Okaloosa Schools Post Powerful Academic Gains, Higher Graduation Rates Staff Reports February 4, 2026 10:04 am Crestview, Fort Walton Beach, Niceville, Okaloosa County, Schools and Education In Brief: Who: Superintendent Marcus Chambers, Okaloosa County School District, School Board members What: First semester performance update highlighting academic, facility, and student success When: First semester of the 2025 school year (reported Feb. 4, 2026) Where: Okaloosa County School District Why: To highlight progress, improvements, and future planning efforts NICEVILLE, Fla. — Okaloosa County School District leaders are highlighting major academic gains, student achievements, and infrastructure improvements following what Superintendent Marcus Chambers called a strong first semester across local schools. In a districtwide update released Tuesday, Chambers pointed to continued “A” ratings from the Florida Department of Education, rising graduation rates, expanding career pathways, and new facility projects as signs of sustained momentum despite challenges tied to enrollment declines, budget pressures, and housing shortages. “This semester demonstrated what is possible when students, staff, families, and community partners work together,” Chambers said. “While there is much to celebrate, we remain focused on doing what is best for students and supporting our educators.” For the eleventh consecutive year, Okaloosa County earned an “A” district grade from the state — a distinction held by only three Florida districts since school grades began in 2014. Middle school acceleration rose by nine points, college and career acceleration increased by six points, and more schools improved their individual performance ratings. The district also reported a graduation rate increase to...
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