David Schmidt, a dedicated advocate for education and community growth, brings a wealth of experience and passion to his candidacy for the Okaloosa County School Board District 2. Born to proud parents Robert and Leslie Schmidt, David is a cherished sibling to Paul and Kevin Schmidt, and Abbey (Schmidt) Alderman. He has found unwavering support in his loving marriage to Shannon Lindsay Schmidt, and together, they are blessed with five remarkable children: Neyland, Bennett, Malachi, Ramsey, and Sawyer. Not to be overlooked, their Goldendoodle companion, Layla, completes their lively household. A testament to the excellence of the Okaloosa County School system, both David and Shannon are esteemed graduates.

David is a firm believer in the diverse avenues that lead to valuable skillsets. He recognizes that the foundation for a successful career begins as early as elementary school, progressing through secondary education to cultivate essential abilities. From piloting drones to nursing, teaching, public safety, software development, military service, entrepreneurship, professional services, and information technology, David envisions a robust array of industries poised to sustain the growth of higher-paying, skilled opportunities. He emphasizes the importance of fostering essential soft skills that underpin a truly marketable skill set. To this end, David champions parental school choice, ensuring families retain the autonomy to tailor their child's education.

Central to David's philosophy is the augmentation of opportunities for access to higher-paying, skilled positions, which greatly influences the cultural fabric of our community. He ardently believes that regions offering greater access to well-compensated professions invariably empower both current and future generations of families.

David's commitment extends beyond mere rhetoric, as evidenced by his active involvement with key stakeholders over the past decade. His dedicated service over the last six years in educational leadership and public service underscores his genuine commitment to effecting positive change. Serving as a director at a dropout prevention school while concurrently fulfilling responsibilities as an elected Fort Walton Beach Councilman, David has achieved tangible progress in enhancing the quality of life through education.

Examples of his impactful initiatives include:

1. Advocacy for the HSU Educational Foundation, channeling over $87,000 in support over three years to foster state-of-the-art STEM programs and expand student and family engagement.

2. Collaboration with City leadership and the Montessori school in 2021 to secure land adjoining the Emerald Coast Science Center, thereby amplifying access to educational opportunities.

3. Recognition and endorsement by the esteemed Emerald Coast Association of Realtors for his 2017 and 2021 elections.

David's dynamic support for the HSU Educational Foundation extends beyond financial contributions. He actively participates in their diverse educational programs at both the Fort Walton Beach and Crestview locations. Notably, his leadership of the Unmanned Aerial Vehicle team has garnered multiple top-three placements in countywide competitions.

Another initiative close to David's heart is the Emeril Lagasse Full Circle Kitchen. Collaborating with the organization Food For Thought and local chefs, this program imparts essential culinary skills to students, preparing them not only for personal sustenance but also equipping some to pursue culinary careers.

In 2013, David and Shannon established the not-for-profit "Financial Storehouse," where they mentor individuals, groups, and students on financial literacy. Their impactful efforts span from instructing Fort Walton Beach High School Leadership class, who provided 200 memberships to local youth to access the recreation center, to leading a financial literacy class 12 times at Shalimar United Methodist Church. Their community outreach includes sponsorship of vital programs like Bikes or Bust, an annual event gifting bikes to underprivileged children.

Through these transformative experiences, students not only acquire marketable skills but also discover a sense of purpose. David's enduring commitment to nurturing skillsets and fostering purpose underscores his dedication to Okaloosa County's progress.

In sum, David Schmidt stands resolutely FOR Okaloosa County, embodying a steadfast commitment to education and community advancement.