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.

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.

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.

The Crestview High School Band, otherwise known as the Big Red Machine, will enter its 87th year during the 2025-26 academic year, and for close to 20 years, Jody Dunn has directed it. Music is in his blood. His mom and dad went to Crestview, where his mom was in the band and his dad was in the glee club.

A total of 55 students from Crestview High School participated in “Reality Check” on May 2, a financial literacy program put on by the Okaloosa County School District. The program is designed to equip students with essential real-world money management skills.