Parents and Wise Pre-K students enjoyed "Books and Breakfast" with Dr. Adams. After breakfast, Dr. Adams discussed the importance of reading daily to children and shared a fun book. Then students were allowed to choose a book to take home. Submitted by Debbie McBroom.

Elrod Vo recently won the distinction of being an Achieve3000 WorldWide winner in Mrs. Amy Bennett's eighth grade reading class.  He won the most points by completing reading texts and tasks and receiving points for passing scores.  Two years ago, Elrod won the most points nationwide when he was a sixth grader in Mrs. Bennett's class.  This year, Elrod entered the new school year determined to advance from being the nationwide to the worldwide level winner.  Remarkably, Elrod accomplished his goal before the end of the first semester.  Walton Middle School is very proud of Elrod's accomplishments. Submitted by Kristen Rhodes.

On December 2nd, Walton County Career and Technical Education teachers participated in a training to assist them in understanding the importance of creating career pathways for their students.  Walton County's middle schools, high schools and Emerald Coast Technical College participated in this training.  There were also representatives from UF/IFAS (Institute of Food & Agricultural Sciences) Extension Office, Chelco, Walton County Sheriff's Office, Toy Box Child Care Center, and WMBB News Channel 13 on hand to talk about the skills necessary to be successful in the workplace. Maggie Solomon from WMBB News Channel 13 provided a story on this meeting which may be viewed at http://www.mypanhandle.com/news/walton-co-school-district-holds-cte-training. Pictured is Leslie Harrison from Emerald Coast Technical College presenting information to Walton County teachers on how to develop their own program advisory board.  This is the first of many community incorporated meetings that Walton County intends to hold in an attempt to make our CTE programs rigorous and relevant to current employer demands.  Submitted by Donna Honish.

Emerald Coast Middle School announces Mr. Chris Mayer as Teacher of the Year and Mrs. Meta Ambrose as Educational Support Personnel of the Year. Pictured from Left to Right:  Mr. Chris Mayer, ECMS Principal, Mr. Jeff Infinger and Mrs. Meta Ambrose. Submitted by Angela Vance.