Why settle for an ordinary high school experience when you can have something exceptional—and tuition-free?
Open enrollment is NOW underway at Destin High School (DHS), a top-performing public charter school that offers the feel of a private school with the accessibility of a public education. With no zoning restrictions and no tuition, DHS is your gateway to a personalized, future-focused high school journey.
At DHS, we go beyond graduation. Our students are empowered to lead, create and thrive—with innovative academics, real-world career pathways and hands-on learning experiences extending beyond textbooks to provide life-changing opportunities designed to prepare you for success in college, careers and life. From amazing new facilities and expert teachers to diverse, hands-on, real-world programs and community partnerships, DHS offers the freedom to explore your passions and shape your future—your way.
Why choose Destin High School?
✅ Academic Excellence
From Advanced Placement (AP) and dual enrollment to honors and standard courses, DHS provides a variety of academic pathways to challenge and support every student. Whether preparing for college or a specialized career, we ensure you have the foundation to excel.
✅ Award-Winning Arts & Broadcasting Opportunities
Destin High School offers a vibrant Performing and Visual Arts program where students shine in competitions and public performances:
- Theatre – Star in award-winning productions
- Band – Perform with distinction in marching and concert events
- Dance – Compete and express artistry through movement
- Choir – Perform at top regional events
- Visual Arts – Create across a variety of mediums
Our students consistently excel at the regional level, proving that creativity thrives at DHS!
Plus, with the launch of our Radio Broadcasting Club—in partnership with DestinFM—students gain hands-on experience in broadcasting, journalism and live hosting. The program includes a School-to-Work Pipeline, preparing students for radio and digital media careers through mentorship and real-world training.
✅ Athletic Excellence
With over 20 varsity sports, DHS athletes compete at elite levels and earn big wins:
- Football – Led by FSU Hall of Famer and former NFL player Coach E.G. Green, DHS football is building a legacy of excellence, tradition and teamwork.
- Girls Volleyball – Ranked #1 Independent Team in Florida two years in a row
- Boys Soccer – Ranked #2 Independent Team in Florida this year
- Baseball, Softball & Basketball – Multiple athletes awarded college scholarships
- Cheer – Competed at Disney World Cheer Nationals!
This June, DHS will be recommended for full membership in the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA), allowing all 22 varsity teams to compete in state championship series. Since launching in 2020, Destin High has steadily built a top-tier athletics program with strong community support—giving student athletes a bigger stage and brighter future.
✅ Nation’s Only High School Artificial Reef Program
DHS is home to the country’s only high school-based artificial reef program. Through the Fishing Education Program, students partner with Reefmaker of Orange Beach, Ala., to build and deploy 8-foot, 5,500-pound concrete reefs in the Gulf—some serving as personalized memorials.
Over 20 reefs have been placed in the “Destin High School Reef” zone, 65 feet deep off the Okaloosa Island Pier. Supported by community fundraisers and partnerships—including Okaloosa County’s Natural Resources Team—this hands-on program promotes marine conservation while teaching students real-world skills and environmental stewardship.
✅ One-of-a-Kind Saltwater Fishing Program
DHS is the only high school in Florida where students can earn a captain’s license through our unique saltwater fishing program. This outside-the-box, hands-on experience immerses students in charter and commercial fishing, providing real-world skills that benefit their futures and our coastal community.
✅ Culinary Arts Program Cooks Up Real-World Experience
DHS’ Culinary Arts Program will launch next fall with the addition of Chef Davy Crockett, a seasoned instructor from Keiser University. Under his guidance, students gain hands-on training rooted in real-world culinary practices.
✅ Future Business Leaders Shine at DHS
DHS’s Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) students are making waves in business education, ranked #10 in Florida out of 1,400 teams in the High School Stock Market Game and #1 in the district for Entrepreneurship two years running. Additionally, our FBLA team just won 1st place at state for the highly coveted social media marketing competition. At DHS, students don’t just study business—they become future leaders.
✅ Four-Day School Week Begins Fall 2025
Starting in the 2025–2026 school year, DHS will move to a four-day week, with classes Monday–Thursday, 7:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m. Supported by 84% of survey participants, this innovative schedule aims to improve learning, well-being and work-life balance. Fridays will be used for staff development, student internships and service opportunities. Principal Dr. Diane Kelley noted that the schedule provides more focused instruction and family flexibility.
✅ Prime Location, Personalized Learning
Centrally located in Destin, DHS offers students easy access to a high-quality education in a boutique school setting. Strong teacher-student relationships help students thrive academically while receiving the support and guidance they need to plan for the future.
At DHS, students are prepared academically, physically and mentally to become confident, capable citizens. We’re more than just a school–we’re a family. Whether you’re a scholar, artist, athlete or entrepreneur, you’ll find a place to grow, lead and shine. Here, passion meets purpose in the classroom, on the stage and on the field.
Apply today at https://destinhighschool.schoolmint.com—open enrollment is underway, but won’t last forever!
For more information, stop by at 4325 Commons Dr. W., Destin, call (850) 204-4044 or visit destinhighschool.org.
Your future starts NOW at Destin High School. Become a Destin Shark!
Views: 6
