Why settle for ordinary when you can have exceptional private school-type education completely tuition-free right here in the heart of Destin? While limited seats remain, enrollment is still open for the 2025–26 school year at Destin High School (DHS), a top-performing public charter school.
Founded in 2021, DHS continues to grow rapidly. The Class of 2025 marked a milestone as the first to complete all four years at the school and its largest graduating class yet, with 141 students. Principal Dr. Diane Kelley said the school’s mission remains the same: equipping students with the academics, real-world experiences, and leadership opportunities to thrive in college, careers and life.
Academics and Career Pathways
DHS offers multiple academic tracks, including Advanced Placement, dual enrollment, honors, and standard courses alongside multiple career and technical education courses. Students are encouraged to tailor their education toward college or specialized careers, supported by expert faculty and community partnerships.
A new Culinary Arts Program debuts this year, led by Chef Davy Crockett of Keiser University. The program will provide hands-on training rooted in real-world practices, joining DHS’s award-winning Performing and Visual Arts program and its growing radio broadcasting club in partnership with DestinFM. Additionally, Mr. J.C. Hollis will offer cybersecurity and introduction to information technology courses as another new addition.
DHS’s Future Business Leaders of America chapter, led by Ms. Kelly Tucker, has also drawn attention statewide. Ranking high out of 1,400 schools that competed in the High School Stock Market Game, and while also earning first place at the 2025 state competition in social media marketing.
Athletics Achieve State-Level Status
Since opening, DHS has built a competitive athletics program featuring more than 20 varsity sports. In June, the school earned full membership in the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA), allowing all varsity teams to compete for state championships.
Full membership followed a three-year application and provisional period. The school’s FHSAA classification will vary by sport, but is expected to bring new opportunities for student-athletes and the Destin community.
Unique Coastal Programs
Destin High offers experiences unlike any other school in the nation, thanks to its location on Florida’s Emerald Coast.
The school is home to the only high school-based artificial reef program in the United States. Through its Fishing Education Program, students partner with Reefmaker of Orange Beach, Ala., to construct and deploy 5,500-pound concrete reefs in the Gulf. More than 20 reefs now sit 65 feet deep off the Okaloosa Island Pier, serving both as marine habitats and personalized memorials.
DHS is also the only Florida high school where students can earn a captain’s license through a saltwater fishing program, preparing them for careers in charter or commercial fishing.
New Four-and-a-Half Day School Week Launches
This fall, DHS will transition to a four-and-a-half-day school week. Classes will run Monday through Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Fridays will bring morning classes with dismissal at 11:30 a.m. for students to participate in internships and local service and volunteer opportunities. More than 80 percent of surveyed parents supported the shift, which school leaders say will provide focused instruction and improved work-life balance for families.
Staying Connected: ParentSquare
To improve communication, DHS has rolled out ParentSquare, an all-in-one platform for parents to receive school news, message teachers, sign up for events and view calendars. The platform is accessible by email, text, app or web and supports multiple languages.
Annual Fund and Community Support
The DHS Anchor Annual Fund supports classroom materials, technology, safety upgrades, academic programs, counseling and more. Donations of any amount — from $25 to $2,500 to $25,000 or more, make a direct impact. The school’s broader fundraising goal for 2025–26 is $800,000, including grants and special events. Major gifts also help fund strategic priorities such as faculty recruitment, campus improvements and career program expansion.
Enrollment and Contact Information
Tuition-Free-Open enrollment for 2025–26 is underway; however, spots are limited. Families can apply online at https://destinhighschool.schoolmint.com, visit the campus at 4325 Commons Drive W., Destin, or call 850-204-4044. More information is available at destinhighschool.org.
At DHS, students find more than an education. They discover a community that prepares them academically, physically, and emotionally to lead and succeed. Whether your child is a scholar, athlete, artist, or entrepreneur, there’s a place to grow, lead, and shine at Destin High School.
