JD Peacock believes he’s the right guy for Okaloosa School Board. Here’s Why:
Former Okaloosa County Clerk of Court and longtime sheriff’s office leader JD Peacock explains why he’s running for Okaloosa County School Board District 1, outlining his priorities of student safety, stronger fiscal oversight, and better support for teachers. In this interview, he addresses teacher pay gaps with Walton County, the closure of Longwood and Mary Esther Elementary, school choice and competition, and how the district should plan for growth in Crestview.
EXCLUSIVE: Candidate Buckman demands complete transparency from Okaloosa Superintendent
Okaloosa County School Board candidate Jerry Buckman outlined a platform focused on strict classroom discipline, independent oversight of Superintendent Marcus Chambers, and a plan to raise teacher pay without raising taxes. Buckman, who describes himself as a grassroots conservative, calls the current situation one of “chronically chaotic classrooms” and vows to enforce the student code of conduct and dress code to restore order. He also criticizes the district for lacking a meaningful 20- to 50-year facilities recapitalization plan for aging schools, and proposes redirecting central office funds to classroom teachers and bus drivers. Furthermore, Buckman champions an “America First” education agenda, emphasizing civics, factual U.S. history, and service, including bringing veterans into classrooms to share their experiences. He also pledges to donate his school board salary to teachers in need if elected.
380 Students, One Big Message: Success Doesn’t Look Just One Way
Okaloosa County Schools honored 380 seniors during its largest CTE Signing Day, highlighting students headed to college, careers, and military service.
New Challenger Jerry Buckman Emerges in High-Stakes School Board Election
Jerry Buckman, a retired Air Force colonel and longtime resident, has announced his candidacy for Okaloosa School Board District One.
Emotional Tribute as Okaloosa Students Shine in Powerful MLK Speech and Art Contest
Okaloosa County students were honored for powerful speeches and artwork celebrating Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy during the district’s 2026 contest.
Mid Bay News ranks the top ten football games from the 2025 season
Overtime stunners, last-second field goals, and championship dreams , these are the high school football games fans will be talking about for years.
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.
Okaloosa County School District to Host Bus Driver Job Fair November 15 at Crestview High School
The Okaloosa County School District will hold a Bus Driver Job Fair on November 15 at Crestview High School, offering attendees a chance to test-drive buses, apply on-site, and learn about paid training and hiring bonuses for new drivers.
Crestview High Band Director Jody Dunn Honored with Prestigious John Philip Sousa Foundation Award
Crestview High School band director Jody Dunn has been honored with a Special Award from the John Philip Sousa Foundation, recognizing his decades of leadership in music education and his ensembles’ consistent achievements at state and regional festivals.
Okaloosa School Board approves $5.1 Million turf project for four high schools
No more ruts, mud, or game delays — Okaloosa County is going all-in on turf. The School Board just approved a $5.1 million project to replace grass fields at four high schools. Here’s why district leaders say the change will make fields safer and more sustainable.
