Although there were freed blacks living in the northern states before the outbreak of the American Civil War, their freedom was not always guaranteed, Karen Brown said today during a “Walk Through History” presentation at Crestview’s Fourth Annual Juneteenth celebration.
On May 27, the Okaloosa County School Board recognized students, staff, and administrators from across the district for their outstanding efforts in the 2024-2025 Change for Children Campaign, a student-led fundraiser supporting Children in Crisis, Inc.
Sanford Hayes, a volunteer at Walker Elementary in Crestview, was named the outstanding district volunteer of the year by the Okaloosa County School District at June 9.
Hayes has served as a volunteer and mentor for the last 13 years at Walker, giving more than 1,300 hours of volunteer service and supporting 60 students.
With compasses in hand and determination in their hearts, four dedicated Okaloosa County youth took home top honors at the 2025 Florida 4-H Forest Ecology Contest — a testament to months of tireless preparation, deep curiosity, and unwavering teamwork.
Okaloosa County Schools will participate in the 2025 Summer Food Service Program, which ensures that children in the community will have access to meals in the summer months.
With Summer Break Spot, balanced breakfasts and lunches will be available at no cost for children 18 and under at designated school sites.
Javon Reynolds, who earned his AA degree and graduated from the Collegiate High School at Northwest Florida State College in May, is the recipient of the Crestview Housing Authority’s first-ever scholarship.
Lakewood Christian School held an intimate commencement ceremony for its two high school graduates on May 27 at Praise, Power and Compassion Ministries in Crestview.
Along with the ceremony that honored graduates, Maggie Ard and Reginald Mcrath, the school also hosted an awards ceremony for the K-12 school.
It was an emotional day on May 22 as Baker held its graduation ceremony for the class of 2025.
The night opened with messages of gratitude from Faith Roderick, Rebecca Logan, Addison Merritt and Maranda Riggleman.
The bleachers of Jack Foster Stadium were filled to the brim on May 23 as Crestview High School saw its senior class graduate.
Senior class president, Payton Blumer and student body president, Asher Kimbrough, along with student body vice president, Jaycee Conyers, opened the ceremonies by welcoming the large crowd.
Students from Baker School, Laurel Hill School and Choctaw, Niceville, Fort Walton Beach and Crestview high schools participated in the Eighth Annual 2025 TeCMEN Industry Day on May 14.
