Sheilah Bright and Scott Palk to be inducted into Sand Springs Education Foundation Hall of Fame

The Sand Springs Education Foundation recently announced its 2019 Hall of Fame inductees. Sheilah Bright (Class of 1979) and Scott Palk (1985) will be honored at the annual Hall of Fame Banquet on Thursday, April 25th at 6:00 p.m. in the Ed Dubie Field House.

The SSEF provides district teachers with grants for special equipment, supplies, and student projects. The Hall of Fame Banquet is one of their biggest annual fundraisers. Table sponsorships are available at $400 for eight seats, and individual tickets are $50. The dinner will be preceded by a silent auction at 5:30 p.m.

To purchase tickets or request further information, contact Tirita Montross at 918-798-1517.

Bright is a forty-year veteran journalist, publishing her first article at 15 years of age. She has contributed to numerous magazines and newspapers and was part of an Emmy Award-winning script-writing team for Narrative Television Network. She was a driving force behind Operation Gold Pride, which raised more than $600,000 for Sand Springs Public Schools. She also recently opened the Bright Morning Farm event center.

Palk graduated with a Bachelor’s of Science from Oklahoma State University in 1989 and a Juris Doctorate from the University of Oklahoma in 1992. He served as an Assistant District Attorney for Cleveland County from 1992 to 2002 and was an Assistant United States Attorney from 2002 to 2011. He has worked as Deputy Criminal Chief and Anti-Terrorism Advisory Council Coordinator. From 2011 to 2017 he was Assistant Dean of Students and Assistant General Counsel at the University of Oklahoma College of Law before being commissioned as a U.S. District Judge. Palk won Prosecutor of the Year awards in 1993 and 2004. In 2011 he was awarded the Director’s Certificate of Appreciation for Assistance to the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Joint Terrorism Task Force.

Hall of Fame inductees are required to have attended Sand Springs Public Schools for at least three years after the Sixth Grade, or to have spent at least eight total years in SSPS, or to have spent the last two years of high school in SSPS and to have graduated from the district.

They must have attained a position of “unusual respect, impact, or influence in the community,” or have attained regional prominence in their field, or to have attained an exception level of accomplishment in their field.

Previous inductees include:

Michael Dale Case
Cleta Evans
Mary Helen Burke (1932)
Tot M. Brown (1934)
Bessie Crawford Zackery (1934)
Opal Clark (1934)
Al Dodson, Sr. (1936)
Marshall Vaughn Perry (1937)
L.W. Welch Jr. (1939)
James A. Sanders (1941)
Johnnie Mae Young (1941)
Marques Haynes (1942)
Robert D. Simms (1943)
Clyde Boyd Jr. (1943)
Erwin D. Phillips (1946)
William R. Pogue (1947)
Charles Gray (1947)
George Everett (1947)
Montie R. Box (1947)
Thomas S. Crewson (1950)
Richard Courter (1951)
William Means (1951)
Charles Marvin Hughes (1952)
Jack B. Johnson (1952)
Jerrold Lawless (1952)
John H. Rudy (1953)
Ken Neal (1953)
Charles Jestice (1953)
Jerry Adair (1955)
M. David Riggs (1955)
Barbara Guynn Smith (1956)
Bennie Osborn (1956)
J. Dean Speer (1956)
John Beck (1956)

James E. Palmer (1956)
Jerry L. Halcomb (1957)
Jan Hagara (1957)
George Paden (1957)
Charles E. Buchner, III (1957)
Billy Allen Hall (1957)
Jerry A. Hanner (1958)
Carolyn Morrow Cheney (1958)
Clarence “Scratch” Purser (1959)
Randal Wayne White (1959)
Harlan S. Pinkerton, Jr. (1960)
Gerrie Holliday (1961)
Ward Sherrill (1963)
Danny Lee McDonald (1964)
William R. White (1965)
Lotsee Spradling (1966)
John Wolf (1967)
Larry Glen Hurst (1967)
Richard Neal (1967)
I.J. Ganem (1969)
Mike Burdge (1969)
Forrest C. Crawford (1970)
Dianne Dinkel (1970)
Chris Thurmond (1971)
Deborah Browers Barnes (1972)
Linda L. Robertson (1973)
Cathy Lynn Burdge (1973)
Janet Rutland Eicher (1975)
John Fitzgerald Blake (1979)
Sam Harris (1979)
Eric Bloom (1982)
Stacey Ford Butterfield (1985)
Timothy Wright (1988)

Sand Springs voters overwhelmingly approve School Bond Propositions

Voters in the Sand Springs Public School District overwhelmingly voiced their support for a pair of general obligation bond measures Tuesday.

Proposition No. 1, totaling $32.85 million, passed with 92.83% in favor. 1,774 voted yes with only 137 against.

A second proposition totaling $1.3 million passed with 91.43% in favor to provide for new school buses. The measure received 1,749 “yes” votes and 164 “no” votes.

The new bonds won’t be sold until existing bonds are paid off, so the millage rate will remain the same and property taxes will not increase.

Totaling more than $34 million, the two measures will provide funding for a number of projects, most notably the construction of a new freshman wing on the Charles Page High School campus.

The new $14.28 million building will conjoin with the high school through the existing lobby, but will keep the freshmen separate from the upperclassmen for the majority of the day. Currently more than 75% of Central Ninth Grade Center are shuttled from downtown to the high school every day for athletics and other activities.

The new wing would also include several classrooms dedicated to the district’s STEM Initiative, enhancing Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics curriculum.

$7.2 million will go to technology enhancements throughout the district. Computer software systems will be updated to protect student data and provide mobile tech support, and WiFi will be improved and expanded throughout the district.

$825,000 will go to the district’s thriving athletic programs. Memorial Stadium will get new turf, the baseball and softball fields will be regraded, and wrestling mats and other athletic equipment will also be purchased.

Other Proposition No. 1 projects include:

• New gymnasium/storm shelter at Angus Valley Elementary.

• Bleachers for Garfield Elementary gymnasium.

• Electrical upgrades at Limestone Elementary.

• Playground upgrades at Northwoods Fine Arts Academy.

• Playground equipment for Early Childhood Education Center.

• ADA Accessible bathroom at Pratt Elementary.

• Removal of louvers on front windows at Clyde Boyd Middle School.

• Kitchen equipment at all district sites.

• Band uniforms and elementary music equipment.

• Additional space for Drama Department.

• Sound system upgrades to auditoriums and Ed Dubie Field House.

• District HVAC and roofing maintenance.

• Books and digital curriculum for all sites.

• Media Center materials.

• Painting, pavement, electrical, and plumbing maintenance.

Board of Education presents award to Stephen West, Brittany Pride, and Lance Beckner

Stephen West was presented with a Sandite Spirit Award after being nominated by Head Football Coach Dustin Kinard. Kinard, who is battling pancreatic cancer, said West was an inspiration to him this past season. West is diabetic, and not quite athletic enough to see action on the varsity team. Despite this, he still showed up to every practice and was one of the hardest working players on the team. Kinard said if West could be there giving his all, then he had to show up too.

Brittany Pride was presented with a Pacesetter Award for her work on the Central Ninth Grade Center yearbook. Pride is the yearbook teacher, and this year’s book was recognized by the publisher as one of the best in the nation. In addition to presenting Pride with an award, the publisher will also be using the CNGC yearbook as an example material for districts across the country.

Lance Beckner was presented with a Pacesetter Award in recognition of a large financial donation to the Sand Springs Special Olympics program. Beckner’s annual donation helps send student athletes to the Special Olympics in Stillwater every year.

District officials discussed the recent school grading system released by the State. According to Director of Special Services Sherry Rooks, many of the grades can be misleading due to Bell Curve grading and inconsistent criteria across school sites. For example, there are no State tests at the ninth-grade level, so the only criteria used for assessing Central Ninth Grade Center’s performance was chronic absenteeism. On top of that, the site scored an A initially, but it was dropped to a C because of the curve.

According to Track and Field Coach Mike Burdge, the City of Sand Springs Parks and Recreation Department is donating their time and expertise to construct a throwing surface for the high school discus and shot put teams.

The Board accepted the resignations of Rebecca Price and Lance Beck and the retirements of Becky Hatchett and Janie Abernathy.

The Board approved the appointments of Greg Morris as Board Treasurer, Terri Kennedy as Assistant Treasurer, and Lynne Graves as Encumbrance Clerk.

Board approved a lease agreement with the Mabee Center at Oral Roberts University for the CPHS Graduation ceremony on May 11, 2019.

Board approved the purchase of two fourteen-passenger Type-A Mini Buses, a Special Education Bus, and two 71-passenger Regular Education Buses.

Board approved the following out of state travel:

• Shawn Beard and JJ Smith to attend the International Society for Technology Education (ISTE) Conference in Philadelphia in June.

• Lauren Hamilton, Paige Vann, and Amy McAllister to attend the Trauma Informed School Conference in St. Charles, Missouri in June.

• Megan Sowers, Rachel Ellis, and Sallem Tullis to attend the National I Teach 2nd Grade Conference in Las Vegas in July.

• Chris Corbin to attend CrossFit Kids Training in Fenton, Missouri in April.

• Andrea Campfield and Jaden Salazar to attend the National Shakefest Competition in New York City in April.

Sand Springs to vote on new school bond projects Tuesday, including new Ninth Grade Center

Sandites will take to the polls Tuesday to voice their support or opposition of a nearly $33 million bond proposal.

The Sand Springs Public School District is hoping to pass two General Obligation Bond Propositions that would provide funding for a number of projects, most notably a new Ninth Grade Center and STEM Academy.

The current Ninth Grade Center is located at 14 West 4th Street in downtown Sand Springs. It is the oldest building in the district and is the former site of Sand Springs High School. According to district officials, more than 75% of freshmen are shuttled to the high school campus every day for classes, athletics, and other activities.

The district hopes to spend $14.28 million on a new Ninth Grade Center on the campus of Charles Page High School. The building would be partly connected to the High School through the existing lobby, but would otherwise keep the younger students separate from the upperclassmen for the majority of their day.

The new wing would also include several classrooms dedicated to the district’s STEM Initiative, enhancing Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics curriculum.

$7.2 million will go to technology enhancements throughout the district. Computer software systems will be updated to protect student data and provide mobile tech support, and WiFi will be improved and expanded throughout the district.

$825,000 will go to the district’s thriving athletic programs. Memorial Stadium will get new turf, the baseball and softball fields will be regraded, and wrestling mats and other athletic equipment will also be purchased.

Proposition No. 1 will total $32.85 million. Other Proposition No. 1 projects include:

• New gymnasium/storm shelter at Angus Valley Elementary.

• Bleachers for Garfield Elementary gymnasium.

• Electrical upgrades at Limestone Elementary.

• Playground upgrades at Northwoods Fine Arts Academy.

• Playground equipment for Early Childhood Education Center.

• ADA Accessible bathroom at Pratt Elementary.

• Removal of louvers on front windows at Clyde Boyd Middle School.

• Kitchen equipment at all district sites.

• Band uniforms and elementary music equipment.

• Additional space for Drama Department.

• Sound system upgrades to auditoriums and Ed Dubie Field House.

• District HVAC and roofing maintenance.

• Books and digital curriculum for all sites.

• Media Center materials.

• Painting, pavement, electrical, and plumbing maintenance.

A second proposition totaling $1.3 million will also be on the ballot to provide for new school buses.

If the measures pass, the new bonds won’t be sold until existing bonds are paid off. The millage rate will remain the same and property taxes will not increase. However, Sand Springs property taxes will drop in the near future if voters choose not to approve the measures.

Bill Knight Auto partners with Sand Springs Education Foundation in Driven to Give Day

Bill Knight Lincoln donated $8,000 to the Sand Springs Education Foundation last year.

For the sixth time, the Sand Springs Education Foundation (SSEF) will partner with Bill Knight Auto for "Driven to Give Day." 

The event will be held on Saturday, October 20th, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. in the Charles Page High School parking lot at 500 North Adams Road. This is a FREE event.

Participants, 18 years or older, can come and test drive a new Lincoln. For each test drive, the SSEF will receive $20. Participants are asked to fill out some basic information before the drive and immediately after the drive to complete the process and help secure the donation. NO obligation, NO sales, NO return contact unless the participant agrees.

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What an easy way to come help the SSEF raise $8,000! All Sand Springs teachers are also encouraged to stop by and do a test drive and put their name in the drawing for $500 to use in their classroom. This year the SSEF will give away $500 to two district teachers. 

Sand Springs Board of Ed hands out awards at October meeting

Charles Page High School students August Nelson and Elizabeth Watts were presented with Sandite Spirit Awards at this Monday’s Board of Education meeting. The two juniors scored in the top 1% of ACT scores in the country and are National Merit Semi-Finalists. Nelson’s family accepted his award on his behalf as Nelson was busy competing with the Sandite Academic Team.

Cross Country coaches Mike Burdge, Virginia Williams, and Gloria Smith were presented with Pacesetter Awards for their work in organizing the Inaugural Case Cross Country Invitational. The successful 5K meet drew more than twenty teams and a thousand runners from across the state.

Clyde Boyd Middle School teacher Kenneth Cole was presented with a Coin of Excellence to go along with the two awards he recently received at the Tulsa Regional Chamber’s Flight Night STEM Expo.

In other news:

The district is still looking to fill a vacant Special Education position at Central Ninth Grade Center.

Beloved CPHS biology teacher Bo Jestice has resigned and is moving to Colorado.

Hometown philanthropist Montie Box recently made a large donation to send Sand Springs elementary students to Biztown, a simulated city ran by Junior Achievement of Tulsa.

Sand Springs teacher Angela Graham running for House District 66

In the midst of a statewide teacher walkout, thousands of public educators rallied outside the State Capitol building to lobby for increased education funding. While many construction workers refused to cross the picket line to work on the Capitol remodel, one group of individuals was eagerly encouraged to enter the building: legislative candidates.

382 candidates filed to run for the House of Representatives, many with a goal of affecting major change in what some perceive as a stagnant legislature with no dedication to fighting for everyday Oklahomans. Among them was Angela Graham, who hopes to secure the Democratic Party’s nomination on June 26th for House District 66, representing Sand Springs and Northwest Tulsa.

Sandite Pride News sat down with Graham for an interview this past week at Napoli’s Italian Restaurant in downtown Sand Springs. Graham, a native Sandite, likes to keep her tax dollars as local as possible to support the small town economy. Graham currently resides in Sand Springs and both of her children attend public schools.

Graham graduated Charles Page High School in 1999, earned an Associate’s Degree in Elementary Education, and graduated from the University of Phoenix with a Bachelor’s in Human Services and Mental Health. She currently teaches Pre-K at Deborah Brown Community School in downtown Tulsa.

Now she wants to teach the State Legislature a lesson on how to treat its citizens.  

Foremost on Graham’s mind is creating a diverse and sustainable tax base to fully fund education, infrastructure, and social services.

“When we are in a revenue failure, we should be looking at every option to get sustainable revenue for schools and roads and bridges,” says Graham.

Graham wants to end the Capital Gains tax deduction, which allows Oklahomans to avoid paying taxes on income from the sale of Oklahoma real estate or stock in Oklahoma-based firms.

She also wants to take another look at increasing the gross production tax on new oil wells. Oklahoma oil wells are taxed at 7% after their first 36 months, but were previously only taxed at 2% for the first three years. House Bill 1010xx, passed in the latest legislative session, raised that rate to 5%.

“The oil is here. They’re going to pay 7% or 9%, they’re going to stay in Oklahoma.”

Graham is a strong critic of the Oklahoma Taxpayers Unite! organization, which is circulating a veto referendum petition to undo HB1010xx.

“They’re not really concerned about everyday Oklahomans and regressive taxes…they are concerned about protecting special interests and big oil in Oklahoma. They’re not really fighting for everyday Oklahomans.”

She also feels like HB1010xx contained many regressive taxes, and sympathizes with legislators who didn’t feel comfortable voting in favor of that package.  

“I absolutely understand legislators that refused to sign that because they didn’t want poor folks being taxed more. And I also understand legislators that listened to their constituents and signed that because it was a place to start. Sometimes the vehicle for change isn’t perfect.”

Specifically Graham wasn’t fond of what she calls “moral taxes” on cigarettes and cigars.

She is also opposed to consolidating administration or looking for wasteful spending in public school districts. “I think that’s already been done. We’ve cut everything that we can, we’ve combined everything we can combine. Schools in West Tulsa that affect our district have been shut down. It’s always okay to look at wasteful spending, but there’s nothing left to cut.”

“We’re not in the mess because there’s fraud and abuse at such a rampant level that it’s caused a revenue failure for ten years. We’re in this mess because we don’t have sustainable revenue.”

She was against the “David Boren” one-cent sales tax that was defeated as a State Question in 2016, saying it was a regressive tax that disproportionately affects low income and impoverished Oklahomans.

On the workforce, Graham wants to see labor unions strengthened, wants to undo Oklahoma’s right to work laws, and wants to avoid offering tax incentives to large companies that don’t provide high-paying full-time jobs for their employees. She also supports raising the minimum wage to $15.

“There’s a problem in Oklahoma with stagnant wages with a minimum wage that keeps people poor, and those are large corporations that then also reap the benefits of their employees spending food stamp money in those same businesses.”

“When we pay living wages to everyday Oklahomans, they invest it back in the economy. Every penny that low income middle class workers make – they spend it. They’re not accruing more wealth. It’s good economics to pay them more money because it helps the sales tax, it invests in property tax, it’s just good business and it’s also moral to pay a fair and living wage.”

Graham wants to see a major overhaul of the criminal justice and foster care systems in Oklahoma.

“We are spending an insane amount of money criminalizing everyday folks in Oklahoma. When we are spending more to incarcerate grown adults than we are on per pupil spending – that’s a problem.”

She also wants to eliminate the cash bail system and wants to help ex-cons expunge their criminal records.

Graham opposed the passage of SB1140 which allows private adoption agencies not receiving tax dollars to refuse to adopt to couples whose lifestyles are in conflict with the moral or religious beliefs of the agency, specifically LGBTQIA families. That bill also drew condemnation from California Attorney General Xavier Becerra, who responded by banning State-funded travel to Oklahoma.

“We have a broken foster care system in Oklahoma. We have thousands of children in Oklahoma that are in desperate need of loving families. We should never make it harder for loving families to adopt children in need. It’s discriminatory, it shouldn’t have been introduced. It’s an attack on a vital part of our community.”

Graham would also like to see the foster care system expanded to provide services for young adults who “age out” of the system when they turn eighteen.  

Low voter turnout is a big point of concern for Graham, who would like to see Election Day become a national holiday. As a state she would like to see automatic voter registration with an opt-out available.

Graham personally opposed the recent Constitutional Carry bill passed by the legislature and vetoed by Governor Mary Fallin. Despite coming from a family that hunts and partakes in recreational shooting, she still believes that gun owners should go through State licensing to carry sidearms in public.

“I would have personally been opposed to (Constitutional Carry), however I understand that the polling from most of the folks in House District 66 were for it. And so when I’m elected there will come a time when I might be personally opposed to something, but if my district is telling me to vote that way, even if it goes against my party, I’m going to be required to represent their needs. And if I ever do have to draw a line in the sand, I would be transparent and make sure they understand my reasoning.”

Graham has never before run for public office, but has served in a number of volunteer capacities, including as Precinct Chair for the Democratic Party. She is an anti-racist worker with Aware Tulsa, the local chapter of Showing Up for Racial Justice. She has also volunteered with the Parent-Child Center of Tulsa, working with their anti-bullying coalition.

Of the 125 legislative seats up for election this year, nineteen candidates filed completely unopposed and 99 filed unopposed within their party. Three Republicans filed for the District 66 seat, including incumbent Jadine Nollan.

Graham will take on former restaurant owner Rusty Rowe in the Democratic Primary on June 26th.

SEE RELATED: Tulsa restaurateur Rusty Rowe campaigns for Oklahoma House District 66

Board of Education approves new wrestling and girls' basketball coaches

The Sand Springs Public School District Board of Education presented more than twenty awards during their Monday night regularly monthly meeting.

Remington Wagner was presented with a Sandite Spirit Award in recognition of her All-Region Cheer Team achievement. Wagner is signed to cheer at Southwestern Christian University next year and will study Kinesiology. 

Colt Savage was presented with a Sandite Spirit Award for his success with the boys' basketball team. Savage concluded his high school career as a four-time All Conference player and was named the 2017-2018 Oklahoma Basketball Coaches Association Player of the Year for Region 7. He led his team in scoring for two seasons and averaged 20.58 points per game as a senior. He will play for the University of Central Oklahoma next season. 

Eric Savage was presented with a Pacesetter Award in recognition of his success with the Sandite Basketball Team. Savage wrapped up his fifth season as Head Coach with the first State Tournament appearance for Sand Springs since 1963 and was named the Frontier Valley Conference Coach of the Year. He holds a 65-62 record in Sand Springs and a career record of 370-155. After winning three 5A State Titles at Tulsa Memorial High School, he took over a Sandite program that had only won one game the year before. 

Jeff Cooper was presented with a Pacesetter Award. Cooper was awarded the Oklahoma Basketball Coaches Association "Friends of Basketball" award and was named the Region 7 Junior High Coach of the Year.

Barbie Jackson was presented with a Pacesetter Award for her work with the Sand Springs Education Association during the last legislative session and teacher walkout. "(Jackson) worked tirelessly to keep everyone informed," said Board member Krista Polanski. "Barbie has a big heart and she puts all of her heart into everything she does."

Shawn Beard, Sherry Durkee, Karen Biggs, Laura Hamilton, Ernie Kothe, Angelia Noel, Nancy Ogle, Sean Parker, Sherry Pearson, Renee Plant, Russell Ragland, Danese Tanner, Stan Trout, Kristin Arnold, Rob Miller, and Greg Morris were all presented with Sandite Coins of Excellence for their work during the teacher walkout. 

Superintendent Sherry Durkee spoke on the difficulty the schools are facing regarding the teacher pay raise package passed by the Oklahoma Legislature during the last session. 

The political action group Oklahoma Taxpayers Unite has filed a veto referendum petition to put House Bill 1010xx to a vote of the people. If the petition garners 41,000 signatures by July 18, Oklahoma voters will decide whether to approve or veto the bill, which provides funding for a $6,100 average pay raise for Oklahoma teachers. 

HB1010xx is expected to raise $447 million in revenue by increasing the gross production tax to 5% on all oil wells, increasing the cigarette tax by $1 per pack, increasing the gasoline tax by three cents, and increasing the diesel tax by six cents. 

If the petition succeeds, the question of whether to approve HB1010xx won't appear on ballots until the November election. With the school year beginning in August, schools are waiting on an Attorney General ruling on whether or not the districts should enact teacher raises for this school year.

If schools enact raises in August and voters reject HB1010xx in November, it would create a massive revenue shortage for districts across the state. Teacher pay raises will cost the Sand Springs district nearly $3 million in the next school year.

In other news:

Charles Page High School will host a new interior design program in partnership with Tulsa Tech during the next school year. 

Superintendent Durkee said she's pleased with the applicant pool the district recently had for several high profile positions. The District recently began accepting applications for Head Girls' Basketball Coach, Head Wrestling Coach, Head Volleyball Coach, and Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum. 

The Board approved the hiring of new Head Coaches for Wrestling and Girls' Basketball.

Tobey Nightingale will take over the Lady Sandite Basketball team after coaching Hennessey High School to a 9-16 record at the 3A level last season. The Lady Sandites are coming off an 18-8 season and back-to-back State Tournament appearances. 

Jarrod Patterson will take over a Sandite Wrestling program that placed third in the State Tournament in 2018 and won State and Dual State titles in 2017. The Sandites finished last season with a 13-4 dual record and won 25-straight duals over two seasons. 

Ryan Skaggs, owner/operator of Precision Outdoor Services, spoke regarding the bidding process for lawncare services in the school district. According to Skaggs, his company underbid the existing provider by $6,000, but his competitor was allowed to rebid to undercut Precision. Skaggs called on the district to go to a sealed bidding process in the future. 

The district is in the process of implementing "Crisis Go," an emergency system that alerts staff, students, parents, and law enforcement of any potential threat on campus. Durkee expects to have the system fully online by the next school year. 

Assistant Superintendent Rob Miller is in his last month with the Sand Springs district and will be taking over as Superintendent of Bixby Public Schools on June 1st. 

The Charles Page Class of 2018 graduation ceremonies will be held Saturday, May 12th at 7:30 p.m. at the Oral Roberts University Mabee Center.

Sand Springs Schools return to session after eight-day strike

After eight days of school closure, Sand Springs Public Schools will return to session Thursday, April 12th. 

Teachers from the district have been participating in a statewide walkout to protest low wages and inadequate school funding.

Tens of thousands of protesters have visited the State Capitol in the past two weeks to lobby for increased school funding, and supporters could be seen on street corners in towns across the state waving posters and banners even through rain, sleet, and bitter cold. 

The State Legislature has thus far failed to meet the full demands of the Oklahoma Educators Association, but has passed revenue-raising measures including teacher pay raises averaging $6,100, as well as some general education funding. 

Sand Springs Superintendent Sherry Durkee issued the following press release Tuesday evening after a district meeting with teachers and administrators. 

"Thank you for your continued support of our district and teachers during the last few weeks. We understand that it has been a difficult and emotional time for everyone. Our teachers and administration have been in constant communication during this time. We pride ourselves on our ability to constructively collaborate together ensuring we make positive decisions for students. Our community’s support has been extraordinary and we are thankful to be Sandites.

"After a meeting late this afternoon with teachers and administrators, our Sandite family decided to resume school on Thursday, April 12. Also today, Governor Fallin signed the Ball and Dice bill (HB 1013xx) and the Internet Sales bill (HB 1019xx) raising an additional $44 million dollars in state revenue. We are extremely proud of the courageousness of our Sandites to advocate for the future of public education in Oklahoma and for the thousands of students their advocacy will benefit. Teachers, parents, community members, business leaders, and our faith community united fiercely together for a noble, common purpose. We are extremely thankful for legislators who choose to boldly make the decisions to vote in support of public education. Our job is not finished. Advocacy must continue. We will be sending additional information to our parents and patrons to keep people informed of our next steps. Stay tuned and stay with us.

"Beginning Monday, April 16, an additional 15 minutes will be added to each day to make up for lost instructional time. Our students’ last day of class remains the same, May 25th.

"Those of you in the community who spent countless hours serving our students with the provision of food and childcare are heroes in our hearts. We truly are blessed to reside in an amazing city full of people who are willing to serve in such a powerful way. Thank you to all who served in this way.

"Thank you for your support of Sand Springs Schools, the investment in the future of public education in Oklahoma and for continuing to keep an open dialog during this time. We remain committed to providing the best possible education to our students.

Lastly, take the time to thank our teachers. They are resilient, tireless, and extraordinary people. I am in awe."

Oklahoma Legislature approves $40 million in new revenue for education

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Senate on Friday approved measures that will send millions of new dollars into Oklahoma classrooms.

The Senate gave approval to HB 1019xx, a bill that requires online marketplaces like Amazon to collect and remit sales tax to Oklahoma or comply with the state’s notification requirements. The Oklahoma Tax Commission estimates the bill will generate $20.5 million annually.

“The Oklahoma Senate has shown repeatedly its commitment to students and teachers first by passing the largest teacher pay raise in state history and now by approving measures providing millions of dollars in new funding for Oklahoma classrooms,” said Senate President Pro Tempore Mike Schulz, R-Altus.

The Oklahoma Senate last week approved a teacher pay raise bill, giving Oklahoma teachers a $6,100 pay raise on average. The pay raise bill already has been signed into law. To fund the teacher pay raises and provide millions of dollars in funding for textbooks and teacher health care benefits, the Senate also gave approval to revenue measures generating $530 million in new, recurring revenue to fully and perpetually fund the raises and increased education spending.

“Increasing average teacher pay in Oklahoma to the second-highest in our region and putting more dollars into the classroom will help us retain and recruit quality, professional educators to help our students and our state succeed. As we move forward, the Senate stands committed to considering additional ways to put more dollars into our classrooms, as wells as reforms that best serve students, parents and teachers,” Schulz said.

The Senate on Friday also gave approval to HB 3375, the so-called “ball and dice” gaming bill. For the current fiscal year, the Oklahoma Tax Commission cannot certify revenue generated by this bill. The Office of Management and Enterprise Services, the state’s gaming compliance agency, anticipates the measure will bring new revenue into the state.

Last week, the Oklahoma Senate approved the FY’19 education budget bill, only the second time the April 1 “Fund Education First” deadline has been met by the Legislature. The education budget, which has been signed into law, allocates more than $2.9 billion to Oklahoma schools, a 19 percent increase from the previous year.

Joy Hofmeister, State Superintendent of Public Instruction, made the following remarks today after the passage in the Senate of House Bill 1019XX and House Bill 3375, which will add nearly $40 million in dedicated funding to common education:

“What we have seen at the Capitol this past week has been groundbreaking. Over the past several days, it has been my privilege to engage hundreds of teachers in face-to-face conversations and to witness firsthand their tireless advocacy to ensure that their students and classrooms have the resources for learning.

“On the heels of landmark legislation signed into law just last week, common education now has received an infusion of nearly $500 million in new revenue. I am grateful for the bipartisan efforts of legislators who have done the right thing to reverse a decade of funding challenges that failed to keep pace with student enrollment and need. The legislation passed this week is tremendous progress, but our students and their education will require continued investment and advocacy for years to come.

“Teachers, your stories have been heard at the Capitol and across the nation. These gains are the result of your fight for kids. I know your hearts are in the classroom. I am inspired by your years of dedication, humbled by your sacrifices and proud of your accomplishments.”

Board of Education meeting focuses on teacher walkout and school closures

The Sand Springs Public Schools Board of Education met in a regular monthly meeting Monday evening and spent most of the session discussing the ongoing Oklahoma teacher walkout.

Superintendent Sherry Durkee discussed HB1010xx, HB3705 and other pieces of legislation from the current session. The Oklahoma legislature recently passed bills generating teacher pay raises averaging $6,100, but failed to satisfy Oklahoma Educators' Association demands for general classroom funding.

A majority of the Sand Springs teaching staff is participating in a statewide walkout at press time and Thursday will mark the fourth day of school closures due to understaffing. Many district employees are lobbying at the Capitol and scores of supporters have been occupying street corners at major intersections in Sand Springs, holding signs in support of the walkout. 

"I think that we have a great set of staff that love kids and are trying really hard to do the right thing and make it better for our kids," said Durkee.

The district has two unused "snow days" left, so students can miss school till Tuesday without having to extend the school year. If the strike lasts past that point, the district may add additional days to the school year, and could add extra time to the school day. Teachers will have to make up each missed day in professional development even after the students are dismissed for the summer, regardless of snow days.

The Board also presented four Sandite Spirit Awards and two Pacesetter Awards.

Mason Turgeon received a Sandite Spirit Award for building a set of wooden stairs for an elementary school ball pit as part of his Eagle Scout project. 

Jacelyn Smith, Juliana Shipman, and Erin Smith received Sandite Spirit Awards for helping a fellow student. The girls noticed one of their classmates' shoes were falling apart so they purchased a brand new pair of shoes from their own money. 

Andrea Bays, Caroline Brown, and Janet Thompson were presented with Pacesetter Awards. The three teachers head up the Charles Page High School Business Professionals of America and helped raise $750 for Sandite Special Olympics at their annual fundraiser.

Sand Springs Schools to close Monday for teacher walkout, possibly longer

The Sand Springs Public School District will be closed Monday, April 2 due to insufficient staffing. 

According to a district survey, 63% of teachers intend to strike in protest of insufficient state funding. Many will be heading to the State Capitol to lobby for increased funding from the State legislature. 

"Although we would like to provide preparation time, we are only able to give notice one day at a time," said a public statement. "We will keep you updated through our social media, district website, local media and our messaging system."

Many local organizations have come together to help pick up the load that the schools normally carry, including meals and childcare. Free meals can be found at the following location for the duration of the teach walkout. Breakfast is served from 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. and lunch will be served from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Anyone with questions can contact Mikael Howard at 918-246-1400 or mikael.howard@sandites.org. 

Salvation Army (lunch and breakfast) - 4403 South 129th West Avenue, Sand Springs.
Lake Methodist Church (lunch and breakfast) - 7750 West 14th Street, Tulsa.
Garfield STEAM Academy (lunch and breakfast) - 701 North Roosevelt Avenue, Sand Springs.
Olivet Baptist Church (lunch) - 155 North 65th West Avenue, Tulsa. 
Harvest Church West Tulsa (breakfast) - 331 South 49th West Avenue, Tulsa. 
Church That Matters (lunch) - 3 West 41st Street, Sand Springs.
River Oaks Community Center (lunch) - 4800 West 16th Street, Sand Springs.

The Sand Springs School Board and Sand Springs City Council both passed unanimous declarations of support for teachers who choose to walk out. The district currently has six unused snow days, but if the walkout lasts longer than that, the school year will have to be extended. 

SEE RELATED: SSPS Superintendent Durkee addresses teacher walkouts at District Dialogue
SEE RELATED: Sand Springs City Council approves resolution of support for teachers
SEE RELATED: Sand Springs Board of Education approves resolution of solidarity with teacher walk-out

Tulsa Technology Center and Tulsa Community College will both be open during the walkout and district transportation to those schools will continue as usual. Students will be able to meet the bus at Charles Page High School for transportation. All extracurricular and athletic activities will continue, including Prom and Graduation. 

The Salvation Army Boys and Girls Clubs of the Tulsa Metro area will be providing a free Education Alternative for the duration of the walkout, including their Sand Springs location at 4403 South 129th West Avenue. Space is limited at each location. The club is open to children ages five to seventeen from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m, Monday through Friday. Volunteers are needed and can reach Charity Mitchell at 918-587-7801 or at charity.mitchell@uss.salvationarmy.org. Other clubs are located at: 

Boys & Girls Club Broken Arrow – 918-258-7545, 1400 W. Washington, Broken Arrow, 74012
Boys & Girls Club Creek County/Sapulpa – 918-224-4415, 1721 S. Hickory, Sapulpa, 74066
Boys & Girls Club Sand Springs – 918-245-2237, 4403 S. 129th West Ave., Sand Springs, 74063
Mabee Red Shield Boys & Girls Club – 918-834-2464, 1231 N. Harvard, Tulsa, OK 74115
North Mabee Boys & Girls Club – 918-425-7534, 3001 N Cincinnati, Tulsa, OK 74106
West Mabee Boys & Girls Club – 918-582-4327, 2143 S Olympia, Tulsa, OK 74107

Governor Mary Fallin recently signed a revenue package funding an average pay raise of $6,100 for teachers and $50 million in general education funding. The bill increased the gross production tax on oil wells to 5%, increased the cigarette tax by $1.00 per pack, increased gasoline tax by $0.03 a gallon and the diesel tax by $0.06 a gallon. 

However, the Oklahoma Education Association previously announced demands of $10,000 in teacher pay raises, as well as $5,000 raises for support staff, $213 million in state employee raises, $200 million in public school funding, and $255.9 million in health care funding. The OEA has not backed down from its demands at press time and are still calling for a walkout.

Senate passes revenue package to fund teacher pay raises, Fallin pledges to sign bills

OKLAHOMA CITY - The Oklahoma Senate on Wednesday passed a historic revenue package to fund a $6,100, or 16 percent, pay raise on average for Oklahoma teachers. That increase moves Oklahoma from seventh to second highest in the region in average teacher pay and is the largest teacher pay raise in the history of the state.

“The Oklahoma Senate took a historic step that will have positive and long-lasting impacts on the success of our state," said Senate Pro Tem Mike Schulz, R-Altus. "One of the most important factors in the success of our students is a quality, professional teacher in the classroom. Passing the largest teacher pay raise in state history moves us to No. 2 in the region in average teacher pay and will help Oklahoma retain quality teachers. It’s a significant investment in economic development because an educated workforce is essential to growing and expanding our economy. For more than 15 months, the Senate has worked tirelessly to fund a significant teacher pay raise. This is a responsible plan that answers Oklahomans’ call for the Legislature to find a solution to teacher pay. I want to thank my colleagues in the Senate for their dedication to finding a solution and seeing a teacher pay raise come to fruition.” 

HB 1010xx provides $447 million in revenue by increasing the gross production to 5 percent on all wells, increasing the cigarette tax $1 per pack, and increasing the gas tax 3 cents and the diesel tax 6 cents.  

The Senate also advanced HB 1011xx, which provides an additional $84.3 million for teacher pay by making changes to the state income tax code.

Governor Mary Fallin issued the following statement:

“This is an historic evening for the state of Oklahoma. I applaud the bipartisanship shown in the Senate tonight and in the House of Representatives earlier this week by passing House Bill 1010XX. Those voting yes answered the call from the public by voting teachers a pay raise and putting the state on a solid foundation for the future. I will follow through on their courage and action by signing House Bill 1010XX. I appreciate our lawmakers putting people over politics by approving this package of revenue measures to fund teacher pay raises as well as provide additional money for the classroom. This budget package also helps set us on a path to long-term sustainability and stability by making more recurring revenue available and helps us to stop balancing our budget with one-time funds.”

State Superintendent of Public Education Joy Hofmeister commended the bipartisan legislation, but noted there's more work to be done. "While this legislation is far from all that needs to be done to reverse years of education funding cuts, it is a tremendous step forward. There is no one more important than the teacher in classroom instruction, and House Bill 1010-XX will be critical in retaining and recruiting teachers. This vote is a bright light for public education in Oklahoma.”

“This is progress, but it should not be a one-time deal," said Senate Democratic Leader John Sparks. "Moving forward, we need to make sure that Oklahoma invests in education. This means we need sustainable revenues that will allow us to restore funding for our classrooms which has been cut for over a decade.

“We’re giving teachers a much deserved raise now, but we need to continue to improve teacher salaries in Oklahoma in coming years. We also need to continue working to provide much needed salary increases to school support personnel and state employees.

“The job is not done. We will continue working tomorrow and for the remainder of the legislative session to properly fund education in Oklahoma.”

Word of Life church holds Serve Day, paints Limestone Elementary cafeteria

Word of Life, a non-denominational Christian church in Sand Springs, held a "Serve Day" Sunday afternoon, and more than sixty volunteers donated their time to various organizations around town.

Following their 10:00 a.m. Sunday service, the church members headed to Limestone Technology Academy, Sand Springs Community Services, and Green Tree Assisted Living & Memory Care. 

At Limestone Elementary, the workers painted a large cafeteria in the district colors. They also cleaned up an outdoor classroom area. Another group visited with elderly residents at Green Tree Assisted Living, leading them in praise and worship.

At Sand Springs Community Services, volunteers helped to spot clean the facility to get it ready for its annual Tulsa Area United Way Panel Review. According to SSCS Director Nathan Woodmansee, the organization served over 1000 households from the Sand Springs community in 2017. The nonprofit can provide families with a full week’s worth of food up to six times a year, or more if there is a verifiable emergency. They also offer clothing, household items, a computer lab and job-search assistance, utility and rent assistance, and other client-specific assistance.

“SSCS does not receive government funding,” says Woodmansee. “It depends fully on donations and partnerships from churches like WOL, local coprorate sponsorships, individual donations, partnerships with Sand Sprigns Public Schools, local foundation grants, and its partnership with the Community Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma.”

Word of Life, whose motto is "we exist to reach people," has a long history of serve days, most recently partnering with local schools. In August they painted the Limestone gymnasium and auditorium, and improved the grounds and landscaping. In October they painted the gym, a classroom, and a pair of bathrooms at Angus Valley Elementary. 

Founded in 1981, Word of Life has been serving Sand Springs for 37 years. Lead Pastor Chad Stewart has led the congregation since 2011.

Word of Life
1402 North 81st West Avenue
Sand Springs, Oklahoma 74063
(918) 245-0262
Service: Sunday 10:00 a.m.
Office Hours: Monday - Thursday 9:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
http://www.mywordoflife.com
Facebook: @Wordoflifess
Instagram: @Wordoflifess

Sand Springs Community Services
114 West 4th Street
(918) 245-5183
Hours: Monday - Thursday 10:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Friday 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
http://sscsok.org
Facebook: @SanditesHere2Help

*Contact SSCS by phone or web to volunteer.

SSPS Superintendent Durkee addresses teacher walkouts at District Dialogue

Sand Springs Superintendent Sherry Durkee. (Stock photo).

The Sand Springs Public School District held a District Dialogue Meeting Monday evening at Charles Page High School. Superintendent Sherry Durkee spoke on State funding, school safety, and the looming threat of a teacher walkout during the session.

“We can’t sanction it,” says Durkee. “That’s on the teachers.” She pointed to the current situation in West Virginia where teachers just participated in a nine-day statewide walkout and the potential side effects that such a long break could have on students.

Student activities such as spring athletics, prom, graduation, music programs, testing and more would all be severely affected by an extended school closure. Durkee is also concerned about impoverished students who would lose access to free nutritional lunches. 

According to Durkee, funding solutions proposed for a $5,000 pay raise have failed to consider the number of teaching positions that have already been eliminated in response to budget cuts, and the need to hire more teachers and reduce class sizes once funding stabilizes. Additionally, any salary increase would increase the District's required payout for teacher retirement. According to Chief Financial Officer Greg Morris, that would amount to nearly $290,000 per year. 

"If we end up in a statewide walkout, I'm praying that doesn't happen, that we find resolution before that," said Durkee. "The truth is, it hurts kids." As a teacher, Durkee participated in the 1990 walkout that resulted in the passage of education reform legislation House Bill 1017. That walkout lasted four days.

Durkee said the district would have no choice but to shut down in the even of a walkout due to the lack of available substitutes and an inability to supervise students. The district currently has seven unused snow days that could be used, but a walkout that lasted longer than a week could severely cut into instructional time. 

School shooting threats were also a topic of discussion. Sand Springs and Tulsa Public Schools were both victims of several hoaxes in the weeks following the Florida massacre. Durkee expressed interest in the possibility of implementing student ID badges.

On Monday the Oklahoma Education Association announced plans to release a detailed revenue package and statewide school closure strategy. The OEA will hold a press conference in Oklahoma City Thursday at 1:00 p.m.

Tulsa Boys' Home celebrates 100 years of miracles in 2018

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The Tulsa Boys' Home has been serving at-risk Oklahoma youth for a century, as of 2018. The 150-acre facility in southwest Sand Springs houses the most damaged wards of the State, those who have washed out of more than a dozen foster homes, as well as privately-placed drug addicted youth.

"For many of them, we give them the first family that they've ever had," says congressional candidate and Boys' Home Board Member Tim Harris. Nearly 13,000 boys have stayed at the Home since 1918, and many have overcome drugs, sexual and physical abuse, and behavioral issues to become functioning, productive members of society.

The facility typically operates at or near full-capacity, with forty wards of the State and 24 privately-placed drug addicts. The Home accepts kids from eleven years of age till eighteen, providing counseling, family, schooling, and character-building recreation.

"These are the orphans of the 21st Century," says Executive Director Greg Conway. "Not orphans because of war or disease, but because of what's been done to them."

Most had their parental rights severed by the courts due to mental, physical, or sexual abuse. Many develop behavioral issues and are kicked out of more than a dozen foster homes before making their way to the Boys' Home. "We get the kids that have been kicked out of everywhere else, that nobody else wants to deal with," says Conway.

However, the Boys' Home is far from the stereotypical image of a poverty-ridden early twentieth-century orphanage. To an outsider, the grounds would appear to belong to a resort. Perfectly manicured lawns, fountains and statues, and amenities that could compete with any country club in the state. Billiards, horseback riding, a pool, a full gymnasium with free weights, cardio machines, basketball and tennis courts. 

"We have everything these boys need out here," says Youth Minister/Volunteer Coordinator Jeff Johnson, "but not the one thing they want. Family."

The staff does its best to be that family. Substance-abuse resident Ryder said "you can talk to the staff about anything you're going through anytime." Ryder hopes to get a doctorate in physical health and help special needs kids. "I want to do something good so I can come back here and tell my story."

Each member of the staff has success stories of kids they remember who went on to succeed in life outside the program. Director Conway spoke of Grant, a former meth addict, who went from being expelled from Union High School to graduating with a Charles Page High School diploma six months ahead of the rest of his class. 

The Boys' Home has an on-campus school staffed by certified teachers provided by the Sand Springs Public School district. They participate in Sand Springs curriculum and calendar, and graduate with CPHS diplomas. The school boasts small class sizes with technology to rival any public school. They use Virtual Academy and summer school to help students recover credits and get ahead. Most students arrive semesters or even years behind their peers due to transferring in and out of dozens of schools as they migrate from one foster home to another. 

More important than academic learning is mental and spiritual recovery after enduring untold hardships. One of the tools that helps facilitate that recovery is equine therapy. Through both individual and group sessions, the youth often form emotional connections to the horses while caring for them.

Equine Counselors Johnny Clark and Shannon Ross lead the boys in games with the horses, and even offer workshops for visitors to come participate. "When you get with a horse, the horse can reflect back emotionally what's going on with you," says Clark. 

For those who don't respond to the horses or traditional means of recreation, Chief Operating Officer Mike Murphy promises to find something for everyone. From ropes courses to chess and even a running club, the Boys' Home offers countless opportunities for kids to open up and be themselves.

Ultimately, the Boys' Home has three primary goals. "We think of our work as rescuing these guys, rebuilding them while they're here, then reintegrating them into our community," says Conway. 

The rebuilding is the hardest part. According to Conway, the most prevalent diagnosis among the youth is Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, a condition typically associated with veterans of war. 

"They come from the most broken of families and they are deeply wounded boys," says Conway, who holds a Master's degree in counseling. "For many of our boys, before they come here, they've never had a positive male influence in their lives."

The organization looks to provide those positive influences not only through the staff, but also with volunteer mentors and tutors. The Home provides "Hope Tours" for anyone interested in getting involved in the organization, or who simply want to learn more about it.

During the Hope Tour, guests meet many key people in the organization, including volunteers, staff, and even residents. The tour lasts about an hour, including question and answer opportunities. The tour focuses solely on educating the community and does not attempt to solicit donations. 

Upcoming Hope Tour dates are Tuesday, March 13th and Tuesday, March 27th at 5:30 p.m. To RSVP or request more information, contact Shannon Curry at 918.245.0231 ext. 5055 or scurry@tbhinc.org or contact Karen Clark at 918.245.0231 ext. 5004 or kkclark@tbhinc.org.

Governor Mary Fallin Says Measures in Place to Help Provide Safe Environment for Oklahoma Students

OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today assured Oklahomans that measures are in place intended to keep Oklahoma students safe.

The Oklahoma School Security Institute, created under legislation signed into law in 2013 by Fallin, operates under the Oklahoma Office of Homeland Security. The institute continues to offer schools training in numerous areas, and provides other services, such as security assessments at school campuses.

“The state of Oklahoma has a duty to do everything we can to keep our children safe. Every parent should have their child come home safely,” said Fallin. “The Oklahoma School Security Institute ensures that schools are well prepared for emergencies of all kinds. It also helps to provide more training and better coordination between law enforcement and education professionals.”

Kim Edd Carter, director of the Office of Homeland Security, said the institute’s staff of three also works with the State Department of Education to provide training it proposes schools obtain. More information may be found here.

 The Office of Homeland Security partners with Oklahoma’s fusion center to provide a free statewide tip line for school security reporting. Information reported to the tip line is forwarded to the appropriate school administrators and local law enforcement authorities.

Persons may email concerns to the tip line program, Tipline.OK.gov. It is available for anyone to report suspicious activity or a possible threat to any Oklahoma school. Reports may be made anonymously. Or persons may call (855) 337-8300.

“When parents send their children off to school, they expect their children to be safe,” Carter said. “The Oklahoma School Security Institute staff works with school officials to provide a secure environment for our students.”

The homeland security office also offers active-shooter training to law enforcement officers, he said. About 7,000 of the state’s law officers have undergone such training.

Carter said the Office of Homeland Security is launching a single-officer response course on active-shooter response.

Another major training course offered by the homeland security office is the law enforcement first-responder course, which trains officers how to use tourniquets, chest seals, and wound packing materials that are needed after a shooting.  When the officer graduates from this eight-hour course, he is given a small kit that contains the tools he had been trained to use. Those kits are purchased by the Office of Homeland Security with federal and state funds, Carter said.

A law passed in 2015 gives local public school boards the authority to allow school personnel with a concealed-carry license to attend an armed security-guard training program and be armed on campus.

State law allows private schools to make similar decisions. If a private school has a policy allowing the carrying of weapons, a person with a concealed-carry license may carry a weapon on private school property.

Certified law enforcement personnel, such as school resource officers, may carry firearms in public schools.

The Oklahoma School Security Institute and Rose State College are hosting a panel discussion on school safety at 6:30 p.m. Thursday in the Rose State College Community Learning Center in Midwest City.

School safety was discussed by Fallin and other governors attending the National Governors Association conference last weekend in Washington, D.C., during a meeting with President Donald J. Trump, Vice President Mike Pence and Florida Gov. Rick Scott.

Sand Springs Museum hopes to host world-famous Blue Dog art exhibit

The Sand Springs Cultural and Historical Museum could soon host an internationally-acclaimed series of paintings by George Rodrigue. 

The Sand Springs Cultural and Historical Museum could soon house a world-famous series of paintings by George Rodrigue. Northwoods Fine Arts Academy teacher Jennifer Barretto recently secured permission to display the art, but first she has to find a way to get it here.

Though the George Rodrigue Foundation has agreed to donate the art for a three-month exhibit next winter, it has to be transported, insured, and protected along its journey. Rodrigue's world-famous Blue Dog paintings are valued at no less than $60,000 apiece, meaning the small Sand Springs museum will have to provide both alarm hooks and security guards for the duration of the visit.

Inspired by the Cajun legend of the loup-garou, Rodrigue's Blue Dog series catapulted him to international acclaim when it was used in an advertising campaign by Absolut Vodka in the early 1990s. Rodrigue passed in 2013 after a battle with lung cancer. His funeral services were open to the public and held at the historic St. Louis Cathedral in New Orleans.

The loup-garou was a Cajun adaptation of the french rougarou, or werewolf. The creature, who typically has a human body and and canine head, is said to prowl the swamps around New Orleans. In some legends he hunts down Catholics who disobey the rules of Lent. In other tales he punishes misbehaving Cajun children. 

The Blue Dog is more "man's best friend" than occult phenomenon, sharing the stance and shape of Rodrigue's deceased pet, Tiffany. Barretto's class has spent much of the year learning about Rodrigue's work and imitating it with their own Blue Dog-inspired art. 

Barretto believes that the display could draw thousands of visitors to Sand Springs from across the region. In addition to the cultural impact it would have on the community, she believes it will also be a financial stimulus for local shops and restaurants.

The Sand Springs Museum has until August 1st to secure the funding for the exhibit, which would arrive in November. According to Barretto, it would mark the first time that Rodrigue's work has ever been displayed in the State of Oklahoma. Rodrigue's widow, Wendy, and son Jacques will also be on hand to share stories of George.

Sand Springs native actor and musician Sam Harris has gotten involved in the project and has released two promotional videos encouraging people to donate to the cause. Harris has starred on television, film, and even Broadway. 

"Art is more than just something pretty or interesting," says Harris. "It is a personal experience...only bound by the imagination of the artist and the viewer. For kids it's really important...it's a foundation for creativity and for critical thinking, things that will stay with them for the rest of their lives."

A GoFundMe account has been set up by Barretto that has already begun receiving donations. To view the page and make a donation, click here.

Survey finds low teacher pay main reason for leaving Oklahoma classrooms

OKLAHOMA CITY – Teacher pay and education funding are among the chief reasons former Oklahoma educators have left the classroom, according to a comprehensive survey released by the Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE). State Superintendent of Public Instruction Joy Hofmeister discussed the findings Mondayat a news conference at OSDE.

Hofmeister noted that 31 percent of the respondents indicated they would likely return to the classroom if teacher pay were increased – a net gain of thousands of additional educators in the classroom if the data were extrapolated.

“As our state continues suffering the effects of an unprecedented teacher shortage, Oklahoma cannot afford to ignore the results of this survey,” Hofmeister said. “Pay is no cure-all to staving off this shortage, but without regionally competitive compensation, we are trying to win a home run contest with one arm held behind our back.”

The survey was one of 40 recommendations made by the Teacher Shortage Task Force, a still-active panel that Hofmeister convened in September 2015. The Oklahoma Public School Resource Center (OPSRC), a member of that task force, funded the survey, which Oklahoma City-based polling firm Cole Hargrave Snodgrass & Associates conducted this past fall.

“It was important to partner with OSDE on this project, which has important implications for all education stakeholders,” said Brent Bushey, executive director of OPSRC. “Funding a survey of this scope would have been a challenge for OSDE, and we wanted to step up to make it happen.”

The survey was sent to a list of nearly 30,000 deliverable emails. Of that number, there were 7,546 completions. Survey results focused on the 5,487 respondents under the age of 65 with active teaching certificates who are not currently teaching in Oklahoma public schools. The large sample size yielded a margin of error of less than 1 percent.

The vast majority of respondents, 90 percent, said they believe other teachers were leaving the classroom because of low pay, with 55 percent strongly agreeing with that statement. In addition, a significant number indicated that being unable to make decisions related to instruction and impediments to practicing the art of teaching were important factors in leaving the classroom.

When asked for their individual reasons for leaving, one-third identified pay or a better opportunity as the chief reason. However, a number of other factors cited by respondents – including inadequate education funding, hiring difficulties, relocating out of state and personal reasons – can also be related to matters of teacher compensation. 

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The majority of respondents felt that from their first year in the classroom to their last, the quality of the work environment had deteriorated rather than improved. Nearly half (48 percent) believed it had deteriorated a great deal. When asked to identify why, more pointed to funding issues (17 percent) than low pay (15 percent) though again, the two may overlap.

In terms of certification type, the largest percentage of those who said pay was a primary reason for leaving were special education and secondary teachers.

Hofmeister said that finding is especially troubling.

“We have raised academic standards and expectations to give our students a competitive edge. We have a strong eight-year plan in place for education, but all of it depends on having well-supported teachers for our kids,” she said. “It is also alarming that our special education teachers are particularly pay sensitive, which does not bode well for serving our students with the greatest needs.”

Of particular interest among the survey results is the strong age line regarding pay sensitivity. Those under the age of 45 were more concerned about pay than older teachers. Forty-eight percent of respondents 18-24, 37 percent of those 24-34, and 36 percent of those 35-44 said that pay alone would be sufficient for them to return to the classroom.

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Only in the age 18-24 category did more respondents indicate that pay alone, as opposed to more than pay, would bring them back to the classroom. Nonetheless, 31 percent of all those surveyed indicated that a pay increase would be sufficient to convince them to return. 

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“While the survey reveals that a number of factors attribute to the teacher shortage,” said Hofmeister, “it also confirms that increasing teacher pay is the single most effective first step to reducing the crisis and perhaps even convincing teachers who have left the field to return.”

To see the report, click here.

Tulsa Air and Space Museum to host 2-week exhibit on Sand Springs graduate Bill Pogue

TULSA, Okla. – From Jan. 22 through Feb. 3, the Tulsa Air and Space Museum & Planetarium will present a special exhibit featuring Oklahoma-born, NASA Astronaut William ‘Bill’ Pogue.  The special exhibit will coincide with what would have been Pogue’s 88th birthday. Items from his distinguished, record-setting career will be on display.

Pogue was born in Okemah on Jan. 23, 1930. He grew up attending small rural schools, but graduated from Sand Springs High School in 1947. He earned degrees from Oklahoma Baptist University and Oklahoma State University. In 1990 he was inducted into the Sand Springs Education Foundation's inaugural Hall of Fame class.

Pogue served in the Air Force becoming a combat fighter pilot in Korea and an aerobatic pilot with the Air Force’s Thunderbirds. In 1966, he was selected by NASA for the space program but he finally got his chance at space when he blasted off on November 16, 1973 as the pilot for Skylab 4.

“This exhibit is an opportunity for Oklahomans to celebrate a fellow Oklahoman who achieved great things that were literally out of this world,” said Tonya Blansett, executive director of the Tulsa Air and Space Museum & Planetarium.

Among several of his notable awards and titles, Pogue was also an honorary board member of the Tulsa Air and Space Museum & Planetarium. He donated several items to the Museum including 3 NASA flight suits, signed prints from his collection of space photographs, honorary medallions and various letters and telegrams from notable people like President Richard Nixon and Oklahoma Governor Henry Bellmon.

“There are several artifacts in our archives we would like to have on permanent display,” said Blansett, “having a special exhibit like this, is one way we can share these stories. When we complete our expansion, we hope to find a permanent exhibit space for Pogue’s collection and other Oklahomans who have impacted the aviation industry and space exploration.”

Museum admission ranges from $15 for adults to $10 for students and free for children 4 and under. Admission includes access to the exhibit hall, the special exhibit, the MD-80 discovery center and one planetarium show. The museum also offers memberships as an affordable alternative for families, with several options and benefits including admission for a year and discount at the gift shop.

Tulsa Air and Space Museum & Planetarium is the region’s hub of science based learning through discovery. Each year, more than 50,000 visitors pass through the museum to explore Tulsa’s rich aviation heritage and explore the correlation of science and technology with flight.