Deputies Raid Niceville House, Arrest Teen for Child Porn Possession

Members of the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office Internet Crimes Against Children Unit, in collaboration with the Multi-Agency Drug Task Force, executed a search warrant at a residence on Fir Avenue today.
Okaloosa Candidates Converge For Niceville Town Hall

Candidates for School Board, County Commission, Sheriff and more gathered at Niceville High School to get talk to voters a month before elections start.
NHS Alumnus Graduates From United States Merchant Marine Academy

Ravis S. Delrie, son of Jason and Carolyn Delrie of Niceville, recently graduated from the United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) at Kings Point, New York. Delrie earned a Bachelor of Science degree, a commission in the U.S. armed forces, and qualified as a Merchant Marine officer. The USMMA is one of the five U.S. federal service academies renowned for its rigorous academic and physical qualifications and requires nominations from Congress members. Delrie received nominations from Senators Marco Rubio, Rick Scott, and Representative Matt Gaetz. He will serve as a Third Mate in the U.S. Merchant Marine and a U.S. Navy Strategic Sealift Officer. The Academy’s commencement featured White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, and this year marked the 50th anniversary of women entering the USMMA.
Okaloosa County Places In Top 10 In State FAST Testing

The Florida Department of Education released the 2023-24 results for the Florida Assessment of Student Thinking (FAST) and End of Course Exams on July 1, 2024. Okaloosa Schools ranked 10th out of 67 districts, with top performances in 5th, 7th, and 8th-grade Reading, 7th and 8th-grade Mathematics, and 8th-grade Science. Superintendent Marcus Chambers praised the dedication of the school community and highlighted the need for ongoing improvement despite some areas where pass rates fell below the state average.
VIDEO: Niceville Celebrates July 4 on Boggy Bayou

People of Niceville and Valparaiso, Florida gathered in the thousands on the shores of Boggy Bayou to watch fireworks and celebrate America’s independence.
Northwest Florida State College Launches AI Initiative

Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) is excited to announce the launch of its new AI Initiative, led by the Center for Innovative Teaching and Learning (CITL). This program aims to equip faculty and students with the knowledge and skills to thrive in an AI-driven world. In partnership with AI for Education, NWFSC will deliver training and workshops to enhance teaching practices and prepare students for future careers. The initiative includes workshops on generative AI, AI policy development, prompt engineering, AI pedagogical strategies, and redefining assessment in the age of AI. An AI Fellows program and a student AI competition will further promote AI integration and innovation.
Parents: ‘Okaloosa STEMM Principal Broke The Law.’ Now, They Say They Want Justice for Their Son With Autism.

Okaloosa STEMM Academy, lauded as one of Florida’s top middle schools, faces scrutiny from a family who claims their son, JosΓ©, experienced harassment under the administration of Principal Dr. Scheree Martin. Despite JosΓ©’s high academic performance, his parents allege Martin’s disciplinary actions targeted their son due to his autism and ADD, leading them to withdraw him from the school. Their ongoing battle highlights concerns about the school’s handling of students with special needs and has prompted investigations by both the Okaloosa County School District and the Florida Department of Education.
Destin Man Injured in Shooting

The Okaloosa County Sheriffβs Office is investigating a shooting that occurred Friday night at Sea Glass Apartments on Commons Drive in Destin. A 60-year-old man driving a white truck was found with multiple gunshot wounds and is currently being treated at a local hospital. The suspect, who called deputies from within the apartment complex, is in custody. The motive remains unclear. Authorities are seeking information from the public regarding the incident and can be reached at 850.651.7400 or through Emerald Coast Crimestoppers.
Niceville Public Library Celebrates 50th Anniversary

The Niceville Public Library is marking a significant milestone, celebrating its 50th anniversary. Since opening its doors on June 8, 1974, the library has served as a backbone of the community, dedicated to fostering learning, engagement, and a sense of community among Niceville residents. Sheila Bishop, the Library Director, who has been a pivotal part of this institution for over 40 years, expressed her gratitude and pride, emphasizing the library’s tradition of exceptional customer service and community support. The library is hosting a two-day celebration on June 7 and 8 to commemorate this occasion.
NWFSC Proposes Course Fee Changes

While tuition will not change – course fees may see some fluctuation this year.