NICEVILLE, Fla. — The Okaloosa County School District has been recognized as a 2024 Purple Star School District of Distinction by the Florida Department of Education for its strong support of military-connected students and families.
Superintendent Marcus Chambers announced the honor during the March 24 school board meeting, joined by leaders from Hurlburt Field, Eglin Air Force Base, and Duke Field. The district is one of only five in Florida to receive the Purple Star designation.
“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,” said Mr Chambers.
The Purple Star School District Designation was created by the Florida Legislature and signed into law in April 2024 to recognize school districts that go beyond basic requirements in serving military families. All 37 schools in Okaloosa County reportedly met the standards to qualify as Purple Star Schools of Distinction.
With the highest percentage of military students in the state, Okaloosa’s close proximity to major military installations makes service to military families a top priority.
Military representatives attending the recognition included:
From Hurlburt Field:
- Colonel Patrick Dierig, Commander, 1st Special Operations Wing
- Chief Master Sergeant Ralph Oliver, Command Chief, 1st Special Operations Wing
- Dr. Mackinley Cross, School Liaison Program Manager
From Eglin Air Force Base:
- Lieutenant Colonel Claude Mensen, Deputy Commander, Mission Support Group
- Elaine LaJeunesse, School Liaison Program Manager
From Duke Field:
- Colonel Scott Hurrelbrink, Commander, 919th Special Operations Wing
- Lieutenant Colonel James Wilson, Chief of Public Affairs, 919th Special Operations Wing
- Margaret Rivera, School Liaison Program Manager
District officials said the recognition reaffirms Okaloosa’s commitment to providing military families with the support, resources, and stability needed to help their children succeed academically.
