Okaloosa School Board appoints Julie Ward and Jackie Wyndham as assistant principals

The Okaloosa County School Board unanimously approved two administrative appointments on Feb. 23, 2026, naming Miss Julie Ward assistant principal at Walker Elementary and Miss Jackie Wyndham assistant principal at Richburg School.

Superintendent Chambers introduced Julie Ward, who was described in the board packet as raised in Big Spring, Texas, holder of a bachelor's degree from Lubbock Christian University, and a master's in curriculum and instruction from the University of Texas at El Paso as well as a master's in educational leadership from the University of West Florida. Chambers said Ward brings 13 years of experience and has served the past year as dean of students at Walker Elementary. Board member Bryant moved to accept the recommendation; Mr. Destin seconded and the motion passed 5-0. Ward thanked the board and the Walker community.

Chambers then presented Jackie Wyndham, described as having 20 years in education, a bachelor's degree in elementary education with ESOL and exceptional student education endorsements and a master's in educational leadership from the University of West Florida. Wyndham's career includes teaching in Washington County and multiple roles in Okaloosa County Schools, including instructional coach. The board moved and seconded the appointment; the motion carried 5-0. Wyndham thanked board members, district staff and family and posed for photographs following the vote.

Both appointments were presented as district recommendations by the superintendent; the board recorded no objections and handled the confirmations early in the meeting before the public-hearing items.