An inside look at how Destin High School Principal Dr. Diane Kelley starts early, leads with purpose, and keeps faith at the center

An inside look at how Destin High School Principal Dr. Diane Kelley starts early, leads with purpose, and keeps faith at the center

Principal of Destin High School, Dr. Diane Kelley, has spent nearly four decades in Okaloosa County education — from classroom teacher and school board member to her current role. Born in Valparaiso and raised on her family’s land in Laurel Hill, her story is deeply rooted in Northwest Florida. Each morning starts early, with quiet devotion and a Diet Coke before heading out the door by 6:30 a.m. to greet students and staff. Whether leading mee…