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!
Back to School Savings Alert!
Did you know Florida’s Back to School Sales Tax Holiday is now permanent and runs the entire month of August? From August 1–31, families can save on essential school items tax-free — including clothing, school supplies, learning aids, and even personal computers!
Plan your shopping and check out the official list of tax-free items here: https://floridarevenue.com/.../Documents/TIP_25A01-08.pdf
Please note: School supply lists are provided individually by each school. Many of our secondary teachers will share their specific supply requests during orientation or on the first day of school. Reach out to your school if you have any questions!
We can't wait to see everyone back in our buildings on August 11th!
Did you know Florida’s Back to School Sales Tax Holiday is now permanent and runs the entire month of August? From August 1–31, families can save on essential school items tax-free — including clothing, school supplies, learning aids, and even personal computers!
Plan your shopping and check out the official list of tax-free items here: https://floridarevenue.com/.../Documents/TIP_25A01-08.pdf
Please note: School supply lists are provided individually by each school. Many of our secondary teachers will share their specific supply requests during orientation or on the first day of school. Reach out to your school if you have any questions!
We can't wait to see everyone back in our buildings on August 11th!
Today's School Board Workshop will be recorded and posted as soon as possible after the meeting is over. Thank you for your patience and understanding!
This week, elementary math teachers dove into hands-on learning with digital tools, manipulatives, and Vertical Surfaces strategies—making math lessons more interactive, student-centered, and fun! These energizing sessions sparked fresh ideas for boosting problem-solving, collaboration, and deep thinking in math classrooms.
Change a Life with Just 30 Minutes Every Other Week!
Okaloosa County's Take Stock in Children (TSIC) program is looking for caring mentors to support local high school students in grades 9–11. You’ll help guide students academically, build their confidence, and inspire their future—all during short, meaningful visits at their school. “Mentoring changes lives—and not just for the student,” says College Success Coach Lori Lipnicky.
✅ Background check & fingerprinting provided
✅ Brief training in August
✅ Easy scheduling through the mobile app
Learn more and apply: https://www.takestockinchildren.org/mentors. Questions? Contact LipnickyL@okaloosaschools.com.
Okaloosa County's Take Stock in Children (TSIC) program is looking for caring mentors to support local high school students in grades 9–11. You’ll help guide students academically, build their confidence, and inspire their future—all during short, meaningful visits at their school. “Mentoring changes lives—and not just for the student,” says College Success Coach Lori Lipnicky.
✅ Background check & fingerprinting provided
✅ Brief training in August
✅ Easy scheduling through the mobile app
Learn more and apply: https://www.takestockinchildren.org/mentors. Questions? Contact LipnickyL@okaloosaschools.com.
☀️📚 𝗦𝘂𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗿 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗤𝘂𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗶𝘀 𝗢𝗡! 📚☀️
Looking to make your child’s summer reading more exciting? Help them grab a book and check off these sunny spots—because every page is better under the sun! Don't forget the sunscreen!
✅ In the sun
✅ While eating ice cream
✅ At the beach
✅ In a car
✅ By a pool
✅ With a friend
✅ In a park
Whether you're lounging poolside or chilling under a tree, every page counts!
Share your kids' summer reading adventures by tagging us—let's turn this season into a story worth telling!
Looking to make your child’s summer reading more exciting? Help them grab a book and check off these sunny spots—because every page is better under the sun! Don't forget the sunscreen!
✅ In the sun
✅ While eating ice cream
✅ At the beach
✅ In a car
✅ By a pool
✅ With a friend
✅ In a park
Whether you're lounging poolside or chilling under a tree, every page counts!
Share your kids' summer reading adventures by tagging us—let's turn this season into a story worth telling!
𝗣𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄 𝗞–𝟴 𝗦𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗹 | 𝗕𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗙𝘂𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲
Big things are happening in Crestview! Construction is underway on Pineview K–8, the first new school in Okaloosa County since 2008! Located on an 80-acre site along the Southwest Crestview Bypass, this state-of-the-art campus will accommodate up to 1,200 students upon its opening in August 2026. This new school will ease overcrowding, improve access, and support growth in the region. A milestone over a decade in the making—and we’re just getting started! Visit the OCSD Facebook page for more pictures: https://www.facebook.com/OkaloosaCountySchoolDistrict.
Big things are happening in Crestview! Construction is underway on Pineview K–8, the first new school in Okaloosa County since 2008! Located on an 80-acre site along the Southwest Crestview Bypass, this state-of-the-art campus will accommodate up to 1,200 students upon its opening in August 2026. This new school will ease overcrowding, improve access, and support growth in the region. A milestone over a decade in the making—and we’re just getting started! Visit the OCSD Facebook page for more pictures: https://www.facebook.com/OkaloosaCountySchoolDistrict.
Last week’s Administration Summit was not just an event – it was a reminder of the power of leadership, courage, and connection. Our 2025 Admin Summit theme, Be Courageous Everyday - Lead Through the Challenge, came to life in every moment. Attendees explored new tools on the iPad, engaged in insightful principal panel discussions, and connected with colleagues in meaningful ways. Thank you to Beachside Community Church for being amazing hosts, Owen Lloyd, an NCAA swimmer from North Carolina State University, for his inspiring Keynote speech, and our amazing sponsors for making the event happen!
