Angel Tree Partnership Brings Holiday Joy to Local Students
In the true spirit of the season, Superintendent Marcus Chambers and Sheriff Eric Aden have announced a collaboration between the Okaloosa County School District and the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office for this year’s Angel Tree Program, which brings holiday cheer to students in need.
At the start of the school year, school staff and SROs identified students and created wish lists for community members to sponsor or donate toward.
“This partnership is about more than just presents; it’s about showing our children that they are seen, valued, and cared for,” Chambers said. “Every year, I am deeply moved by the generosity of our community, staff, and volunteers who come together to bring joy to children who need it most. Knowing that we can make a holiday brighter for even one child is truly inspiring. Through this partnership, we have the opportunity to touch even more families and create memories these students will treasure forever.”
Sheriff Aden added, “The program has been a cherished way to restore hope, dignity, and bring joy to children in our community. We’re honored to work with the school district to make Christmas special for children who deserve every bit of joy this season. Together, we can make this holiday season brighter, one child at a time.”
To sponsor a child or make a donation, visit ocsostarcharity.com/angel-tree. For more information, contact Catherine Card at catherine.card@okaloosaschools.com or Katie Tingle at ktingle@sheriff-okaloosa.org.
Chambers Elected President of Florida High School Athletic Association
The Okaloosa County School District is proud to announce that Superintendent Marcus Chambers has been elected president of the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) Board of Directors. The election took place Sept. 23 in Gainesville.
Appointed to the board by Governor Ron DeSantis in June 2024, Chambers now helps guide interscholastic athletics across the state as part of the FHSAA’s 13-member governing body.
“I am truly honored to serve as president of the Florida High School Athletic Association,” Chambers said. “High school athletics play such an important role in the lives of students, building character, teaching teamwork, and creating opportunities that last a lifetime. I look forward to working alongside my colleagues across the state to continue supporting student athletes, coaches, and schools, and to ensure that athletics remain a vital part of the educational experience in Florida.”
He added, “Throughout my youth and now as an adult, sports have been an integral part of my life. Growing up, I spent countless hours playing various sports, which taught me the values of teamwork, discipline, and perseverance. These experiences have profoundly shaped who I am today. As an adult, I have had the privilege of coaching numerous students, witnessing firsthand the positive impact sports can have on young lives. It is a tremendous honor to continue this journey where I can contribute to fostering a vibrant and inclusive sports environment for Florida’s high school athletes.”
Learn more at fhsaa.com.
Okaloosa Schools Receive $210K Grant for Workforce Education
The Okaloosa County School District has been awarded $210,778 through the Workforce Development Capitalization Incentive Grant Program (Workforce CAP) by the Florida Department of Education.
Funds will expand two Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs: Welding Technology at Crestview High School and Applied Cybersecurity at Destin High School, a public charter school within the district.
“Our CTE team continues to raise the bar when it comes to creating meaningful opportunities for students,” said Superintendent Marcus Chambers. “This grant is a direct result of their hard work, vision, and belief in the power of workforce education. Thanks to their efforts, more students will graduate with the skills and certifications needed to thrive in today’s economy.”
Part of Florida’s $40 million initiative to expand workforce programs, the latest round of Workforce CAP grants will increase capacity statewide by 59%. Since launching in 2023, the program has invested more than $240 million into building Florida’s talent pipeline.
This funding will allow Okaloosa schools to expand training opportunities, upgrade equipment, and improve access to industry certifications—continuing the district’s commitment to preparing every student for high-demand careers.
