On Saturday, January 11, 2025, students from kindergarten through 12th grade competed in the annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Oratorical and Poster Contests hosted by Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Sigma Omicron Omega Chapter at Niceville High School. Participants did a great job illustrating this year's theme ‘Mission Possible: Protecting Freedom, Justice, and Democracy in the Spirit of Nonviolence 365.’ All participants received a medallion, 2nd and 3rd place winners received a trophy and a medallion, and first place winners received a trophy, medallion, jacket, and a check for $200.
“The talent of our students was truly exceptional, and I was moved by their powerful speeches and creative posters,” stated Superintendent Marcus Chamber. “Watching elementary students deliver speeches was heartwarming, and our middle and high school students spoke with such passion about these essential values. Their words were inspiring and a testament to the bright future ahead.”
Congratulations to this year’s winners:
Community School Poster
1st – Maleah Stern – Richbourg School
Elementary K-2 Poster
3rd – Vanessa Wesbur – Wright Elementary School
2nd – Khaleesi DeChoudens – Laurel Hill School
1st – Sophia Kleiser – Bluewater Elementary School
Elementary K-2 Oratorical
2nd – Truth Thomas – Antioch Elementary School
1st – Khaleesi De Choudens – Laurel Hill School
Elementary 3-5 Poster
3rd – Justice Street – Wright Elementary School
2nd – Sophia Gregory – Kenwood Elementary School
1st – Amy Sanchez – Longwood Elementary School
Elementary 3-5 Oratorical
3rd – Emily Chambers – Eglin Elementary School
2nd – Eriella Havens – Edwins Elementary School
1st – Tylin Ruhland – NWF Ballet Académie
Middle 6-8 Poster
3rd - Sofia Perez – Shoal River Middle School
2nd – Ohanna Kooima – Shoal River Middle School
1st - Ahymn Kim – Ruckel Middle School
Middle 6-8 Oratorical
3rd – Kaydence Coolin – Liza Jackson Preparatory School
2nd – Curtis Daniel – Meigs Middle School
1st – Daisha Newman – Bruner Middle School
High School 9-12 Poster
3rd – McKenzie King – Fort Walton Beach High School
2nd – Paisley Shillingburg – Choctawhatchee High School
1st – Carly King – Fort Walton Beach High School
High School Oratorical
2nd – Anthony Jones – Crestview High School
1st – Paisley Shillingburg – Choctawhatchee High School
See a photo gallery of this event here!
The Okaloosa County School District thanks the dedicated teachers, administrators, and community members who supported the students throughout this journey.
(Pictured above - 2025 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Oratorical and Poster Contest Winners: Maleah Stern, Sophia Kleiser, Khaleesi De Choudens, Amy Sanchez, Tylin Ruhland, Ahymn Kim, Daisha Newman, Carly King, and Paisley Shillingburg)