Destin High School (DHS) is slated to open next August for the 2021-22 school year. The new tuition-free public charter school will be located at the Grace Lutheran property located at 4325 Commons Drive West, next to the Mattie Kelly Cultural Arts Village.
From now until January 29, students and parents can go online to www.DestinHighSchool.org and click on the “Apply Now” button to submit student application information. During this first enrollment period, students entering grades 9, 10 and 11 can apply. The number of 11th grade applicants in this period will determine the feasibility of offering 11th grade classes in the 2021-2022 school year. Or, students and parents can meet with DHS’s newly hired principal, Christine Cruickshank, at Grace Lutheran.
Cruickshank, excited to be in her new position, commented, “Applying is one of the most important things on our to-do list. Potential new students and their families can either apply online, or they can personally meet with me from now until January 29 to complete an application and ask any questions they may have. To schedule a time, just call the direct admissions/application line, (850) 225-7620, or email me at principal@destinhighschool.org.”
In addition to offering a state-mandated core curriculum, as well as honors and other advanced level classes, DHS will utilize a place-based approach to learning that will take advantage of the local geography, industry, and community. This will allow the Okaloosa County school to offer additional curriculum opportunities through authentic, meaningful, and engaging personalized learning for their students.
DHS plans to open at a 350-student capacity in the first year. Students will also benefit from a smaller school setting, which will allow for a more personal educational experience.
The DHS Governing Board and Principal Cruickshank will be conducting an informative Town Hall Celebration on Thursday, February 11, 5:30 p.m., at the future home of DHS (Grace Lutheran) to acquaint potential students, their families and the community about DHS, the curriculum, and more. They will be taking registration applications there, too. Social distancing will be practiced at the Town Hall meeting and masks are recommended.
For additional information on registering, donating, or volunteering, please call (850) 424-1664, email info@destinhighschool.org, or visit www.DestinHighSchool.org.
