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. The event occurred on Saturday, January 11, 2025, 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.
Congratulations to this year's winners!
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 Okaloosa County School District thanks the dedicated teachers, administrators, and community members who supported the students throughout this journey.
To view more photos, please visit: https://www.okaloosaschools.com/o/ocsd/page/2025-mlk-contest.
