In an impressive display of academic prowess, Team Okaloosa, comprising eight talented high school students, secured the top spot in the prestigious Commissioner’s Academic Challenge (CAC) held from April 10-13. The CAC, a long-standing tradition since 1986, is Florida’s premier academic competition, celebrating the scholarly achievements of high school students across the state. This spring event tests participants in various subjects, including language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, the fine arts, world languages, physical education, health, and technology. Team Okaloosa’s path to triumph was paved with subject matter tests and evaluations of their collaborative problem-solving skills. Their exceptional dedication and preparation led them to outshine ten Division 2 teams, securing the state championship in a truly remarkable fashion. The team members, hailing from various high schools in the area, brought diverse strengths to the table:
Christopher Seeling - Senior, Rocky Bayou Christian School
Scarlett Stevens - Senior, Rocky Bayou Christian School
Michael Mosley - Senior, Rocky Bayou Christian School
William Kyker - Junior, Fort Walton Beach High School
Adam Jarvis - Senior, Niceville High School
Brynne Massey - Junior, Collegiate High School
Cassandra Price - Junior, Niceville High School
Asher Newcomer - Freshman, Choctawhatchee High School
Behind every successful team is a group of dedicated coaches. For Team Okaloosa, Lisa Nall, the district academic team coordinator, and Dr. Michael Mosley & Julie Mosley from Rocky Bayou Christian School provided invaluable guidance and support throughout the competition. The triumph at the CAC not only rewards these young scholars with scholarships, championship rings, trophies, and medallions but also bestows upon them the honor of representing academic excellence for their schools and community, a testament to the collective effort and commitment to learning in our area. Congratulations to Team Okaloosa for their remarkable achievement and for continuing the Commissioner’s Academic Challenge legacy as a showcase of intellectual talent and teamwork.
