Okaloosa Graduation Surge: District Celebrates Powerful 91% Milestone
The Okaloosa County School District announced that its graduation rate has risen to 91 percent, marking a significant academic milestone for local schools.
Okaloosa County Schools Revisit Start Times Amid Concerns Over Teen Health and Bus Shortages
Okaloosa County Schools Revisit Start Times Amid Concerns Over Teen Health and Bus Shortages Staff Reports January 14, 2026 11:42 am Uncategorized NICEVILLE — As Florida lawmakers retreat from a mandate that would have forced later start times for middle and high schools, a renewed debate unfolded on Monday as members of the Okaloosa County […]
Okaloosa School Board schedules hearing on proposal to close Mary Esther, Longwood Elementary Schools
With classrooms emptying and budgets tightening, Okaloosa school leaders say they’re out of options — but families argue the cost of closure goes far beyond the numbers.
Mary Esther leaders mobilize to fight proposed closure of elementary school
Mary Esther officials and residents are mounting a public pushback against the Okaloosa County School District’s proposal to close Mary Esther Elementary, arguing the nearly 60-year-old school is central to the city’s identity, family stability and military readiness.
From Norriego Point to CO2 pipelines: The Stories That Defined the Emerald Coast in 2025
An $83 million land deal, shuttered schools, snow-covered beaches: Here are the stories that stood out in 2025.
Ruckel Middle Honors Legacy of Dr. Ginny Morgan With New Cafetorium
Ruckel Middle School dedicated its new cafetorium to former principal Dr. Ginny Morgan, honoring her decades of leadership and impact on students and staff.
FWB High’s Lindsey Smith Named Florida’s Top Administrator for 2026
Fort Walton Beach High Principal Lindsey Smith is honored as the 2026 Bill Montford Administrator of the Year for her leadership in advancing STEM education.
Okaloosa Technical College Recognized as Military-Friendly Purple Star Campus
Okaloosa Technical College has been named a Collegiate Purple Star Campus by the Florida Department of Education, recognizing the school’s comprehensive support for military members, veterans, and their families across all OTC sites.
Okaloosa County School District Announces 2026 Education Staff Professional of the Year
The Okaloosa County School District honored its top Education Staff Professionals during a ceremony at Crosspoint Church in Niceville, celebrating the custodians, bus drivers, secretaries, and support staff who keep schools running every day. This year, Northwood Elementary’s Nicole Hardin was named the 2026 Education Staff Professional of the Year, earning recognition for her exceptional dedication to students and staff.
Okaloosa Schools face North-South divide as enrollment drops in Fort Walton, Destin; surges in Crestview
Okaloosa Schools face North-South divide as enrollment drops in Fort Walton, Destin; surges in Crestview Collin Bestor November 13, 2025 12:45 pm Schools and Education In Brief: 📈 Northern Okaloosa schools are growing fast — while southern campuses lose students 🏫 District may consider boundary changes or consolidations to manage enrollment shifts 💰 Voucher expansion […]
