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!
𝐂𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐄𝐱𝐜𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐭 𝐅𝐥𝐨𝐫𝐨𝐬𝐚 𝐄𝐥𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐲!
We recently presented Florosa Elementary with their plaque recognizing an "A" school grade for the 2024–25 school year—marking their third consecutive "A" and an impressive 17th overall!
In Okaloosa County, we add a "+" to our "A" because our schools go above and beyond in Academics, the Arts, and Athletics—the pillars of a well-rounded education. Florosa continues to lead the way, setting a standard across areas of student growth and achievement.
Congratulations to the incredible students, staff, families, and community members who make this achievement possible. Your commitment to excellence is inspiring, and we’re excited to celebrate even more success across the District this semester!
We recently presented Florosa Elementary with their plaque recognizing an "A" school grade for the 2024–25 school year—marking their third consecutive "A" and an impressive 17th overall!
In Okaloosa County, we add a "+" to our "A" because our schools go above and beyond in Academics, the Arts, and Athletics—the pillars of a well-rounded education. Florosa continues to lead the way, setting a standard across areas of student growth and achievement.
Congratulations to the incredible students, staff, families, and community members who make this achievement possible. Your commitment to excellence is inspiring, and we’re excited to celebrate even more success across the District this semester!
Champions of Education Program Builds Bridges Between Schools and Community
Champions of Education is a new program that will provide participants with an inside look at the district, fostering engagement, understanding, and collaboration. Through a series of four interactive sessions held throughout the school year, attendees will gain valuable insight into the operations, academics, and initiatives that drive student success. The first session is scheduled for the end of September, with confirmed participation from community members eager to learn more about and support Okaloosa schools.
Champions of Education is a new program that will provide participants with an inside look at the district, fostering engagement, understanding, and collaboration. Through a series of four interactive sessions held throughout the school year, attendees will gain valuable insight into the operations, academics, and initiatives that drive student success. The first session is scheduled for the end of September, with confirmed participation from community members eager to learn more about and support Okaloosa schools.
OCSD Schools and offices will be closed Monday, September 1, 2025 in observance of Labor Day. Classes and regular office hours will resume Tuesday, September 2nd 2025.
𝗛𝘂𝗿𝗹𝗯𝘂𝗿𝘁 𝗙𝗶𝗲𝗹𝗱 – 𝗨𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗠𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻
Assistant Superintendent John Spolski and Program Director for Student Services Teri Schroeder were invited to speak at the Hurlburt Field, Understanding the Mission event, held at the Hurlburt Field Youth Center on Friday. The program brought together Military and Family Life Counselors (MFLCs) serving schools with Hurlburt connected students to learn about the unique mission of Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC), understand how the needs of Hurlburt-connected youth may differ from those connected to other nearby installations, explore available Air Force and installation resources, and set goals for the MFLC program for the 2025–26 school year.
Mr. Spolski and Ms. Schroeder spoke on the importance of the MFLC role and the strong partnership between the district, military leaders, and counselors in supporting students and families.
Assistant Superintendent John Spolski and Program Director for Student Services Teri Schroeder were invited to speak at the Hurlburt Field, Understanding the Mission event, held at the Hurlburt Field Youth Center on Friday. The program brought together Military and Family Life Counselors (MFLCs) serving schools with Hurlburt connected students to learn about the unique mission of Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC), understand how the needs of Hurlburt-connected youth may differ from those connected to other nearby installations, explore available Air Force and installation resources, and set goals for the MFLC program for the 2025–26 school year.
Mr. Spolski and Ms. Schroeder spoke on the importance of the MFLC role and the strong partnership between the district, military leaders, and counselors in supporting students and families.
Internet speeds have been restored. Thank you, Cox, for your quick response! Have a great day, OCSD Family!
We are currently experiencing slow internet speeds district-wide. This may affect phones. We are working with our service provider to get the problem fixed as quickly as possible. Thank you for your patience and understanding!
The first day of school for the Okaloosa County School District is Monday, August 11th—and that means school zones will be active once again! It also means more traffic close to schools around intake and release times. Please allow yourself extra time to get where you are going, be alert, and drive carefully as students will be waiting at bus stops, walking or biking to school, and car lines will be backed up.
We appreciate your patience as bus routes will also take longer than normal. It usually takes a week or so for everything to become routine.
We know it can sometimes be confusing to know when to stop for a school bus—especially with different traffic scenarios. That’s why we’re sharing a helpful graphic that breaks down the rules clearly and simply.
As we kick off an exciting new school year, thank you for doing your part to keep our students safe. Your awareness and patience help protect the Next Generation of Okaloosa Schools!
We appreciate your patience as bus routes will also take longer than normal. It usually takes a week or so for everything to become routine.
We know it can sometimes be confusing to know when to stop for a school bus—especially with different traffic scenarios. That’s why we’re sharing a helpful graphic that breaks down the rules clearly and simply.
As we kick off an exciting new school year, thank you for doing your part to keep our students safe. Your awareness and patience help protect the Next Generation of Okaloosa Schools!
Last week, our Elementary Curriculum team had the honor of partnering with Food for Thought FL to pack food bags for local students. This incredible organization delivers over 1,800 bags each week, supporting children and families across Okaloosa County School District. We're proud to be part of a mission that makes a meaningful impact in our community, and we appreciate the work they do for our students!
Today marks the first official Teacher Workday of the 2025-2026 school year, and we’re thrilled to welcome our incredible educators and dedicated support staff back to campus. They’re diving into preparations to ensure our students have an amazing year ahead.
The first day of school is Monday, August 11! If you’re new to Okaloosa County School District and haven’t registered yet—don’t wait! We’d love for you to join the OCSD Family. Find everything you need to get started at our registration page: https://www.okaloosaschools.com/page/registration.
Let’s make this year unforgettable!
The first day of school is Monday, August 11! If you’re new to Okaloosa County School District and haven’t registered yet—don’t wait! We’d love for you to join the OCSD Family. Find everything you need to get started at our registration page: https://www.okaloosaschools.com/page/registration.
Let’s make this year unforgettable!
𝗘𝘅𝗰𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗴𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗮𝘁 𝗕𝗮𝗸𝗲𝗿 𝗦𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗹!
To support current enrollment and prepare for future growth, a 10-classroom addition is underway. This important investment has allowed the removal of seven aged portables from campus, ensuring students have access to a safe, modern, and spacious learning environment.
We are grateful for the continued support of our community in helping us create the best possible educational experience for our students!
To support current enrollment and prepare for future growth, a 10-classroom addition is underway. This important investment has allowed the removal of seven aged portables from campus, ensuring students have access to a safe, modern, and spacious learning environment.
We are grateful for the continued support of our community in helping us create the best possible educational experience for our students!
Stuff the Bus was a huge success—thanks to the amazing support from a community that truly understands the value of quality education!
If you missed us today but still want to contribute, visit our website to find remote drop-off locations for school supplies. Every little bit helps!
A heartfelt THANK YOU to:
• Sarah Mathis and the fantastic team at MTSI
• Johnny Edwards & Kim Dawkins with Doolittle Institute
• Kimberline Griggs & Melissa Litscher with ECAR
• Laura Beeman with The Salvation Army
Special shoutout to OCSD School Board Members Linda Evanchyk & Parker Destin for their constant support of our teachers and students—you never miss a chance to show up, and we’re so grateful!
We are looking forward to an amazing school year!
If you missed us today but still want to contribute, visit our website to find remote drop-off locations for school supplies. Every little bit helps!
A heartfelt THANK YOU to:
• Sarah Mathis and the fantastic team at MTSI
• Johnny Edwards & Kim Dawkins with Doolittle Institute
• Kimberline Griggs & Melissa Litscher with ECAR
• Laura Beeman with The Salvation Army
Special shoutout to OCSD School Board Members Linda Evanchyk & Parker Destin for their constant support of our teachers and students—you never miss a chance to show up, and we’re so grateful!
We are looking forward to an amazing school year!
