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Okaloosa County students shine in 2024 ‘Art in the Capitol’ Competition

Four middle school students from Okaloosa County earned top honors in Florida's 2024 Art in the Capitol Competition, with the winning artwork set for display during the 2025 legislative session.

Jared Williams

Four middle school students from Okaloosa County earned top honors in Florida’s 2024 Art in the Capitol Competition, with the winning artwork set for display during the 2025 legislative session.

A panel of elementary and high school art teachers evaluated 14 submissions from local students in the statewide visual arts competition, which is open to students in grades 6-8.

Drake Harris of Ruckel Middle School captured Best of Show honors. McKenzie Winger and Sophia Perez, both from Shoal River Middle School, earned first and second place respectively. Isabella Welling from Ruckel Middle School took third place.

“We are so proud of the creativity and talent demonstrated by these young artists,” said Superintendent Marcus Chambers. “Their artwork reflects their dedication and passion and serves as a testament to the strength of the arts in Okaloosa County Schools.”

Harris’s Best of Show artwork will be displayed in the Florida Capitol during the 2025 legislative session.

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“So smart”

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“11 mph is 50 percent of the typical school limit of 20 mph. Seems lax with most drivers cruising through school zones at 30 mph.”

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“So an unknown third party, will have access to very clear images of all our kids?”

Dennis Sather commented on Fort Walton Beach approves agreement with Okaloosa County for ‘Around the Mound’ design funding

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Okaloosa County students shine in 2024 ‘Art in the Capitol’ Competition

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