Okaloosa County School District Superintendent Marcus Chambers released a comprehensive review of the district’s first semester achievements, highlighting continued academic excellence and expansion of educational programs.
In his update to families and community members, Chambers began by highlighting how the district has maintained its A-rating from the Florida Department of Education for the 2024-2025 school year. This achievement places Okaloosa among only three Florida districts to earn an A every year since the state began assigning school grades in 2014.
- “This accomplishment reflects the dedication and perseverance of our students, teachers, staff, and administrators,” Chambers said in his report. “Their unwavering support and commitment to education make achievements like this possible.”
The superintendent highlighted several schools’ long-running academic excellence, including Destin Middle School and Ruckel Middle School’s 23-year streak of A grades, and Destin Elementary’s 22-year record of top marks.
A major milestone occurred on December 19, 2024, with the groundbreaking of Pineview K-8 School, the district’s first new school since 2009. The facility, set to open in August 2026, will address enrollment pressures in the Crestview area.
- Chambers noted the project was made possible through resources freed up by a voter-approved half-cent sales tax.
The report detailed significant student achievements across academics, arts, and athletics. Niceville and Fort Walton Beach High Schools earned Silver status on the 2024 College Board AP School Honor Roll. Four students received National Merit Scholar recognition: Lily Suttlemyre and William Cupp from Niceville High School, and Jonathan Curtis and Tina Le from Choctawhatchee High School.
In athletics, Baker School’s volleyball team claimed their 22nd consecutive District title, while Choctawhatchee High School’s football team advanced to the Elite 8 as Football District Champions. Niceville’s football team reached the Final 4 as Regional Champions.
- Chambers also announced the launch of new esports programs at multiple schools, including Choctawhatchee, Crestview, Fort Walton Beach, and Niceville High Schools, along with STEMM Academy and Shoal River Middle School. The initiative aims to create pathways for college scholarships and careers in technology.
The superintendent’s report highlighted the district’s recent designation as a Purple Star District by Governor Ron DeSantis, making it one of five districts in Florida recognized for supporting military-connected students and families. Okaloosa serves the highest percentage of military students in Florida.
The semester review detailed numerous capital improvement projects completed through the half-cent sales tax program approved in 2020, including new multipurpose buildings at Baker School, Choctawhatchee High School, Crestview High School, and Niceville High School.
- “The first semester has been nothing short of remarkable, filled with achievements that highlight the strength and spirit of our school district,” Chambers added. “Thank you for your continued support in making Okaloosa County a place where education thrives.”
Looking ahead, Chambers outlined plans to expand Career and Technical Education programs, particularly in AI and Machine Learning, while developing partnerships with One Okaloosa EDC for student internships and apprenticeships.
