3 Florida High Schools Earn National AP Honor Roll Gold

Three high schools in Florida's Okaloosa County are celebrating a major academic win that opens more doors for their students to succeed in college.

Choctawhatchee High School, Fort Walton Beach High School, and Niceville High School have been named to the College Board's 2025 AP School Honor Roll. The honor recognizes schools across the nation that excel at giving students access to Advanced Placement courses and helping them succeed.

Choctawhatchee High School earned Gold-level recognition, the highest tier available. Fort Walton Beach High School and Niceville High School each received Silver status, showing consistent excellence across the entire district.

The AP School Honor Roll isn't just about test scores. Schools earn their place by expanding access to challenging courses, helping students pass AP exams to earn college credit, and encouraging students to take multiple AP classes during high school.

For students, this matters beyond the classroom. AP courses let high schoolers earn college credits before graduation, saving families thousands of dollars in tuition and giving students a head start on their degrees.

Superintendent Marcus Chambers highlighted what this achievement means for the entire community. "Recognition on the AP School Honor Roll is a testament to the dedication of our students, teachers, and school leaders," he said.

The Okaloosa County School District emphasized that these honors reflect their commitment to preparing every student for success after graduation. By creating more pathways to college-level work in high school, they're building stronger foundations for students' futures.

The Ripple Effect

When schools invest in AP programs, the benefits spread far beyond individual test scores. Students gain confidence tackling college-level material while still having the support of their high school teachers and peers.

Families save money when their children earn college credits in high school instead of paying full tuition later. One AP exam that earns college credit can save families hundreds or even thousands of dollars per course.

The recognition also elevates the entire community, attracting families who value strong public education and creating a culture where academic achievement is celebrated. When three schools in one district earn national honors, it shows a community-wide commitment to student success.

These three schools are proving that with the right support and dedication, students can achieve at the highest levels while preparing for bright futures ahead.