The Okaloosa County School District (OCSD) proudly celebrated outstanding Education Staff Professionals from across the district during its 2026 Education Staff Professional of the Year Ceremony, held at Crosspoint Church in Niceville. Honorees included exceptional bus drivers, custodians, secretaries, and support staff whose dedication and service are essential to student and school success.
This year’s finalists were:
Nicole Hardin, Northwood Elementary School
Gretchen Levinson, Meigs Middle School
Starla Lucas, Mary Esther Elementary School
OCSD is pleased to announce Nicole Hardin as the 2026 Education Staff Professional of the Year (pictured above with Superintendent Marcus Chambers).
Superintendent Marcus Chambers congratulated all honorees and emphasized the profound impact of Education Staff Professionals across the district. “You make up the foundation of what we do every single day for kids. What you contribute to our schools is amazing, and it’s a huge deal. We couldn’t do what we do without you, and today we honor your dedication, commitment, and heart for students.” OCSD extends sincere appreciation to the committee members who helped make this year’s event a success and to the organizations whose generosity and partnership made the celebration possible, including Crosspoint Church, Okaloosa Education Staff Professionals, Okaloosa Public Schools Foundation, Okaloosa Teachers Credit Union, Okaloosa Gas, Titan Technologies, Bay Area Awards, Katie’s House of Flowers & Gifts, and A2Z Specialty Advertising. 
(Pictured L to R: Superintendent Marcus Chambers, Gretchen Levinson, Nicole Hardin, and Starla Lucas)