𝗦𝗽𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗕𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗸 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱
Next Thursday, March 13, is the last day of the 3rd 9-week grading period. Spring Break begins on Friday, March 14, and continues through Friday, March 21. Monday, March 24, is a Teacher Workday. Students return for the 4th and final 9-week grading period of the 2024-2025 school year on Tuesday, March 25. We hope everyone has a safe and restful week off!
Edwins Elementary School Ribbon Cutting – March 5, 2025 Edwins Elementary's deep roots in the community were on full display as students, staff, and community members gathered to celebrate the ribbon-cutting of the school's brand-new Cafetorium, Music Room, Car Rider Line, Parking Lot, Playground Equipment, and Track. The event was filled with excitement and pride, featuring a performance by the Drum Team, a moving rendition from the school chorus, and students leading the Pledge of Allegiance. Former Principal Gwen Morris shared a unique perspective, reflecting on her journey as an Edwins student, teacher, Assistant Principal, and Principal. Current Principal Ms. Armstrong recognized the dedicated Edwins staff, as well as former employees and principals who joined in the celebration. Students and faculty from Fort Walton Beach High School also attended to show their support. Superintendent Chambers shared his excitement about this milestone, stating, "Edwins Elementary has a rich history of academic excellence and community support. These new facilities will enhance the learning experience for our students and continue the school's tradition of success for generations to come." We extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who made this project possible—including the citizens of Okaloosa County for approving the Half-Cent Sales Tax, as well as Jacobs/Titan and Lord & Son.
Congratulations to Ms. Kirsten DeLaRue at Bob Sikes Elementary, our February Thank A Teacher recipient! Nominated by her colleague Jacqueline Ward, Ms. DeLaRue is an inspiration to both students and coworkers. She pushes her students to achieve greatness, never giving up on them or allowing them to give up on themselves. She spends countless hours planning individualized support, advocating for inclusion, and finding innovative ways to help students and their families succeed. Her dedication extends beyond the classroom, always going above and beyond for those around her. Thank you, Ms. DeLaRue, for your unwavering commitment and passion! Know a teacher who deserves recognition? Nominate them today: https://www2.okaloosaschools.com/page/thank-a-teacher.
Recent Ribbon Cuttings - Cafetoriums at Ruckel Middle, Plew Elementary, and Shalimar Elementary. A Cafetorium is a versatile space that combines a cafeteria and an auditorium, complete with a stage. It can be divided in half, accommodating breakfast/lunch on one side and PE or other activities on the other. Behind the stage in each of these buildings is a flexible area that can be adapted to meet the school's needs. For example, Ruckel uses their space for teacher training sessions and a STEM lab, while Plew and Shalimar have transformed theirs into a music room. Shalimar also has a new teachers' lounge in their space. Additionally, schools that have received these buildings have re-routed their car rider lines or bus ramps to alleviate traffic congestion around the school entrance.
OCSD Job Fair – Save the Date: Saturday, April 5th! Join us from 9:00 am until 11:00 am in the Choctawhatchee High School Multipurpose Building for the OCSD Job Fair. This fair is open to all and we will be hiring for ALL positions including: Teachers, Substitutes, Bus Drivers, Paraprofessionals, Custodians, and More! During the fair, the Professional Services Department will be hosting a class on “How to Become a Teacher.”
Shalimar Elementary School proudly celebrated the grand opening of its new cafetorium with a special ribbon-cutting ceremony, welcoming community partners, school leaders, and media representatives. The state-of-the-art facility, which includes a modern music classroom and a newly paved bus ramp, enhances both the learning environment and overall campus functionality. The event also marked the unveiling of the school’s vibrant new playground, providing students with an engaging space for recreation. These transformative projects, made possible by the voter-approved Half-Cent Sales Tax, highlight the community’s dedication to investing in local schools and ensuring student success. Superintendent Marcus Chambers emphasized the impact of these improvements, stating, “This new cafetorium is not just a building; it’s a symbol of our community’s unwavering commitment to providing our students with the best possible learning environment. It represents an investment in our children's future and demonstrates the power of community support.”
Principal Amy Klugh, Superintendent Chambers, and Dr. Lamar White delivered remarks during the ceremony, celebrating the significance of these enhancements for students and staff. The event featured special musical performances by 5th-grade students and members of the Sinfonia Strings after-school program. Music teacher Ms. Shalyce Kauzlarich, who previously taught in a trailer for 20 years, expressed her excitement about having a dedicated space for instruction, noting that the new cafetorium provides a versatile environment for student activities without disrupting scheduling. The Okaloosa County School District extends its gratitude to the community for its continued support in creating safe, innovative, and inspiring spaces for students to learn and grow.
The OCSD Middle School Athletic Conference Championships for soccer and basketball ended earlier this month with several schools crowned as champions. In soccer, Ruckel Middle School girls won the County Championship, while Pryor Middle School boys captured the title. In basketball, the Shoal River Mustangs took home the girls County Championship trophy, and Meigs Middle School was deemed County Champion in boys basketball. Congratulations to all our schools for completing another successful winter sports season!
Niceville High School recently celebrated the grand opening of their new Multipurpose Building, made possible by the Half-Cent Sales Tax. This new facility will be used for band and athletic practices, on-campus testing, and other fantastic events hosted by the school. It also features a brand new weight room and baseball locker room, replacing the original baseball fieldhouse. Superintendent Chambers expressed a heartfelt thank you to the community members, students, staff, Jacobs Titan, and Lord and Sons for making these projects possible. "Your support is invaluable and has made this incredible project a reality. Thank you for investing in our students' future!"
A huge thank you to our dedicated OCSD elementary ELA, Math, and Science teachers for coming together to provide invaluable input on our School Performance Plan and professional learning. Your commitment to excellence is truly inspiring! We also want to extend special thanks to the Okaloosa Public Schools Foundation for their generous donation of rolling cart bags, and to Hand2Mind makes a big difference!
Join us for a Student, College, and Career Fair presented by Crestview High School on Friday, March 7, 2025, from 9:00AM - 12:00PM in the new Multipurpose Room. Join us for a day of networking, opportunities, and growth as we connect job seekers/students with top employers/colleges in our area. Any businesses or colleges that would like to participate email Olivia Taylor at Olivia.Taylor@okaloosaschools.com.
Don't forget! Okaloosa County School District Schools and District Offices will be closed Monday, February 17th in observance of Presidents' Day.
Take the School Climate Survey Today! Please take a moment to complete the following survey about your child's school. We rely on your feedback to continuously improve our schools. The survey will be open through April 18, 2025.
Online English Version - https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Y8B7MWN
Online Spanish Version - https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Y9C5P79
Thank you for your continued partnership, which helps make Okaloosa County Schools even better!
We are thrilled to celebrate Ms. Kim Chandler, a dedicated ESE teacher at Laurel Hill School, for being named a 2024-2025 recipient of the HCA Florida Healthcare "Thank A Teacher" program! Ms. Chandler was nominated by her colleague, Ms. Liz Bears, who shared:
"Ms. Chandler is one of the kindest, hardest working, most student-oriented teachers I have ever had the joy to meet. She is continually striving to strengthen ALL of her students’ academic skills to help make their personal dreams come true. She excels at building a "family" rapport in the classroom and in the school. She demonstrates exceptional support, patience and perseverance as she works to better her students' and colleagues’ lives. I'm proud to know Kim and proud to have her working in our district. In recognition of her incredible impact, Ms. Chandler received a plaque and a $250 "Thank A Teacher" award from HCA Florida Healthcare. We are grateful for our partnership with HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital, which provides an opportunity for parents, students, and colleagues to recognize the outstanding educators in our community. Do you know a teacher who deserves recognition? Nominate them today: https://www2.okaloosaschools.com/page/thank-a-teacher.
We are thrilled to celebrate Ms. Tia Mitchell, an outstanding ELA teacher and Yearbook Sponsor at Choctawhatchee High School, for being named a 2024-2025 recipient of the HCA Florida Healthcare "Thank A Teacher" program! Ms. Mitchell was nominated by a student who shared: "Thank you Mrs.Mitchell for everything you do for your students. You go above and beyond for everyone around you and I think you deserve a HUGE thanks for that!!!!! WE LOVE YOU MRS MITCHELL!" In recognition of her dedication and the positive influence she has on her students, Ms. Mitchell received a plaque and a $250 "Thank A Teacher" award from HCA Florida Healthcare. We are incredibly grateful for our partnership with HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital, which provides an opportunity for parents, students, and colleagues to honor the amazing educators who make a difference every day. Know a teacher who deserves recognition? Nominate them today: https://www2.okaloosaschools.com/page/thank-a-teacher.
We are thrilled to celebrate Ms. Tamra Salazar, a dedicated kindergarten teacher at Riverside Elementary School, for being named a 2024-2025 recipient of the HCA Florida Healthcare "Thank A Teacher" program! Ms. Salazar was nominated by a grateful parent who shared: "Her dedication and kindness have made such a difference in our child's life. Since starting kindergarten, we've seen a noticeable transformation—she's more confident, excited about learning, and looks forward to school every day. It's clear that Mrs. Salazar's support and the positive environment she creates in her classroom have played a huge role in her growth." In recognition of her impact, Ms. Salazar received a plaque and a $250 "Thank A Teacher" award from HCA Florida Healthcare. We are grateful for our partnership with HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital, which allows parents, students, and colleagues to celebrate our incredible educators. If you know a teacher who deserves recognition, nominate them: https://www2.okaloosaschools.com/page/thank-a-teacher.
𝗛𝗮𝗽𝗽𝘆 𝗡𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗦𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗹 𝗖𝗼𝘂𝗻𝘀𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗿𝘀 𝗪𝗲𝗲𝗸!
This week, we celebrate and honor our incredible school counselors who play a vital role in supporting our students' academic, social, and emotional well-being. From guiding students through their educational journeys to providing a listening ear and valuable advice, our counselors are always there to help. Thank you to all our dedicated school counselors for your unwavering commitment and the positive impact you make every day. Your hard work and compassion truly make a difference in the lives of our students.
We are thrilled to celebrate Ms. Sarah Jeter, an outstanding middle school ELA teacher and Varsity Sideline/Competition Cheer Coach at Baker School, for being named a 2024-2025 recipient of the HCA Florida Healthcare "Thank A Teacher" program! Ms. Jeter was nominated by a grateful parent who shared: "I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to Ms. Jeter for being an exceptional ELA teacher. Not only does she inspire a love for learning, but she also serves as a trusted and supportive adult for my child and many other students. Thank you for everything you do!" In recognition of her dedication and the positive influence she has on her students, Ms. Jeter received a plaque and a $250 "Thank A Teacher" award from HCA Florida Healthcare.
The Okaloosa County School District proudly announces Ms. Katrina Brownsburger (Brominguez) as the 2025 Teacher of the Year! The announcement was made during last night's school board meeting, recognizing Ms. Brownsburger's exceptional dedication and educational contributions. Ms. Brownsburger, a tenth-grade English Language Arts teacher at Fort Walton Beach High School, has made a significant impact both in and out of the classroom. As the sponsor of the Speech and Debate team, she has guided her students to remarkable success, including victories at state and national competitions. Her unwavering commitment to her students' growth and success exemplifies the highest standards of teaching excellence. Read more: https://www.okaloosaschools.com/article/1994257.
This week, the Okaloosa County School District and the State of Florida are celebrating the joy of reading and the power of literacy! We are highlighting the importance of literacy in our schools and communities. From engaging classroom activities to exciting reading challenges, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Thank you to all our dedicated teachers, librarians, and staff for fostering a love of reading in our students!
The Okaloosa Public Schools Foundation recently awarded 26 grants to teachers who applied this fall. A total of $52,529.08 was distributed across 19 different schools! Fourteen of these teachers are first time recipients of an Okaloosa Public Schools Teacher Grant. Congratulations to this year’s recipients!
