Okaloosa Schools Continue Incredible ‘A’ Streak with Strong Academic Gains
Okaloosa County Schools earned another statewide “A” rating after improving student achievement, graduation rates, and academic performance across nearly every category.
Baker School Receives FHSAA Honor
Baker School earned the 2025-2026 FHSAA Fred E. Rozelle Sportsmanship Award, honoring excellence in character and sportsmanship.
Stuff the Bus Drive Gives Hope to Families in Need
The annual Stuff the Bus campaign returns Aug. 1, collecting school supplies at Walmart stores across Okaloosa County to help students start the year ready to learn.
Future Leaders Recognized for Outstanding Historical Writing and Creativity
Two Okaloosa County middle school students earned top honors in a history writing contest celebrating America’s 250th anniversary, with their winning essays set to be featured during a July 4 museum exhibit.
Governor approves more pay for high school coaches – with caveats
High school sports coaches in Florida will now have the chance to make more money – contributed by booster clubs and alumni organizations. They will also be permitted to use their personal funds to support the student athletes they coach.
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.
One Program, Five Success Stories, Countless New Opportunities
Five Okaloosa students graduated from the 2026 Project SEARCH program after completing a year of workplace training and career development.
Destin Kindergartener Earns Statewide Victory, Wins Big Scholarship
Destin Elementary kindergartner Claire Grelle earned statewide recognition after winning Florida’s America250FL Art Contest and receiving a college scholarship.
Remarkable OTC Graduates Overcome Challenges to Build Bright Futures
Three Okaloosa UP students graduated from Okaloosa Technical College, marking a milestone in independence, career readiness, and lifelong learning.
The Powerful Partnership That Fuels Northwest Florida’s Aerospace Boom
Space Florida and Okaloosa County Schools are partnering to prepare local students for high-demand aerospace careers as Northwest Florida’s aerospace economy rapidly expands.
