Schools in Okaloosa County: What Parents Need to Know
- Dr. Matt Weinberg
- 7 days ago
- 2 min read
For families moving to Northwest Florida or those already here, choosing the right school is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. With a mix of public, charter, and private options, schools in Okaloosa County serve thousands of students across communities like Destin, Niceville, Crestview, and Fort Walton Beach. But how do you decide which one is best for your child?Here’s a parent-friendly guide to help you navigate the process.
Public Schools in Okaloosa County
Okaloosa County School District is one of the highest-performing districts in Florida. Parents often choose public schools for their accessibility, wide extracurricular opportunities, and strong community connections.
Popular Public Schools in Okaloosa County include:
Niceville High School – Known for strong academics and athletics
Fort Walton Beach High School – Offers AP classes and a strong arts program
Crestview High School – Large, traditional high school with diverse programs
Destin Elementary & Middle Schools – Highly rated options for younger students
Pros of Public Schools:
Tuition-free for residents
Wide range of extracurricular activities
Familiar to most families
Cons of Public Schools:
Larger class sizes
Less individualized attention
Limited specialty programs (like STEM & AI)
Charter Schools in Okaloosa County
Charter schools are tuition-free but operate with more flexibility than traditional public schools. They often have unique programs, smaller enrollment, and specialized teaching styles.
Examples in the area:
Liza Jackson Preparatory School – Focus on innovation and leadership
Seaside Neighborhood School (nearby in Walton County) – Project-based learning model
Private Schools Serving Okaloosa County Families
Private schools offer smaller class sizes, personalized instruction, and advanced academic programs. Many parents view tuition as an investment in their child’s future success.
The Barrett School – Destin, FL
Open now and accepting students year-round, The Barrett School is a top choice for families seeking a future-focused education just minutes from many Okaloosa County communities.
Why families choose us:
Small class sizes with personalized attention
Award-winning STEM and AI curriculum
Safe, values-based environment
College-prep programs designed for leadership and success
Hands-on, project-based learning
Step Up Scholarships and Tuition Assistance
Parents considering private education often wonder about affordability. In Florida, the Step Up for Students scholarship program can significantly reduce tuition costs for eligible families. At The Barrett School, we proudly accept Step Up scholarships, making it possible for more students across Okaloosa County to access a future-ready private education.
Other private options include:
Rocky Bayou Christian School (Niceville)
Calvary Christian Academy (Crestview)
What Parents Should Consider Before Enrolling
When researching schools in Okaloosa County, think beyond test scores. Ask yourself:
Does the school align with my child’s learning style?
How strong are the STEM, arts, or extracurricular programs?
What’s the student-to-teacher ratio?
Does the school emphasize character and leadership as well as academics?
Will my child feel safe, supported, and challenged?
Final Thoughts
From public and charter schools to private institutions, schools in Okaloosa County offer diverse opportunities. The right choice depends on your child’s personality, goals, and needs.
If you’re looking for a school that blends small class sizes, advanced academics, and future-ready learning, The Barrett School in Destin is enrolling students all year long.