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District honors students inspired by MLK

| Staff Reporters
The Okaloosa County School District proudly recognizes the outstanding students who competed in the 2025 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Oratorical and Poster Contests hosted by Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Sigma Omicron Omega Chapter.
Winners of the 2025 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Oratorical and Poster Contests: (Back row, L-R) Maleah Stern, Sophia Kleiser, Khaleesi De Choudens, Amy Sanchez, and Tylin Ruhland. (Front row, L-R) Ahymn Kim, Daisha Newman, Carly King, and Paisley Shillingburg. (Photo courtesy of the OCSD)

The event occurred on Jan. 11 at Niceville High School, where students from kindergarten through 12th grade showcased their talents in honor of Dr. King’s legacy.

Participants beautifully illustrated this year’s theme, “Mission Possible: Protecting Freedom, Justice, and Democracy in the Spirit of Nonviolence 365.” Each student delivered a powerful message through their speeches and artwork, reflecting on Dr. King’s vision and its relevance today.

Superintendent Marcus Chambers praised the students for their heartfelt performances, stating, “The talent of our students was truly exceptional, and I was moved by their powerful speeches and creative posters. Watching elementary students deliver speeches was heartwarming, and our middle and high school students spoke with such passion about these essential values. Their words were inspiring and a testament to the bright future ahead.”

All participants received a medallion, while 2nd and 3rd place winners earned a trophy and a medallion. First-place winners were awarded a trophy, medallion, jacket, and a $200 prize.

Community School Poster

Maleah Stern – Richbourg School

Elementary (K-2) Poster

Vanessa Wesbur – Wright Elementary School

Khaleesi DeChoudens – Laurel Hill School

Sophia Kleiser – Bluewater Elementary School

Elementary (K-2) Oratorical

Truth Thomas – Antioch Elementary School

Khaleesi DeChoudens – Laurel Hill School

Elementary (3-5) Poster

Justice Street – Wright Elementary School

Sophia Gregory – Kenwood Elementary School

Amy Sanchez – Longwood Elementary School

Elementary (3-5) Oratorical

Emily Chambers – Eglin Elementary School

Eriella Havens – Edwins Elementary School

Tylin Ruhland – NWF Ballet Académie

Middle School (6-8) Poster

Sofia Perez – Shoal River Middle School

Ohanna Kooima – Shoal River Middle School

Ahymn Kim – Ruckel Middle School

Middle School (6-8) Oratorical

Kaydence Coolin – Liza Jackson Preparatory School

Curtis Daniel – Meigs Middle School

Daisha Newman – Bruner Middle School

High School (9-12) Poster

McKenzie King – Fort Walton Beach High School

Paisley Shillingburg – Choctawhatchee High School

Carly King – Fort Walton Beach High School

High School Oratorical

Anthony Jones – Crestview High School

Paisley Shillingburg – Choctawhatchee High School

The School District thanks the dedicated teachers, administrators, and community members who supported the students throughout this journey.

To view more photos, visit: https://www.okaloosaschools.com/o/ocsd/page/2025-mlk-contest.

 

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