Academic Team Season is Here!
High schools across Okaloosa County are once again going head to head in our annual double elimination Academic Tournament, where some of our brightest students showcase their knowledge in math, science, history, literature, fine arts, pop culture, and more!
Students from Baker School, Choctawhatchee High, Collegiate High, Destin High, Fort Walton Beach High, Niceville High, and Rocky Bayou Christian School are competing for the title— with Fort Walton Beach entering as the defending champions.
From each school’s team, standout representatives will be selected to become part of the Okaloosa County Academic Team, representing our district at the next level. The tournament is happening now through March 11, with matches filmed every Wednesday.
Watch the recorded matches and cheer on your school by visiting: www.okaloosaschools.com/page/academic-team
Wishing all of our teams the best of luck—your hard work, curiosity, and dedication make us proud!
High schools across Okaloosa County are once again going head to head in our annual double elimination Academic Tournament, where some of our brightest students showcase their knowledge in math, science, history, literature, fine arts, pop culture, and more!
Students from Baker School, Choctawhatchee High, Collegiate High, Destin High, Fort Walton Beach High, Niceville High, and Rocky Bayou Christian School are competing for the title— with Fort Walton Beach entering as the defending champions.
From each school’s team, standout representatives will be selected to become part of the Okaloosa County Academic Team, representing our district at the next level. The tournament is happening now through March 11, with matches filmed every Wednesday.
Watch the recorded matches and cheer on your school by visiting: www.okaloosaschools.com/page/academic-team
Wishing all of our teams the best of luck—your hard work, curiosity, and dedication make us proud!
Saving for college just got easier! Florida Prepaid’s annual Open Enrollment is now live, and new tools make planning simple and affordable.
Here’s what’s new:
▸ A redesigned website to help you build a personalized plan in minutes
▸ Flexible Prepaid Plan options — pay for one year at a time or choose
what fits your budget
▸ Low monthly payments starting at just $29
The sooner you start, the more you save. Lock in today’s college costs and take the first step toward your child’s future with a Florida Prepaid 529 Plan.
Find out more: https://bit.ly/4t21mMp
Here’s what’s new:
▸ A redesigned website to help you build a personalized plan in minutes
▸ Flexible Prepaid Plan options — pay for one year at a time or choose
what fits your budget
▸ Low monthly payments starting at just $29
The sooner you start, the more you save. Lock in today’s college costs and take the first step toward your child’s future with a Florida Prepaid 529 Plan.
Find out more: https://bit.ly/4t21mMp
We are incredibly grateful to the Mid- Bay Rotary Club for their generous $3,500 donation to the Okaloosa Public Schools Foundation in support of our Take Stock in Children program. This gift will provide a two-year scholarship for one of our students and help change a life through education.
The Take Stock in Children program matches each student with a mentor who supports them throughout their entire high school career. The Mid-Bay Rotary strongly believes in the power of mentorship and the impact this program has on our students’ success.
We truly appreciate their continued partnership and their commitment to helping our students achieve their dreams. They recognize Take Stock in Children as one of our outstanding programs, and we are honored by their support and confidence in the work we do for our students.
The Take Stock in Children program matches each student with a mentor who supports them throughout their entire high school career. The Mid-Bay Rotary strongly believes in the power of mentorship and the impact this program has on our students’ success.
We truly appreciate their continued partnership and their commitment to helping our students achieve their dreams. They recognize Take Stock in Children as one of our outstanding programs, and we are honored by their support and confidence in the work we do for our students.
We are proud to join the Okaloosa County America 250 Commission as our nation prepares to celebrate 250 years of freedom, unity, and independence!
Throughout 2026, the Commission will be identifying, scheduling, and co sponsoring special events to honor this historic milestone. You can stay up to date with all America 250 activities right here:
Event listings: https://www.getthecoast.com/america250
Official Facebook updates: https://www.facebook.com/okaloosacountyamerica250
In celebration of America’s 250th birthday, our schools will also be integrating meaningful activities into the school day, highlighting our nation’s history, inspiring patriotism, and helping students connect with this once in a lifetime moment.
Join us as we honor the past, celebrate the present, and look forward to the future of the United States of America!
The 2025–26 Middle School Athletic Conference wrapped up its winter sports season last week, and what an exciting finish it was!
In boys’ soccer, the Pryor Pirates claimed the County Championship with a hard fought win over the Ruckel Rams.
In girls’ soccer, the Ruckel Rams came out on top, defeating the Liza Jackson Lions to secure the County Champion title.
In basketball, both the boys’ and girls’ County Championships were brought home by the Shoal River Mustangs!
》The Mustangs’ boys team earned their victory over the Ruckel Rams.
》The Mustangs’ girls team clinched their championship with a win against the Destin Marlins.
Congratulations to all Okaloosa County schools for completing another successful and memorable winter sports season!
In boys’ soccer, the Pryor Pirates claimed the County Championship with a hard fought win over the Ruckel Rams.
In girls’ soccer, the Ruckel Rams came out on top, defeating the Liza Jackson Lions to secure the County Champion title.
In basketball, both the boys’ and girls’ County Championships were brought home by the Shoal River Mustangs!
》The Mustangs’ boys team earned their victory over the Ruckel Rams.
》The Mustangs’ girls team clinched their championship with a win against the Destin Marlins.
Congratulations to all Okaloosa County schools for completing another successful and memorable winter sports season!
Grateful for Generosity in Our Community
We are honored to recognize two incredible community partners whose generosity is making a meaningful difference for our students.
The Fort Walton Beach Loyal Order of Moose Lodge 2193 has been supporting our schools since 2022 and has now contributed over $17,000 to help pay down student meal debt in Okaloosa County. Their most recent donation of $6,000 will directly benefit students at Edwins Elementary, Mary Esther Elementary, and Walker Elementary. We are truly grateful for their ongoing commitment to our families.
We also extend our sincere appreciation to the Fraternal Order of Eagles in Fort Walton Beach, which donated $1,800 to support Kenwood Elementary, Longwood Elementary, Wright Elementary, and Edwins Elementary. Each month, this organization chooses a cause to uplift, and we are honored they chose to support our students.
Thank you to both organizations for helping ensure our students are cared for and supported. Your generosity brings hope—and relief—to families across our community!
We are honored to recognize two incredible community partners whose generosity is making a meaningful difference for our students.
The Fort Walton Beach Loyal Order of Moose Lodge 2193 has been supporting our schools since 2022 and has now contributed over $17,000 to help pay down student meal debt in Okaloosa County. Their most recent donation of $6,000 will directly benefit students at Edwins Elementary, Mary Esther Elementary, and Walker Elementary. We are truly grateful for their ongoing commitment to our families.
We also extend our sincere appreciation to the Fraternal Order of Eagles in Fort Walton Beach, which donated $1,800 to support Kenwood Elementary, Longwood Elementary, Wright Elementary, and Edwins Elementary. Each month, this organization chooses a cause to uplift, and we are honored they chose to support our students.
Thank you to both organizations for helping ensure our students are cared for and supported. Your generosity brings hope—and relief—to families across our community!
CTE Career & College Signing Day 2026 - Mark Your Calendars for an Unforgettable Celebration!
Get ready to cheer, applaud, and celebrate big dreams taking flight! The Okaloosa County School District (OCSD) Career and Technical Education (CTE) Department, proudly on behalf of Superintendent Marcus Chambers, extends a heartfelt invitation to students, proud families, dedicated staff, community supporters, and valued partners for our highly anticipated annual CTE Career & College Signing Day!
Date: Wednesday, April 15, 2026
Time: 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Location: Mattie Kelly Arts Center, 100 E. College Blvd., Niceville, FL 32578
This isn't just an event—it's a thrilling, inspiring Letter Signing Ceremony that captures the same electric energy as National Signing Day for college athletes! Our outstanding CTE seniors will step up to the podium in front of an enthusiastic crowd of family, friends, district leaders, educators, and community champions to proudly sign their letters of intent or commitment. These talented young leaders have secured their exciting next chapters—whether launching straight into rewarding careers, advancing to college or technical programs, pursuing further specialized training, or proudly serving in the military. Every signature represents hard work, determination, skill-building, and a bright future ahead!
We're especially honored to welcome our distinguished Keynote Speaker, Mel Ponder, President of Northwest Florida State College. With his deep roots in our community, extensive leadership experience, and passion for empowering the next generation through education and opportunity, President Ponder will deliver an inspiring message that motivates our students and reminds us all of the transformative power of career and technical education.
This special day shines a spotlight on the remarkable achievements of our CTE students and celebrates the incredible partnerships that make their success possible—strong collaborations between OCSD, local businesses, higher education institutions like Northwest Florida State College, industry leaders, and community organizations dedicated to building a skilled, ready workforce right here in Okaloosa County.
Seniors: Registration details will be coming soon through your CTE teachers—stay tuned and get ready to make your moment official!
Whether you're a proud parent, supportive grandparent, excited sibling, dedicated teacher, community partner, or simply someone who believes in celebrating student success, we want YOU there to witness these milestones and share in the joy!
Get ready to cheer, applaud, and celebrate big dreams taking flight! The Okaloosa County School District (OCSD) Career and Technical Education (CTE) Department, proudly on behalf of Superintendent Marcus Chambers, extends a heartfelt invitation to students, proud families, dedicated staff, community supporters, and valued partners for our highly anticipated annual CTE Career & College Signing Day!
Date: Wednesday, April 15, 2026
Time: 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Location: Mattie Kelly Arts Center, 100 E. College Blvd., Niceville, FL 32578
This isn't just an event—it's a thrilling, inspiring Letter Signing Ceremony that captures the same electric energy as National Signing Day for college athletes! Our outstanding CTE seniors will step up to the podium in front of an enthusiastic crowd of family, friends, district leaders, educators, and community champions to proudly sign their letters of intent or commitment. These talented young leaders have secured their exciting next chapters—whether launching straight into rewarding careers, advancing to college or technical programs, pursuing further specialized training, or proudly serving in the military. Every signature represents hard work, determination, skill-building, and a bright future ahead!
We're especially honored to welcome our distinguished Keynote Speaker, Mel Ponder, President of Northwest Florida State College. With his deep roots in our community, extensive leadership experience, and passion for empowering the next generation through education and opportunity, President Ponder will deliver an inspiring message that motivates our students and reminds us all of the transformative power of career and technical education.
This special day shines a spotlight on the remarkable achievements of our CTE students and celebrates the incredible partnerships that make their success possible—strong collaborations between OCSD, local businesses, higher education institutions like Northwest Florida State College, industry leaders, and community organizations dedicated to building a skilled, ready workforce right here in Okaloosa County.
Seniors: Registration details will be coming soon through your CTE teachers—stay tuned and get ready to make your moment official!
Whether you're a proud parent, supportive grandparent, excited sibling, dedicated teacher, community partner, or simply someone who believes in celebrating student success, we want YOU there to witness these milestones and share in the joy!
Spotlight on Science: Celebrating Mr. Mario Fraser
Longwood Elementary’s 5th grade science teacher, Mr. Mario Fraser exemplifies the spirit of Science in Action every day in his classroom. His dedication to fostering a love of science is evident in the way he provides students with differentiated lessons tailored to their learning needs, hands‑on activities that bring abstract concepts to life, and interactive opportunities that encourage curiosity and deeper understanding.
Mr. Fraser’s commitment to high‑quality, engaging instruction is not only inspiring his students—it’s producing results. His intentional planning and student‑centered methods have led to significant gains in student performance, as reflected in recent district common assessments. His classroom is a powerful example of what happens when passion, innovation, and effective teaching come together to support student success.
Longwood Elementary’s 5th grade science teacher, Mr. Mario Fraser exemplifies the spirit of Science in Action every day in his classroom. His dedication to fostering a love of science is evident in the way he provides students with differentiated lessons tailored to their learning needs, hands‑on activities that bring abstract concepts to life, and interactive opportunities that encourage curiosity and deeper understanding.
Mr. Fraser’s commitment to high‑quality, engaging instruction is not only inspiring his students—it’s producing results. His intentional planning and student‑centered methods have led to significant gains in student performance, as reflected in recent district common assessments. His classroom is a powerful example of what happens when passion, innovation, and effective teaching come together to support student success.
Controlled Open Enrollment, also known as COE, is for families who would like their student to attend a school they are not zoned to attend. For more information, please visit our Controlled Open Enrollment webpage by clicking the button below!
All Secondary Schools, North & Central Elementary Schools
Open January 27- February 24
South Elementary Schools
Open March 2-March 30
Visit: https://www.okaloosaschools.com/page/controlled-open-enrollment
All Secondary Schools, North & Central Elementary Schools
Open January 27- February 24
South Elementary Schools
Open March 2-March 30
Visit: https://www.okaloosaschools.com/page/controlled-open-enrollment
Kindergarten & New Student Registration
All Secondary Schools, North & Central Elementary Schools - OPEN NOW!
South Elementary Schools - Opens March 2nd!
Visit https://www.okaloosaschools.com/page/registration for more information!
Okaloosa County School District schools and district offices will be closed Monday, February 16, 2026 in observance of Presidents' Day.
𝗜𝘁’𝘀 𝗛𝗢𝗣𝗘 𝗪𝗘𝗘𝗞!
This year’s theme, “Little Acts, Big Hope,” reminds us that even the smallest gesture can bring light to someone’s day and create meaningful, lasting impact.
Our school Care Crews are leading the way by spreading positivity, kindness, and connection through a variety of uplifting activities. The District Office is joining in as well, participating in daily themes designed to inspire change—one hopeful act at a time.
𝗧𝗵𝘂𝗿𝘀𝗱𝗮𝘆 𝗶𝘀 𝗗𝗮𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗛𝗼𝗽𝗲! We encourage everyone to wear yellow to show unity, encouragement, and support as we celebrate the power of hope across our community.
Let’s make this week brighter with every little act!
This year’s theme, “Little Acts, Big Hope,” reminds us that even the smallest gesture can bring light to someone’s day and create meaningful, lasting impact.
Our school Care Crews are leading the way by spreading positivity, kindness, and connection through a variety of uplifting activities. The District Office is joining in as well, participating in daily themes designed to inspire change—one hopeful act at a time.
𝗧𝗵𝘂𝗿𝘀𝗱𝗮𝘆 𝗶𝘀 𝗗𝗮𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗛𝗼𝗽𝗲! We encourage everyone to wear yellow to show unity, encouragement, and support as we celebrate the power of hope across our community.
Let’s make this week brighter with every little act!
What a great turnout! Over 150 families joined us at Regal Cinemas Santa Rosa for our FREE Kindergarten & VPK Family Movie Afternoon on February 1st.
The event, hosted in partnership with the Okaloosa Public Schools Foundation, the Early Learning Coalition of the Emerald Coast, and the Florida Department of Health, helped families prepare for VPK and kindergarten in a fun, welcoming setting.
Families enjoyed:
🍿 Free movie tickets & kids’ snack packs
📝 On‑site VPK & Kindergarten registration help
🎁 Goodie bags with books, treats & more
“Our goal is to make the transition to kindergarten welcoming and supportive,” said Amy Dale, OCSD Director of Elementary Curriculum.
Thank you to everyone who joined us! For questions about kindergarten registration please visit www.okaloosaschools.com/page/registration.
The event, hosted in partnership with the Okaloosa Public Schools Foundation, the Early Learning Coalition of the Emerald Coast, and the Florida Department of Health, helped families prepare for VPK and kindergarten in a fun, welcoming setting.
Families enjoyed:
🍿 Free movie tickets & kids’ snack packs
📝 On‑site VPK & Kindergarten registration help
🎁 Goodie bags with books, treats & more
“Our goal is to make the transition to kindergarten welcoming and supportive,” said Amy Dale, OCSD Director of Elementary Curriculum.
Thank you to everyone who joined us! For questions about kindergarten registration please visit www.okaloosaschools.com/page/registration.
𝑪𝒆𝒍𝒆𝒃𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒉𝒆 2025 𝑭𝒐𝒐𝒕𝒃𝒂𝒍𝒍 𝑺𝒆𝒂𝒔𝒐𝒏
The 2025 high school football season showcased outstanding dedication and success from student-athletes across the district. Baker finished with an impressive 11–1 record and an undefeated regular season before falling in the Regional Semifinals. Choctaw had a standout year, ending 12–2, going 3–0 in district play to earn the District Championship, and advancing to the Final Four. Niceville also had a strong season, finishing second in their district and competing in the Regional Quarterfinals. The season’s achievements reflect the hard work of the athletes and the strong support of coaches, families, and the community.
The 2025 high school football season showcased outstanding dedication and success from student-athletes across the district. Baker finished with an impressive 11–1 record and an undefeated regular season before falling in the Regional Semifinals. Choctaw had a standout year, ending 12–2, going 3–0 in district play to earn the District Championship, and advancing to the Final Four. Niceville also had a strong season, finishing second in their district and competing in the Regional Quarterfinals. The season’s achievements reflect the hard work of the athletes and the strong support of coaches, families, and the community.
𝗛𝗮𝗽𝗽𝘆 𝗖𝗿𝗼𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗚𝘂𝗮𝗿𝗱 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗗𝗮𝘆!
Today we celebrate the incredible men and women who keep our students safe every single day. Whether rain or shine, hot or cold, our crossing guards greet families with a smile, guide children safely across busy streets, and help ensure a smooth start and end to every school day.
To all of our dedicated crossing guards: THANK YOU for your commitment, your kindness, and your unwavering focus on student safety. Our schools and communities are better because of you!
Today we celebrate the incredible men and women who keep our students safe every single day. Whether rain or shine, hot or cold, our crossing guards greet families with a smile, guide children safely across busy streets, and help ensure a smooth start and end to every school day.
To all of our dedicated crossing guards: THANK YOU for your commitment, your kindness, and your unwavering focus on student safety. Our schools and communities are better because of you!
The Fall cross country season delivered outstanding performances across the district. In girls' cross country, Choctaw's Izzy Harter earned District and Regional Runner-up honors and finished 10th out of 250 at the State Meet. Niceville's team placed third in Districts, with sophomore Riley Marise finishing 14th at State.
In boys' cross country, Baker placed 5th in Districts and 14th at Regionals, led by Michael Richards with times of 17:48 and 17:51. Niceville became District Champions and FHSAA State Runner-Up, with freshman Bryant Olson placing 15th at State.
Congratulations to all the teams on an outstanding season! We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the coaches, families, and community for their unwavering support of our talented student-athletes throughout this memorable season.
In boys' cross country, Baker placed 5th in Districts and 14th at Regionals, led by Michael Richards with times of 17:48 and 17:51. Niceville became District Champions and FHSAA State Runner-Up, with freshman Bryant Olson placing 15th at State.
Congratulations to all the teams on an outstanding season! We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the coaches, families, and community for their unwavering support of our talented student-athletes throughout this memorable season.
𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗴𝗿𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗔𝗿𝗮𝗺𝗮𝗿𝗸'𝘀 𝗝𝗮𝗻𝘂𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝗪𝗶𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗿𝘀!
We are excited to announce that Bruner Middle School has earned Kitchen of the Month for January. Their teamwork, consistency, and commitment to serving students each day truly shine.
We also celebrate Liz Perez from Southside Primary School, who has been named Kitchen Employee of the Month. Liz’s dedication, hard work, and exceptional service have truly set her apart.
Thank you to all of our incredible school nutrition professionals for the outstanding contributions you make each and every day. You keep our students nourished, supported, and ready to learn.
We are excited to announce that Bruner Middle School has earned Kitchen of the Month for January. Their teamwork, consistency, and commitment to serving students each day truly shine.
We also celebrate Liz Perez from Southside Primary School, who has been named Kitchen Employee of the Month. Liz’s dedication, hard work, and exceptional service have truly set her apart.
Thank you to all of our incredible school nutrition professionals for the outstanding contributions you make each and every day. You keep our students nourished, supported, and ready to learn.
The Fall golf season showcased strong performances across the district. In girls' golf, Choctaw qualified for Regionals with Hayden Michael placing 11th at the Regional Tournament. Niceville went undefeated in the regular season and finished 3rd in Districts, with Sharron Tenley winning the District singles title and both Tenley and Ariel Kim qualifying for state.
In boys' golf, Baker placed 5th in Districts with Champ Stokes as the top finisher, qualifying for 1A Regionals where he tied for 12th. Choctaw's Aidan Conner qualified for Regionals and the team finished 5th in Districts. Niceville's Josh Kelley won 1st place at Districts and advanced to Regionals, while the team placed 3rd in Districts.
We really appreciate the coaches, families, and community for supporting our talented student athletes during this unforgettable season.
In boys' golf, Baker placed 5th in Districts with Champ Stokes as the top finisher, qualifying for 1A Regionals where he tied for 12th. Choctaw's Aidan Conner qualified for Regionals and the team finished 5th in Districts. Niceville's Josh Kelley won 1st place at Districts and advanced to Regionals, while the team placed 3rd in Districts.
We really appreciate the coaches, families, and community for supporting our talented student athletes during this unforgettable season.
The 2025 swim season concluded with exceptional performances across the district. In girls' swimming, Fort Walton Beach earned 2A District 1 Runner-Up with individual district champions Kaitlyn Hamel (200 Free), Taelyn Mahieu (200 IM), and Josie Lang (500 Free). Niceville went undefeated as District Champions, finished 9th at state, and celebrated Elisabeth Breck's district title and state championship (100 Backstroke) as well as Abby Gunter's state championships in the 50 and 100 Freestyle (S6 Adaptive).
In boys' swimming, Crestview's Donovan Morales won state titles in both the 50 and 100 freestyle. Fort Walton Beach placed 9th at state for the third consecutive year, with Sawyer Downs and Brenden Hamel reaching state finals and setting school records. Niceville finished 3rd at state, winning two relay events (200 and 400 free) with Logan Michel, Nick Venture, Tripp Gallemore, and William Pugh, while Nick Venture also claimed the state championship in the 50 free.
Congratulations to all the teams on a fantastic season! We really appreciate the coaches, families, and community for supporting our talented student athletes during this unforgettable season.
𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 & 𝗚𝘂𝗮𝗿𝗱𝗶𝗮𝗻𝘀 - 𝗬𝗼𝘂'𝗿𝗲 𝗜𝗻𝘃𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗱!
Join us for an empowering Youth Mental Awareness & Support parent training designed to help you better understand children's behavior from childhood through adolescence.
Together, we’ll talk about:
✔️ What behaviors are typical as kids grow
✔️ Signs that may need extra attention
✔️ When and how to seek support
✔️ Practical strategies to strengthen communication and support your child’s well-being
You’ll leave with tools and confidence to better understand and support your child.
Following the training, we invite you to stay for the ESE Parent Advisory Committee meeting—open to all parents of students with IEPs who want to share input, provide feedback, and partner with the District to support students with exceptionalities.
We hope to see you there!
Join us for an empowering Youth Mental Awareness & Support parent training designed to help you better understand children's behavior from childhood through adolescence.
Together, we’ll talk about:
✔️ What behaviors are typical as kids grow
✔️ Signs that may need extra attention
✔️ When and how to seek support
✔️ Practical strategies to strengthen communication and support your child’s well-being
You’ll leave with tools and confidence to better understand and support your child.
Following the training, we invite you to stay for the ESE Parent Advisory Committee meeting—open to all parents of students with IEPs who want to share input, provide feedback, and partner with the District to support students with exceptionalities.
We hope to see you there!
