Honoring Local Heroes at the Okaloosa County Department of Corrections
It takes a special kind of dedication to serve behind the walls of a correctional facility, and in Okaloosa County that responsibility rests with 175 professionals at the Okaloosa County Department of Corrections.
These men and women face daily challenges as they provide custodial care, oversight and support for individuals facing misdemeanor and felony charges. Many in custody also struggle with mental health conditions and substance abuse, making the work both complex and demanding. Alongside correctional officers and nurses, county employees and community partners work together each day to maintain safety and protect the citizens of Okaloosa County.
Each year, the nation recognizes the important role these professionals play during National Correctional Officers Week and National Nurses Week. This year, Okaloosa County officials are expanding that recognition to include the many support staff members whose behind-the-scenes work helps keep operations running smoothly.
In his 1984 proclamation establishing National Correctional Officers Week, President Ronald Reagan noted that correctional officers often serve simultaneously as custodians, supervisors and counselors. “The professionalism, dedication and courage exhibited by these officers throughout the performance of these demanding and often conflicting roles deserve our utmost respect,” Reagan said.
To honor local staff, the department will host its sixth annual Food Truck Frenzy during National Correctional Officers Week and National Nurses Week, May 4–8. The event celebrates staff service while inviting the community to join in the appreciation.
Organizers are currently seeking support from local businesses and community partners, and residents are encouraged to stop by, enjoy great food and recognize the hardworking professionals who help keep Okaloosa County safe every day.
FWB Seeks Artists for Patriotic Fire Hydrant Project
The City of Fort Walton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) is inviting local artists to submit design proposals for its Patriotic Fire Hydrant Painting Project, a public art initiative celebrating the nation’s 250th birthday.
The selected artist will repaint 25 fire hydrants throughout the city with patriotic-themed designs. Applicants must submit at least five design concepts and will be responsible for preparing, painting and sealing the hydrants, as well as providing materials and submitting before-and-after photos of each location.
Proposals are due by 7 a.m. March 16, 2026, and may be emailed to cradept@fwb.org or delivered to the CRA Office, 105 Miracle Strip Parkway SW, Fort Walton Beach.
Designs will be displayed for public feedback during the CRA Citizen Input Meeting at 9 a.m. March 18, with the final selection made by the CRA Board on April 28.
For details and the entry form, visit:
fwb.org/DocumentCenter/View/4354/Patriotic-Fire-Hydrant-Project-PDF.
Okaloosa Schools Earn National AP Honor Roll Recognition
The Okaloosa County School District announced that Choctawhatchee High School, Fort Walton Beach High School and Niceville High School have been named to the 2025 College Board AP School Honor Roll, a national distinction recognizing schools that expand access to Advanced Placement coursework while supporting strong student outcomes.
- Choctawhatchee High School earned Gold recognition.
- Fort Walton Beach High School earned Silver recognition.
- Niceville High School earned Silver recognition.
The AP School Honor Roll recognizes high schools that meet rigorous benchmarks in college readiness and student achievement, based on data from their most recent graduating class. Schools are evaluated on broad access to AP coursework, student success on AP exams, and sustained participation in advanced academics.
“Recognition on the AP School Honor Roll is a testament to the dedication of our students, teachers, and school leaders,” said Superintendent Marcus Chambers. “Choctawhatchee High School’s Gold distinction and the Silver recognition earned by Fort Walton Beach and Niceville High Schools reflect our district’s continued commitment to academic excellence and preparing students for future success.”
Snowbirds Honored by Fort Walton Snowbird Club
By Barbara Palmgren
“There’s no place like home,” Dorothy once spoke, as the red slippers carried her back to Kansas from the land of Oz. While more true words could not be spoken, home for residents of the northern states and Canada is Okaloosa County each winter. Area snowbird groups welcome them back and yes, bid a fond farewell, as our friends return back up north to welcome spring.
This was the scenario one morning in Fort Walton Beach in mid-February at the First Baptist Church in Fort Walton where organizations and vendors shared information before a general meeting and entertainment. Tom Rice and Magnolia Grill provided the necessary coffee and snacks as did other groups like Saltwater Restaurants with a tuna salad sample for each person.
The Emerald Coast Community Band performed songs from musicals such as Mama Mia. Conductor Nathan Frymire led this talented volunteer group of musicians as snowbirds listened and applauded their approval. Ken Walsh and Barb Palmgren, trustees of the Heritage Museum of Northwest Florida, also performed a short skit about life in the 1920’s in Valparaiso. Ken was James Plew, a major developer of the area, and Barb was Lula Edge, postmistress and school board member. The audience laughed while this comedy team argued about where to put pickleball courts in Valparaiso.
All this doesn’t magically happen. The officers and staff of the Fort Walton Snowbird Club coordinated this and other meeting and events to keep visitors happy and busy. With volunteers like this in our community, we should all be proud!
Farewell, snowbird friends, until next year when silver sands, specialty restaurants, pickleball courts, golf games, and shopping await you once again. And yes, for a few months you will be saying, “There’s no place like Fort Walton.”
EFCU Earns National DOSE Award for Veteran Saves
Eglin Federal Credit Union was one of just five credit unions nationwide to receive the Designation of Savings Excellence (DOSE) Award for its leadership and outreach during Veteran Saves Week 2025, held Nov. 4–7. The industry-recognized honor celebrates financial institutions that promote effective saving strategies and financial readiness within the veteran community. Launched by America Saves in 2023, Veteran Saves Week encourages veterans and transitioning service members to build financial stability through practical, achievable saving habits and real-life financial check-ins. “We are proud to serve a thriving military and veteran community with services, support and solutions that simplify their financial lives,” said Cathie Staton, Eglin FCU president and CEO. “Our Field of Membership includes active and retired military personnel assigned to or receiving services from Eglin Air Force Base, Hurlburt Field, Duke Field, Camp Rudder or the 7th Special Forces Group. Veterans residing in Okaloosa, Santa Rosa and Walton counties are also eligible for membership. Partnering with Veteran Saves Week was a natural fit, as we share a commitment to helping veterans, transitioning service members and their families build financial readiness for life after service.”
Through the efforts of Eglin Federal Credit Union and more than 900 participating organizations nationwide, Veteran Saves Week 2025 generated nearly $1.9 million in deposits into new and existing savings accounts and $370,000 in pledged deposits toward personal savings goals. Outreach included educational resources, community engagement and social media campaigns encouraging veterans to take the Veteran Saves Pledge. “At its core, Veteran Saves Week encourages a financial check-in so Veterans and transitioning service members can better understand their day-to-day finances,” said Krystel Spell, program manager of Veteran Saves. “This year, we were especially mindful of the moment we were in. Many households are making tough decisions, adjusting priorities and responding to unexpected financial changes. The organizations recognized this year helped make saving feel realistic for Veterans and service members, even during uncertain times.”
Prepaid 2-Year College Scholarships for OCSD Students
Superintendent Marcus Chambers has announced an opportunity for three Okaloosa County School District (OCSD) seniors to receive Florida Prepaid 2-Year College Scholarships.
Applicants must be graduating seniors attending an OCSD public high school, plan to pursue a career in education and meet the basic eligibility requirements for a Florida Prepaid College Plan.
Applications are available now and must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. Friday, March 20, 2026. Students may submit only one application and must complete the digital form in full and upload the following materials: a current transcript, SAT/ACT/PSAT scores, a completed District form MIS 4217 documenting community service hours and a video essay (no longer than two minutes) explaining why they have chosen a career in education.
Applicants should gather all materials before beginning, as the application must be completed and submitted in one session. Incomplete submissions or missing documentation will result in disqualification.
Apply at:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfX-Nh1cRuyH6geebEfgCBsIGZazI1MTtNt4QOxuzMXJ1dPg/viewform
Scholarship recipients will be notified by Wednesday, April 1, 2026. For questions, email catherine.card@okaloosaschools.com.
FWBHS to Host Third Annual Viking Voyage Career Fair
Fort Walton Beach High School will host its Third Annual Viking Voyage Career Fair on Friday, April 10, 2026, from 9 a.m. to noon in the school gymnasium, connecting students with local businesses and community partners for a day of career exploration.
VOYAGE—Vikings Networking with Organizations Yielding an Opportunity for Great Exploration of careers—helps students connect classroom learning with real-world career paths. More than 1,500 students in grades 9–12 are expected to attend.
The school is seeking employers, business leaders and alumni interested in participating to share industry insights and highlight workforce opportunities.
For information, contact Dr. Linda Dugan at Linda.Dugan@okaloosaschools.com or 850-833-3300.
Fort Walton Beach Moose Lodge Continues Support to Help Eliminate Student Lunch Debt
The Okaloosa County School District is thanking the Fort Walton Beach Loyal Order of Moose Lodge 2193 for its continued generosity in helping students across the district. Since 2022, the organization has donated more than $17,000 to help reduce student lunch debt at local elementary schools.
Most recently, the Moose Lodge contributed $6,000 to benefit Edwins Elementary School, Mary Esther Elementary School and Walker Elementary School.
Superintendent Marcus Chambers added, “Community partners like the Fort Walton Beach Moose Lodge exemplify what it means to invest in our students. Their generosity helps support the whole child and strengthen our mission to serve families across Okaloosa County.”
OCSD Names 2027 Teacher of the Year
The Okaloosa County School District has named Kimberly Day-Scanlon, a 4th- and 5th-grade ESE CBA teacher at Kenwood Elementary School, as its 2027 Teacher of the Year.
Day-Scanlon holds a bachelor’s degree in special education from the College of Saint Rose and a master’s degree in inclusive education/special education from Nazareth College. Known for her dedication to students with unique learning needs, she was selected for her compassion, skill, and impact in the classroom.
“Ms. Day-Scanlon exemplifies the heart of teaching in Okaloosa County,” said Superintendent Marcus Chambers. “Her dedication to students, particularly those with unique learning needs, reflects the very best of our profession. She represents the compassion, skill, and excellence we see every day in classrooms across our district, and we are incredibly proud to honor her as our Teacher of the Year.”
Also recognized as Teacher of the Year runners-up were:
- Kimberly Moran, art teacher, Fort Walton Beach High School
- Sarah Theres, music teacher, Florosa Elementary School
This year’s program included 38 nominees, one from each OCSD school. As the district honoree, Day-Scanlon will represent Okaloosa County in the statewide Teacher of the Year program and participate in Florida Department of Education recognition events.
Okaloosa Students Shine at Regional Science and Engineering Fair
Students from Okaloosa and Walton counties demonstrated creativity, curiosity and critical thinking at the 2026 East Panhandle Regional Science and Engineering Fair, held Feb. 11 at the Northwest Florida Fairgrounds. The awards ceremony followed on Feb. 17 at Beachside Community Church.
Professional scientists and engineers served as judges, interviewing students about their projects and offering feedback while giving participants valuable exposure to real-world scientific practices. “The quality and innovation of these projects highlight the next generation of scientists and engineers,” said Superintendent Marcus Chambers. “We are proud of all the students who participated and inspired us with their ideas.”
Awards recognized outstanding projects across multiple categories, with top students advancing as state finalists based on overall scores. Organizers also thanked event sponsors Air Force Research Lab, Modern Technology Solutions Inc., Terry Wade and the National Defense Industry Association (NDIA) for their support.
For a full list of winners, special awards and event photos, visit:
okaloosaschools.com/o/ocsd/page/2026-science-fair-awards.
Bruner Middle Student Wins Statewide Math Nation Contest
Bruner Middle School eighth-grader Jake Revette, a student in Dr. Norma Eliason’s class, was recently named a winner in Math Nation’s “Test Yourself” contest, held statewide in November and December.
Jake earned a perfect score of 10/10 on his Algebra 1 Unit 6 Test Yourself, helping secure recognition for his class. The contest included about 41,000 students across Florida, with only three winners selected statewide, including Jake representing Okaloosa County. Students who scored 6/10 or higher were entered into a random drawing, making Jake’s accomplishment especially impressive.
To celebrate the achievement, Jake’s class enjoyed a fully catered taco party courtesy of Math Nation. “Jake’s dedication and effort are inspiring, and we are thrilled to celebrate not only his achievement but also the excitement and energy it brings to the entire class,” said Principal Heather Graham-Williams. “Recognition like this helps foster a love of learning and shows our students that hard work pays off.”
Superintendent Marcus Chambers added, “Jake’s achievement is a great example of what happens when students apply themselves and embrace learning with enthusiasm. We’re incredibly proud of him and the entire Bruner Middle School community.”
Congratulations to Jake on this outstanding accomplishment.
Roy Warner Memorial Scholarship Applications Open
Frances Roy Agency is now accepting applications for the 2025–2026 Roy Warner Memorial Scholarship, an annual award honoring the life and legacy of Roy Warner, a craftsman whose integrity, work ethic and pride in skilled labor continue to inspire future generations.
The scholarship supports students pursuing trade-based education, including construction, mechanical, industrial, medical, creative, entrepreneurial and other vocational fields. Eligible applicants must be high school seniors, graduates or current trade school students who demonstrate commitment to their chosen trade and submit a personal essay reflecting their passion and the values Roy Warner embodied.
“Our team pours so much heart into this scholarship because Roy Warner wasn’t just my grandfather; his life shaped the values that built this agency,” said Shantelle Dedicke, founder and president of Frances Roy Agency.
One recipient will receive a financial award toward trade school education, selected by a committee of agency team members and Warner family representatives.
Applications are due April 15, 2026, and should be submitted to hello@francesroy.com. The recipient will be announced May 23, 2026, Roy Warner’s birthday.
More information is available at www.francesroy.com.
