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Okaloosa County School District’s “Huddle” summit sparks motivation and new ideas for upcoming school year

On Thursday, June 29, 2023, administrators from schools across the Okaloosa County School District gathered at Beachside Community Church for the district’s annual summit, this year known as “Huddle.”  Superintendent Chambers kicked off the summit by emphasizing the importance of mindset and core values in educational leadership. Throughout the day, he discussed various topics, including […]

Okaloosa Superintendent of Schools Marcus Chambers talking to school admin during the "Huddle" Summit at Beach Community Church.

On Thursday, June 29, 2023, administrators from schools across the Okaloosa County School District gathered at Beachside Community Church for the district’s annual summit, this year known as “Huddle.” 

  • Led by Superintendent Marcus Chambers, the event focused on motivation, reflection, collaboration, and the vision of the Okaloosa County School District.
  • The morning started with a mini pep-rally featuring dancers from one of the schools, along with a roll call from Assistant Superintendent Dr. Lee Hale.

Superintendent Chambers kicked off the summit by emphasizing the importance of mindset and core values in educational leadership. Throughout the day, he discussed various topics, including the power of one, the concept of a ‘Playbook’ for instructional leaders, and the next generation of Okaloosa schools.

In a collaborative and engaging atmosphere, administrators had the opportunity for “table talks” where they discussed specific topics presented by Chambers. These discussions included reflecting on situations that made them stronger administrators, defining leadership in one word, and exploring how the ‘Playbook’ applies to their roles as instructional leaders.

  • “We do not want to be a school district that merely gets through each day,” said Chambers. “Rather, we want to be a school district that thrives in the face of adversity. It takes ALL of us to be the Okaloosa County School District.”

One of the focal points of the morning session was the discussion of the ‘Playbook’ and its role in building a strong school culture, inspiring academic excellence, and encouraging difficult conversations.

Superintendent Chambers highlighted several “essentials” for administrators to implement from the ‘Playbook and he also stressed the importance of self-care for administrators.

  • “In order to take proper care of our students and schools, we must endeavor to take care of ourselves,” said Chamber. “Establishing healthy habits such as getting enough quality sleep, and setting aside time to reflect and focus leads to enhanced prioritization and decision-making skills necessary to lead in today’s fast-paced world.”

The annual summit served as an opportunity for administrators to align their efforts, develop a shared vision, and enhance the district’s overall school culture. 

“This is about building a family culture and having everybody on the same team with the same voice,” said Public Information Officer Catherine Card. “This year’s Huddle is equipping our leaders with a game plan so they can hit the ground running at the start of the school year.”

Throughout the day, administrators engaged in various activities to foster collaboration, share ideas, and establish new relationships, especially among new principals. 

  • “Collaboration is one factor in increasing motivation, which boosts morale and benefits the district,” added Chambers. “Out of many, one. We are One Okaloosa!”

As Superintendent Chambers looks ahead to the upcoming school year, the next generation of Okaloosa schools is at the forefront. This revolves around student focus, safer schools, modern innovation and community engagement. 

  • “The district aims to build a thriving educational environment where every member of the Okaloosa County School District, including students, parents, community members, employees, administrators, and district staff, works together as a team,” he said. 

With a full day of Huddle coming to an end, Chambers is hopeful that his administrators are now equipped with renewed motivation, fresh perspectives, and a shared sense of purpose as they prepare to tackle the challenges and opportunities of the new school year in Okaloosa County.

For Superintendent Chambers, this isn’t the end of the Huddle. The enthusiasm and camaraderie built as a result of the day’s activities will be carefully and purposefully propagated throughout the year.

“My responsibility is to remind everyone of their ‘why’ and coach them to fulfill the mission and vision of the Okaloosa County School District,” concluded Chambers. “Our students, parents, and community depend on this team to make good on those promises. I take this role to heart by renewing my commitment to excellence daily and asking others to do the same. It’s what we do!”

One Response

  1. This sounds like an outstanding meeting! Youth Village is hosting a staff workshop later this month and this mirrors a LOT of what will be discussed….such as not wanting to be a child care center that just gets through the day and self-care. Thank you so much Superintendent Chambers and Get The Coast.

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