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.
Massie accuser Cynthia West talks Okaloosa School Board race in exclusive interview
Okaloosa County School Board District 5 candidate Cynthia West addresses a high-profile deposition involving Representative Thomas Massie and explains why she walked away from a $60,000 settlement requiring a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) to uphold the transparency she demands of district staff. West supports school vouchers, arguing that public education must adapt to school choice, and suggests co-locating charter schools in underused facilities to retain capital outlay funds. She criticizes recent school closures as “irresponsible to taxpayers” and proposes funding teacher raises by scrutinizing and reworking expensive contracts, such as for IT and School Resource Officers (SRO). She also highlights the current board’s lack of dissenting votes, warning against “groupthink” and an “echo chamber” in governance.
Amy Morgan named Destin Elementary School’s New Principal
Amy Morgan will lead Destin Elementary School into the 2026-7 school year thanks to a vote from the Okaloosa County School Board Monday Night.
Matt Brunson Honored After His Powerful Baker Football Career
Legendary Baker football coach Matt Brunson has been inducted into the FHSAA Hall of Fame after decades of championship success.
