NICEVILLE, Fla. — Niceville schools led the way in a countywide student fundraiser that brought in thousands of dollars to help children removed from dangerous living conditions.
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Ruckel Middle School and Plew Elementary School were both named top fundraisers in their divisions during the 2024–2025 Change for Children campaign, a student-driven effort benefiting Children in Crisis, Inc. The campaign raises funds for the Children’s Neighborhood, a local emergency shelter that provides care and housing for abused, neglected, or abandoned children.
The winning schools were honored at a recent Okaloosa County School Board meeting in Niceville.
Ruckel Middle School was the top overall fundraiser in Okaloosa County, raising $3,000 in the Middle School Division. Principal Joe Jannazo and school sponsor Angela Wargo accepted the award and were recognized for their leadership and commitment to helping children in need.
Plew Elementary School led the Elementary School Division with $2,189 raised. Principal Tammy Matz and school sponsors Shawna Crist and Katie White were recognized for organizing the school’s successful effort.
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Also honored was Southside Primary School, which raised $2,429 and earned the top spot in the Community School Division. Principal Amy Bowles and sponsors Haley Dukes and Stephanie Hicks led that campaign.
In the High School Division, Choctawhatchee High School raised $2,000, led by Principal Michelle Heck and sponsor Dee Dee Shank.
The Change for Children campaign ran from September 2024 to May 31, 2025, across the Okaloosa County School District. Students collected change and donations throughout the school year to support their peers in crisis.
Children in Crisis, Inc. is a Northwest Florida nonprofit that provides emergency shelter, family-style homes, and essential resources for children who have been removed from unsafe environments.
