The top school fundraisers in the 2024-2025 Children in Crisis (CIC) "Change for Children Campaign” in Okaloosa County were recognized at the May 27, 2025, Okaloosa County School Board meeting. Change for Children is a fundraising initiative by Children in Crisis, Inc. to support the children at their Children's Neighborhood, an emergency shelter for children removed from unsafe environments. This campaign, typically runs from September 2024 to May 31st, 2025, aims to raise vital funds to support the children's needs, including shelter, care, and other resources. Okaloosa schools collectively raised more than $9,600 to help provide food, clothing, shelter, and stability to local children in need.
"We are incredibly proud of our students and school leaders for stepping up to make a difference," said Superintendent Marcus Chambers. "This campaign is about more than raising money—it's about teaching compassion, community, and the power of service. Supporting Children in Crisis is one way we can help make sure every child in Okaloosa has the opportunity to feel safe, cared for, and valued."
Congratulations to the winners in the following categories:
Middle School Division: Ruckel Middle School – Top Fundraiser for Okaloosa County
Principal, Joe Jannazo; School Sponsor: Angela Wargo
Total Raised: $3000
Community School Division and Top Fundraiser: Southside Primary School
Principal, Amy Bowles; Sponsors: Haley Dukes and Stephanie Hicks
Total Raised: $2429
Elementary School Division: Plew Elementary School
Principal, Tammy Matz; School Sponsors: Shawna Crist and Katie White
Total Raised: $2189
High School Division: Choctawhatchee High School
Principal, Michelle Heck; School Sponsor: Dee Dee Shank
Total Raised: $2000 
Okaloosa County School District is proud to partner with organizations like Children in Crisis to support vulnerable youth and instill in students a lifelong commitment to giving back.