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Okaloosa STEMM Academy’s Roeckers wins inaugural “Thank A Teacher” Award

Robert Roeckers, a first-year teacher at Okaloosa STEMM Academy, has been named the inaugural recipient of the “Thank A Teacher” recognition program — a new initiative to honor exceptional local educators. Roeckers, who teaches aerospace and serves as an advisory teacher at the middle school STEMM magnet program, was chosen for his “undeniable enthusiasm and commitment to fostering […]

Jared Williams

Robert Roeckers, a first-year teacher at Okaloosa STEMM Academy, has been named the inaugural recipient of the “Thank A Teacher” recognition program — a new initiative to honor exceptional local educators.

The program is a collaboration between the Okaloosa County School District and HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital.
Community members can visit the Thank A Teacher website year-round to nominate standout teachers who make a difference in students’ lives.

Roeckers, who teaches aerospace and serves as an advisory teacher at the middle school STEMM magnet program, was chosen for his “undeniable enthusiasm and commitment to fostering a love for learning,” administrators said in a news release Tuesday.

Since starting at Okaloosa STEMM this academic year, Roeckers has quickly become a favorite among his students — using an innovative, fun teaching style to make topics engaging for adolescents.

“This year is Mr. Roeckers’ first year of teaching, but the way he acts makes his classes fun and enjoyable, you would think that he has been teaching for quite some time,” one grateful student remarked. “He also is very kind to his students and everyone else on campus, and will always greet you with a smile.”

Roeckers was recognized at the school and received $250 from HCA Florida Healthcare, which operates HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital and HCA Florida Twin Cities Hospital in Okaloosa County.

December nominations for the Thank A Teacher program are open. You can visit the Thank A Teacher website to express your gratitude for your favorite teacher!

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Mike Ciolino commented on SS United States artificial reef project remains on track despite temporary delay

“Thanks Jared for a concise factual article. Too much false narratives floating around social media.”

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Chris commented on ‘GENERATIONAL OPPORTUNITY’: Okaloosa County sets sights on Eglin AFB orphan parcels for development

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“That portion has been closed because of wild hogs destroying it, I believe”

Kevin Jones commented on ‘GENERATIONAL OPPORTUNITY’: Okaloosa County sets sights on Eglin AFB orphan parcels for development

“Got make up for the 10 mill purchase of the SS United States and getting fined 1k a day while it still sits in port”

Terence R Porch commented on ‘GENERATIONAL OPPORTUNITY’: Okaloosa County sets sights on Eglin AFB orphan parcels for development

“Follow the $. It's highly probable the developers have a military connection. And "affordable housing" is a sad case of smoke and mirrors.”

Richard Burkart commented on Okaloosa School District breaks ground on new Pineview School in Crestview

“Why not give the actual location of the new school, but from the little you gave on that point, I'm "assuming" that it will, like just about nearly every school...”

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“Is HCA Twin Cities able to provide cardiac care?”

John commented on Florida acquires 2,483 acres for new Walton County state park

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Max commented on Florida acquires 2,483 acres for new Walton County state park

“Here goes all our natural Woods & Wild Life . Next thing you know they'll be building Businesses. And Gas Stations . And Big Houses .”

Ernest L Anderson commented on Florida acquires 2,483 acres for new Walton County state park

“It would be nice to know where it will be located. What about designs and will it have primitive camping or a combination of RV sites. What, no artist rendition?...”