District News

Every month, Superintendent A. Russell Hughes shares a video message with updates on the exciting things happening in the Walton County School District.
This month's video was filmed at Freeport High School, one of the shelter sites during Hurricane Michael. Superintendent Hughes shares important dates and info for the Month of November, and expresses thanks and appreciation to those who are working to help with the hurricane relief efforts!

Our Tribe. Our Tigers.

Walton Middle School is dedicating this entire school year to helping those affected by Hurricane Michael. Students, faculty, and staff have rolled up their sleeves to collect items and donations for Jinks Middle School and Blountstown Middle School. On Monday, October 29, 2018, WMS Principal and Vice Principal delivered a trailer full of classroom supplies to help the Blountstown Tigers accommodate the arrival of 4^th and 5^th grade students. Leveled readers, backpacks, Expo markers, and even projectors made their way to eager teachers and empty classrooms.

Picture #1: WMS Assistant Principal, Scott Hulion; WMS Principal, Jason Campbell; BMS Principal, Stephanie Brogden BMS Assistant Principal, Neva Miller

Picture #2: Taylor Masonbrink, Amador Cruz, Averi Laird

Picture #3: Jaden Stevenson, Mackenzie Campbell, Emma Wilkerson, Laney Kelley

Students, families, and staff enjoyed a beautiful autumn afternoon at Mossy Head School's annual Fall Fling. There were games, prizes, contests, food, a hayride, bounces houses, face painting, and even a dress up photo booth for all ages to enjoy during this special event.

The ECTC Trunk or Treat event held for the children of Cottondale following the devastation of Hurricane Michael was a HUGE success! The looks on the children's faces as well as those who helping to make it happen provides a tremendous statement about the power of compassion and giving! Thanks to all who helped support this event! Walton county residents donated over 10,000 pieces of candy, and ECTC students, staff and families came out to help bring some joy and smiles to the children and their teachers. Thanks to Deana Majors for the pictures!

West DeFuniak Elementary had a fantastic time with Dr. Blake Brandes learning about Growth Mindset and Grit.

Blake is a beatboxer, rapper and music producer. He has presented to over 100,000 students, produced Top 40 radio songs and performed over 200 shows in Europe and the United States. Blake has recently been asked to audition for America’s Got Talent for a second time.

Students experienced freestyle rap as Dr. Brandes asked them to name things they have had difficulty learning. The freestyle included words such as reading, gymnastics, math, video games, soccer and basketball. Through the influence of music and hearing Blake’s story, students learned about having a growth mindset and the power of the word “yet”.

During a recent visit, Superintendent Hughes shared that "students in Mrs. Williams and Mrs. Schubert's 2nd grade classes at Van R. Butler are making it POP in Social Studies and Science classes! Rigor Unprecedented!"

Second grade students in Mrs. Jessica Dawkins’ class at WDE participated in a month long “Candy Corn Contest”. Students were encouraged to read and take AR tests throughout the month of October. Each time a student made an 80% or higher on an AR test, their name was added to the candy corn drawing for a chance to win. Mr. Rodney Free, assistant principal, drew the names of our lucky winners. Aiden Sanchez and Natalia Zemanick were thrilled to accept the tasty award! Submitted by Jessica Dawkins

Kindergarten students at West Defuniak Elementary enjoyed a fun filled day at the Rocking BAB Ranch. Students explored the farm and learned many new things about the animals. Student pictured is Skylar Lawrence from Mrs. Amanda McKee's Class.

Submitted by Jessica Dawkins

Walton High School chorus welcomed visitors from Baptist College of Florida yesterday as they participated in an exchange concert/workshop at WHS! Dr. Buford Cox, Professor of Music, and Dr. Angela Glover, Professor of Piano, brought the BCF College Choir to sing and collaborate with the WHS Chorus, under the direction of Lona Robinson. The college students shared information about their academic journey, and talked about college life at BCU. It was a wonderful opportunity for the WHS singers to hear an advanced group, and experience some new repertoire!

We are a District and Community of passionate compassion for children and families! Just look at the items the staff, faculty, students and community have waiting for our displaced children as families come to Bay Elementary School due to Hurricane Michael!

Superintendent A. Russell Hughes' Monthly Update for November 2018

November 2, 2018

Our Tribe, Our Tigers! WMS Assists Blountstown Middle School!

November 2, 2018

Fall Fling Fun at Mossy Head School!

November 2, 2018

ECTC"s Trunk or Treat is a Huge Success!!!

November 1, 2018

Motivational Speak and Hip Hop Musician, Dr. Blake Brandes, Visits WDE!

November 1, 2018

VRB Students Making it POP in Social Studies and Science!

November 1, 2018

WDE "Candy Corn Contest" Winners Announced!

October 31, 2018

WDE Kindergartners Visit Rocking BAB Ranch

October 31, 2018

BCF Choir Visits WHS Choral Deparment!

October 31, 2018

Bay Elementary Reaching Out to Assist Victims of Hurricane Michael!

October 31, 2018