Okaloosa County School Board approves new leadership

Okaloosa County School Board approves new leadership at Elliot Point, Davidson Collin Bestor June 24, 2025 2:18 pm Schools and Education In Brief: 🏫 Laura King promoted to principal at Davidson Middle School after nearly two decades in Okaloosa classrooms. 🌍 Eva Ratley named assistant principal at Elliott Point, bringing global teaching experience and fresh […]

Okaloosa County School District Will Pilot Virtual Reality In Classrooms

The Okaloosa County School Board has approved a pilot program to implement a Virtual Reality (VR) curriculum in three schools in collaboration with Prisms of Reality. This initiative aims to enhance the teaching and learning of Math and Science through innovative technology. Prisms of Reality’s Immersive Virtual Reality (IVR) platform engages tactile, kinesthetic, and visual learners, offering real-world problem-solving experiences. While the program aims to bridge learning gaps and ignite interest in STEM subjects, it also raises concerns about increased screen time for students and the long-term effectiveness of VR in maintaining student engagement.

Nihill Taylor to Replace Martin at STEMM Academy

The Okaloosa County School Board has appointed Kimberly Nihill Taylor, current Assistant Principal at Niceville High School, as the new principal of STEMM Academy in Valparaiso. Taylor, a longtime educator with over three decades of experience in the Okaloosa County School District, succeeds Dr. Scheree Martin, who was reassigned following disciplinary issues. Taylor brings a wealth of experience and dedication to her new role, having previously served as a teacher, coach, and administrator in the district.

Under Cloud of Controversy, STEMM Principal to Lead Education Efforts at Okaloosa DJJ Facility

In a move that sparked public outcry and emotional testimonies, the Okaloosa County School Board approved the transfer of Dr. Scheree Martin from Okaloosa STEMM Academy to a leadership position at the Department of Juvenile Justice facility south of Crestview. Despite unanimous support from the board, except for the absent Tim Bryant, parents vociferously opposed the transfer, citing Martin’s controversial past with children with autism at STEMM Academy. Superintendent Marcus Chambers defended the decision, emphasizing the district’s commitment to addressing misconduct while navigating complex personnel decisions.

Children Chosen for Creativity in Tax Collector Tag Art Contest

The Okaloosa County School Board meeting was filled with excitement as Tax Collector Ben Anderson and Sheriff Eric Aden, along with Superintendent Marcus Chambers, presented the Award of Distinction to the winners of the Kids Tag Art Program. This program, which combines an art contest with a fundraising initiative, raised over $18,000 for school arts programs this year, showcasing the creative talents of local 5th graders and supporting the arts in Okaloosa County schools.

Mid Bay News

A drone view of the activity on Boggy Bayou before the annual fireworks festival put on every year by the cities of Niceville  and Valparaiso.