Editor's Note: This series recognizes people who make a difference in their communities. To nominate someone, call Wendy Victora at 315-4478 or email wvictora@nwfdailynews.com.
FORT WALTON BEACH — In the summer of 2011, Cheree Davis was tapped to be principal of one of the oldest schools in Okaloosa County with an enrollment problem.
She hadn’t held the top position in a school before, but she didn’t shy away from the challenge. The day she stepped into Edwins Fine and Performing Arts School, observations she’d made inside other schools through the years came into play.
“We have those kids seven and half hours a day, so we’re really their second family,” Davis said. “I tried to just give the school a facelift so the students felt like they were going to a nice school.”
In less than two years, Davis has not only added technology but also painted and established an outdoor science lab.
She has also implemented a breakfast program to make sure all the students start the day out right, strengthened curriculum and worked with parents and students to get to the root of discipline problems.
“Ms. Davis is the best principal in Okaloosa County,” said parent Jennifer Hughes. “She just has transformed this school from top to bottom.”
Davis said she has enjoyed her still relatively new position. She said credit for the positive changes also belongs to school staff and parents who have stepped forward to help her.
“I think more than anything, it was a schoolwide effort,” Davis said.
Contact Daily News Staff Writer Katie Tammen at 850-315-4440 or ktammen@nwfdailynews.com. Follow her on Twitter @KatieTnwfdn.