Congratulations to Nicole Hardin, Pre-K Teacher at Northwood Elementary, Gretchen Levinson, ESE EBD Parapro at Meigs MS, and Starla Lucas, Mary Esther Elementary Bookkeeper, on being selected as the finalists for OCSD Educational Support Professional of the Year. These remarkable professionals exemplify dedication, compassion, and excellence in everything they do. Their impact reaches far beyond their roles, and we are so proud to have them represent the heart of our district. All honorees will be celebrated at the Annual Breakfast on November 14, where the district’s representative for the state award will be announced.
Our amazing 8th grade ELA teachers are diving into professional learning with S3Strategies! This dynamic training is all about strengthening literacy instruction, boosting student engagement, and building powerful classroom strategies. With collaboration, creativity, and a shared commitment to excellence, these educators are sharpening their skills to help every student thrive.
Ooey Gooey Math
Halloween came alive in Karmen Broaddus’s classroom at Ruckel Middle School with a spine-tingling twist on math! Students dove into a neon-themed learning experience, fishing for math problems hidden in a mix of “brains,” “guts,” and “maggots”—all part of a creepy, creative setup designed to make learning unforgettable.
Surrounded by ooey gooey props and spooky vibes, students tackled math challenges with excitement and engagement. It was the perfect blend of seasonal fun and academic rigor!
Halloween came alive in Karmen Broaddus’s classroom at Ruckel Middle School with a spine-tingling twist on math! Students dove into a neon-themed learning experience, fishing for math problems hidden in a mix of “brains,” “guts,” and “maggots”—all part of a creepy, creative setup designed to make learning unforgettable.
Surrounded by ooey gooey props and spooky vibes, students tackled math challenges with excitement and engagement. It was the perfect blend of seasonal fun and academic rigor!
CTE Spotlight: Culinary Arts
Chef Tingle, with 11 years of teaching experience, has transformed the culinary program at Crestview High School (CHS) into a vibrant hub of creativity and skill-building. A Georgia native, he grew up in Atlanta’s suburbs with a passion for food but little kitchen expertise. After high school, he moved to Statesboro, GA, working in restaurants while earning a B.S. in Hotel/Restaurant Management from Georgia Southern University. His culinary career soared as he rose from line cook to Executive Chef in seven years, working at prestigious venues like Marriott’s Grand Hotel, The Country Club of Mobile, The Walden Club, and The Cliffs at Glassy Golf and Country Club. He later earned an A.A. in Culinary Arts from the Culinary Institute of the Carolinas, where he discovered his love for teaching.
Since joining CHS in 2014 after relocating to Florida with his wife, Chef Tingle has elevated the culinary program with industry-standard upgrades, replacing 75% of outdated kitchen and café equipment with stainless steel, funded by over 500 students earning ServSafe certifications. His summer breaks have been crucial for these renovations. He finds immense joy in watching students master meal preparation and express creativity, helping them earn industry credentials. “Seeing students’ confidence grow as they create something delicious is the most rewarding part of my job,” he says. Chef Tingle’s hands-on, real-world-focused teaching fosters a passion for culinary arts. He also builds community by sharing treats with school staff, a nod to his high school days.
Chef Tingle, with 11 years of teaching experience, has transformed the culinary program at Crestview High School (CHS) into a vibrant hub of creativity and skill-building. A Georgia native, he grew up in Atlanta’s suburbs with a passion for food but little kitchen expertise. After high school, he moved to Statesboro, GA, working in restaurants while earning a B.S. in Hotel/Restaurant Management from Georgia Southern University. His culinary career soared as he rose from line cook to Executive Chef in seven years, working at prestigious venues like Marriott’s Grand Hotel, The Country Club of Mobile, The Walden Club, and The Cliffs at Glassy Golf and Country Club. He later earned an A.A. in Culinary Arts from the Culinary Institute of the Carolinas, where he discovered his love for teaching.
Since joining CHS in 2014 after relocating to Florida with his wife, Chef Tingle has elevated the culinary program with industry-standard upgrades, replacing 75% of outdated kitchen and café equipment with stainless steel, funded by over 500 students earning ServSafe certifications. His summer breaks have been crucial for these renovations. He finds immense joy in watching students master meal preparation and express creativity, helping them earn industry credentials. “Seeing students’ confidence grow as they create something delicious is the most rewarding part of my job,” he says. Chef Tingle’s hands-on, real-world-focused teaching fosters a passion for culinary arts. He also builds community by sharing treats with school staff, a nod to his high school days.
CTE Spotlight: Artificial Intelligence
Mrs. Sarah Wilson, an inspiring technology teacher at Pryor Middle School in Okaloosa County, brings 18 years of teaching experience and a degree from Florida State University to her classroom. Since joining the district in 2014, she has been a driving force in STEM education, preparing students for a digital world. At Pryor since 2020, she teaches Introduction to Technology, Exploring Technology, Social Media, and AI/Python Programming, fostering essential skills in coding, digital citizenship, communication, and critical thinking. Her engaging curriculum empowers students to navigate and shape the evolving tech landscape.
Before Pryor, Mrs. Wilson spent six years at the STEMM Academy, teaching Physical Science Honors, Civil Engineering, 3D Design & Printing, Aerospace/Aeronautical Engineering, and Music Technology. Her hands-on projects, from designing prototypes to creating digital compositions, seamlessly blend creativity with technical expertise, inspiring students to think innovatively. Earlier in her career, she taught science at a Tampa performing arts magnet school, where she developed her inquiry-based teaching approach, emphasizing student-driven exploration.
As a certified Python Coding Specialist and Clinical Educator, Mrs. Wilson guides students to achieve some of the district’s highest passing rates on Python Coding Apprentice and Python Coding Specialist exams, earning them industry-recognized credentials. She also mentors new teachers, fostering professional growth within her school community. Her teaching philosophy centers on sparking curiosity and confidence, encouraging students to see technology as a tool for positive change. A proud Floridian, she lives with her husband, Mike, a band director at Lewis School, and their daughters, Madison (7) and Natalie (3), sharing a deep commitment to education and community.
𝗗𝗼𝗻’𝘁 𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗴𝗲𝘁! 𝗗𝗮𝘆𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗦𝗮𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗧𝗶𝗺𝗲 𝗲𝗻𝗱𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝘄𝗲𝗲𝗸𝗲𝗻𝗱.
OCSD Family—be sure to set your clocks back one hour before going to bed on Saturday night, November 2. We “fall back” at 2:00 AM on Sunday, November 3. Enjoy the extra hour of rest, and we’ll see everyone bright and early on Monday!
OCSD Family—be sure to set your clocks back one hour before going to bed on Saturday night, November 2. We “fall back” at 2:00 AM on Sunday, November 3. Enjoy the extra hour of rest, and we’ll see everyone bright and early on Monday!
We are currently experiencing technical issues affecting several applications due to an Amazon Web Services (AWS) outage. Impacted services include, but are not limited to, ClassLink and Focus. Our Help Desk phone lines are also experiencing disruptions.
Many services remain accessible by bypassing the app and logging in directly through a web browser. We encourage users to try this method as a temporary workaround.
Focus link: https://okaloosa.focusschoolsoftware.com/focus/index.php
Our team is actively monitoring the situation and awaiting updates from AWS. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we work through this inconvenience together.
Many services remain accessible by bypassing the app and logging in directly through a web browser. We encourage users to try this method as a temporary workaround.
Focus link: https://okaloosa.focusschoolsoftware.com/focus/index.php
Our team is actively monitoring the situation and awaiting updates from AWS. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we work through this inconvenience together.
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨 𝐢𝐧 𝐅𝐢𝐫𝐬𝐭 𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐝𝐞!
Six-year-old Kal-El, a first grader at Laurel Hill School, was recently honored for his courageous and quick actions that saved his 3-year-old friend Sebastian’s life at a pool party by pulling him from the water, alerting adults, and helping ensure he received CPR.
Kal-El received a certificate of recognition, a themed wristband, and the Superintendent’s Coin, embodying this year’s message to “Be Courageous Everyday, Lead Through the Challenge,” and serving as a heroic example for all students in the district.
#OCSDProud #StudentHero #BeCourageousEveryday #LaurelHillSchool
Six-year-old Kal-El, a first grader at Laurel Hill School, was recently honored for his courageous and quick actions that saved his 3-year-old friend Sebastian’s life at a pool party by pulling him from the water, alerting adults, and helping ensure he received CPR.
Kal-El received a certificate of recognition, a themed wristband, and the Superintendent’s Coin, embodying this year’s message to “Be Courageous Everyday, Lead Through the Challenge,” and serving as a heroic example for all students in the district.
#OCSDProud #StudentHero #BeCourageousEveryday #LaurelHillSchool
Coach Ernie Martin from Crestview High School recently partnered with Coach Liz Berry at Lewis School to give Lewis Middle School physical education students an exciting preview of Crestview High’s Outdoor Education program.
On the first day, Coach Martin introduced students to the basics of fishing and hunting. He demonstrated different types of student-made fishing lures, casting techniques, and how to properly tie a fishing hook.
The learning continued on the second day with a special visit from Officer William Oliver of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Together, Officer Oliver and Coach Martin provided students with important information on boater safety.
This hands-on collaboration gave students a unique opportunity to explore outdoor skills and safety practices while building excitement for future learning opportunities offered at Crestview High School.
See more pictures at https://www.facebook.com/OkaloosaCountySchoolDistrict.
On the first day, Coach Martin introduced students to the basics of fishing and hunting. He demonstrated different types of student-made fishing lures, casting techniques, and how to properly tie a fishing hook.
The learning continued on the second day with a special visit from Officer William Oliver of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Together, Officer Oliver and Coach Martin provided students with important information on boater safety.
This hands-on collaboration gave students a unique opportunity to explore outdoor skills and safety practices while building excitement for future learning opportunities offered at Crestview High School.
See more pictures at https://www.facebook.com/OkaloosaCountySchoolDistrict.
𝗜𝘁’𝘀 𝗡𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗦𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗹 𝗟𝘂𝗻𝗰𝗵 𝗪𝗲𝗲𝗸!
We’re celebrating the power of nutritious meals and the incredible impact they have on student success. From fresh ingredients to smiling faces in the cafeteria — school lunch fuels learning every day!
#NSLW #SchoolLunchMatters #FuelingSuccess
We’re celebrating the power of nutritious meals and the incredible impact they have on student success. From fresh ingredients to smiling faces in the cafeteria — school lunch fuels learning every day!
#NSLW #SchoolLunchMatters #FuelingSuccess
Just a reminder that today is the last day of the first 9 week grading period. Monday is a Teacher Workday/ Student Holiday. We look forward to seeing our students back on campus Tuesday, October 14 to start the second half of the first semester!
SaferWatch Reporting App
At Okaloosa County School District, the safety of our students, staff, and campuses is our top priority. One of the tools our employees can use to support emergency response is a mobile app called SaferWatch, part of Florida’s Alyssa’s Alert initiative.
What is SaferWatch?
SaferWatch is a mobile panic alert system that connects directly with the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office and local 911 services. It allows employees to quickly report emergencies while on school property, helping law enforcement respond faster and more effectively.
Key Points for Families to Know:
- Only for Real Emergencies: The panic alert feature is used only in true emergencies and immediately notifies law enforcement.
- Optional but Encouraged: Employees are encouraged to install the app on their personal devices, but it’s not required. - On-Campus Use Only: The app only works while the user is physically on district property.
- Does Not Replace 911: In some cases, calling 911 may still be the best first step. SaferWatch simply enhances communication and response.
Why It Matters:
By using SaferWatch, our staff can help ensure a faster, more coordinated response in emergency situations—keeping students and schools safer.
At Okaloosa County School District, the safety of our students, staff, and campuses is our top priority. One of the tools our employees can use to support emergency response is a mobile app called SaferWatch, part of Florida’s Alyssa’s Alert initiative.
What is SaferWatch?
SaferWatch is a mobile panic alert system that connects directly with the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office and local 911 services. It allows employees to quickly report emergencies while on school property, helping law enforcement respond faster and more effectively.
Key Points for Families to Know:
- Only for Real Emergencies: The panic alert feature is used only in true emergencies and immediately notifies law enforcement.
- Optional but Encouraged: Employees are encouraged to install the app on their personal devices, but it’s not required. - On-Campus Use Only: The app only works while the user is physically on district property.
- Does Not Replace 911: In some cases, calling 911 may still be the best first step. SaferWatch simply enhances communication and response.
Why It Matters:
By using SaferWatch, our staff can help ensure a faster, more coordinated response in emergency situations—keeping students and schools safer.
𝗞𝗶𝗻𝗱 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗡𝗲𝘄 𝗖𝗼𝗼𝗹
We are excited to launch our latest district-wide initiative focused on bullying prevention and kindness.
Students have already begun viewing a short video of Superintendent Chambers introducing the Kind is the New Cool campaign—an effort to empower students to stand up against bullying, choose kindness, and help build school communities where everyone feels safe, valued, and respected.
We encourage families to preview the video and continue the conversation at home about the importance of empathy, respect, and inclusion. The video was shared with parents via email in September and featured in the latest edition of our Catch The Wave newsletter, distributed this past Saturday (check it out below!). Together, we can make kindness more than just a message—it can become a way of life in our schools.
October Catch The Wave Newsletter - Parent Edition:
https://mailchi.mp/okaloosaschools/catch-the-wave-employee-edition-november-10341719?e=[UNIQID]
We are excited to launch our latest district-wide initiative focused on bullying prevention and kindness.
Students have already begun viewing a short video of Superintendent Chambers introducing the Kind is the New Cool campaign—an effort to empower students to stand up against bullying, choose kindness, and help build school communities where everyone feels safe, valued, and respected.
We encourage families to preview the video and continue the conversation at home about the importance of empathy, respect, and inclusion. The video was shared with parents via email in September and featured in the latest edition of our Catch The Wave newsletter, distributed this past Saturday (check it out below!). Together, we can make kindness more than just a message—it can become a way of life in our schools.
October Catch The Wave Newsletter - Parent Edition:
https://mailchi.mp/okaloosaschools/catch-the-wave-employee-edition-november-10341719?e=[UNIQID]
October is National Principal's Month
It's October and it's National Principal's Month which means we are spotlighting the incredible leaders who help to make our schools shine. Superintendent Chambers stated, " I could not be more proud of the work they do and the time and effort they put into their schools. These dedicated educators give selflessly to their students, staff, parents and community. I'm grateful for each of them. "
We honor Principal Lopez for her dedication, heart, and impact on her school community. Check out this video highlighting her impact at Walker Elementary.
https://www.facebook.com/reel/3707120332928984
It's October and it's National Principal's Month which means we are spotlighting the incredible leaders who help to make our schools shine. Superintendent Chambers stated, " I could not be more proud of the work they do and the time and effort they put into their schools. These dedicated educators give selflessly to their students, staff, parents and community. I'm grateful for each of them. "
We honor Principal Lopez for her dedication, heart, and impact on her school community. Check out this video highlighting her impact at Walker Elementary.
https://www.facebook.com/reel/3707120332928984
𝐇𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐲 𝐂𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐝𝐢𝐚𝐧 𝐀𝐩𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐃𝐚𝐲!
Today, we celebrate the behind the scenes heroes of the Okaloosa County School District — our incredible custodians! From early mornings to late nights, they work tirelessly to keep our schools clean, safe, and welcoming for every student, teacher, and staff member.
Their dedication goes far beyond mops and brooms — they bring pride, care, and heart into every hallway and classroom. Their smiles and positive attitudes radiate through our buildings. Thank you, to each of you, for ALL that you do for our schools, staff and students!!
Let’s show our gratitude! Give a high five, or simply say THANK YOU to the custodians who make our schools shine every single day.
Today, we celebrate the behind the scenes heroes of the Okaloosa County School District — our incredible custodians! From early mornings to late nights, they work tirelessly to keep our schools clean, safe, and welcoming for every student, teacher, and staff member.
Their dedication goes far beyond mops and brooms — they bring pride, care, and heart into every hallway and classroom. Their smiles and positive attitudes radiate through our buildings. Thank you, to each of you, for ALL that you do for our schools, staff and students!!
Let’s show our gratitude! Give a high five, or simply say THANK YOU to the custodians who make our schools shine every single day.
𝗖𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗯𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗙𝗿𝗲𝗲𝗱𝗼𝗺 𝗪𝗲𝗲𝗸 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁
Last week, students across Okaloosa County honored Celebrate Freedom Week by learning and reciting the Preamble to the U.S. Constitution—a powerful reminder of our nation’s founding principles.
At Crestview High School, Student Ambassador, MacKenzie Bowden captured a standout moment featuring the Speech and Debate Team showing off their skills and spirit!
Great job to all our students for embracing civic learning and leadership!
https://www.facebook.com/reel/1146052430779564
Last week, students across Okaloosa County honored Celebrate Freedom Week by learning and reciting the Preamble to the U.S. Constitution—a powerful reminder of our nation’s founding principles.
At Crestview High School, Student Ambassador, MacKenzie Bowden captured a standout moment featuring the Speech and Debate Team showing off their skills and spirit!
Great job to all our students for embracing civic learning and leadership!
https://www.facebook.com/reel/1146052430779564
𝗦𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗠𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝗙𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗲𝘀—𝗘𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆 𝗗𝗮𝘆!
This year's cohort of administrators began the Florida Purple Star Teacher Leadership Program today, a statewide initiative that equips educators to better support military-connected students.
Every school in the Okaloosa County School District is a Purple Star School, and we are proud to be recognized as a Purple Star District—a reflection of our ongoing commitment to military families and student success.
This year's cohort of administrators began the Florida Purple Star Teacher Leadership Program today, a statewide initiative that equips educators to better support military-connected students.
Every school in the Okaloosa County School District is a Purple Star School, and we are proud to be recognized as a Purple Star District—a reflection of our ongoing commitment to military families and student success.
Constitution Week
At the September 22, 2025, School Board meeting, the Okaloosa County School Board proclaimed September 17–23, 2025, as “Constitution Week” in recognition of the 238th anniversary of the U.S. Constitution’s drafting, encouraging all citizens to study the Constitution and reflect on the rights and responsibilities of American citizenship.
At the September 22, 2025, School Board meeting, the Okaloosa County School Board proclaimed September 17–23, 2025, as “Constitution Week” in recognition of the 238th anniversary of the U.S. Constitution’s drafting, encouraging all citizens to study the Constitution and reflect on the rights and responsibilities of American citizenship.
𝐂𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐄𝐱𝐜𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐭 𝐃𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐧 𝐌𝐢𝐝𝐝𝐥𝐞 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥!
We recently presented Destin Middle School with their A+ Plaque recognizing an "A" school grade for the 2024–25 school year—marking their 22nd consecutive "A" and an impressive 23rd overall! Destin Middle continues to set the standard, demonstrating excellence across all areas of student achievement.
During the visit, we also had the honor of presenting Years of Service coins to several dedicated employees. A special moment included trading coins with SRO Deputy Davis, a gesture of mutual respect and appreciation. We were also thrilled to greet some of our amazing bus drivers, whose commitment to student safety and support is deeply valued.
Congratulations to the students, staff, families, and community members who make Destin Middle School a shining example of success. We’re proud of you and excited to celebrate more achievements across the District this semester!
We recently presented Destin Middle School with their A+ Plaque recognizing an "A" school grade for the 2024–25 school year—marking their 22nd consecutive "A" and an impressive 23rd overall! Destin Middle continues to set the standard, demonstrating excellence across all areas of student achievement.
During the visit, we also had the honor of presenting Years of Service coins to several dedicated employees. A special moment included trading coins with SRO Deputy Davis, a gesture of mutual respect and appreciation. We were also thrilled to greet some of our amazing bus drivers, whose commitment to student safety and support is deeply valued.
Congratulations to the students, staff, families, and community members who make Destin Middle School a shining example of success. We’re proud of you and excited to celebrate more achievements across the District this semester!
𝗢𝗖𝗦𝗗 𝗪𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗪𝗮𝗿𝗿𝗶𝗼𝗿𝘀 𝗥𝗮𝗰𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗮 𝗖𝗮𝘂𝘀𝗲—𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗪𝗶𝗻 𝗕𝗶𝗴!
On Saturday, Sept. 6, a team of OCSD Mental Health Providers, spouses, and other colleagues proudly participated in the 2025 Bring Hope Now Dragon Boat Race. Competing alongside 14 total teams representing various other community organizations that included The Cities of Niceville, Crestview, and Fort Walton Beach, The Okaloosa Sheriff's Office, Eglin Federal Credit Union, and Bridgeway Center, The OCSD Wellness Warriors secured 3rd place in the Community Cup Division!
More importantly, the team helped raise funds in support of OCSD's new peer to peer program called C.A.R.E. Crew and other youth-focused community mental health initiatives.
During the awards ceremony, we were honored to receive a $20,000 check from Bring Hope Now to continue our mission of supporting youth mental wellness.
Thank you to everyone who supported and cheered us on — together, we’re making waves for mental health!
On Saturday, Sept. 6, a team of OCSD Mental Health Providers, spouses, and other colleagues proudly participated in the 2025 Bring Hope Now Dragon Boat Race. Competing alongside 14 total teams representing various other community organizations that included The Cities of Niceville, Crestview, and Fort Walton Beach, The Okaloosa Sheriff's Office, Eglin Federal Credit Union, and Bridgeway Center, The OCSD Wellness Warriors secured 3rd place in the Community Cup Division!
More importantly, the team helped raise funds in support of OCSD's new peer to peer program called C.A.R.E. Crew and other youth-focused community mental health initiatives.
During the awards ceremony, we were honored to receive a $20,000 check from Bring Hope Now to continue our mission of supporting youth mental wellness.
Thank you to everyone who supported and cheered us on — together, we’re making waves for mental health!
