Cynthia West addresses questions about credentials; social media past
Okaloosa School Board District 5 candidate Cynthia West is responding after her opponent’s wife acknowledged making anonymous Facebook posts questioning West’s mental health qualifications. West says she has never claimed to be a licensed social worker in Florida and discussed her education, counseling experience and the social media posts circulating about her.
Chambers criticizes ‘smear campaign’ in social media post
Okaloosa County School District Superintendent Marcus Chambers has publicly responded to allegations of misconduct involving district hiring, investigations and employee conduct. In a social media post, Chambers called the accusations unfounded and criticized opponents he says have targeted his family. The allegations remain a subject of scrutiny among local residents and advocacy groups.
Okaloosa School District shares former student data for recruitment campaign
The Okaloosa County School District is spending nearly $100,000 to recruit students back into public schools after enrollment declines tied to expanded school choice. Mid Bay News examines how the campaign works, what taxpayer dollars are funding, what student information was shared with a third-party company, and whether the effort is paying off.
Federal complaints filed against Okaloosa County School District
A local advocacy group has filed complaints with the State Attorney and U.S. Department of Justice alleging the Okaloosa County School District violated Florida’s Sunshine Law and failed to properly investigate allegations involving senior administrators. District officials have not yet responded, and the complaints remain under review.
Okaloosa School Board Approves Security Changes and a Defining Transition
The Okaloosa County School Board approved updated visitor procedures for school campuses while extending a final year of specialized education services for one Walton County student. The move standardizes security protocols districtwide and marks the conclusion of a partnership that provided specialized programs before Walton County developed similar services locally.
Okaloosa County reconsiders funding for district School Resource Officers
Okaloosa County commissioners are reviewing their long-standing agreement to split School Resource Officer costs with the school district after officials said state Safe Schools funding may have shifted the financial burden heavily onto county taxpayers. The board plans to review seven years of funding data before deciding whether changes are needed.
Engineering Dreams Stay Local with NWFSC’s New UWF Partnership
Northwest Florida State College has received state approval to offer four new engineering transfer degree pathways, allowing students to complete a bachelor’s degree through the University of West Florida without leaving Northwest Florida. The partnership aims to strengthen the region’s engineering workforce while making higher education more affordable.
Okaloosa’s Inspiring Project SEARCH Program Celebrates Global Achievement
Okaloosa County’s Project SEARCH program has earned statewide and international recognition for helping students with disabilities successfully transition into the workforce.
Critically questioning AI: Here’s a radical new plan for local schools
Northwest Florida educators are teaching students to question AI while preparing them for future careers in aerospace, defense, and advanced technology.
New Route Ahead: OCSD Opens Door to Bus Driver Careers
The Okaloosa County School District is inviting residents to explore a rewarding career opportunity during its upcoming Bus Driver Job Fair in Crestview.
