Cynthia West has entered the race for Okaloosa County School Board District 3.

• West, a mother of four and mental health professional, announced her candidacy Tuesday, positioning herself as an advocate for fiscal responsibility and academic excellence.

“After listening to parents, teachers, and taxpayers across District 3, one thing is clear: our schools need leadership that puts students first, protects taxpayer dollars, and plans ahead,” West said in a press release. “Okaloosa County has earned its reputation for high-performing, grade-A schools. I’m running to protect that excellence while ensuring we remain responsible stewards of every dollar entrusted to us.”

West’s family relocated to Florida during military life, and Okaloosa County is now their permanent home. Her four children have attended a mix of traditional public schools, charter schools, and advanced academic programs, and have utilized IEP services — experience she says gives her perspective on the diverse needs of local families.

Her campaign platform centers on four priorities: transparent budgeting, support for parental choice while planning for enrollment shifts, protecting the district’s A ratings, and addressing bullying, mental health and what she calls “electronic addiction.” 

• West also said she would work to remove DEI-based frameworks from district policy and training.

“This is personal,” West said. “I’m running for my kids, for your kids, and for the future of a community I love.”

The District 3 seat is currently held by School Board Member Linda Evanchyk, who has not announced whether she will seek re-election. Mitch Reed, a U.S. Army veteran and business consultant, announced his candidacy for the seat in August.