Congratulations to Emerald Coast Middle School art student Maddie Villa for having her artwork selected as the Walton County representative in the 2023 Art in the Capitol Competition. Maddie's artwork will be displayed in the Florida Capitol in Tallahassee during the 2023 Legislative Session. 

In July of 2016, the Florida Legislature passed, and Governor Rick Scott signed, House Bill 701 establishing the Art in the Capitol Competition, a statewide visual arts competition for Florida students in grades 6 through 8. Each school district is required to hold an annual art competition with artwork judged by a selection committee consisting of art teachers. The winning art from each district is then displayed in the Capitol. 

On Wednesday, November 9, 2022, Superintendent A. Russell Hughes congratulated Maddie and her art teacher, Jennifer Rhea, for this achievement.  

Congratulations to the 2022-2023 Educational Support Professional of the Year site winners! These devoted men and women have risen to the top of their respective roles at their schools and have been chosen by the peers for their passion, their dedication, and their performance. Thank you to the dedicated team of support professionals across the district and special congratulations to the 2022-2023 ESP of the Year site winners! 

Click the links below for more information.  

WCSD Monthly Video Update for November 2022

Walton County School District Superintendent A. Russell Hughes shares his monthly video update for November, 2022! In this month's update, Superintendent Hughes talks about civic responsibility with an incoming elected official, expresses gratitude and thankfulness for Veterans, and highlights some exciting extra-curricular wins across your Walton County School District.

https://youtu.be/-hHNb9g9rpI

Every morning at WDE, students are greeted with friendly faces opening the car doors.  One of those friendly faces is a teacher, Mr. James Barnhouse. He can often be heard calling students by name and reminding them, “It’s going to be a great day at WDE!”  One parent recently shared, “There's nothing like a warm welcome to ease the tension of a hectic morning, or maybe the anxiety of a test that lies ahead that day. Kudos to you Mr. Barnhouse! Your positive, uplifting, personalized communication with my kiddos starts not only their day off with a smile, but it starts this Mama's day off with a smile too. Thank you!” We are so thankful to have Mr. Barnhouse at WDE.