Social Media Turns High School Speaker Into Political Flashpoint
A guest speaker invited by a student-led club at Fort Walton Beach High School has ignited the first major debate in the race for the District 1 seat on the Okaloosa County School Board.
Tough but Necessary: Okaloosa Will Close Two “Outstanding” Schools
Okaloosa School Board votes unanimously to close Mary Esther and Longwood Elementary amid enrollment decline and budget challenges, with rezoning ahead.
Tim Bryant Recognized for Powerful Commitment to School Leadership Excellence
Okaloosa School Board Member Tim Bryant earned FSBA’s Advanced Certified Board Member designation, recognizing his leadership training and dedication to education.
JD Peacock Launches Powerful Bid for Okaloosa School Board
JD Peacock announces he’s running for Okaloosa School Board, District 1, prioritizing students, teachers, and community values.
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.
Okaloosa Superintendent recommends closing Mary Esther and Longwood Elementary Schools amid sharp enrollment declines
Superintendent Marcus Chambers is recommending the closure of Mary Esther and Longwood Elementary Schools due to declining enrollment and budget pressures. Families will have a chance to weigh in at a public hearing in February.
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 […]
Okaloosa School Board reviews legislative priorities ahead of upcoming state session
Okaloosa County School Board members are calling on state lawmakers to fix what they describe as a broken funding system and to boost support for safety, mental health, and teacher retention.
