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Okaloosa Schools to honor Carter’s legacy while remaining open for National Day of Mourning

Okaloosa County schools will remain operational during the National Day of Mourning for former President Jimmy Carter, using it as educational opportunity.
Okaloosa County School District Admin Complex in Fort Walton Beach

Okaloosa County School District will use President Jimmy Carter’s National Day of Mourning as a teaching opportunity while maintaining regular operations, officials announced Sunday afternoon.

  • The district will keep all schools open on Thursday, January 9, including Eglin Elementary School on Eglin Air Force Base, during the national observance of Carter’s passing.

“President Jimmy Carter was a remarkable leader and humanitarian whose life of service exemplified integrity, compassion, and dedication to others,” said Superintendent Marcus Chambers. “On this National Day of Mourning, our students will have the opportunity to learn about the 39th President of the United States, reflecting on his contributions to our nation and his tireless humanitarian efforts.”

Transportation services will continue normal operations for students living on Eglin Air Force Base, ensuring they can access schools both on and off the installation.

Following Governor Ron DeSantis’ directive, U.S. and Florida flags at all local and state buildings will fly at half-staff until sunset on January 28, 2025, honoring Carter, who died December 29 at age 100.

President Biden designated the National Day of Mourning through an executive order issued December 30 to commemorate Carter, who served as president from 1977 to 1981.

One Response

  1. This is giving me kneeling for flag vibes. So instead of a moment of silence-which ironically, speaks volumes!, you want them to hustle. I miss old usa. Working hard usa, earning a living usa, good products made in the USA!, government caring looking out for usa. Before, going forward didn’t feel like a lie. We are all on a treadmill chasing the 1% who own the monopolies!

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