The top fundraisers in the 2025—2026 Children in Crisis (CIC) "Change for Children Campaign” in Okaloosa County were recognized at the May 26th School Board meeting. The funds raised through this campaign will go directly to support the children of The Children’s Neighborhood, giving them the stability and care they desperately need.
Congratulations to the winners in the following categories:
Community School Division: Southside Primary School (pictured above)
Total Raised: $1404.50
Principal, Amy Bowles; School Sponsors: Haley Dukes and Stephanie Hicks
Middle School Division: Okaloosa STEMM Academy
Total Raised: $1106.77
Principal, Kimberly Nihil-Taylor; School Sponsor: Robert Roeckers (National Honor Society)
High School Division: Choctawhatchee High School
Total Raised: $1857.00
Principal, Michelle Heck; School Sponsor: Dee Dee Shank (Link Crew)
Elementary School Division and Top Fundraiser: Plew Elementary School
Total Raised: $3100.39
Principal, Tammy Matz; School Sponsor: Shawna Crist and Katie Wallace
Presenting the awards on behalf of Children in Crisis were Kitty Johnson and Mary Jane Ross, Members of the CIC Board of Directors, Kevin Maloney, CIC President/CEO, and Justin Schwab, CIC Development Coordinator and Grant Writer.
About Children in Crisis
Children in Crisis provides a safe and supportive environment for children who have been removed from their homes due to abuse, neglect, or other emergencies, empowering them to build brighter futures through stable foster placements and transitional living programs. Learn more at https://cicfl.org.