Okaloosa schools, Sheriff's Office partner in Angel Tree Program to support local students

School Superintendent Marcus Chambers and Sheriff Eric Aden have announced a collaboration between the Okaloosa County School District and the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office for this year’s Angel Tree Program.

The initiative aims to support students from needy families during the holiday season. School guidance counselors and school resource officers will help identify students for the program. Last year, more than 300 Okaloosa students received gifts through the joint effort, made possible by contributions from staff and community members.

“The Angel Tree Program has touched the lives of many children," Chambers said in a news release. "I am forever thankful for living in a community that supports our schools and students. In the district’s first year, the generosity of district staff and community members ensured that 73 children and their families had a happy holiday. This partnership is meaningful because children are at the heart of it, and I am confident we are making a difference in the lives of students and their families."