Niceville Student Accepted into Premier Public Film School
We're thrilled to celebrate a huge milestone for one of our standout high school seniors: Owen Atkinson has been accepted into the Florida State University College of Motion Picture Arts (FSUFilm) — one of the nation's premier public film schools!
Consistently ranked among the best (currently No. 4 among public film schools and No. 14 overall in The Hollywood Reporter's 2025 rankings, with other sources placing it No. 3 among publics and No. 11 nationally), FSUFilm is highly selective and known for launching careers in film production, directing, editing, and more. Owen's acceptance is a testament to his talent, dedication, and the strong foundation built right here through our CTE programs.
What drew you to apply to the FSU College of Motion Picture Arts?
Owen: It’s a top public film school in the nation. My family has been a Florida State family forever, and I’ve been doing film stuff since forever. It was a natural progression—like, oh, I’m just going to keep climbing. I’d only heard of one other student who went through the program, and she was working on Oscar-nominated stuff this year. Wow, that’s impressive!
What’s your ultimate goal in the industry?
Owen: Just to work in the industry and be comfortable. No super specific role right now—I’m happy doing anything. I literally love every single part of it. I want to express my art and have it appreciated, and live comfortably while doing that.
Is your focus more on digital media or specifically digital video?
Owen: Digital video. Videos are my thing.
Walk us through your path—what classes and experiences got you here?
Owen: I’ve taken Digital Video Technology for 4 years. Before that, I was just making stuff at home. Then junior and senior year, I started making things outside of school too—for fun—and I filmed a lot of football stuff for the school (football town vibes!). I put everything into a portfolio—all videos—and submitted it. That’s how I got accepted!
How much did your CTE courses prepare you for this leap?
Owen: Immensely! Getting certified in the Adobe Suite helped me make stuff on my own. And the teamwork in class—collaborating with peers—that was huge. The collaboration aspects really prepared me for working with others.
Did the program help you realize this was your future?
Owen: Totally. Before high school, I knew I wanted something creative—I just make art and put it out there. Through the program, I realized, oh, I can actually live off the stuff I make. It taught me everything and confirmed this is what I want.
Owen, you’re absolutely killing it! From creating videos at home and capturing those epic school football moments to earning a spot at one of the most competitive film programs out there—your hard work, passion, and talent are paying off in a big way.
We’re so proud of you and can’t wait to see the stories you bring to life next—whether you’re behind the camera, in the editing suite, directing, or shining in any other part of the process that fires you up. Congrats again, Owen—go ‘Noles, and keep creating!
We're thrilled to celebrate a huge milestone for one of our standout high school seniors: Owen Atkinson has been accepted into the Florida State University College of Motion Picture Arts (FSUFilm) — one of the nation's premier public film schools!
Consistently ranked among the best (currently No. 4 among public film schools and No. 14 overall in The Hollywood Reporter's 2025 rankings, with other sources placing it No. 3 among publics and No. 11 nationally), FSUFilm is highly selective and known for launching careers in film production, directing, editing, and more. Owen's acceptance is a testament to his talent, dedication, and the strong foundation built right here through our CTE programs.
What drew you to apply to the FSU College of Motion Picture Arts?
Owen: It’s a top public film school in the nation. My family has been a Florida State family forever, and I’ve been doing film stuff since forever. It was a natural progression—like, oh, I’m just going to keep climbing. I’d only heard of one other student who went through the program, and she was working on Oscar-nominated stuff this year. Wow, that’s impressive!
What’s your ultimate goal in the industry?
Owen: Just to work in the industry and be comfortable. No super specific role right now—I’m happy doing anything. I literally love every single part of it. I want to express my art and have it appreciated, and live comfortably while doing that.
Is your focus more on digital media or specifically digital video?
Owen: Digital video. Videos are my thing.
Walk us through your path—what classes and experiences got you here?
Owen: I’ve taken Digital Video Technology for 4 years. Before that, I was just making stuff at home. Then junior and senior year, I started making things outside of school too—for fun—and I filmed a lot of football stuff for the school (football town vibes!). I put everything into a portfolio—all videos—and submitted it. That’s how I got accepted!
How much did your CTE courses prepare you for this leap?
Owen: Immensely! Getting certified in the Adobe Suite helped me make stuff on my own. And the teamwork in class—collaborating with peers—that was huge. The collaboration aspects really prepared me for working with others.
Did the program help you realize this was your future?
Owen: Totally. Before high school, I knew I wanted something creative—I just make art and put it out there. Through the program, I realized, oh, I can actually live off the stuff I make. It taught me everything and confirmed this is what I want.
Owen, you’re absolutely killing it! From creating videos at home and capturing those epic school football moments to earning a spot at one of the most competitive film programs out there—your hard work, passion, and talent are paying off in a big way.
We’re so proud of you and can’t wait to see the stories you bring to life next—whether you’re behind the camera, in the editing suite, directing, or shining in any other part of the process that fires you up. Congrats again, Owen—go ‘Noles, and keep creating!
Strengthen Decoding Skills
Word walls have been a familiar feature in elementary classrooms for years. We’ve organized words alphabetically, added high-frequency words each week, and encouraged students to memorize them. But as our understanding of reading development deepens, we are learning that the way students acquire literacy is grounded in speech sounds — not letter names.
In “Transitioning from Word Walls to Sound Walls,” Marjorie Bottari challenges us to rethink traditional word walls and consider how sound walls better align with the speech-to-print process. Sound walls help students connect articulation (how sounds are formed in the mouth) to graphemes, supporting both high-frequency word learning and transfer to unfamiliar words.
If we want students to move from memorizing words to truly understanding how our language works, this shift matters.
As always, our goal is to continue learning, refining, and aligning our practices to what has the greatest instructional impact for students.
Read the full article here: https://www.readingrockets.org/topics/phonological-and-phonemic-awareness/articles/transitioning-word-walls-sound-walls.
Word walls have been a familiar feature in elementary classrooms for years. We’ve organized words alphabetically, added high-frequency words each week, and encouraged students to memorize them. But as our understanding of reading development deepens, we are learning that the way students acquire literacy is grounded in speech sounds — not letter names.
In “Transitioning from Word Walls to Sound Walls,” Marjorie Bottari challenges us to rethink traditional word walls and consider how sound walls better align with the speech-to-print process. Sound walls help students connect articulation (how sounds are formed in the mouth) to graphemes, supporting both high-frequency word learning and transfer to unfamiliar words.
If we want students to move from memorizing words to truly understanding how our language works, this shift matters.
As always, our goal is to continue learning, refining, and aligning our practices to what has the greatest instructional impact for students.
Read the full article here: https://www.readingrockets.org/topics/phonological-and-phonemic-awareness/articles/transitioning-word-walls-sound-walls.
Connect and Practice at Home - How Families Can Help at Home
Strong readers grow through consistent practice connecting sounds to letters and building automatic word recognition. Here are two simple ways you can support your child at home:
Practice High-Frequency Words
Choose 3–5 high-frequency words your child is currently learning (for example: said, have, come).
- Say one word aloud and have your child repeat it.
- Tap the sounds they hear and match each sound to the letters.
- Write the word together while saying each sound.
- Say the word again smoothly.
- Repeat with each word.
Practicing high-frequency words helps children connect sounds to letters in order to store the word in memory. This process supports orthographic mapping, allowing words to become “sight words” that can be read automatically.
Strong readers grow through consistent practice connecting sounds to letters and building automatic word recognition. Here are two simple ways you can support your child at home:
Practice High-Frequency Words
Choose 3–5 high-frequency words your child is currently learning (for example: said, have, come).
- Say one word aloud and have your child repeat it.
- Tap the sounds they hear and match each sound to the letters.
- Write the word together while saying each sound.
- Say the word again smoothly.
- Repeat with each word.
Practicing high-frequency words helps children connect sounds to letters in order to store the word in memory. This process supports orthographic mapping, allowing words to become “sight words” that can be read automatically.
On March 5th, Superintendent Marcus Chambers visited Ruckel Middle School after being challenged by their Esports Coach, Ms. Kristy Davies—and our students did not disappoint!
Mr. Chambers jumped into a friendly Mario Kart matchup against Principal Jannazo and two Ruckel Esports athletes. While the final score isn’t the highlight, what is worth celebrating is the growing impact of Esports across the Okaloosa County School District.
Over the last two years, OCSD has expanded Esports opportunities from every traditional high school to every middle school. These programs are more than fun—they strengthen teamwork, strategic thinking, communication skills, and digital citizenship.
Esports is also opening doors for students:
‣ College recruiters now seek Esports athletes
‣ Scholarships are available nationwide
‣ Career pathways in technology, game design, broadcasting, and IT are growing faster than ever
We’re proud of our students, proud of our schools, and proud to support innovative programs that prepare our learners for the future.
Congratulations to Ruckel Middle School on an exciting day in the Esports Lab—and thank you for showcasing the power of student engagement, collaboration, and competition in OCSD!
Mr. Chambers jumped into a friendly Mario Kart matchup against Principal Jannazo and two Ruckel Esports athletes. While the final score isn’t the highlight, what is worth celebrating is the growing impact of Esports across the Okaloosa County School District.
Over the last two years, OCSD has expanded Esports opportunities from every traditional high school to every middle school. These programs are more than fun—they strengthen teamwork, strategic thinking, communication skills, and digital citizenship.
Esports is also opening doors for students:
‣ College recruiters now seek Esports athletes
‣ Scholarships are available nationwide
‣ Career pathways in technology, game design, broadcasting, and IT are growing faster than ever
We’re proud of our students, proud of our schools, and proud to support innovative programs that prepare our learners for the future.
Congratulations to Ruckel Middle School on an exciting day in the Esports Lab—and thank you for showcasing the power of student engagement, collaboration, and competition in OCSD!
Exciting New CTE Program: Gaming and Simulation
Coming Soon!
Choctawhatchee High School and Niceville High School will introduce a new Career and Technical Education pathway: Gaming and Simulation, beginning in the 2026-2027 school year.
This program offers students a hands-on opportunity to explore game development and interactive simulation design. Participants will study core principles of game creation, including storytelling, character development, and mechanics design. They will gain proficiency in programming through JavaScript and Python, two widely used languages in the technology sector. Students will also work extensively with the Unity engine to build 2D and 3D games, virtual environments, and simulations.
Classroom work emphasizes practical, collaborative projects. Students will move from initial concepts to functional prototypes, creating playable games and interactive experiences that can be tested and shared.
A major benefit of the program is the chance to earn industry-recognized certifications in JavaScript, Python, and Unity. These credentials provide a strong advantage for future college applications, internships, or entry-level positions in game development, software engineering, simulation design, virtual and augmented reality, and related technology fields.
With the gaming and simulation industry experiencing continued rapid growth, this pathway equips students with transferable, high-demand skills while allowing them to earn elective credits in an engaging, creative environment.
Students interested in enrolling should consult their school counselor to include Gaming and Simulation in their 2026-2027 course requests. Program spots will be limited, so timely planning is recommended. Register NOW!!
Coming Soon!
Choctawhatchee High School and Niceville High School will introduce a new Career and Technical Education pathway: Gaming and Simulation, beginning in the 2026-2027 school year.
This program offers students a hands-on opportunity to explore game development and interactive simulation design. Participants will study core principles of game creation, including storytelling, character development, and mechanics design. They will gain proficiency in programming through JavaScript and Python, two widely used languages in the technology sector. Students will also work extensively with the Unity engine to build 2D and 3D games, virtual environments, and simulations.
Classroom work emphasizes practical, collaborative projects. Students will move from initial concepts to functional prototypes, creating playable games and interactive experiences that can be tested and shared.
A major benefit of the program is the chance to earn industry-recognized certifications in JavaScript, Python, and Unity. These credentials provide a strong advantage for future college applications, internships, or entry-level positions in game development, software engineering, simulation design, virtual and augmented reality, and related technology fields.
With the gaming and simulation industry experiencing continued rapid growth, this pathway equips students with transferable, high-demand skills while allowing them to earn elective credits in an engaging, creative environment.
Students interested in enrolling should consult their school counselor to include Gaming and Simulation in their 2026-2027 course requests. Program spots will be limited, so timely planning is recommended. Register NOW!!
To commemorate the 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding, the Florida Department of Education and Volunteer Florida are inviting all Florida students in grades K–12 to participate in the America250FL Art and Essay Contests. This year’s theme, “Celebrating Florida’s Contributions to America,” encourages students to reflect on our state’s role in shaping our nation’s history.
Students may submit an original essay or two‑dimensional artwork by Monday, March 16, 2026.
State leaders are encouraging participation across Florida. Commissioner of Education Anastasios Kamoutsas emphasized that the contest provides students with a meaningful opportunity to explore Florida’s impact on America, while Secretary of State Cord Byrd and Volunteer Florida CEO Josie Tamayo highlighted the importance of civic reflection, heritage, and student engagement.
Contest Details:
Art Contest: Open to students in K–5. Six winners will each receive a 2‑year Florida College Plan scholarship from the Florida Prepaid College Foundation.
Essay Contest: Open to students in grades 6–12. Three middle school winners will each receive a 2‑year scholarship, and five high school winners will each receive a 4‑year scholarship.
Students must be Florida residents and may submit only one entry.
Entries may be mailed to Volunteer Florida or submitted online at America250FloridaContest.com. All submissions must be received by 5:00 p.m. (ET) on March 16, 2026.
Students may submit an original essay or two‑dimensional artwork by Monday, March 16, 2026.
State leaders are encouraging participation across Florida. Commissioner of Education Anastasios Kamoutsas emphasized that the contest provides students with a meaningful opportunity to explore Florida’s impact on America, while Secretary of State Cord Byrd and Volunteer Florida CEO Josie Tamayo highlighted the importance of civic reflection, heritage, and student engagement.
Contest Details:
Art Contest: Open to students in K–5. Six winners will each receive a 2‑year Florida College Plan scholarship from the Florida Prepaid College Foundation.
Essay Contest: Open to students in grades 6–12. Three middle school winners will each receive a 2‑year scholarship, and five high school winners will each receive a 4‑year scholarship.
Students must be Florida residents and may submit only one entry.
Entries may be mailed to Volunteer Florida or submitted online at America250FloridaContest.com. All submissions must be received by 5:00 p.m. (ET) on March 16, 2026.
Friendly Reminder:
You've been amazing. You've worked hard. You deserve a break. Luckily, Spring Break is on the way:
Thursday, March 12 - Last day of 3rd 9 Weeks
Friday, March 13 - Sunday, March 22: Spring Break
March 23: Teacher Workday/ Student Holiday
March 24: First day of 4th 9 Weeks
You've been amazing. You've worked hard. You deserve a break. Luckily, Spring Break is on the way:
Thursday, March 12 - Last day of 3rd 9 Weeks
Friday, March 13 - Sunday, March 22: Spring Break
March 23: Teacher Workday/ Student Holiday
March 24: First day of 4th 9 Weeks
Florida Prepaid’s annual Open Enrollment period is underway, offering families an opportunity to lock in future college costs at today’s plan prices. With recent enhancements, planning for higher education is now more streamlined and affordable.
What’s new this year:
- A redesigned website to guide you through building a personalized savings plan
- Flexible Prepaid Plan options, including the ability to purchase one year at a time
- Low monthly payment options starting at just $29
The earlier you begin saving, the greater the long-term benefit. Take advantage of these improvements and secure your child’s future today with a Florida Prepaid 529 Plan.
Enroll Now at https://www.myfloridaprepaid.com/?utm_source=superintendent_kaloosa&utm_medium=paid-referral&utm_campaign=open-enrollment-26.
What’s new this year:
- A redesigned website to guide you through building a personalized savings plan
- Flexible Prepaid Plan options, including the ability to purchase one year at a time
- Low monthly payment options starting at just $29
The earlier you begin saving, the greater the long-term benefit. Take advantage of these improvements and secure your child’s future today with a Florida Prepaid 529 Plan.
Enroll Now at https://www.myfloridaprepaid.com/?utm_source=superintendent_kaloosa&utm_medium=paid-referral&utm_campaign=open-enrollment-26.
Controlled Open Enrollment for all Secondary Schools, North & Central Elementary Schools is now closed.
South Elementary Schools open March 2 - March 30.
For more information, visit https://www.okaloosaschools.com/page/controlled-open-enrollment.
South Elementary Schools open March 2 - March 30.
For more information, visit https://www.okaloosaschools.com/page/controlled-open-enrollment.
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.
