Kedroski Named Interim President at Northwest Florida State College

Northwest Florida State College has appointed Dr. Cristie Kedroski as Interim President, effective July 6, 2024. With over 20 years of experience in higher education and community outreach, Dr. Kedroski has been pivotal in driving the College’s enrollment growth and academic innovation. The Board of Trustees unanimously selected Dr. Kedroski, confident in her ability to lead the College during this transitional period.

Parents: ‘Okaloosa STEMM Principal Broke The Law.’ Now, They Say They Want Justice for Their Son With Autism.

Okaloosa STEMM Academy, lauded as one of Florida’s top middle schools, faces scrutiny from a family who claims their son, JosΓ©, experienced harassment under the administration of Principal Dr. Scheree Martin. Despite JosΓ©’s high academic performance, his parents allege Martin’s disciplinary actions targeted their son due to his autism and ADD, leading them to withdraw him from the school. Their ongoing battle highlights concerns about the school’s handling of students with special needs and has prompted investigations by both the Okaloosa County School District and the Florida Department of Education.

Niceville, Freeport, and Crestview Kids Learn Selflessness at This Summer Event

Heat, humidity, and gnats are the three guarantees for a June in Florida. Steve Schutt hopes that as Crosspoint Church’s annual service outreach, Mission Northwest, enters its 14th year, it will continue as the fourth constant for Niceville in June. Schutt, along with other volunteers, will lead 275 children in grades 5-12 in service projects around the Florida Panhandle, helping non-profits and fostering a lifetime commitment to serving others and empathy.

Niceville Public Library Celebrates 50th Anniversary

The Niceville Public Library is marking a significant milestone, celebrating its 50th anniversary. Since opening its doors on June 8, 1974, the library has served as a backbone of the community, dedicated to fostering learning, engagement, and a sense of community among Niceville residents. Sheila Bishop, the Library Director, who has been a pivotal part of this institution for over 40 years, expressed her gratitude and pride, emphasizing the library’s tradition of exceptional customer service and community support. The library is hosting a two-day celebration on June 7 and 8 to commemorate this occasion.

A Catholic School in Niceville? Here’s What We Know:

At the end of the meeting, Jeff Witt invited a crowd of about 150 Catholic adults at 3rd Planet Brewing in Niceville to join him in The Lord’s Prayer, but before he could begin, 100 voices had already started on their own. The gathering, which outgrew its initial side room and moved to the beer garden, aimed to gauge interest in starting a Catholic school in Niceville. Witt, a parishioner at Christ our Redeemer Catholic Church, highlighted the strong local desire for Catholic education, emphasizing the thriving community and the absence of a nearby Catholic school. Witt plans to gather further community input through a poll before making concrete decisions, with a vision of creating a faithful, affordable, and excellent Catholic school in Niceville.

NIL for High Schoolers Approved. Here’s What Okaloosa Coaches and Boosters Say:

Okaloosa County high school athletes, along with their peers across Florida, can now sign NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals following a unanimous vote by the Florida High School Athletics Association Board. While this new opportunity allows athletes to earn money through endorsements, it comes with specific restrictions and guidelines. Local coaches and boosters, including Crestview High School’s Head Coach and members of the Niceville Quarterback Club, share their perspectives on the potential impact of these changes on high school sports.

Niceville Man Arrested For Battery in Dispute Over Pride Flags

Niceville Police arrested 43-year-old Michael McLeod for battery after an incident involving stolen LGBTQ+ flags outside Niceville High School. Activist Sunny Barbee confronted McLeod, leading to a physical altercation captured on video. Despite the tension, Barbee praised the professionalism of the Niceville Police. McLeod is currently awaiting a hearing and remains in custody.

Mid Bay News

A drone view of the activity on Boggy Bayou before the annual fireworks festival put on every year by the cities of Niceville  and Valparaiso.