Oklahoma schools to remain closed for duration of school year, distance learning to be implemented

OKLAHOMA CITY (Date) – The State Board of Education unanimously approved an order that implements a Distance Learning Plan to complete the 2019-20 school year for Oklahoma students without reopening school buildings. The approval comes as numbers grow for positive COVID-19 cases in the state. 

“Oklahoma has tremendous educators – strong, dedicated, tenacious and smart. We have faith and confidence that our districts and teachers are committed to creative and innovative ways to continue learning for their students, and they will rise to this challenge,” said State Superintendent Joy Hofmeister. “Distance Learning Plans will look different from district to district. Many districts have used online tools for some time and will be able to hit the ground running. Others have little connectivity and communities with little or no access to computer technology. I know the hard-working educators in our districts will pull together to make this adjustment to benefit all learners.”

Beginning April 6, districts will be expected to provide distance learning for the rest of the school year. District leaders will also provide assurances to the Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE) of a Distance Learning Plan and ensure services continue for English learners and special education students.

“Our education communities are tough, resilient and committed. They know, as we all do, that we are all in this together. If this pandemic underscores anything, it is that we must help one another,” Hofmeister said. “We understand the challenges all Oklahomans are facing, and we know we can count on our schools to provide the best education possible in a way that ensures the safety and health of students and everyone in the school and community.” 

OSDE will provide distance learning frameworks and resources on its website in the coming days. In addition, the agency is exploring how federal assistance could help digital connectivity for some districts. OETA, Oklahoma’s educational public TV network, will also provide help. In partnership with OSDE, OETA will broadcast instructional daytime programming for the state’s PreK-12 students. 

While education will resume on April 6 with distance learning, there will not be traditional, in-person instruction or extracurricular activities. Districts will be expected to following critical safety guidance from the Centers for Disease Control with regard to social distancing for students, staff and school families. 

For the graduating class of 2020, each district will adopt a plan that establishes the assessment or assessments those students are required to take in order to graduate.  

The State Board took action on multiple waivers – ranging from school calendars to loosening current restrictions on funds – aimed at giving districts greater flexibility to respond to the needs of their students and communities. 

Hofmeister proposes State Board of Education approve distance learning for students starting April 6, school buildings to remain closed

OKLAHOMA CITY (March 23, 2020) – State Superintendent of Public Instruction Joy Hofmeister announced today that she will propose a Continuous Learning Plan to the State Board of Education this week to complete the school year for Oklahoma students without reopening school buildings during the global pandemic. While the education of schoolchildren will resume with distance learning, there will not be traditional, in-person instruction or extracurricular activities, instead following critical safety guidance from the Centers for Disease Control with regard to social distancing for students, staff and school families.

The Board will hold a special meeting on Wednesday, March 25. Board members will meet virtually.

In the course of a week, Hofmeister noted, the Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE) has secured federal waivers removing the burden of statewide assessments and permitting the delivery or curbside pick-up of nutritional meals for qualifying students for the remainder of the school year.

"Our districts have begun planning their alternative delivery methods to support student learning as they prepare to reconnect students with their teachers in adaptive ways,” she said.

“We are determined to support our Pre-K through high school students as well as English learners, special education students and those who need reinforced skills or additional enrichment. We recognize this reality will present challenges for many families and districts, but these are extraordinary times that call for extraordinary measures. This coordinated, swift and thoughtful action will help safeguard the health and well-being of our communities, students and professionals in public schools. We must do absolutely everything in our power to reduce transmission of coronavirus.”

Beginning April 6, districts will be expected to provide distance learning for the remainder of the school year. How that learning occurs, Hofmeister said, will vary widely according to the capacity and needs of districts and their communities. Districts would start once they have provided assurances to OSDE of a distance learning plan as well as special services for English learners and special education students.

“I have faith in the commitment, innovation and creativity of Oklahoma educators and administrators,” Hofmeister said. “Many districts across our state have utilized online instruction already and likely will be able to hit the ground running. Other districts have significant technology limitations, while some might opt for instructional materials delivered to students. There will be a wide range of approaches and it will be far from ideal, but necessary as we embrace these changes and even sacrifice to protect the public health of our communities.”

She said the OSDE will offer a panoply of resources and guidance for districts to pursue distance learning. In addition, the agency is exploring how federal assistance could bolster digital connectivity for some districts. OETA, Oklahoma’s educational public TV network, will also provide help. In partnership with OSDE, OETA will broadcast instructional daytime programming for the state’s PreK-12 students.

Hofmeister noted the top priority for districts should be ensuring that high school seniors who are on track to graduate this school year receive the help they need. The State Board is expected to ensure district boards of education fulfill graduation requirements but in such a way that students are not negatively impacted by the pandemic.

Moreover, the State Board is poised to take action on a host of waivers – ranging from school calendars to loosening current restrictions on funds – aimed at giving districts greater flexibility to respond to the needs of their students and communities.

Late last week, the U.S. Department of Education granted waivers allowing the state to suspend standardized testing and Oklahoma School Report Cards for the 2019-20 school year.

Oklahoma Dept. of Education receives federal waiver to halt assessments amid pandemic

The U.S. Department of Education tonight approved waivers requested by the Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE) to suspend assessments and Oklahoma School Report Cards for the 2019-20 school year.

State Superintendent of Public Instruction Joy Hofmeister requested the waivers to help schools navigate the uncertainty caused by the coronavirus pandemic. At Hofmeister’s request, the State Board of Education on March 16 closed public schools until April 6 to help reduce community spread of COVID-19.

“Our schools have the unprecedented challenge this school year of educating students while absolutely guarding their health and well being, as well as that of our educators and communities,” said Hofmeister. “These waivers provide some measure of stability and flexibility for  our schools to move forward during this period of uncertainty.”  

The waivers mean Oklahoma schools will not administer academic assessments in English language arts, mathematics and science for grades 3-8 or to high school juniors.

Similarly, the OSDE will not issue Oklahoma School Report Cards, the state’s accountability system that factors in assessments and other indicators.

The Board of Education will hold a special meeting Wednesday, March 25, to determine whether to extend the school closure, among other pressing Board actions.

Sand Springs to provide free meals to all students during school closure

Article updated as of 8:57 p.m. on 3/18/20 to reflect time change.

Sand Springs Public Schools will provide FREE meals to children 18 years old and younger during the school closure, due to COVID-19. Meals will be available from March 23 to April 3, 2020, Monday through Friday, at the following sites:

• Limestone Technology Academy / 4201 S. Walnut Creek Dr.

• Clyde Boyd Middle School / 305 W. 35th St.

• Garfield STEAM Academy / 701 N. Roosevelt Ave.

• Central Ninth Grade Center / 14 W. 4th

• Charles Page High School / 500 N. Adams Rd

• Early Childhood Education Center / 1701 E. Park Rd

Meals will be served as “grab and go” outside at the front entrance of each school except at Charles Page High School where meals will be served on the east side of the building by the parking lot doors.

• Children must be present to receive a meal.

• Breakfast and lunch will be served from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

• Children may pick up a “grab and go” lunch AND breakfast at the same time.

Garfield STEAM Academy holds 4th-grade production of Yodehoo!

Submitted by Kelli Shockley.

On Thursday, February 27, 2020, the fourth graders at Garfield STEAM Academy, led by their music teacher, Mrs. Rebecca Stewart, performed a production of Yodeehoo! for the  students, faculty and parents. One of the play's composers, Greg Davis, a 1978 CPHS graduate, was on hand to watch as Garfield's fourth graders performed this humorous tale that teaches us not to judge others before we get a chance to know them. Every year, Mrs. Stewart chooses a play for the fourth graders to perform. Yodeehoo! is a favorite among the fourth grade teachers. This is the fourth time the fourth graders have performed this hilarious production over the past 15 years. The students worked hard to master all their lines, delivered in "hillbilly" accents, and all the songs that teach us to be careful about making assumptions and jumping to conclusions about people. The fourth graders, along with Mrs. Stewart did an outstanding job as they brought this production to life.   

Oklahoma Public Schools to continue providing student meals despite closure

The Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE) has received approval from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) on two requested waivers allowing meal service to continue during school closures. Meals will be available at no cost to low-income children and are not required to be served in a group setting to avoid possible exposure to COVID-19. 

“When schools close, our first concern is for the safety and well-being of our children. We know that some kids will not have access to nutritious meals if they do not attend school,” said State Superintendent of Public Instruction Joy Hofmeister. “The approval of these waivers provides flexibility so Oklahoma children get wholesome meals while safeguarding their health.” 

Last week, OSDE‘s Child Nutrition Programs applied for four waivers from the USDA Food and Nutrition Services. During the upcoming school closure, schools can leverage their participation in one of the USDA’s summer meal programs. 

The two waivers approved Saturday, March 14: 

• Will allow for an alternative or “grab and go” meal service to limit interaction and proximity, reducing the risk of coronavirus exposure; this flexibility would allow possible meal deliveries away from school 

• Waive the requirement that school meal operations must be served at a school site during unanticipated school closure. This will allow food service staff to prepare the alternative or “grab and go” meals at school sites. 

The waivers are good through June 30 or until the federally declared public health emergency expires, whichever is earlier. They only apply to schools participating in the National School Lunch Program’s Seamless Summer Option (SSO) or the Summer Food Service Program (SFSP). 

OSDE is awaiting approval on two other waivers. One would allow schools in areas not designated as high need to cover meals to students under the Emergency School Closure provision of the SFSP or SSO. The other would allow sponsors to provide reimbursable meals pending availability of meal pattern components. 

Sand Springs Prom postponed till May 16 due to COVID-19 pandemic

The State Board of Education voted Monday to close all Oklahoma Public Schools through April 6th due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, Sand Springs Public Schools have announced that Prom will be postponed nearly a month.

Prom was originally scheduled for April 18th but will be postponed till Saturday, May 16th. It will be held at the Oklahoma Jazz Hall of Fame in downtown Tulsa.

“Our primary focus is the health and safety of our students,” says a school announcement. “We would not hold a large public event like the prom against the advice of government officials and medical professionals. It is important to note that there is still a chance that we will not be able to have the prom on May 16. The coronavirus emergency has a very uncertain future with no definitive end in sight. We hope that by making the change in dates now, reservations and deposits can be changed and transferred with as little disruption as possible. We apologize for any inconvenience. As events unfold, we will continue to update all of you and to adjust our plans as necessary.”

Also on the horizon is graduation, which is scheduled for Saturday, May 9th at the ORU Mabee Center. It is unlikely that the district will be able to reschedule that event due to the number of school districts that also use that venue. No cancellation has been announced at this time.

Oklahoma Public Schools to remain closed till April 6th due to COVID-19 pandemic

The Oklahoma State Department of Education unanimously voted Monday afternoon to order all Oklahoma public schools to cease operations from March 17th through April 6th due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

The State Board of Education met in an emergency session in Oklahoma City to vote on “an order for all accredited public schools to cease operations effective March 17th until April 6th. Cessation of operations to include all instructional services, grading, extracurricular activities, staff development, training, or conferences. Essential clerical and administrative activities such as business management, nutrition services, and maintenance may continue.”

The Oklahoma Secondary Schools Activities Association recently announced that it would be indefinitely suspending all post-season tournaments such as the State Basketball Tournament, but that regular season activities like baseball, softball, and soccer would be left up to the individual school districts to decide if they want to continue the seasons.

The inclusion of extracurricular activities by the State Board of Education effectively ceases all regular season activities, and ensures that the OSSAA won’t be able to reschedule the State Basketball Tournament for at least three more weeks.

Oklahoma Senate approves sweeping licensing reforms

OKLAHOMA CITY – In an effort to continue growing the state’s economy and address the teacher shortage, the Senate approved two reciprocal licensing reforms Wednesday. Senator Adam Pugh, R-Edmond, is the author of the measures to recognize the out-of-state occupational licenses and teaching certificates of qualified individuals moving to Oklahoma.

“We cannot grow our economy without getting rid of the barriers that are deterring professionals from moving to the state. Qualified professionals who are licensed, accredited or certified in other states shouldn’t have to prove their competency by taking repetitive exams that are both expensive and a waste of their time,” Pugh said. “As long as they are law-abiding citizens who hold an out-of-state license or certificate that is in good standing in their profession, we want them to know that we look forward to welcoming them and their expertise to Oklahoma.”

SB 1891 creates the “Universal Occupational License Recognition Act”. It directs occupational boards and commissions to issue an occupational license in the relevant profession to anyone who takes up residency in Oklahoma and holds an occupational license or certificate that has been in good standing in another state for at least one year. Rep. Kevin Wallace, R-Wellston, is the principal House author.

SB 1125 will allow the State Board of Education to issue a teaching certificate to anyone who holds a valid out-of-state teaching certificate, with no other requirements except a criminal history record check. The teaching certificate will only be for those subject areas and grade levels most closely aligned to the subject areas and grade levels recognized on the out-of-state certificate. The bill will go into effect with the governor’s signature allowing districts to begin accepting teacher applications for the upcoming school year. House Speaker Charles McCall, R-Atoka, is the principal House author.

The bills will next be considered in the House.

Editor’s Note: SB1891 passed 36 to 9. District 37 Senator Allison Ikley-Freeman, representing Sand Springs, voted against the measure. SB1125 passed unanimously, 46 to 0. Ikley-Freeman voted in favor.

Click here to read the full text of SB1125.

Click here to read the full text of SB1891.

Charles Page High School debuts "Little Shop of Horrors"

Ben Stowell and Jennah Hendricks star in “Little Shop of Horrors.” Click here to view the full photo gallery.

The Charles Page High School drama department debuted their rendition of “Little Shop of Horrors” Thursday night. The dark comedy stars Ben Stowell as Seymour, a florist who raises a carnivorous plant with a fondness for human flesh.

Jennah Hendricks portrays Audrey, Seymour’s love interest and co-worker, and the two are employed by Mr. Mushnik, played by Cole Shoemaker. Also starring in the play is Will Bouchard as Orin Scrivello, DDS, the abusive boyfriend of Audrey who Seymour must compete with.

When Mushnik’s Skid Row Florist shop begins to struggle financially, Seymour turns things around by advertising his unique plant. Eventually the plant begins to speak, and demands that Seymour provide it with human flesh, leading Seymour down a dark path.

Little Shop of Horrors was originally a 1960 film that was adapted for an off-Broadway production in 1982 with music by Alan Menken and a book and lyrics by Howard Ashman. That play was in turn adapted for film by Frank Oz in 1986 with an ensemble cast including Bill Murray, John Candy, Steve Martin, and Rick Moranis, which received two Oscar nominations.

The Sand Springs production is led by a team of more than sixty high school students under the direction of Andrea Campfield. The play will have 7:00 p.m. showtimes on Friday, Saturday, and Monday, with a 2:00 p.m. matinee on Sunday. Tickets are $12 for the general public and $10 for students, senior citizens, and teachers.

Cast List

Seymour: Ben Stowell (Understudy Will Bouchard).
Audrey: Jennah Hendricks/Alyse Wallace.
Mushnik: Cole Shoemaker.
Orin Scrivello DDS: Will Bouchard (Understudy Dylan Kirk).
Voice of the Plant: Johnathan Coble and Dustin Morrow.

Ronnette Singers
Crystal: Karlie Roulet.
Chiffon: Alyse Wallace.
Ronnette: Alyssa Allen.
Dee Dee: Sadie Plowman.
Joni: Hailey Duncan.
Della: Caroline Perkins.

Ronnette Dancers:
Susie Kaufman - Choreographer.
Cassidy Meadors.
Caylee O’Bryan.
Jenny Owens.
Ashley Hall.
Autumn Medeiros.
Keila Williams.

Ensemble / Skid Row Residents:
Tonja Pipes.
Jake Anderson.
Destinay Liethleiter.
Makasi Boykin.
Shayne Carpenter.
Zach Butler.
Jonathan Coble.
Logan Swinney.
Dylan Kirk.
Elijah Chronister.
Cheyenne Hampton.

Plant Puppeteers: Sunny Williams / Zach Butler.
Skip Snip: Dylan Kirk.
Mrs. Luce: Alexis Chidester.
Bernstein: Elijah Cronister.
Martin: Jake Anderson.

Stage Managers: Alexis Chidester / Olivia Birdsong.

Directed by Andrea Campfield.
Musical Direction: Peter Whipple.
Accompanist: Amanda Teachnor.
Band Direction: Kyle Wright.

Backstage Crew:
Heaven Ackley.
Hailee Ackley.
William Owen.
Erin Beard.

Sound Tech and Operator: Bryson Jackson.
Light Operator: Aaron Coslik.
Spots: Luke Scantling / Kaitlynn Duty.
Makeup: Erin Beard / Olivia Birdsong.
Costumes: Leah Evans.

Set Design:
Amberly Watson.
Ayla Nerren.
Elizabeth Smith.

Set Construction:
Stage Craft 3rd and 7th hours.
Nate Campbell.
Braden Foster.
Trent Goldman.
Jarret Haley.
Nick Hancock.
Hunter Rotramel.
Carter Williams.
Hayden King.
Haiden Staab.
Chase Smith.
Connor Harrison.
Amberly Watson.
Ayla Nerren.
Elizabeth Smith.

Band:
Drums: Hunter Carroll.
Bass: Keith Carver / Sam Keiper.
Guitar: Bryce Gregory.
Keyboard: Ayla Nerren / Tamika Jones.
Percussion: Sophie Comer.
Trumpet: Kaden Gonzalez / Hudson Shelton.
Clarinet: Brock Comer / Aylan Nerren.
Bass Clarinet: Tatum Velasquez.
Sax: Natalie Bunch.
Flute: Haley Stuckey / Lauren Wormuth / Jessica Essley.
Baritone: Zander Zieman.

Junior Achievement of Oklahoma Receives $50,000 from the Masonic Charity Foundation of Oklahoma

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William Cloud, President Masonic Charity Foundation of Oklahoma, Bob Peters, Grand Master of Masons in Oklahoma, Brian Jackson, Junior Achievement of Oklahoma, Jo Wise, Junior Achievement of Oklahoma, John Logan, Executive Director Masonic Charity Foundation of Oklahoma.

The Masonic Charity Foundation of Oklahoma presented a $50,000 donation to Junior Achievement of Oklahoma Wednesday.

“These dollars will continue support for our efforts teaching the most important life lessons of budgeting, financial investments, philanthropy, and personal finances through Junior Achievement capstone programs like JA Finance Park-Mobile that provide the outreach necessary to serve rural Oklahoma students,” said JA Development Manager Brian Jackson in a statement.

Through hands-on classroom activities and site-based experiences, JA Finance Park students build a foundation for making intelligent, lifelong personal finance decisions. The program includes hands-on in-school activities that culminate with a visit to the JA Finance Park.

The JA Finance Park-Mobile will now include a new philanthropy kiosk named for the Masonic Charity Foundation. The Park-Mobile is dedicated to educating 7.000 Oklahoma middle and high school students in the basics of financial literacy, budgeting, investing, philanthropy, and managing risk, all while reinforcing the value of education and how it affects one’s future.

“The Masonic Fraternity is proud to support financial literacy education programs such as those offered by Junior Achievement,” says Masonic Grand Master Bob Peters. “The financial knowledge gained in this program will empower students to make good financial decisions as they begin their adult lives.”

JA Finance Park takes reality-based learning to a new level by placing students into authentic, tangible, real-world scenarios where they take control of their decisions. JA Finance Park will bring together teachers, community and corporate volunteers, and local businesses to prepare students for adult life.

Senate Education Committee Approves Teacher Retention Act

OKLAHOMA CITY – A bill to encourage and retain Oklahoma’s top educators has cleared its first legislative hurdle. Sen. Rob Standridge, R-Norman, is the author of Senate Bill 1127, the Teacher Retention Act of 2020.  The bill was approved by the Senate Education Committee on Tuesday.

The measure creates a process for teachers who complete their National Board Certification and meet other additional requirements to receive annual bonuses of $1,500 beginning in the 2020-21 school year.  Under the legislation, depending on available revenue, that amount could be increased in subsequent years until it reaches a maximum of $5,000.

“In both 2018 and 2019, we approved much-needed pay raises for Oklahoma educators,” said Standridge, R-Norman. “Senate Bill 1127 gives us another way to incentivize and reward educators who go above and beyond what’s required of them to enhance the educational experience of their students.  Rewarding those efforts will help us retain our best and brightest teachers.”

If approved, beginning July 1, 2020, the State Board of Education would provide annual bonuses to a teacher who has completed each of the following:

• National Board certification and is teaching full time in a public school.

• Received a district rating of “superior” or “highly effective” under the Teacher and Leader Effectiveness Evaluation System during the previous year.

• Is serving as a mentor teacher.

• Has been recommended for the bonus by their superintendent and principal with approval by the school board.

The measure next moves to the Senate Appropriations Committee for further consideration.

Bill to improve school safety heads to House for final consideration

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma State Senate passed legislation Wednesday to provide more local control for school districts to decide how to protect their students. Senator David Bullard, R-Durant, is author of House Bill 2336. The measure would allow a local board of education to voluntarily adopt a policy to authorize the carrying of a handgun onto school property by school personnel who hold a valid reserve peace officer certification or possess a valid handgun license. School personnel will also be required to complete “campus-specific active shooter training” conducted by local law enforcement.

“This bill will let our local districts and boards decide what works best for their schools especially in rural areas where law enforcement can’t respond as quickly to incidents as in urban areas,” Bullard said.  “Currently, in order to carry on school grounds, personnel and teachers must be CLEET certified, which is unattainable for most because it’s so expensive and time prohibitive. For those districts that choose to authorize personnel to carry, this legislation will let them work with their local law enforcement for active shooting training in their own schools. This will be much more beneficial than being trained in a facility in another city should a real incident occur.”

Currently, teachers and school personnel must complete a 240-hour Council on Law Enforcement Education and Training (CLEET) certification to carry on school grounds. HB 2336 replaces the CLEET training requirement with ether the eight-hour concealed carry class or the 72 hours of armed security guard training along with the active shooter training.

“Most of our rural schools are vulnerable to these types of shootings because they can’t afford a resource officer or other security, and it takes local law enforcement too long to get to the schools,” Bullard said.  “Schools in my district strongly support this measure. They understand that other schools may have more options for security because of their finances, but for those schools who don’t have the money, they want to be able to properly protect their students.”

Rep. Sean Roberts is the House author of HB 2336, which was requested by the Oklahoma Second Amendment Association.

The amended bill now returns to the House for final consideration.

Sand Springs School Board recognizes bus drivers, CBMS students at January meeting

Sand Springs school bus drivers Renee Nance, Joanne Parker, Roger Anderson, Gary Dusina, Kevin Smith, and Transportation Director Sean Parker were presented with Sandite Pacesetter Awards for their work with special needs students.

According to Parker, the special needs fleet serves 50 students in an area of over 200 square miles, and does it with only 4 buses, meaning they can’t run a regular bus route. Parker also praised Special Needs Coordinator Bobby Hunt.

Clyde Boyd Middle School seventh grade studets Gavin Strout and Macie Willits were honored with Sandite Spirit Awards for their contributions to the Shop With A Cop program. Strout reportedly raised over $900 for the program, which aims to make sure poorer students in the Sand Springs area all receive Christmas presents. The district raised $8,125 overall, benefiting over 160 students.

Superintendent Sherry Durkee also surprised the Board with plaques recognizing their contribution to the district. The Board includes Jackie Wagnon, Whitney Wagers, Mike Mullins, Rusty Gunn, and Bo Naugle.

The Board approved out-of-state travel for Vo-Ag students to attend the MWI Welding Competition in Nevada, Missouri at the end of January, and for Transportation Director Sean Parker to attend Training on Medeco Key Systems in Ontario, California in February.

The Board approved a memorandum of understanding with the Sand Springs Fire Department for a Student Internship Program.

The Board approved the employment of a high school English teacher, a Special Education teacher at Limestone Technology Academy, a Special Education paraprofessional at Angus Valley Elementary, and Bobby Klinck as Head Football Coach.

Sand Springs student Sean Kuehn selected to serve on Oklahoma Student Advisory Council

Sean Kuehn (center) receives the August 2018 Sandite Spirit Award. Kuehn was recently selected to serve on the Oklahoma 2020 Student Advisory Council.

State Superintendent of Public Instruction Joy Hofmeister recently announced that 104 Oklahoma high school students have been named to her 2020 Student Advisory Council, the fifth consecutive year the group has been convened to assist Hofmeister and the Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE) in matters of policy.

Charles Page High School student Sean Kuehn was among the selected representatives.

“As we continue to improve public education, it is imperative to gather feedback and insight directly from Oklahoma students,” Hofmeister said. “Each year I continue to be touched by the wisdom, hope and compassion of these amazing young people who represent their schools and communities.”

Dominant themes voiced by last year’s Student Advisory Council were the importance of personal financial literacy, increased awareness of student mental health needs, and how trauma affects chronic absenteeism and student success. Feedback from the Council has been instrumental in state-level initiatives to provide teachers more professional development in trauma-informed instruction, replace end-of-course high school testing with ACT or SAT, and pilot Individual Career Academic Planning (ICAP).

The students, recommended by their district superintendents, hail from across Oklahoma and represent rural, urban and suburban schools of all sizes. Twenty-four are returning members who have served on the council in previous years.

The first meeting of the Student Advisory Council is scheduled for 10 a.m., Jan. 29, in Room 535 of the State Capitol.

CPHS Band Director Kyle Wright receives honorary pin from Board of Education

Click here to view full photo gallery.

Charles Page High School Band Director Kyle Wright was awarded a commemorative pin by the Sand Springs Board of Education at their regular monthly meeting Monday evening.

Wright was recently named the upcoming recipient of the Oklahoma Music Educators Association (OkMEA) Exemplary Teacher Award, which will be presented at their Winter Conference in January. He led the CPHS Gold Pride Marching Band to an Excellent rating at the OSSAA East Regional this season.

The Gold Pride will be marching in this Friday’s 7:00 p.m. Festival of Lights Christmas Parade in downtown Sand Springs, and will perform on Saturday at 5:30 p.m. in the HomeTown Holiday Christmas Celebration downtown. The Fine Arts Winter Showcase will be held Thursday, December 12th.

In other news:

The Board of Ed also presented awards to the Sandite Softball coaching staff, and to senior catcher Sabrina Usher.

SEE RELATED: CPHS Softball: Sabrina Usher and coaching staff honored by Board of Education.

The Board was presented with the findings of a 2018-2019 financial audit by Sanders, Bledsoe, and Hewitt. The auditor found the district to be in good standing and consistent with most Oklahoma districts.

Superintendent Sherry Durkheim gave an update on the Sand Springs Virtual Academy. According to Director of Technology Shawn Beard, enrollment is currently 186, up from 143 last year and up from 62 in 2014-2015 when they began tracking enrollment.

Virtual Academy Director Jay Rotert gave an update on the district’s recent State Report Cards:

• Angus Valley Elementary: Academic Achievement (B), Academic Growth (A), Chronic Absenteeism (C), Overall (B).

• Garfield STEAM Academy: Academic Achievement (C), Academic Growth (C), Chronic Absenteeism (C), Overall (D).

• Limestone Technology Academy: Academic Achievement (C), Academic Growth (C), Chronic Absenteeism (A), Overall (C).

• Northwoods Fine Arts Academy: Academic Achievement (D), Academic Growth (C), Chronic Absenteeism (B), Overall (D).

• Pratt Elementary: Academic Achievement (C), Academic Growth (B), Chronic Absenteeism (C), Overall (C).

• Clyde Boyd Middle School: Academic Achievement (C), Academic Growth (C), Chronic Absenteeism (D), Overall (C).

• Central Ninth Grade Center: Academic Achievement (NA), Academic Growth (NA), Chronic Absenteeism (D), Overall (NA).

• Charles Page High School: Academic Achievement (D), Chronic Absenteeism (D), Graduation (C), Post-secondary Opportunities (B), Overall (D).

The Board accepted resignations from Megan Claybrook (Charles Page), Donna Lawrence (Limestone), and Linda Gruse (Angus Valley).

The Board approved a one-time stipend for all eligible personnel who have completed the required district personnel development training.

The Board approved out-of-state travel for the Sandite Track Team to compete in Fayetteville on January 17, 2020.

The Board approved a renewal of the Daybreak Family Services Agreement for the 2019-2020 school year.

The Board approved a renewed contract with Jeanie Kvach as Bond Project Manger for the 2020 Fiscal Year.

The Board approved the employment of a Pre-Algebra Teacher and a Title 1 Reading/Math Paraprofessional, both at Clyde Boyd Middle School.

Cyber Monday deals on Sandite Pride photography - average markdown of 22%

Sandite Pride News will be marking down our photography collection by an average of 22% in recognition of the Cyber Monday holiday shopping event. All day Monday, December 2nd, from 12:00 a.m. to 11:59 p.m., discounts will be available on prints, downloads, wall art, and keepsakes.

Sandite Pride’s photo galleries include high school sports (basketball, football, softball, volleyball, etc.), community events (Boo at Case Park, Great Raft Race, Meet the Sandites, Chillin & Grillin, Herbal Affair, etc.), and government meetings (Board of Education, City Council).

Our SmugMug photo site offers paper prints ranging in size from wallets to 30x50 inches, canvases, metal art, refrigerator magnets, coffee mugs, photo panels, keepsake boxes, puzzles, buttons, luggage tags, mouse pads, coasters, postcards, playing cards and more.

High resolution single-photo downloads will be discounted from $2.00 to $1.50.

4x6 paper prints will be discounted from $1.28 to $1.00.

16x20 paper prints will be discounted from $34.80 to $27.27.

5x7 traditional canvas prints will be marked down from $110.24 to $95.34.

16x20 high gloss metal wall hangings will be discounted from $164.32 to $128.79.

Large refrigerator magnets will be discounted from $15.13 to $11.86.

Mouse pads will be discounted from $17.30 to $13.56.

6x6 ceramic tiles will be discounted from $26.01 to $20.39.

Coaster sets will be discounted from $43.42 to $34.03.

Photo Gallery: CPHS Gold Pride Marching Band celebrates 24 on Senior Night

The Charles Page High School Gold Pride Marching Band celebrated 24 seniors at halftime of the Sandites’ last football game.

Andrew Berryman is the son of Neil Berryman and the grandson of Peter and Mary Berryman. Andrew has been in band for six years and plans to attend Tulsa Tech after graduation.

Chandler Blake is the son of April Boone and Nathan Blake. Chandler has been in band for seven years and plans to attend the University of Oklahoma after graduating.

James Collins is the son of Laurie and Greg Collins. He has been in band for seven years and is undecided on where he will go to college.

Korbyn Cowan is the son of Amber and Shawn Cowan. He has been in band for seven years and plans on attending Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology.

Kallie Cox is the daughter of Jessica Seawright, Kurtis Cox, and Vicki Seawright. She has been in band for seven years and pans on attending Tulsa Community College and Northeastern State University.

Steven Dorris is the son of Michael and Sheila Dorris. He has been in band for seven years and plans on enlisting in the United State Army.

Ben Hunt is the son of Todd and Chantel Hunt. He has been in band for seven years and plans on attending the University of Oklahoma.

Holle Keeth is the daughter of Travis Keeth and Cynthia Keeth. She has been in the band for four years. After graduating, Keeth plans on enlisting in the U.S. Army and pursuing a career as a writer.

Sam Keiper is the son of Eric and Michelle Keiper. He has been in band for seven years, and is undecided on his college destination.

Evan Kral is the son of Niki Counce and Dan Kral. He has been in band for seven years and plans on attending Youth America College.

Garrett Lincoln is the son of Rob and Kendra Lincoln. He has been in band for seven years and plans on attending Oklahoma Baptist University.

Klaire Pinson is the daughter of Melinda Smith and Staff Sergeant Clinton Pinson. She has been in band for seven years and plans on attending Tulsa Community College and Northeastern State University.

Tonja Pipes is the daughter of Heather and Robert Pipes. She has been in band for seven years and plans on attending Oklahoma State University.

Kristin Shipley is the daughter of Pam and Darin Shipley. She has been in band for six years and plans on attending Oklahoma State University.

Izzy Smith is the daughter of Daniel and Angela Smith. She has been in band for seven years and is undecided on her college destination.

Blakely Staton is the son of Celeste and Justin Thompson, and Jeremy Staton. He has been in band for seven years. After graduation Staton plans on pursuing a career in aviation and continuing to work at QuikTrip.

Haley Stuckey is the daughter of Erik and Kerri Stuckey. She has been in band on seven years and plans on attending Oklahoma State University.

Elie Summar is the daughter of Stephanie and Toni Summar. She has been in band for seven years. After graduation Summar plans on becoming an astrophysicist and working at NASA.

Jacelyn Trotter is the daughter of Jason and Mary Ann Trotter. She has been in band for seven years and plans on attending Oklahoma State University.

Luca Vaca is the son of Lana and Stephen Vaca. He has been in band for seven years. After graduation Vaca plans on saving sea turtles.

Amberly Watson is the daughter of Tristia Watson and Lance Watson. She has been in band for seven years and is undecided on her college destination.

Anabeth Wiebe is the daughter of Jesse and Jennifer Wiebe. She has been in band for six years and plans on studying biomedical engineering.

Elizabeth Whittington is the daughter of Amy Whittington. She has been in band for seven years and plans on enlisting in the U.S. Navy.

Wanageeska Nokose Williams is the daughter of Rodney and Sherri Williams. She has been in band for four years, and plans on attending the U.S. Naval Academy.

Sand Springs School District holds commemorative beam-signing at new 9th Grade Center

Sand Springs Public Schools officials, along with select members of local government and the Chamber of Commerce gathered at Charles Page High School Friday afternoon for a commemorative beam-signing event.

The high school is currently constructing a new $14.28 million freshman academy and STEM center that will unify grades 9-12 on one campus for the first time in decades. Currently the district’s ninth grade center is located in a century-old building, almost a mile from the high school. More than 75% of students are bused from the current ninth grade center to the high school every day for extracurricular activities and certain classes.

The new wing will be conjoined with the existing building through a central lobby, but will keep younger students separated from the upperclassmen for most of the day. In addition to housing the freshmen, the new building will also provide class space for expanded curriculum.

Construction was originally expected to finish in August of 2020, but is ahead of schedule and officials are currently expecting a July completion date. This year’s class of freshmen will be the last students to walk the halls at Central Ninth Grade Center, which was previously Sand Springs High School up till 1954. The historic building will be continue to be used for administrative purposes.

The Clyde Boyd Middle School 8th Grade Student Council was invited to the beam-signing as the first class of students who will occupy the facility.

CPHS Football scoreboard operator Leroy Paddock celebrated after 54 year career

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As the Sandite football team closed out the 2019 season at Sand Springs Memorial Stadium, Leroy Paddock closed out a 54-year career as the Sandites’ scoreboard manager. Paddock was presented with a commemorative plaque from Superintendent Sherry Durkee, Athletic Director Rod Sitton, and Head Coach Dustin Kinard between quarters in the Sandites’ season finale 34-7 loss to Booker T. Washington.

Paddock’s 54-year tenure began in 1965, when the scoreboard was managed from a small elevated box on the sideline, and he had the privilege of running the clock throughout the team’s historic 1966 State Championship campaign.

Sand Springs celebrated its 100th year of Sandite Football this season, and Paddock has been part of the team for more than half of it. He worked under fourteen head coaches and saw the Sandites through both 12-win seasons and 0-10 seasons when the stands were half empty. The team picked up 134 wins with Paddock running the clock.

“Leroy’s attention to the referees is unbelievable,” stated Bob Walker, the 20+ year Voice of Sandite Athletics. “Friday nights can get hectic in the press box, with spotters, 25-second clock operator, members of the press, plus messengers delivering PA notes. Leroy’s focus on the referee’s signals to stop and re-start the clock is completely professional.”

Paddock’s service hasn’t been limited to Friday night football. He has also operated the scoreboard for junior varsity and youth football, soccer, baseball, and softball throughout the year. He will continue to serve the community at Sandite baseball and softball events for the foreseeable future, but is no longer able to climb the steep bleachers at Memorial Stadium, which does not have an elevator to the press box.

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Leroy Paddock (front) and Bob Walker (back) at a 2019 Sand Springs Baseball game.

(Robert Lowell Walker contributed to this story).