Principal of Destin High School, Dr. Diane Kelley, has spent nearly four decades in Okaloosa County education — from classroom teacher and school board member to her current role. Born in Valparaiso and raised on her family’s land in Laurel Hill, her story is deeply rooted in Northwest Florida.

• Each morning starts early, with quiet devotion and a Diet Coke before heading out the door by 6:30 a.m. to greet students and staff. Whether leading meetings, walking classrooms, or supporting events, Dr. Kelley brings intentionality, structure, and care to her campus — always balancing her professional dedication with gratitude, humor, and a lifelong love of learning.

Where are you from originally and how did you end up in the area?

I was born in Valparaiso when the “major” hospital was there. My dad’s parents, Moses & Maggie Davidson, owned a lot of land in Laurel Hill. When my dad finished his stint in the Marine Corps, he bought out all of his siblings’ portions of the property and moved there. Though I have lived other places for short periods of time, the vast majority of my life has been spent in Okaloosa County.

What’s your current job title and where do you work?

After spending 36 years in the Okaloosa County school system and being elected twice to serve on the OCSD School Board, I was offered the position of Principal here at Destin High School.

What’s your morning routine?

My typical morning routine involves getting up between 4:30 and 4:45 a.m. and having a quiet devotional and Diet Coke before getting dressed and ready for work. I am out the door by 6:30 so that I can arrive to school by 7:00 a.m. Once I am awake, I am as awake as I am going to be for the duration of the day!

Describe what a typical workday looks like for you.

Once I arrive at school, the day unfolds at a fairly quick pace. I have put several routines in place that we try diligently to hold to, but one student incident can sideline a routine!

On Monday mornings, for example, I hold a Leadership Team meeting of about 10 key people on staff where we collaborate on upcoming events and issues on our calendar. We make sure there is an administrative presence at all events and problem-solve potential issues we can envision in the upcoming week.

We are strategic about major calendar events like testing or Homecoming, making faculty members aware of their roles and responsibilities — as well as having a back-up plan in case of absences.

On other days, I plan classroom walk-throughs and debriefs, or meet with parents and student groups. Our staff is phenomenal and certainly the backbone of success here. One thing is for sure: no two days are the same in a high school!

What’s the first thing you do when you get to work (or start your workday)?

As soon as I arrive, I check both my email and my physical mailbox so that I can address anything that has come in overnight, especially if it relates to a student issue. Then, I look in Focus for any student referrals that our wonderful Assistant Principal may not yet have had a chance to address.

What tools, apps, or gadgets can’t you live without?

This is a difficult one for me! There are, of course, work apps and programs that we use heavily throughout the day, but outside of work hours, I am trying not to rely on those electronic tools as much because I have tracked my own use and find that in recent years, I am spending more time on my phone and computer (as well as reading on my Nook) than I am communicating in person or spending time in the sunshine. I don’t believe this is healthy, though I know it is necessary to some extent in the world we currently live in!

Apple or Android?

Apple.

What’s your go-to coffee (or tea) order?

I am trying my hardest to kick the Diet Coke habit; however, it is my go-to at the moment. If I vary from that, it is usually for a sparkling water or a hot tea with honey.

What’s your go-to lunch spot or work snack?

I love all varieties of apples and all types of nuts, so my favorite lunch snack is an apple and a sleeve of nuts. I also love any kind of salad with a bit of protein and anything crunchy mixed in!

What’s one local business you love supporting?

I love supporting our local community businesses, among them Boshamps and Bitterroot, Crumbl Cookie, and local photographers.

What’s the best piece of career advice you’ve ever received?

I remember my parents always saying, “Education is one thing that no one can take away from you.” And I remember one of my favorite superintendents saying, “You may only get one opportunity. Make it count.”

If you could give your 20-year-old self a piece of advice, what would it be?

I would tell myself that it is okay to relax a little; I’ve always been very driven!

How do you unwind after a long day?

I love to get lost in a good murder mystery, whether it’s via a book, movie, or docuseries! Depending on my mood or situation, I could also enjoy a quiet walk or a comedy… basically anything that is antithetical to the seriousness of a long day!

What’s one thing most people don’t know about you?

Most people don’t know that I love the arts! I enjoy painting, sewing, and playing piano. I am told that I come across as having a serious demeanor all the time, but I am really very fun-loving and have a keen sense of humor.

What’s your favorite local event or tradition?

I enjoy the Destin Seafood Festival, the Fishing Rodeo, the Mattie Kelly Arts events, and (of course) the many productions put on by the Destin High School students, such as the Winter Fine Arts Night, the Veterans Day presentation, and our band performances. We have amazingly talented young people!

What’s inspiring you right now (book, podcast, person, hobby)?

I am an avid reader and devour many genres. Right now, I am listening to Mel Robbins’ podcasts. She is such an insightful author and speaker!

Early bird or night owl?

Oh, I am an early bird, for sure. By 10 p.m., I am ready for the late news and bed!

Most used emoji?

That is probably the heart or praying hands.

Music while working — yes or no?

I don’t usually play music while I am working, but if I do, it is likely to be easy listening jazz.

Favorite motivational quote?

I love any quote from Coach Wooden. This is a standout for me: “The most powerful leadership tool you have is your own personal example.” Another leader whose work I admire is John Maxwell. Here’s a quote from him that I like a lot: “Change is inevitable. Growth is optional.”

Standing desk or sitting? Mix?

Both my desk at work and my desk at home are sitting.

If you could give any advice for someone getting into the same field as you, what advice would you give?

I would advise anyone getting into the field of education to find a great mentor — someone you can look up to and call for advice or support.

Anything we missed that you want to add?

I feel that I have been incredibly blessed, both in work and in life. I have had opportunities to work with some of the best leaders in OCSD over the course of my career, and through my consulting business, I have worked with superintendents in many districts and states. I have been able to learn from the best of the best and to share best practices across regional lines.

In my personal life, I have a wonderful husband, daughter, son-in-law, grandson, and friends who allow me to express myself in all the best ways. God has given me an amazing life, and I am still learning how to make the best of each season it brings.