The Okaloosa County School District (OCSD) has been awarded the prestigious Purple Star District of Distinction certification by the Florida Department of Education, recognizing the district's exceptional commitment to supporting military-connected students and families. During the school board meeting on Monday, March 24, Superintendent Marcus Chambers highlighted this significant achievement, emphasizing the district's dedication to creating a welcoming and supportive environment for military families. Representatives from Hurlburt Field, Eglin Air Force Base, and Duke Field joined district leaders in celebrating the recognition, underscoring the strong partnership between Okaloosa schools and the local military community. "One of only five school districts in Florida to receive the Purple Star designation, we are deeply honored," said Superintendent Chambers. "This distinction isn't just a title; it reflects our unwavering commitment to ensuring military students and families feel supported as they transition into our schools."
The Purple Star School District Designation, established by the Florida Legislature and signed into law in April 2024, recognizes school districts that go above and beyond in providing services tailored to the unique needs of military families. To qualify, all 37 schools in Okaloosa County met the rigorous criteria necessary to be named Purple Star Schools of Distinction, a milestone achieved through the collaborative efforts of educators, administrators, and military liaisons. As the Florida county serving the highest percentage of military students, Okaloosa's proximity to Hurlburt Field, Eglin Air Force Base, and Duke Field makes military support a top priority.
(Front Row: Dr. Mackinley Cross, School Liaison Program Manager, Chief Master Sergeant Ralph Oliver, Command Chief, 1st Special Operations Wing, Colonel Patrick Dierig, Commander, 1st Special Operations Wing, Assistant Superintendent John Spolski, Colonel Scott Hurrelbrink, Commander, 919th Special Operations Wing, Lieutenant Colonel Claude Mensen, Deputy Commander, Mission Support Group, Elaine LaJeunesse, School Liaison Program Manager, and Margaret Rivera, School Liaison Program Manager) (Back Row: Mr. Brett Hinely, Ms. Linda Evanchyk, Mr. Tim Bryant, Mr. Parker Destin, and Superintendent Marcus Chambers)
