosa County School District teamed up to bring financial literacy to high school students. Approximately 60 high school students from the 9th to 12th grades participated in lessons facilitated by Eglin Federal Credit Union’s VP Membership and Community Development, Neko Stubblefield, at Crestview High School on April 9. The personal financial literacy course covers a wide range of topics, from opening a checking or savings account to planning for retirement.   “Eglin

Educate the Educators Plus One Program Provides Okaloosa County Students and Teachers with Opportunities to Explore Local Businesses

On Friday, April 5, a group of fifteen students and teachers from middle and high schools in north Okaloosa County were given a behind-the-scenes tour of several local businesses. This tour was part of the Educate the Educator Plus One program, which was organized by the Okaloosa County School District, One Okaloosa EDC, TecMEN, and Career Source of Okaloosa and Walton Counties. The program aims to provide students and educators with knowledge about the local labor market and job opportunities, and

Lieutenant Governor Jeannette Nuñez Announces Third Annual Space Art Contest at Plew Elementary

Today, Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez visited Plew Elementary to announce the Third Annual Spring 2024 Florida Space Art Contest for Florida’s kindergarten through fifth grade students. Mrs. Leavins and Mrs. Hill's students welcomed Lieutenant Governor Nuñez, Superintendent Marcus Chambers, and Space Florida’s President and CEO Rob Long to their classrooms. The students showed them some of the STEAM projects they were currently working on. During the announcement at Plew's media center, Lieutenant

First High School Health Academy on HCA Healthcare Campus Now Open in Fort Walton Beach

HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital and the Okaloosa County School District (OCSD) announced the opening today of the Health Academy of Northwest Florida on the hospital’s campus. The Health Academy of Northwest Florida is the first high school health academy to be housed on an HCA Healthcare hospital campus anywhere in the country. A joint partnership between HCA Florida Fort-Walton Destin Hospital and OCSD, the Health Academy of Northwest Florida provides high school students interested in healthcare

Twelve Okaloosa County Schools Designated as “Schools of Excellence” by the Florida Department of Ed

On Friday, March 29, 2024, ten Okaloosa County District Schools, along with two charter schools, were designated by the Florida Department of Education as “Schools of Excellence” for the 2022-2023 academic year. The Schools of Excellence program was established by the Florida Legislature in 2017 under HB 7069 to recognize and reward Florida’s highest-performing schools. The program aims to promote continuous improvement and provide administrative flexibility to the state’s top schools so they can maintain

Superintendent Marcus Chambers Offers Two $8,000 Florida Prepaid College Scholarship

Superintendent Marcus Chambers is very excited to have the opportunity to offer two $8,000 Florida Prepaid College Scholarship to a current Okaloosa County School District Student!Who qualifies?Student must be a SeniorStudent must attend a public high school in the Okaloosa County School DistrictStudent is going to pursue a career in educationStudent must meet the basic requirements to hold a Florida Prepaid College PlanApplication Deadline:Applications will be available beginning Friday, March 15, 2024 and

Okaloosa County School District to Host 2024 Career and Technical Education Career and College Signing Day

Okaloosa County School District Superintendent Marcus Chambers and the Career and Technical Education (CTE) Department invite media members to the 5th Annual Career and College Signing Day. The event will occur on Thursday, March 28, from 10 a.m. to noon at Mattie Kelley Arts Center, 100 E College Blvd, Niceville. This event will recognize the necessary steps our CTE students are taking to continue their career and technical education after high school, ensuring a skilled future workforce for our community

Okaloosa County School District Kindergarten and New Student Registration Now Open

It is that time of year! Incoming kindergarteners and students new to the Okaloosa County School District for the 2024-2025 School Year can begin registering for school now. Parents will need to create a Focus Parent Portal Account to start the process.   Parents will use their Focus Parent Portal Account to: View their student (s) class schedule and grades View attendance View discipline Communicate with teachers  Create a Parent Portal Account   To enroll, families must use their child's legal

Okaloosa County School District First Semester Highlights

As we embark on the start of a new semester, I would like to share with our families and community members our highlights on District projects, programs, and successes during the first semester of the school year. As Superintendent, it fills my heart to see the successes of our students excelling in academics, the arts, and athletics. I also see our teachers and administrative staff giving their all to build a positive school culture and prepare our students for college, the military, and the workforce. So

Okaloosa County Schools to Recognize and Observe Hope Week

Okaloosa County Schools will recognize and observe HOPE WEEK Monday, February 12, through Friday, February 16. We encourage community members to wear yellow on Thursday, February 15, the National Day of Hope. HOPE WEEK and Day of HOPE bring us together to raise awareness of suicide prevention and mental wellness to destigmatize mental health issues and empower our students, faculty, and community members to ask for help when they are in an emotional crisis. During HOPE WEEK, students and staff will

January 2024 Update from One Okaloosa EDC

By Nathan Sparks, CEcD Executive Director of One Okaloosa EDC We sincerely hope that each of you are experiencing a healthy and prosperous New Year thus far, and hopefully your New Year’s Resolutions are all still intact! While I won’t comment on the status of my ill-fated Resolutions (exercise – really?), I am happy to share that the One Okaloosa team picked up right where we left off in 2023. In fact, the first three weeks of the New Year have brought forth a diverse and gratifying workload. From

Destin American Legion Post 296 Hosts Local Competition for the National High School Oratory Scholarship Program

On Jan. 5, 2024, Davis-Sikes, Destin American Legion Post 296 hosted its local competition for the National High School Oratory Scholarship Program.  The purpose of the program is to develop a better understanding and appreciation of the Constitution of the United States on the part of high school students. The program is open to high School students in grades 9-12 who are U.S. Citizens.  Post 296 hosted three area high school students from both Destin High School and Fort Walton Beach High School.  Each

Okaloosa Technical College's Automotive Program Receives National Accreditation

The automotive training program at Okaloosa Technical College (OTC) in Fort Walton Beach has again received ASE Training Program accreditation from the ASE Education Foundation. OTC's automotive program has been accredited category of Automotive Service Technology (AST). To achieve this coveted recognition, the school's automotive training program underwent rigorous evaluation by the ASE Education Foundation. Areas evaluated according to nationally accepted standards included instruction, facilities, and

Okaloosa County 2024 School District Parent Climate Survey Available Online

The Okaloosa County School District Parent Climate Survey is available now! We invite parents and guardians to take a moment to complete this valuable survey about your child's school. We rely on your feedback to continuously improve our schools. You can complete one survey per child enrolled. The survey is available in English and Spanish and will close on April 12, 2024.   English: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Y93TKZ9   Spanish: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/3M3FB5Z   Please visit

First ''Thank a Teacher'' Recipient in Partnership with Okaloosa County School District

HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital and Okaloosa County School District celebrated the first “Thank A Teacher” recipient, Robert Roeckers, Okaloosa STEMM Academy. Roeckers joined Okaloosa STEMM Academy for his first year of teaching with an undeniable enthusiasm and a commitment to fostering a love for learning among his students. His innovative approach to education, combined with his dedication to student success, has quickly made him a standout educator with his students and amongst peers. “This

Okaloosa County Receives A-rating from the Florida Department of Education

2023 Baseline School Grades were released by the Florida Department of Education (FLDOE) and the results are highly encouraging in the first year of a new statewide assessment. As a District, OCSD earned an A-rating from the Florida Department of Education once again. The District’s percentage of points jumped from 63% last year to 68% this year. Okaloosa is one of three districts in Florida to earn an A each year since 2014.  Superintendent Chambers notified Principals yesterday, stating, “I want to let

Okaloosa County School District Implements First Annual Angel Tree Program

Superintendent Marcus Chambers and the District staff are hosting the first annual Okaloosa County School District Angel Tree Program to support students in need during the holidays. "Every day, our schools take care of our families, and we as a District want to add a layer of support by asking our community to join us in making sure our students have a happy holiday," stated Superintendent Marcus Chambers. There are two ways members of the public can sponsor a student. They can visit

HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital and Okaloosa County School District Partner to Rollout Thank a Teacher Program

HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital and the Okaloosa County School District (OCSD) announced today the launch of a Thank a Teacher—a joint partnership between HCA Florida Fort-Walton Destin Hospital and OCSD. Thank a Teacher is a program celebrating the Okaloosa County School District's dedicated educators. Throughout the 2023-2024 school year, students, families, and staff members are encouraged to share their stories about a particular teacher's inspiring actions, supportive words, creative lessons,

United Way Emerald Coast Partners with Okaloosa County School District

The Okaloosa County School District has partnered with the United Way Emerald Coast to help build a foundation of early literacy, social-emotional development, and mentorship. ReadingPals is a statewide early literacy initiative that provides volunteer mentors for local students from voluntary prekindergarten to third grade who may need extra help. Once a mentor passes their background screening, they undergo training before getting placed in a classroom where they work at a 1:2 ratio.  For more

Okaloosa Technical College Practical Nursing Program Announces 100% Pass Rate

Okaloosa Technical College's (OTC) Practical Nursing Program proudly announces that the 2022-2023 Class had a 100% pass rate for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX), earning their licensed practical nurse certification (LPN). The fourteen-month-long program, approved by the Florida State Board of Nursing, prepares students to become quality, safe, practical nurses in all areas of the medical field. Nineteen students underwent the rigorous course of study split between 675 hours of classroom

2004 National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists and Commended Students

The 2024 National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists and National Merit Scholarship Commended students were recently announced, and we are proud of our students who earned the distinctions. "I am extremely proud of these students and their efforts to earn this Scholarship. It is not an easy process, and those who are recognized at any level for their academic excellence deserve it," shared Superintendent Chambers. To qualify for the National Merit Scholarship Program, students must take the Preliminary

Okaloosa STEMM Academy Recognized as a National Blue Ribbon School

​The Okaloosa County School District is thrilled to announce that the Okaloosa STEMM Academy has achieved a remarkable milestone by being recognized as a National Blue Ribbon School. In January, the U.S. Florida Department of Education (FDOE) nominated STEMM Academy to the United States Department of Education (USDOE) due to exemplary high performance based on the 2021-2022 performance data. On Tuesday, September 19, USDOE recognized STEMM as one of 353 schools nationwide and one of 13 from Florida as a

School Safety Message to Parents and Guardians from Superintendent Marcus Chambers

Dear Parents and Guardians, Our most precious asset is our children. The Okaloosa County School District's primary focus is to provide our students with the safest learning environment possible that promotes the highest levels of academic and personal achievement. In order to be prepared in the event of any crisis, Okaloosa County schools plan and execute active assailant, fire, and other emergency and severe weather drills and have protocols and employee training for many other crises. The OCSD Crisis

HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital and HCA Florida Twin Cities Hospital Collect More than 3,000 School Supplies

HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital and HCA Florida Twin Cities Hospital joined HCA Florida Healthcare hospitals across the state throughout July to participate in the organization’s first statewide We Show Up for Our Schools month of service.  In partnership with the Okaloosa County School District and United Way Emerald Coast, HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital and HCA Florida Twin Cities Hospital collected more than 3,000 supplies for students and teachers in our community ahead of the new

Superintendent Marcus Chambers Welcomes Students and Parents Back to School

Welcome to a brand-new year in the Okaloosa County School District! I cannot begin my thoughts and hopes for this year without thanking our students, parents, and staff for an outstanding 2022-2023 school year. In a year that brought new, more rigorous statewide assessments in English Language Arts (ELA) and Mathematics to Florida, Okaloosa students once again outperformed almost every other school district in the state in their proficiency rankings. A combined analysis of all test results recently

Okaloosa Students Shine Overall on State Assessments

In a year that brought new, more rigorous statewide assessments in English Language Arts (ELA) and Mathematics to Florida, Okaloosa students once again outperformed almost every other school district in the state in their proficiency rankings. A combined analysis of all test results recently released by the Florida Department of Education shows that Okaloosa ranks 5th among 67 Florida school districts. These results continue the improvement in recent years from 8th and 7th, in 2021 and 2022, respectively.

Okaloosa County School District Transportation Department Releases School Bus Schedule

With the 2023 – 2024 school year right around the corner, the Okaloosa County School District is preparing to welcome students back into its classrooms. The transportation department has created a QR code for easy access (or visit www.okaloosaschools.com) for parents and guardians to stay updated with notifications about their child's bus. They may also sign up for Bus Bulletin, which sends notifications to parents if there are unexpected delays or schedule changes involving a student's bus. Parents and

Okaloosa County School District to Host Educational Support Job Fair

The Okaloosa County School District (OCSD) seeks qualified personnel to join our team. The District's Educational Support Job Fair is FREE and will take place at the OCSD Administrative Complex Board Room (next to Edge Elementary) on Tuesday, July 25, from 10 am to 1 pm. Various career paths are available, including substitute teachers, bus drivers, paraprofessionals, mechanics, and more. We will be hiring on the spot! 

Okaloosa County School District to Host Annual Stuff the Bus School Supply Drive on July 29

Stuff the Bus helps local students get the tools they need for the upcoming school year! In 2022, over $11,000 worth of supplies were collected, impacting over 10,000 students in 53 schools across Okaloosa and Walton counties. Without our community's generosity, students would lack the supplies they need to be successful during the school year. Regarding this initiative, Marcus Chambers, Superintendent of Okaloosa County School District, stated, "Any help you can give to allow our students to have their own

Florida Department of Education Seeking Input to Reduce Regulation in Public Schools

Earlier this year, the Florida Legislature passed House Bill 1. Included in this bill was a requirement that the Florida Department of Education develop and submit to the Governor and Legislature a set of recommendations to reduce regulation of public schools. The law also requires the Department to consider input from teachers, superintendents, administrators, home educators, and other entities. To solicit and collect suggestions, the Department has set up an online survey. The survey will be open until