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.
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 Technical College Now Accepting Bids for Student-Built Tiny Homes

Okaloosa Technical College is now accepting bids on four student-built tiny homes, each crafted by students in carpentry, electrical, HVAC, and building trades programs. The project showcases OTC’s long-standing commitment to hands-on, real-world training that prepares students for in-demand careers.
Okaloosa School District names Donna Kelley as Pineview School principal

The Okaloosa County School District has appointed Donna Kelley, longtime principal of Northwood Elementary, to lead Pineview School.
Okaloosa School Board approves $5.1 Million turf project for four high schools

No more ruts, mud, or game delays — Okaloosa County is going all-in on turf. The School Board just approved a $5.1 million project to replace grass fields at four high schools. Here’s why district leaders say the change will make fields safer and more sustainable.
Everything You Need To Know About Niceville’s School Zone Cameras

Niceville’s speed cameras are back on for the school year, enforcing different speed limits throughout the school day and issuing $100 tickets to drivers over the threshold.
Okaloosa Schools Release Bus Schedules for 2025-6 School Year

Okaloosa County School District has released their bus schedules for the upcoming school year.
Annual ‘Stuff the Bus’ School Supply Drive returns in Okaloosa County

Okaloosa County is gearing up for its annual “Stuff the Bus” school supply drive on Aug. 2 to help local students in need.
Cigarettes, French Fries, and the Kids are Alright

What do smoking bans and school lunch french fries have in common? Just ask the middle schoolers who debated it with a retired fighter pilot.
Okaloosa County School District looks to cut costs as budget deliberations begin

Okaloosa school leaders unveiled a balanced but trimmed-down budget focused on staffing changes and capital reallocation to manage ongoing financial pressure without cutting school-level resources.