Back-to-Back Champ Coach Steps Down
Rocky Bayou Christian School Head Football Coach KC Woods is stepping down after leading the Knights to their second straight SSAA state championship. Woods will stay on as Assistant Principal as the school begins searching for a new head coach.
Okaloosa County School District Announces 2026 Education Staff Professional of the Year
The Okaloosa County School District honored its top Education Staff Professionals during a ceremony at Crosspoint Church in Niceville, celebrating the custodians, bus drivers, secretaries, and support staff who keep schools running every day. This year, Northwood Elementary’s Nicole Hardin was named the 2026 Education Staff Professional of the Year, earning recognition for her exceptional dedication to students and staff.
Okaloosa County Celebrates 2025–2026 Art in the Capitol Winners
Okaloosa County middle school students were recognized for their artistic talent in the 2025–2026 Art in the Capitol Competition. Best in Show winner Hannah Leitheiser and other top students will have their artwork displayed at the Florida Capitol during the 2026 Legislative Session.
GALLERY: Edge Elementary Celebrates its 100th Anniversary
Edge Elementary celebrated 100 years of education on the grounds of the school along SR-85 in Niceville.
Engineering Excellence on Display at Niceville High School
Niceville High School students showcased their research and innovative solutions for rising sea levels and storm-surge threats in Florida during the 2025 Engineering Challenge Project.
Okaloosa County School District Announces 2025 Sunshine State Scholars
Penelope Gordon and Emma Michel have been named Okaloosa County’s 2025 Sunshine State Scholars, with Adonaiah White named as the alternate, recognizing their achievements in STEM and providing opportunities to connect with colleges and employers in Orlando.
Niceville High School Class of 1980 Returns Home, Refurbishes School Sign 45 Years Later
Forty-five years after graduation, the Niceville High School Class of 1980 returned to the Nest to celebrate their milestone reunion and restore the school sign they originally gifted. The refurbished sign now shines bright once again—symbolizing the class’s lasting connection, community pride, and Eagle spirit that continues to soar.
Wreaths Across America Seeks Sponsors to Honor Every Veteran in Niceville and Valparaiso
Wreaths Across America’s Twin Cities chapter is calling on the community to help honor local veterans this December by sponsoring wreaths for every grave in Niceville and Valparaiso. Ceremonies will take place on December 13, 2025, at Sunset Cemetery and Heritage Gardens to remember and honor those who served.
Okaloosa County Libraries Celebrate Adult Graduates Earning High School Diplomas
The Okaloosa County Public Library Cooperative will hold a graduation ceremony on Nov. 1 to honor 16 adult learners who earned high school diplomas and career certificates through the Career Online High School program.
Northwest Florida State men’s basketball rebuilds ahead a season full of promise
Coach Steve DeMeo and the Raiders are starting fresh — and aiming higher. With a new roster, new dorms, and a strong community push, Northwest Florida State College men’s basketball looks to bounce back after a 20–9 season.
