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THE BUZZ

2026 Best Schools for STEM in Okaloosa County

Students building LEGO robotics with tablets during a STEM class

What parents should look for and how The Barrett School measures up


Choosing a STEM-focused school in Okaloosa County (Destin, Niceville, Fort Walton Beach) can feel overwhelming. Rankings change year to year, but what makes a program genuinely strong is consistent: hands-on labs, real projects, teacher quality, and a clear K–12 pathway that builds from basics to advanced work.


Awards & recognition (why Barrett is on shortlists)

  • The Barrett School was named “Best STEM Education School in Florida.” See our announcement: The Barrett School Wins Top STEM Education Award in Florida.

  • Beyond the trophy, families tell us the difference is small classes, integrated AI literacy, and project-based learning that runs across grades.

What “Best schools for STEM in Okaloosa County” really means (parent checklist)

  • Integrated K–12 pathway: coding, robotics, data, and engineering design spiral upward each year.

  • Weekly hands-on labs: not just demos students build, test, present, iterate.

  • Age-appropriate AI literacy: safe, ethical, practical use in many subjects.

  • Certified teachers + continuing education: instructors stay current on pedagogy and tech.

  • Portfolio culture: prototypes, code, and reflections that show real growth.

  • Community links: showcases, mentorships, and local problem-solving (coastal, aerospace, health).

Nearby STEM programs to compare

When you tour, include a mix of public and private options so you can compare labs, teacher credentials, project depth, and student portfolios side-by-side:

  • Niceville Senior High School (Okaloosa County SD)

  • Fort Walton Beach High School (Okaloosa County SD)

  • Collegiate High School at Northwest Florida State College

  • Choctawhatchee Senior High School (Okaloosa County SD)

  • Rocky Bayou Christian School – Niceville Campus (Private)


Spotlight: The Barrett School (Destin)

Main entrance of The Barrett School in Destin, FL

Why many families shortlist Barrett when comparing best STEM schools in Okaloosa County:

  • STEM & AI from early years: block coding → Micro:bit/LEGO/VEX → Python & data storytelling.

  • Project-based learning: build–test–iterate in science, math, ELA, and arts.

  • Small classes, big support: individualized instruction and clear feedback loops.

  • Student portfolios: photos, code snippets, and write-ups for showcases and applications.

How to compare STEM schools (fast)

  • Observe a lab: How often do students touch sensors, kits, or code?

  • Verify certifications: Are teachers state-certified and completing continuing ed?

  • Check unit maps: Is there a clear K–12 progression?

  • Ask AI & safety: Policies on ethics, privacy, and responsible use.

  • Request student work: Portfolios/expo nights you can actually see.

  • Confirm supports: Tutoring, SAT/ACT prep, on-ramps for newcomers.

Next steps for families

 
 
 

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