The Okaloosa County School Board unanimously appointed Dr. Belinda Small as Assistant Superintendent of Academic and Student Services on Monday, elevating the longtime Destin Middle School principal to district leadership after more than three decades of service.

• Small, who has led Destin Middle School since 2020, began her education career in 1992 after transitioning from business management. Her journey through the district has included roles as a language arts teacher, coach and assistant principal at both elementary and secondary levels.

“I am committed to leading with integrity, transparency and a spirit of partnership,” Small said after the board’s 5-0 vote. “I believe in working together at all times in finding multiple perspectives for great solutions.”

Superintendent Marcus Chambers presented Small’s appointment to the board, highlighting her extensive experience across the district. Her school assignments have included Destin, Richburg, Davidson, Shoal River and Ruckel Middle Schools, as well as Antioch and Bob Sykes Elementary Schools. 

“Dr. Small has dedicated more than three decades to the Okaloosa County School District,” Chambers said, noting her five Florida teaching and leadership certificates. 

• Small’s contributions to the district extend beyond her individual schools. She was part of the team that pioneered the first electronic grade book and supported the establishment of the Okaloosa County Academy Charter School. Her leadership has strengthened district initiatives in behavioral health, military student support, technology integration and school improvement. 

At Destin Middle School, she expanded one-on-one technology access, enhanced learning spaces and supported gains in academic acceleration and school culture through collaborative teamwork. 

Small earned her Doctorate in curriculum and instruction with an emphasis in instructional technology from the University of West Florida, where she also served as an adjunct instructor. She has presented nationally and internationally on curriculum and instructional practice.

The district recognized Small as Beginning Teacher of the Year in 1992 and selected her as a district top three teacher of the year finalist in 2009 from Antioch Elementary School. 

In her acceptance speech, Small acknowledged the educators and administrators who shaped her career and outlined her vision for the role. 

• “My commitment moving forward is simple: just to listen deeply, to collaborate authentically and to champion the success of every student and every educator in this fine school district,” she said. “We’re going to continue to build systems and nurture strong instruction so that all children feel valued and capable of achieving their dreams.”

Small was supported by her husband, Chris, a fellow career educator and coach, and their daughters, Randy and Georgia, both graduates of Okaloosa County schools.

“I have the highest hopes for our students in our community,” Small said. “I’m ready to get to work.”