CPHS Class of 1985 graduate Dr. Stacey Butterfield to be inducted into Sandite Hall of Fame

Superintendent of Jenks Public Schools, Dr. Stacey Butterfield is one of three CPHS alumni being inducted into the Sand Springs Education Foundation Hall of Fame this Thursday.

The Sand Springs Education Foundation will be holding its 28th Annual Hall of Fame banquet this Thursday evening at the Charles Page High School Ed Dubie Field House.

CPHS Class of 1985 graduate Dr. Stacey Ford Butterfield is one of three Sandites who will be inducted into the Hall of Fame Class of 2017.

SEE RELATED: CPHS Class of 1967 graduate Larry Hurst to be inducted into Sandite Hall of Fame

After graduating from Sand Springs, Butterfield studied at Oklahoma State University where she obtained her Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education and Master of Science degree in Curriculum and Instruction. She then attained her Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies from the University of Oklahoma. 

While working on her own education, Butterfield spent her summers as a teacher aid at the now defunct Hissom Memorial Center which closed in 1994. She also worked as a substitute teacher for the Sand Springs Public School District.

Upon graduating college, Butterfield began her career with the Jenks Public School District, where she has remained ever since. 

Butterfield was initially hired as a first-grade teacher at Jenks East Elementary in 1989, and later served as a Building Principal, Communications Director, Human Resources Supervisor, Assistant Superintendent, and Deputy Superintendent before being named the Superintendent of the school district in 2013. 

As Superintendent, Butterfield oversees all operations of the district, which includes nearly 12,000 students and 1,500 staff members. She also serves on Governor Mary Fallin's Education Advisory Committee and State Superintendent Joy Hofmeister's Advisory Council.

Butterfield was named one of the 21 Women of Distinction for 2013 by the Tulsa Business Journal, and was featured in The Journal Record as one of "50 Making a Difference" in 2014.

The Hall of Fame banquet will be catered by Rib Crib and will feature a silent auction and music by the CPHS Jazz Band. Sand Springs Teacher of the Year Janet Johnson will also be recognized at the event.

CPHS Class of 1967 graduate Larry Hurst to be inducted into Sandite Hall of Fame

By: Scott Emigh, Editor-in-Chief

The Sand Springs Education Foundation will be holding its 28th Annual Hall of Fame banquet this Thursday evening at the Charles Page High School Ed Dubie Field House.

CPHS Class of 1967 graduate Larry Hurst is one of three Sandites who will be inducted into the Hall of Fame Class of 2017.

SEE RELATED: CPHS Class of 1967 - 50 Year Reunion

Hurst was a fullback on the 1966 2A State Champion football team, which holds the only State Championship in Sand Springs football history. The '66 Sandites finished the season undefeated at 12-0 in the second-largest class of competition. Hurst scored the winning touchdown on a 10-yard run to help his team defeat El Reno 14-7 at Taft Stadium in Oklahoma City. He continued his athletic career at Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College where he competed on the Golden Norseman football and track teams and helped the football team to a NJCAA National Championship in 1967.

Hurst graduated the University of Central Oklahoma with a Master's degree in Education, then attained a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Oklahoma College of Law. He returned to football as a coach. He worked as an assistant at Del City, then took the head coaching position in Blackwell from 1978 through 1981 and held an 11-28 career coaching record.

After a brief stint as Deputy Attorney General for the State of Oklahoma, Hurst returned to education as the Assistant Principal at Edmond Memorial High School.

In 1998 Hurst was hired as the Principal of Sheridan Junior High in Wyoming. He then transitioned to the High School as an Assistant Principal until his retirement in 2013. During his time with Sheridan he also worked as an assistant varsity football coach, freshman coach, and junior varsity coach. 

Hurst passed away on May 31, 2014 at the age of 65 after being struck by an intoxicated driver while bicycling with his wife, Sara. Hannah Terry was convicted of aggravated homicide with a vehicle and sentenced to eight to twenty years in a State penitentiary. Larry and Sara were one year shy of their thirtieth anniversary. Sara maintains a legal practice in Sheridan.

The Hall of Fame banquet will be catered by Rib Crib and will feature a silent auction and music by the CPHS Jazz Band. Sand Springs Teacher of the Year Janet Johnson will also be recognized at the event. 

This Week in Sand Springs

Monday

  • 4:00 p.m. Sand Springs Planning Commission - regular monthly meeting
  • 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. Oklahoma Blood Institute blood drive
    • Sand Springs Church of Christ. 4301 S. 113th W. Ave, Sand Springs OK 74063
  • 6:00 p.m. Sand Springs Board of Adjustment - regular monthly meeting was CANCELED
  • 6:00 p.m. CPHS Baseball - road game
    • Bartlesville High School. 500 S Madison Blvd, Bartlesville, OK 74006

Tuesday

  • State and Federal Taxes are due
  • 8:00 a.m. CPHS Girls' Golf - Union Tournament
    • Lafortune Park. 5501 S. Yale Ave. Tulsa OK 74135
  • 5:00 p.m. CPHS Slow Pitch Softball - road game
    • Union Intermediate High School. 7616 S. Garnett Rd. Tulsa OK 74012
  • 6:00 p.m. CPHS Baseball - home game
    • Sandite Baseball Complex. 405 W. 55th St. Sand Springs OK 74063
  • 6:00 p.m. Sand Springs Cultural & Historical Museum Trust Authority - regular monthly meeting
  • 6:00 p.m. CPHS Girls' Soccer - home game
    • Memorial Stadium. 500 N. Adams Rd. Sand Springs OK 74063
  • 7:00 p.m. CPHS Band Booster Club - meeting and elections
    • Charles Page High School. 500 N. Adams Rd. Sand Springs OK 74063
    • Positions up for election: President, Vice President, Secretary, Co-Treasurer, CPHS Representative. Appointed coordinator positions also open.
  • 8:00 p.m. CPHS Boys' Soccer - home game
    • Memorial Stadium. 500 N. Adams Rd. Sand Springs OK 74063

Wednesday

  • Sand Springs Development Authority - regular monthly meeting

Thursday

  • 8:00 a.m. CPHS Boys' Golf - 6A State Preview
    • Karsten Creek Golf Club. 1800 S. Memorial Dr. Stillwater OK 74074
  • 1:00 to 6:00 p.m. Guns n' Hoses Community Challenge Blood Drive
  • 4:30 p.m. CPHS Baseball - road game
    • Cascia Hall. 2520 S. Yorktown Ave. Tulsa OK 74114
  • 5:00 p.m. CPHS Slow Pitch Softball - double header road games
    • Jenks High School. 1561 N. Birch St. Jenks OK 74037
  • 5:30 p.m. Sand Springs Education Foundation Hall of Fame dinner
    • Ed Dubie Field House. 500 N. Adams Rd. Sand Springs OK 74063

Friday

  • 3:00 p.m. CPHS Choir Trip - Branson "Music in the Park" Choir Contest
  • 3:00 p.m. CPHS Track and Field - Muskogee Track Meet
    • 3200 E. Shawnee Rd. Muskogee OK 74403
  • 6:00 p.m. CPHS Girls' Soccer - home game
    • CPHS Memorial Stadium. 500 N. Adams Rd. Sand Springs OK 74063
  • 8:00 p.m. CPHS Boys' Soccer - home game
    • CPHS Memorial Stadium. 500 N. Adams Rd. Sand Springs OK 74063

Saturday

  • 9:00 a.m. 28th Annual Herbal Affair & Festival
  • 10:00 a.m. Sand Springs OKUSA Freestyle/Greco-Roman Wrestling Tournament
    • Clyde Boyd Middle School. 305 W. 35th St. Sand Springs OK 74063

OSDE study shows minimal cost savings for schools with 4-day weeks

OKLAHOMA CITY (April 13, 2017) –  A recent study by the Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE) casts doubt on the assumption that switching to a four-day school week saves money for districts.

For the 2016-17 school year, the number of districts on a four-day school week nearly doubled from the previous year. Ninety-seven districts have made the switch, many citing cost savings as a primary reason amid continued budget shortfalls.

The study, requested by Gov. Mary Fallin, analyzed expenditures of 16 school districts that have been on a four-day school week for six years. Results indicate that nine districts actually spent more money, on average, after the switch, while cost savings for the remainder were negligible.

When OSDE combined expenditures of all 16 districts, those districts spent on average $4,523 more on utilities, $2,714 less on food, $1,971 less on transportation and $8,542 more on support staff after switching to a four-day week than they had spent before the change.

“I appreciate the fact that districts are trying to cut expenses however they can,” said State Superintendent of Public Instruction Joy Hofmeister. “But we are very concerned about how this impacts children. We risk losing academic momentum when what we need is more time on learning, not less.”

To see the study and read more about the districts analyzed, click here.

“School boards care deeply about students, but it is important that they have accurate information,” said Hofmeister. ”There is a perception that there will be significant cost savings from a four-day school week, but the results of our survey were inconclusive, and the savings that did occur were very marginal. We believe the cost to students is far too great to consider the four-day week as a long-term strategy.“

A measure in this year's state legislative session, House Bill 1684, would require districts considering a four-day school week to submit a plan to OSDE detailing the goals that the district hopes to accomplish by shortening the school week. The measure is authored by Rep. Harold Wright and Sen. Eddie Fields.

“A plan would help spell out the anticipated savings,” Hofmeister said. “It will allow districts to go back and measure results. This is really about kids, and providing both local control and accountability. We want to make sure that schools have what they need and that our students are able to receive the best education possible.”

This Week in Sand Springs

Monday

  • 6:00 p.m. CPHS Baseball - Home game
    • 405 W. 55th St. Sand Springs OK 74063

Tuesday

  • 8:00 a.m. CPHS Boys' Golf - Bishop Kelley Tournament
    • Lafortune Park Golf Course - 5501 S. Yale Ave, Tulsa OK 74135
  • 4:00 p.m. CPHS Tennis duel
    • Edison High School, 2906 E. 41st St, Tulsa OK 74105
  • 6:00 p.m. CPHS Baseball - Road game
    • Union High School, 6636 S. Mingo Rd, Tulsa OK 74133
  • 6:00 p.m. CPHS Girls' Soccer - Home game
    • 500 N. Adams Rd, Sand Springs OK 74063
  • 8:00 p.m. CPHS Boys' Soccer - Home game
    • 500 N. Adams Rd, Sand Springs OK 74063
  • CPHS Slow Pitch Softball - Jenks Festival
    • 1610 N. Birch, Jenks OK 74037
    • 10:00 a.m. vs Broken Arrow
    • 12:30 p.m. vs Southmoore

Wednesday

  • 8:00 a.m. CPHS Girls' Golf - Sapulpa Tournament
    • 1200 W. Dewey Ave, Sapulpa OK 74066
  • 8:00 a.m. CPHS Tennis duel - Highway 97 Rivalry home game
    • 500 N. Adams Rd, Sand Springs OK 74063
  • 10:30 a.m. Sand Springs City Council Meeting

Thursday

  • 8:00 CPHS Girls' Golf - Del City Tournament
    • Trosper GC, 2301 SE 29th St, Oklahoma City OK 73129
  • 5:00 p.m. CPHS Slow Pitch Softball - Road game
    • Bixby High School, 601 S. Riverview Dr, Bixby, OK 74008
  • 6:30 p.m. Estate Planning Seminar by Monica L. Maple
    • Green Tree Assisted Living, 4402 S. 129th W. Ave. Sand Springs OK 74063
  • 7:30 p.m. CPHS Band Spring Concert
    • Ed Dubie Field House, 500 N. Adams Rd, Sand Springs OK 74063

Friday

  • 2:30 p.m. CPHS Track and Field - Booker T. Washington Track Meet
    • 1514 E. Zion St, Tulsa OK 74106
  • 5:00 p.m. CPHS Baseball - Road game
    • Broken Arrow High School, 1901 E. Albany St. Broken Arrow OK 74012
  • 6:00 p.m. CPHS Girls' Soccer - Road game
    • Westmoore High School, 12613 S. Western Ave. Oklahoma City OK 73170
  • 8:00 p.m. CPHS Boys' Soccer - Road game
    • Westmoore High School, 12613 S. Western Ave. Oklahoma City OK 73170

Saturday

  • 8:00 a.m. Case Community Park River Run
  • 8:00 a.m. CPHS Girls' Golf - Frontier Valley Conference Tournament
    • Indian Springs GC, 16006 E. 131st St. S. Broken Arrow OK 74011
  • 10:00 a.m. Maxx Roofing 4th Annual Special Needs Bass Tournament
    • Mannford Lake Prairie View Boat Ramp
  • 7:00 p.m. CPHS Prom

Jake Thompson receives Sandite Spirit Award, Board of Ed discusses curriculum/facilities

All State Band member Jake Thompson is presented with the Sandite Spirit Award. (Photo: Scott Emigh).

By: Scott Emigh, Editor-in-Chief

The Sand Springs Board of Education met in a regular monthly meeting Monday evening and discussed budget cuts, facility renovations, and the future of High School education in Sand Springs. They also presented Jake Thompson with a Sandite Spirit Award.

Thompson was recently named to the All State Band for French Horn, and was also a member of the Winter Percussion unit that won their first State Championship this past weekend.

Thompson spent seven months practicing more than an hour a day in preparation for Districts to earn his way to the All-State competition. From there he was among a hundred musicians who competed for the twenty positions on the All-State Band. 

"In Northeast Oklahoma we have some of the best competitors in the country," said Charles Page High School Band Director Kyle Wright. 

Additionally, Thompson learned how to play symbols this past year for the Winter Guard and Percussion of Oklahoma competitions. 

Charles Page staff gave a presentation regarding the school's transition to a career-pathway style of teaching. In the coming years the school will be providing classes structured around different career paths with unique curriculum for each student. The presentation discussed trying to build a career-preparatory culture at CPHS with enhanced college and career counseling. The school expects all students to graduate academically prepared for either college or a career.

Part of the career-pathway presentation addressed "redefining the senior year" and allowing seniors to earn credit hours through part-time jobs, internships, or apprentice ships. Students who maintain a 2.0 GPA or higher with good attendance will be able to participate in the High Schools that Work pilot program. Students who participate will have to turn in weekly pay stubs and take a biweekly class tied into their on-the-job learning.

Superintendent Sherry Durkee gave an update on the SSPS facilities, including the former Twin Cities Elementary building and the Ed Dubie Field House. 

Twin Cities was listed for sale by owner last year, but has had little market interest. According to Durkee, the building is deteriorating and has substantial problems including mold. After consulting with Montie Box of Montie Box Realtors, they concluded the building's last appraisal was overly generous, and it's not worth the cost of restoration. Durkee believes the District's best option is to demolish the building and retain the property for future growth in that area. The Indian Education facility located next to Central Ninth Grade Center is also in rough shape and expected to be demolished in the future.

The Ed Dubie Field House has been without a playable basketball court for more than a month now after moisture cause the floor to warp. The CPHS Girls' Basketball team earned the right to host a Regional Playoff this year, but had to move to Broken Arrow after the damage was uncovered. The current floor was installed in 1978, making it about time for replacement anyways. Comparably, the National Basketball Association requires its teams to replace their floors every ten years. Hardwood installation typically takes about six weeks for a basketball court, and the district is hoping to remodel by July when volleyball practice begins. 

The Board approved a contract with Oklahoma LED for a $445,596 project to replace the entire district's lighting fixtures with LED strip lights. The LED lights are expected to result in major energy savings for the district in the future. Oklahoma LED projects electric savings of up to 80% in the first month.

Limestone students experience day in the life of an adult at JA Biztown

Sand Springs City Councilman Brian Jackson speaks to students before their day begins.

By: Scott Emigh, Editor-in-Chief

Students from Limestone Elementary School in Sand Springs got to experience a day in the life of adulthood this past week at Junior Achievement Biztown. More than forty students spent a month learning how to balance checkbooks, interview for positions, request loans, and more in preparation for the day-long trip to the indoor Tulsa pseudo-city. 

Junior Achievement is a non-profit youth organization with worldwide reach that aims to "inspire and prepare young people to succeed in a global economy." The Tulsa Biztown location first opened fourteen years ago, and Sand Springs Public Schools have been sending their students there ever since. More than 100,000 students have visited the Tulsa program since it opened in April of 2004.

The Cox Radio DJ entertained throughout the day with song requests and commercials for the Biztown establishments.

The program uses sponsorships from local businesses to provide authentic career experience for students in fields they may very well find themselves occupying in the future. 

Before arriving at Biztown, students apply for a bank account through Bank of Oklahoma. They then learn how to endorse and deposit a check, and how to manage a checking account register. They are also taught the consequences of writing checks without sufficient funds. Focus is given to the difference between a debit card and a credit card, and students utilize debit, checks, and cash during their visit. Students fill out various job applications and practice interview skills, and elect a mayor before arriving.

Cherokee Phoenix employees hard at work on the daily paper.

Marketing is an important skill the students learn prior to their visit, and the various business teams come up with radio and newspaper advertisements to run during their visit. When they arrive the students fill out loan applications with BOK for their businesses and are expected to run a profit throughout the day and pay off the loan at the conclusion.

The students were broken up into three different groups that each had lunch/shopping breaks at different times. Employees of Arby's served drinks, cookies, and other snacks to the students during their lunch breaks. Employees of Reasor's and Linde sold various toys and activities. The Cancer Treatment Center offered brief physicals, and students could pick up copies of their own newspaper from the Cherokee Phoenix.

Cox Communications filmed the students throughout the day and sent the school home with the footage.

Cox radio employees a student DJ who takes song requests throughout the day and does commercials for the various businesses. They also had students shooting video throughout the trip and brought back the final product to school with them. At City Hall students were able to "vote" by filling out a survey on their visit. 

Students from every Sand Springs Elementary school visited Biztown throughout the year, but Garfield and Northwoods kids were almost unable to attend for monetary reasons. The school district experienced major budget cuts after last year's State revenue shortfall and the schools were forced to turn to outside help to raise the funds.

SEE RELATED: Sand Springs City Council members help fund Elementary field trip


Editor's note: 

I myself attended Biztown more than a decade ago when it was called Exchange City. Everyone in my class had a great time. I worked at the newspaper as the Senior Reporter and still have my copy of that paper to this day. Our Managing Editor, Shelby Lawson, went on to self-publish a book in the ninth grade, which I also keep a copy of. 

Sand Springs Board of Education recognizes excellence in students and faculty

The Charles Page High School Wrestling Team starting lineup all received Sandite Spirit Awards for winning the State and Dual State Championships this last month. (Photo: Scott Emigh).

By: Scott Emigh, Editor-in-Chief

There were plenty of awards to go around at Monday night's regular monthly Sand Springs Board of Education meeting. The Board presented Rusty Vann, Elbert Moore, and the Charles Page High School Wrestling Team with the Sandite Spirit Award. Wrestling Head Coach Kelly Smith was presented with a Coin of Excellence, and Bob Jackson, Ryan Dannar, and Eric Hartley were presented with Pacesetter Awards.

The Sandite Spirit Award recognizes students and community members who have gone above expectations while representing Sand Springs Public Schools. The Pacesetter award is a similar recognition specifically for SSPS faculty and staff members.

CPHS alumnus Rusty Vann is presented with the Sandite Spirit Award.

The Sandite wrestling team recently completed a perfect 20-0 season. They won the Owasso Ram Duals, the District Dual Quadrangle, and the first 6A Dual State Championship in school history. They also won the Perry Tournament of Champions, the Jerry Billings Invitational, the 6A East Regional, and the 6A State Tournament. Riley Weir, Daton Fix, Jack Karstetter, Beau Bratcher, and Payton Scott all brought home individual gold.

Head Wrestling Coach Kelly Smith has been with the Sandites for fifteen seasons as a coach, and is also a Charles Page alumnus. The school has crowned nine individual State Champions during his tenure, and this was their first team State Title since 1971. 

Substitute Teacher Elbert Moore receives the Sandite Spirit Award.

CPHS Class of 2006 graduate Rusty Vann was presented with the Sandite Spirit Award. Vann graduated from the University of Tulsa before entering medical school at Lincoln Memorial University and DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine. He is currently in his second year of residency and often works with the Sand Springs special-needs students.

Substitute teacher Elbert Moore was also presented with the Sandite Spirit Award. "He is absolutely integral to our staff," said CPHS Principal Stan Trout. "You are not a substitute teacher, you are a part of our staff and community. He does everything we would expect out of a full time teacher and more."

Members of the SSPS IT Department are honored with the Pacesetter Award.

Bob Jackson, Ryan Dannar, and Eric Hartley were presented with the Pacesetter Award for their work in the IT department. After long-time Director of Technology Danny Wasson passed away last December, the other members of the IT department stepped up to make sure nothing missed a beat. Coworker Shannon Chapman nominated the three for the award, and did so with high commendation. "More than just coworkers, this is my family," said Chapman. "These guys are the foundation. Without them you guys wouldn't have internet in the morning." She also bestowed each of them with nicknames recognizing their varied strengths and character attributes. 

Board member Mike Mullins recites the Oath of Office.

Former Board President Mike Mullins was sworn into office for a new term after running unopposed. The Board also reorganized the various officers as they do every March. Church That Matters Pastor Rusty Gunn was named the Board President, Bo Naugle took over as Vice-President, and Jackie Wagnon was named Deputy Clerk. 

Following the awards presentations the Board also discussed matters of curriculum, finances, and political affairs.

Faculty members discussed the future of Sand Springs curriculum and the potential to focus instruction around career pathways with classes customized around certain career fields that students are interested in.

A report was given on the state of the Ed Dubie Field House gym floor. The floor has become slightly raised due to a potential leak in the slab, causing it to be unplayable. This resulted in the Girls Basketball Regional Tournament being moved to Broken Arrow last month. As of now, the floor is expected to be recoverable once the leak is fixed.

Superintendent Sherry Durkee gave an update on the ongoing plan to convert all SSPS properties to LED lighting. The district is currently considering using a company utilized by the Ponca City school district. LED lights are more expensive up front than traditional lighting, but last far longer, provide better quality lighting, and save on energy costs. The district is currently estimating between eight and ten-thousand dollars in monthly energy savings once the conversion is complete. 

Assistant Superintendent Rob Miller discussed the future of student safety precautions and the possibility of equipping school staff with a smart phone app called Crisis Go. The free app features a panic button, allowing teachers and staff to report a situation by sending a direct alert to the principal and security officer in the event that they can't reach their desk phones. SSPS teachers spend the time between classes standing in the halls to monitor the students, making it difficult to get back to their desks in the event of a fight or other emergency situation.

According to Superintendent Durkee, the district continues to be financially stable in spite of continued cuts to education funding, due to drastic measures taken during the last school year. She does not expect the district to have to make further reductions to staff in the next year, but remains concerned about the near-future as the State Legislature continues to grapple with a $900 million budget shortfall.

She also discussed current State Legislation that could be concerning for public schools, such as limiting bond elections to certain times of year.

The Board approved the hiring of a fourth grade teacher for the current school year.

Senate Appropriations Committee on Education approves teacher pay increase legislation

Members of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Education heard six measures to raise teacher pay on Wednesday. (SUBMITTED).

The Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Education met Wednesday and approved half a dozen measures to increase teacher pay in Oklahoma. Senator Jason Smalley, R-Stroud, chairs the subcommittee. He said with 48 members, there were several different ideas of how much the raises should be and how to pay for it.

“Six different pay raise bills were filed, and we gave the authors a chance to present their thoughts and ideas and advocate their positions,” Smalley said. “My next step will be to meet with our Appropriations Chair, Senator Kim David. Ultimately one bill will move forward so we’ll look at these six plans and try to mold them into the best possible legislation.”

The pay plans approved by the subcommittee included:

  • SB 8 by Sen. Ron Sharp, R-Shawnee
  • SB 97 by Sen. Micheal Bergstrom, R-Adair
  • SB 137 by Sen. J.J. Dossett, D-Owasso
  • SB 309 by Sen. Marty Quinn, R-Claremore
  • SB 316 by Sen. David Holt, R-Oklahoma City
  • SB 618 by Sen. Gary Stanislawski, R-Tulsa

“We heard teacher pay increase proposals ranging from $500 to $10,000. There are different ideas about whether it should simply be across the board or if the minimum salary should be raised. Some members have suggested that the funding could be found by targeting tax preferences or by increasing certain taxes,” Smalley said.  

“When you consider that just a $1,000 pay raise would be about $60 million, it can add up very quickly. We need to determine the size, how it will be paid for and if a phase-in plan is necessary,” Smalley said. “There’s a great deal to decide, so the time to talk about it is now and not wait until April or May.”

Sand Springs heads to the polls this Tuesday: a look at the candidates

By: Scott Emigh, Editor-in-Chief

Many Sand Springs residents will head to the polls this Tuesday, and some will have two ballots. Tulsa Technology Center Zone 5, comprising most of Sand Springs and Owasso, will vote between Roy D. McClain and Danny Hancock for the vacant Board of Education Office 5 position. Sand Springs Ward 4 will vote between Christine Hamner and Nancy Riley for the vacant position on the Sand Springs City Council.

The Board of Ed Zone 5 seat was previously held by John Selph, first elected in 2008, who resigned last June only six months into his second seven-year term. Board members meet once monthly and are compensated $25 per meeting.

Danny Hancock is a lifelong Sand Springs resident and Tulsa Tech graduate with 28 years in the construction industry. He is a member of the Tulsa Tech Education Foundation, a program advisor for Tulsa Tech and the Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology, and a construction manager at Cowen Construction. He earned a Plumbing Program Certificate from TTC and an Associate’s Degree in Construction Technology from OSUIT. He also serves on boards for the Plumbing Contractors of Eastern Oklahoma Association (PCEO), and was appointed by Governor Mary Fallin to his current term on the Oklahoma Uniform Building Code Commission (OUBCC).

Roy McClain is an Owasso resident, Oklahoma State University graduate, and currently works as a Community Business Development Manager for Barnes & Noble. He was a Personnel Administrative Specialist in the U.S. Army, a member of the Oklahoma House of Representatives serving District 71, and an Adjunct Professor for Community Care College. He has worked as a political advisor for Steve Gallo for State Representative and Steve Gallo for County Commissioner. He holds a degree in Economics from OSU and has been with Barnes and Noble since 2010.

The Sand Springs Ward 4 seat was vacated in December by John Fothergill, who was hired as Chief Deputy to County Commissioner Karen Keith. Fothergill was serving as Vice-Mayor at the time. City Council member is an unpaid position, meeting seventeen times annually. Terms are three years, with the Mayor and Vice Mayor being elected annually by the council.

SEE RELATED: To the people of Sand Springs, from City Council candidate Nancy Riley

SEE RELATED: To the people of Sand Springs, from City Council candidate Christine Hamner

 

Janna Burch named Frontier Valley Conference Coach of the Year

By: Scott Emigh, Editor-in-Chief

It was a special night for the Charles Page High School volleyball team Monday at the Sand Springs Board of Education meeting. The Board handed out several awards before getting down to official business. 

Ohio State University-committed junior Gloria Mutiri was recognized for being named Co-MVP in the Frontier Valley Conference, and Head Coach Janna Green was recognized as the FVC Coach of the Year.

When Burch took over the program in 2014, they were coming off a 14-26 season. Despite being a losing record, that was actually one of the school's best years ever. Now, for the first time ever, the Lady Sandites finished with a winning record of 23-13. They ended the year ranked No. 13 in 6A by the OSSAA with wins against Frontier Valley foes Muskogee, Union, Bartlesville, Bixby, and Sapulpa.

Additionally, Caleb Clark was presented with a Coin of Excellence, and Debbie O'Niell received the Sandite Pacesetter Award. 

 

Sen. Dossett takes on school testing issues with legislation filed for 2017 session

SUBMITTED

Until the 2016 legislative session, Sen. J.J. Dossett was a classroom teacher at Owasso High School. The issues he hoped to address in the Legislature included eliminating unnecessary testing and the issue of high-stakes testing. Dossett, D-Owasso, said he was pleased with the passage of legislation last year eliminating state-mandated End of Instruction (EOI) exams, but said one unnecessary assessment test that isn’t required by the federal government remains on the books—he’s seeking to eliminate that state-mandated test with Senate Bill 2.

“Oklahoma continues to require schools to administer an assessment in U.S. history once sometime from the 9th through 12th grades,” Dossett said. “This test simply isn’t needed. Schools are still going to teach U.S. History, and just like every other class, students will take tests in the subject that will measure how well they’re learning the subject material. This just eliminates an unnecessary test and gives more time to teachers to teach and more times for students to learn.  It’s a positive thing we can do for teachers and students that won’t cost anyone a dime.”

Dossett has also filed Senate Bill 123 which would modify the Reading Sufficiency Act. The measure would eliminate the required retention component for third graders who are found not to be reading at grade level. It would keep in place the remediation and supports put in place in the last few years. The bill also retains the Student Reading Proficiency Team. These teams were created to develop individualized remediation plans for first, second and third graders who are not reading at grade level as well as third graders who take the statewide assessment and were found to be reading below grade level.

“I agree with the concept of making sure Oklahoma students have the fundamental reading skills they need to learn and succeed,” Dossett said. “But I’ve always had an issue with the idea of a high stakes test that may not even reflect a child’s actual knowledge or ability and could inadvertently cause far more harm for the student than anticipated. Furthermore, if you are waiting until the third grade, it’s really too late.  The emphasis needs to be on identifying and assisting children who aren’t reading at grade level sooner and getting them the support they need to get them up to speed. That’s what I hope to accomplish with my legislation.”

Charles Page High School to host Oklahoma Blood Donor Challenge

Jan. 27, 2017 ─ As flu season and winter weather impact the blood supply, Oklahoma Blood Institute urges Oklahomans to join the “Blood Donor Challenge” to make sure area patients have the blood they need.

Join Charles Page High School for a blood drive with Oklahoma Blood Institute on Monday, February 6 from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., in the school’s small gym. Donors will receive a free Blood Donor Challenge t-shirt and health screenings at no cost. Donors can post to social media about their donation using the hashtag #blooddonorchallenge.

“As more people are hospitalized due to flu and other viruses, the need for blood increases,” said John Armitage, M.D., Oklahoma Blood Institute president and CEO. “At the same time, some regular blood donors are coming down with illnesses and temporarily can’t give. In addition to hazardous weather conditions, winter presents significant challenges to the life-saving blood supply.”

Whole blood donations can be made every 56 days. Platelets can be donated up to 24 times a year.

Oklahoma Blood Institute relies on donations from an average of 1,200 donors each day to meet the needs of patients statewide. One blood donation can save as many as three lives, and takes only about an hour. Those with negative blood types are especially urged to donate.

In 2017, Oklahoma Blood Institute is celebrating its 40th year of saving local lives. Oklahoma Blood Institute is a non-profit, independent blood center now serving 165 hospitals, medical facilities and air ambulances statewide.

Appointments can be made by visiting obi.org or calling (877) 340-8777.

*16 year olds must weigh at least 125 pounds and provide signed parental permission; 17 year olds must weigh at least 125 pounds; 18+ year olds must weigh at least 110 pounds

Oklahoma Senate Republicans announce 2017 legislative agenda

Senate President Pro Tem Mike Schulz and members of the Senate Republican Caucus announced their 2017 legislative agenda Thursday at the state Capitol. 

OKLAHOMA CITY – President Pro Tempore Mike Schulz and the Senate Republican Caucus on Thursday unveiled a 2017 legislative agenda with a focus on long-term solutions to build a more prosperous Oklahoma.

“This agenda is our vision of how we’ll make an already great state even better. Because the decisions we make at the Capitol have a long-term impact, it’s important we have a plan of where we want to guide Oklahoma in 5, 10 and 20 years. Senate Republicans are united in our desire to implement ideas and policies that will help our state’s economy grow and put us on a long-term path to prosperity. Helping our economy grow means more good-paying jobs for Oklahoma families and more resources to fund core government services without raising taxes,” said Schulz, R-Altus.

Senate Republicans unveiled the agenda at press events in Tulsa and Oklahoma City.

“With a bold vision and leadership, our state can be a model that shows free-market, conservative ideas can empower the individual and foster a thriving economy. There are challenges ahead in the short term, but we want Oklahomans to know we are planning for the long-term and are working on policies that will benefit Oklahoma families and businesses,” said Majority Floor Leader Greg Treat, R-Oklahoma City.

The 2017 Senate Republican Agenda:

 A MORE PROSPEROUS OKLAHOMA

  • Streamline and eliminate excessive regulations to stimulate job creation and economic growth.
  • Provide more stability, reliability and transparency in the state budgeting process.
  • Promote economic development and the diversification of the state’s economy.
  • Support transportation infrastructure including the eight-year plan.
  • Identify job-creating tax incentives, and eliminate ineffective tax incentives by supporting the work of the Incentive Evaluation Commission.

 INVESTING IN FUTURE GENERATIONS

  • Respect and support teachers by removing obstacles that interfere with a teacher’s ability to help students learn and achieve.
  • Reduce administrative costs and overhead in an effort to increase teacher salaries.
  • Allow parents, taxpayers, and local school boards to more closely direct and increase the quality of education in the classroom.
  • Ensure accountability measures provide parents and taxpayers a useful and accurate reflection of school performance and student achievement.

A SAFER OKLAHOMA

  • Support law enforcement officers and the rights of the citizens they are sworn to protect.
  • Monitor the implementation of criminal justice reforms.
  • Provide oversight of law enforcement agencies and promote cooperation to eliminate duplication.

A HEALTHIER OKLAHOMA

  • Promote access to quality health care services especially for rural and underserved areas of Oklahoma.
  • Encourage “block grant” programs from the federal government that empower Oklahoma to infuse free-market principles into health care plans.
  • Reduce waste and duplication at health care agencies, and utilize innovative health care delivery methods.
  • Work with private and public sector partners to address mental health and substance abuse issues.

PROTECTING CHILDREN AND SUPPORTING FAMILIES

  • Improve foster care and adoption services in Oklahoma, and strengthen support for foster families.
  • Reform social service programs so they offer economic mobility and help end dependency on government assistance.
  • Eliminate restrictions on non-profits and faith-based organizations that help fill the gaps in social services.
  • Continue Oklahoma’s commitment to defending the sanctity of life.

SUPPORTING VETERANS AND MILITARY FAMILIES

  • Work to minimize licensing challenges for military spouses due to relocation.
  • Support public-private partnerships to develop a comprehensive health care system.
  • Ensure Oklahoma veterans are connected with existing mental health and social service programs.
  • Increase protection of service members’ financial and contractual rights when mobilized or deployed.

Sen. David Holt introduces measures to fund $10,000 teacher pay raise

Senator David Holt has introduced Senate Bill 316, which would provide a $10,000 raise to all Oklahoma classroom teachers over a four-year period beginning this fall. Holt has further introduced 12 separate measures to provide funding options for the raise.  

It is estimated a $10,000 raise for all 42,000 classroom teachers could cost approximately $550 million. Holt’s 12 funding measures cumulatively provide at least $744 million in funding options, with the option of adding another $261 million, bringing to over $1 billion the total defined funding options from which to choose. Holt’s proposals also include other revenue raising measures with undetermined values. Holt also authored an income tax exemption for teachers equivalent to an $1,850 average raise.

None of these proposed funding options increase any existing tax rate and it is believed all of the measures could be passed with simple majorities of the Legislature this legislative session.

Oklahoma teachers have not received a statewide raise of any kind since 2008 and now lag behind the regional average by $5,000 and the national average by $10,000.

“We cannot have the future we want for our state without a solid education system, which we cannot have without great teachers, which we cannot have without competitive pay,” said Holt, R-Oklahoma City. “There are so many things Oklahoma needs to do, but none are as important as this. We need to address this teacher pay issue in the 2017 session, and this legislative package proves that it can be done.”

Last year, Holt also introduced a $10,000 teacher pay raise with funding methods. On the night that State Question 779 failed in November, he publicly pledged that his first legislative proposal for the 2017 session would again be a $10,000 teacher pay raise package.  

“As a product of Oklahoma public schools, the son of a retired teacher, and the father of current public school students, I fully understand the urgency of this need,” Holt said.

Senate Bill 316 provides for a $10,000 raise over a four-year period for all of Oklahoma’s approximately 42,000 classroom teachers. For the 2017-2018 school year, teachers would receive a $1,000 raise, followed by three $3,000 raises spread over the ensuing three school years.   

“I believe we need to be talking about a $10,000 raise, because we let this fester so long, because we are so far behind, and because it will take years to implement,” Holt said. “Not many private businesses would go a decade without providing even a cost-of-living increase.   When you run an operation that way, you leave yourself no choice but to make a bold move or risk failure. Let’s start thinking ahead of the curve instead of playing catch-up.”

“I think any realistic and practical solution to the teacher pay issue must be multi-faceted, must be multi-year, and must require only simple majorities of the Legislature,” Holt said. “I think there’s a lot of room for negotiation within those parameters. The reason I have proposed funding options that far exceed the need is so that this Legislature can pick and choose what elements work best.”

“My package provides a menu of options, within which we could accommodate a smaller pay raise, or distinctions based on seniority, credentials, or subject matter, if that was the will of the body,” Holt said. “I expect there to be many great ideas, and I will support the final product that emerges, as long as we’re making real progress on this issue.”

Here are Holt’s 12 funding options, a brief summary of each, and estimates of the pay raise each measure could provide and when. His comments follow each measure.

SB 330 – This measure captures the first $200 million in new revenue growth and dedicates those dollars to teacher pay raises.

Annual value: $200 million

Equivalent to a raise of: $3,600

Year of first impact: Unknown

“If you had asked our state government five years ago to cut $200 million and redirect it to teacher pay, many would have said it was impossible. But due to the drop in energy prices, that amount and more has already been cut. The hardest part of the task has already been accomplished. This legislation makes a statutory promise that when energy prices rebound, and they always have, the first $200 million in new revenues that come to the state will go to a teacher pay raise. It’s as simple as that, and if history is any guide, those revenues may not be far away.”

 

SB 331 – This measure repeals Oklahoma’s sales tax exemption on repair, maintenance, delivery and installation of taxable goods, something that is taxed in 24 other states. 

Estimated annual value to the state: $59 million

Equivalent to a raise of: $1,075

Year of first impact: 2017

SB 331 could also be expanded to include items that are taxed in at least a dozen states nationally or a majority of surrounding states. These items include oil field services ($31.6 million), construction services ($142 million), utilities ($15 million), information services ($915,000), data processing ($9.2 million), software ($7.5 million), digital goods ($4 million), automotive services ($9.1 million), cable TV ($65.5 million), trailer park stays ($11.9 million), automotive leases ($6.7 million), pet grooming ($3.2 million), carpet cleaning ($3 million), extermination ($2.3 million), aircraft rental ($1.8 million), swimming pool cleaning ($1.6 million), diaper service ($1.3 million), fur storage ($1.1 million), landscaping ($843,000), marina service ($245,000), and telephone answering services ($200,000). These items alone would provide an additional $261 million.

Estimated annual value to the state: $261 million

Equivalent to a raise of: $4,750

Year of first impact: 2017

“The American economy has evolved, and government has to modernize with it. There are a number of items that are taxed in many other states that have gone untaxed in Oklahoma for no reason other than having a good lobbyist or because the nature of the economy has changed. I drafted SB 331 to include the one item already mentioned, but view the bill as a potential vehicle for a much broader modernization of our sales tax code. I am very hopeful that the business community will come to the table and propose an equitable combination of items that spreads the burden fairly, so that our state’s education system can improve. It is also worth noting that this broadening of the sales tax base would tremendously assist police and fire protection in our state as well.”

 

SB 332 – This measure removes the exemption that allows the state and local governments to abstain from paying sales tax on purchases.

Estimated annual value to the state: $238 million

Equivalent to a raise of: $4,300

Year of first impact: 2017

“This bill will serve to redirect a significant amount of government spending where it needs to go – our education system. And any burden it places on local government could be more than offset by the other measures I have proposed that broaden the sales tax base, as well as the fact that local governments would benefit from the removal of the exemption for purchases by the state.”

 

SB 333 – This measure ends the applicability of the controversial wind energy tax credit at the end of 2017.

Estimated annual value: $60 million

Equivalent to a raise of: $1,100

Year of first impact: Unknown, but existing credit recipients have ten years to claim their credit

 

SB 334 – This measure repeals the exemption on sales tax made available to wind energy manufacturers.

Estimated annual value to the state: $5 million

Equivalent to a raise of: $100

Year of first impact: 2017

“These tax benefits have outlived their usefulness and are not as high a priority as teacher pay.”

 

SB 339 – This measure ends the exemptions for non-appropriated state agencies that have been treated differently from the majority of non-appropriated agencies that pay the state 10 percent of their budget.

Estimated annual value: $87 million

Equivalent to a raise of: $1,550

Year of first impact: 2017

“Paying ten percent of their budget to the state in exchange for the many services provided to them is no great burden to these agencies, but cumulatively, it provides significant funding towards a teacher pay raise. And it finally treats all the non-appropriated agencies equitably.”

 

SJR 16 and SJR 17 – These two measures work together to create a citizen commission that would spend three years developing a modern school district map that decreases the number of superintendents from 520 to 200 without closing any school building, while spreading the burden equally between rural and urban communities.

Estimated annual value: $50 million

Equivalent to a raise of: $900

Year of first impact: 2023

“Next to teacher pay, the staggering number of superintendents in our state is probably the issue I hear about from constituents the most. And it’s not just a rural issue. There are 24 school districts in the city limits of Oklahoma City. We can be a low tax state or we can be an inefficient state, but we can’t be both. We have to spend money more wisely and get those funds into the classroom. This is a thoughtful and fair way to accomplish a tough but necessary task.”

 

SB 335 – The state annually provides several hundred million dollars to fund the repair of county roads, even though the state has to maintain state roads as well and there is no state assistance for city roads. This measure lowers that amount by a modest $45 million annually.

Annual value: $45 million

Equivalent to a raise of: $800

Year of first impact: 2017

“Maintaining county roads is something the state should assist with only if we have already addressed the state’s core functions, such as state roads and teacher pay. Even still, my bill does not reduce the amount going to counties by very much, but it does help fund a teacher pay raise.”

 

SB 336 – This measure would allow the Lottery Commission the flexibility it has requested in setting prize amounts, which it believes will increase total revenues. The increased revenues are captured for teacher pay. 

Estimated annual value: Unknown

Equivalent to a raise of: Unknown

Year of first impact: 2019

“The lottery is never going to be the source of revenue for education that it was once presented to be, but I believe with this reform it could do more.”

 

SB 337 – This measure enacts similar reporting requirements for online retailers that were adopted in Colorado and recently upheld in Federal court.

Estimated annual value: Unknown

Equivalent to a raise of: Unknown

Year of first impact: 2017

“Due to Constitutional restrictions, this is still largely a Federal issue, but the recent court decision in Direct Marketing Association v. Brohl gives Oklahoma an opportunity to potentially recover more revenues that are already due.”

 

SB 338 – This measure exempts teachers from all Oklahoma income tax obligations.  

Equivalent to a raise of: $1,850

Year of first impact: 2018

“This is a real economic value to teachers, but it’s also an incredible marketing tool. Imagine the unique appeal of marketing Oklahoma as a state where we value teachers so much that we completely exempt them from our income tax. I think it could help morale and the growth of the profession.”

Holt’s teacher pay raise proposals can be considered in the 2017 legislative session that begins February 6. 

Senator Micheal Bergstrom files bill to fund teacher pay raises

SUBMITTED

OKLAHOMA CITY – State Sen. Micheal Bergstrom has filed a bill that would cap tax credits at $25 million statewide for electricity generated by zero emission facilities, including wind energy, and another that could use the savings to provide a graduated teacher pay raise over the next three years.

“Teachers need a pay raise in Oklahoma,” said Bergstrom. “At the same time we have another massive revenue shortfall, which will make funding a pay increase difficult, so I authored legislation to cap the payouts on our wind tax credits and my hope is to use some of the money we save to begin funding that pay raise. The two bills I have submitted would be a good step in the right direction.”

Under the provisions of Senate Bill 95, the proposed $25 million tax credit cap for zero emission facilities would be effective for tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2017. The Tax Commission would allocate the credit under the cap, where it could be reduced, depending if more credits are claimed than the $25 million cap. Currently, there is no cap for tax credits for zero emission facilities. In 2014, $113 million was claimed in wind tax credit, which included carryover, but only $59.7 million was actually paid out to taxpayers. Under SB 95, that credit would be limited to $25 million.

“We have good reasons to not only cap the wind credits program payouts, but to close this program. In fact, the Incentive Evaluation Commission has recommended doing just that,” said Bergstrom, R- Adair. “Our program for encouraging the generation of electricity through wind has been successful; however, especially considering the difficult situation we find the state in, with an $868 million revenue shortfall, we can no longer afford these overly generous tax credits.”

Bergstrom has also filed Senate Bill 97, which would give Oklahoma teachers an incremental pay raise over the next three years. The legislation would align Oklahoma public school teacher pay more closely with average national pay schedules, which are outlined in the bill.  For example, an Oklahoma public school teacher with a bachelor’s degree with five years’ experience would earn $34,500 for the 2017-18 school year, $36,500 the next year, and $38,500 in the third year. Bergstrom says he would like to use the anticipated savings from the wind credit cap to fund the bump in teacher pay. The provisions of the teacher pay bill are contingent on the adoption of the wind credit legislation.

Bergstrom says the legislation he’s authored won’t completely shore up the gap in teacher salaries, but it’s a start. 

“Unfortunately, the limit on wind credit payouts is not enough to fund a $5,000 teacher salary increase in a single year,” said Bergstrom. “Keeping that in mind, I have structured Senate Bill 97 so that teachers will receive a $1,000 raise the first year, and $2,000 in each of the next two years. By passing these bills, even in a difficult budget year, we are demonstrating to the public and to our teachers that Oklahoma is serious about education and taking care of those who teach our children.”

Charles Page High School to receive Tulsa Tech funded Pre-Engineering program

By: Scott Emigh, Editor-in-Chief

The Sand Springs Board of Education met in a regular monthly meeting Monday, December 5th to conduct business and issue several awards and recognitions. Elijah Warren and Josh Taber were to be recognized for attaining National Merit Scholar commendations, but were unable to attend. Their awards were later delivered to them. All-State softball players Jessica Collins and Sydney Pennington were awarded Sandite Spirit Awards, as was Cross Country State Champion Cheyenne Walden. Administrative Assistant Beth Shope was presented with the Pacesetter Award, and Band Director Kyle Wright received a Coin of Excellence.

SEE RELATED: Sandite of the Week: Cheyenne Walden places 34th at Nationals; CPHS Cross Country runners excel in post-season
SEE RELATED: Sydney Pennington and Jessica Collins make All-State Fast Pitch team

Shope works as an assistant to Assistant Superintendent Kristin Arnold and deals with Federal programs. "I have never seen anybody work so hard or learn so fast as Beth Shope," said Superintendent Sherry Durkee. The Pacesetter Award honors Sand Springs Public Schools faculty and staff members who have gone above and beyond expectations in representing Sand Springs. 

The Charles Page High School band recently received Superior ratings at the OSSAA East Regional Marching Contest and was invited to lead the Tulsa Veterans' Day Parade. "I wouldn't want to do this with anybody else," said Wright. "When they do well they get the credit. When things don't go well, I'll take the blame." 

The Sand Springs Education community recently lost a long-time advocate in Director of Technology Danny Wasson, who passed away December 3rd. The 61-year-old was honored throughout the meeting. "I've never met a person more committed to work and the Sandite community," said Durkee.

Tulsa Technology Center Associate Superintendent and former Sand Springs Assistant Superintendent Robert Franklin addressed the crowd to announce that the Tulsa Tech Board will soon be voting to return a long-defunct pre-engineering program to Charles Page High School. According to Franklin, more than forty schools asked Tulsa Tech for the program but Sand Springs was selected, pending board approval. The program will also come with Tulsa Tech funding for a new teacher. 

CPHS Principal Stan Trout spoke to the crowd about a new Response to Intervention (RTI) initiative enacted at the school. The program recognizes three tiers of students. Tier One represents the 80% of students who are able to progress in their learning through core instruction and traditional class structure. Tier Two represents the 15% of students who require extra attention and supplemental instruction. Tier Three represents the 5% of students who require intense intervention, including but not limited to special education students and students with disciplinary issues. 

The fundamental belief of RTI is that schools shouldn't wait until students fall far enough behind to qualify for special ed or drop off the grid altogether before intervening. 

CPHS has also introduced a program called Inspire Challenge Empower (ICE). This is the second year of the program, which gives students an extra class period to pursue their own interests. On Tuesdays and Thursdays students are given time to visit teachers for extra help, work on makeup assignments, pursue hobbies and extracurricular activities, etc.

ICE was created in response to the school's restriction of off-campus lunch to upperclassmen. With split lunch periods, students were no longer able to hold club meetings and take makeup tests at the same time. Students have complete freedom of movement during ICE time, but are required to participate. Each student has an ICE card that is stamped by whatever teacher they visit and checked by their next hour's teacher.  Dozens of teachers host different sorts of activities that are posted online for students to view ahead of time. 

Trout invoked a quote from President Franklin Delano Roosevelt. "Do something. If it works, do more of it. If it doesn't, do something else." "We wanted to tie this in to our school culture," said Trout. The acronym references the school motto of "Challenge mind, inspire hearts, empower a community of learners." 

The Board also approved the hiring of a Title 1 Paraprofessional at Garfield STEAM Academy and a teacher at the Early Childhood Education Center. 

Senator Ron Sharp files $5,000 teacher pay raise bill

OKLAHOMA CITY – Sen. Ron Sharp has filed legislation for the upcoming legislative session to boost teacher pay.  Senate Bill 8 would modify the minimum salary schedule beginning with the 2017-2018 school year to allow for a $5,000 increase in salary and/or benefits.

“Oklahomans made it very clear by getting State Question 779 on the ballot that they believe teachers deserve a raise. As a retired teacher, I know and I’ve authored legislation for an increase every year since being elected,” said Sharp. “The difficulty the legislature is facing, however, is lack of revenue. Our economy has struggled in recent years providing us no money for new expenses like raises. We’ve been fighting just to keep our state agencies afloat with the revenue shortfalls we’ve faced and next year will be no better. We have to create new sources of revenue through some kind of tax increase, which will be difficult with so many Oklahomans struggling; modify tax preferences or take money from other areas to pay for the raises.”

Tax increasing measures require a three-fourths vote by the legislature. Sharp explained that possible new revenue sources could include modestly increasing the general sales tax; taxing selected services, which most state do within general sales tax; or increasing the motor fuel tax (Oklahoma is 47th in the nation at 17 cents per gallon). Other options could include eliminating, reducing or deferring tax credits, exemptions and incentives but the Shawnee Republican noted that any changes must keep Oklahoma competitive with other states and not cause jobs to be lost. He pointed out that Indiana increasing their tax credits this year kept major employer Carrier Heat and Air from relocating to Mexico. The last option would be to reallocate money from other areas of state government to fund the pay raises.

“We’re in a bind. There’s no easy solution when our economy is so weak,” said Sharp. “It won’t be easy and it will require bipartisan support in both chambers but this session we must find a solution and give our teachers the raise they deserve.”

The legislative session will begin on Monday, February 6. 

OSDE unveils new, stronger school report card system required by federal, state laws

OKLAHOMA CITY (Dec. 7, 2016) – Responding to new federal and state laws that set requirements for school accountability, the Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE) is proposing adoption of a new, stronger and more reliable A-F School Report Card system. The agency’s recommended calculation will be voted on by the State Board of Education at its Dec. 15 meeting before being submitted to the state Legislature and governor for final approval.

The report card calculation  is the result of months of collaboration between OSDE staff and a 95-member task force representing educators, parents, students, higher education, Career Tech, business and community leaders, tribal nations, lawmakers and organizations advocating for students with disabilities and English learners (ELs).

State Superintendent of Public Instruction Joy Hofmeister said the proposal fulfills mandates established by the federal Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), which replaced No Child Left Behind, and by House Bill 3218, which Gov. Fallin signed into state law earlier this year.

“This accountability system is the culmination of an intensive and collaborative process that benefited from a diverse array of Oklahoma education stakeholders across the state,” Hofmeister said. “The new report card calculation is valid, reliable and meaningful, and it corrects glaring shortcomings of the previous A-F system. I am grateful for the Assessment and Accountability Task Force members who have dedicated their time, expertise and perspective in helping shape what we believe will help guide school improvement and provide families and communities with important information about their schools.”

A group of assessment and accountability experts worked with the task force to draft the final report of recommendations. The team leader was Marianne Perie, Ph.D., of the University of Kansas’ Achievement & Assessment Institute. Notes and full audio of task force meetings are posted on the OSDE website at sde.ok.gov

The new calculation gives equal weight to student performance in English language arts (ELA) and mathematics as well as student growth in these subjects. Other indicators include English language proficiency assessment (ELPA) progress, graduation rate, postsecondary opportunities and chronic absenteeism, which is defined as missing at least 10 percent of the school year.

The revised report card system is a significant improvement over the state’s prior incarnation.

Copious research has highlighted the link between chronic absenteeism and low academic achievement.

“The relationship between absenteeism and worse outcomes persists among students of all ages,” noted a Brookings Institution report, “Lessons for Broadening School Accountability under the Every Student Succeeds Act,” which was published in October. “As early as kindergarten, school absences lower subsequent achievement levels. Missing school lowers achievement in elementary school and middle school. Chronic absenteeism is also a valuable indicator of whether a student is on track to complete high school.” 

More than 16 percent of Oklahoma high school students were absent at least 15 school days in the 2013-2014 school year. That figure was 9.5 percent for elementary school students and nearly 12 percent for middle school students.

Elementary and middle school report card scores will be factored with a 90-point rubric as follows: 

  • ELA performance – 15 pts.
  • Math performance – 15 pts.
  • Science performance – 5 pts.
  • ELA growth – 15 pts.
  • Math growth – 15 pts.
  • English language proficiency assessment (ELPA) progress – 15 pts.
  • Chronic absenteeism – 10 pts.

Scores will be converted to A-F letter grades:

A > 70
B 57-70.00
C 43-56.99
D 30-42.99
F < 30

While high school grading is similar to that of elementary and middle schools, greater emphasis is placed on college and career readiness. Measuring growth is problematic in the short term given that OSDE is recommending an off-the-shelf college-readiness exam for 11th grade, but the OSDE’s final report details how a growth indicator could be added within several years.

The point structure for high schools is:

  • ELA performance – 15 pts.
  • Math performance – 15 pts.
  • Science performance – 15 pts.
  • ELPA progress – 15 pts.
  • Graduation rate – 10 pts.
  • Chronic absenteeism – 10 pts.
  • Postsecondary opportunity – 10 pts.

In addition, a high school can receive an additional point for high participation and proficiency in U.S. History.

Task force members praised the collaborative spirit that informed the accountability process.

“Under Superintendent Hofmeister's leadership, OSDE met the extraordinary challenge of redesigning our state testing and accountability system. They did this while maintaining an open-door policy for educators and community members,” said Tulsa Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Deborah Gist. “The first step is complete, and we already see significant improvements. We will make many more important decisions in the coming months and look forward to continuing our close partnership with Superintendent Hofmeister and her team to ensure that the final product works well for students, educators, and schools.”

Others echoed Gist’s sentiments.

“The accountability system is all about kids, and that’s the only thing I care about. This report card system is vital for parents, communities and schools,” said Tracy McDaniel, principal and founder of KIPP Reach College Preparatory in Oklahoma City. “The data it will provide can better inform people about how their schools are doing as well as giving educators tools to improve.”

“I believe our diverse task force developed an accountability system of indicators and calculations that capture the complexity of public education and remove bias against high-poverty schools,” said Dr. Shirley Simmons, assistant superintendent of educational services for Norman Public Schools. “Focusing on the indicators in the accountability system, rather than the summative grade, will provide educators and parents with reliable and useful information about their schools.”

“This was a terrific collaborative process that brought many voices to the table,” said Brent Bushey, executive director of the Oklahoma Public School Resource Center. “It was a truly impressive effort.”

Under the new report cards, the grade scale is designed to reserve A and F designations for the best and worst schools. Subsequently, the bulk of schools will fall into the B, C and D ranges. This change ensures that resources are focused on the lowest-performing 5 percent of schools, designated as comprehensive support schools. Schools with the lowest achievement for one or more student groups, but not in the lowest 5 percent, will be identified for targeted support.

Federal law requires schools to test at least 95 percent of their student population. Under the new report card system, a school that fails to do so with any student group will receive a “minus” beside its letter grade.

The report cards will also contain other information as required by ESSA, such as per-pupil expenditures, that will not factor into the calculation. The report cards will enable people to dive deeper into data.

Sand Springs Rotary Club hosts local nonprofit organization showcase

The Sand Springs Rotary Club and the Sand Springs United Methodist Church hosted a nonprofit showcase this past Thursday and dozens of local organizations participated. The free public event included free food and door prizes to help bring public awareness and attention to the organizations and the opportunities for community involvement. 

2 Angel Toy Run is an annual event hosted by Church That Matters in South Sand Springs with the purpose of providing toys for children at Christmas time, as well as scholarships for Charles Page High School students. The Toy Run is held each November. The annual event is named for Hannah Christian and Cassidy Rotramel, two Charles Page High School students who were killed in a motor vehicle accident in 2010. For more information, visit www.2angelstoyrun.com

The Sand Springs Chamber of Commerce is an organization of local businesses, organizations, and individuals working together to bring growth and economic development to Sand Springs. Members meet the first Monday of each month at noon in an open forum at the Tulsa Technology Center. For more information, visit www.sandspringschamber.com

Church That Matters seeks "to be a church that matters to God, each other, our city, and the world." The church has Wednesday evening youth service from 7:00 to 8:30, and three Sunday morning services at 8:30, 10:00, and 11:30. For more information, visit www.churchthatmatters.com

Camp Courage is an independent Christian youth camp located in Owasso and holds traditional camps during the Summer, Spring, and Fall breaks. They also offer a day camp with fishing, hiking, canoeing, paintball, swimming, archery, and more. For more information, visit www.campcourageusa.com

Counseling & Recovery Services of Oklahoma is an outpatient community mental health clinic for adults and children. The organization believes in "treating the whole person," both mentally and physically. They offer adult and children's mental health services, substance abuse assistance, physician visits, pharmaceutical needs, housing, and more. For more information, visit www.crsok.org

Daughters of the American Revolution is a women's only group that works to promote historic preservation, education, and patriotism. The group meets every third Thursday at 11:30 a.m. at Greentree Retirement Center in Sand Springs. Membership requires that a person be directly descended from a person involved in the United States' struggle for independence, and is only for adults aged 18+. For more information, visit www.oklahomadar.org

Day Spring Villa Women & Children's Shelter provides physical, emotional, Christ-like care to enable women and their children to live God-honoring lives. The shelter accepts any and all victims of domestic violence, human sex trafficking, and more. For more information, visit www.dayspringvilla.com

Hillspring Church is located in South Sand Springs and offers numerous small groups including Kids Outdoor Zone and Zumba. They are also hosting a motorcycle Toy Run on December 3rd at 11:30 a.m. For more information, visit www.hillspring.tv

Junior Achievement of Oklahoma serves K-12th grade students by introducing financial literacy, work readiness, and entrepreneurship into the classroom by empowering the students through exciting, hands-on learning experiences. For more information, visit www.jaok.org

Mobile Missions Network is a local organization seeking to meet the needs of mobile home communities in Northeast Oklahoma. Volunteers meet Sunday evenings at the River Oaks, Shannon Valley, and Valley Brook Mobile Communities from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. MMN hosts special events in these communities, including sports camps, bible clubs, and Halloween parties. They also help provide Christmas gifts and help families with light remodeling projects in the area. For more information, visit www.mobilemissionsnetwork.com

Oasis Adult Day Services provides affordable daytime care in a home-like environment for cognitively or physically impaired adults. Oasis has locations at 5525 East 51st Street, Tulsa, and 410 East Lee Street, Sapulpa. For more information, visit www.oasisads.org

Osage Forest of Peace bills itself as an "interspiritual Contemplative Retreat Center." The grounds are open to guests seven days a week with meditation times at 7:00 a.m. and noon daily, plus a 4:45 time on Tuesdays through Saturday. The Forest hosts various retreats and programs, with overnight cabins, meals, yoga classes, hiking, as well as a Zen Garden and labyrinth. For more information, visit www.forestofpeace.org. 

Rotary Club of Sand Springs is the local chapter of a worldwide organization promoting service over self. Rotary believes that service is the basis for success and happiness in business and community life. The local chapter meets ever Friday at 12:00 noon at Broadway Baptist Church. Some of the annual activities sponsored by Rotary include Downhill Derby, the Nonprofit Showcase, a February Chili Cook-off, and a June Bass fishing tournament. For more information, visit www.sandspringsrotary.com

Saint Francis Community Services works toward the recruitment, certification, and retention of quality foster homes in Oklahoma. The organization is not associated with Tulsa hospital, and is corporately located in Kansas. For more information, contact jason.cloud@st-francis.org

Sand Springs Area Support Group for the Visually Limited meets on the third Monday of each month at the Lucile Page Manor Community Room in Sand Springs. The organization helps the visually impaired, and their caregivers, to access resources and creative solutions to overcoming the disability. 

Sand Springs Community Services, Inc. assists Sand Springs area residents experiencing economic crisis in moving forward towards self-sufficiency. For more information, visit www.sscsok.org

Sand Springs Community Thanksgiving Dinner is sponsored by the Sand Springs United Methodist Church, and works to prepare and deliver Thanksgiving meals to Sand Springs and West Tulsa residents. Volunteers meet the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, as well as Thanksgiving day at the UMC Family Life Center. For more information, contact mcreeves@cox.net

Sand Springs Community Theater is dedicated to the exploration and celebration of the performing arts. The company performs three to four shows per year, hosts fundraisers and school workshops, and provides one scholarship each year for a Charles Page High School senior. For more information, visit www.pageplayers.com

The Sand Springs Cultural and Historical Museum is dedicated to the acquisition, preservation, interpretation and exhibition of information and materials related to the history and culture of the Sand Springs community and surrounding area. The museum holds an annual Night at the Museum event the week of Halloween, as well as a Christmas display. The Art of Giving Holiday Open House will be Saturday, December 18th from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 and will feature the Sand Springs Community Band, Sand Springs Service Clubs, and the Festival of Trees in the museum. For more information, contact SSmuseumSS2@gmail.com.

The Sand Springs Education Foundation is a private partner organization of the Sand Springs Public School district and helps provide creative and innovative materials that cannot be funded through local, state, or federal means. For more information, visit www.sandspringseducationfoundation.com

Sand Springs Park Friends, Inc is a fundraising organization for quality of life projects for Sand Springs Parks. For more information, visit www.sandspringsok.org

The Sand Springs Sertoma Club seeks to meet the needs of those impacted by hearing loss and meets each Tuesday at noon at the Sand Springs IHOP. The Sertoma Club sponsors the annual Sand Springs Fireworks show, as well as an annual Murder Mystery dinner. For more information, visit www.sertoma.org

The Sand Springs Symphony League works each year to bring symphony music performances to Sand Springs elementary school students. For more information, contact sandspringssymphonyleague@gmail.com

The Sand Springs Women's Chamber is organized for the purpose of advancing literacy through charitable, civic and literacy programs in Sand Springs. Members meet the second Wednesday of each month from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Case Community Center, September through May of each year. For more information, contact dmyers@mysersmm.com

Sandite Team Animal Rescue (S.T.A.R.) is dedicated to the rescue and care of abused, neglected, and homeless pets. Volunteers work to find homes and foster homes for animals in the Sand Springs pound. They provide veterinary care, spay-neuter services, transportation, and foster care for hundreds of cats and dogs.  For more information, visit www.STARescue.com

Springs, Inc. provides assistance in daily living for people with intellectual disabilities. The organization is committed to the principle of normalization. For more information, visit www.springsinc.org

Salvation Army Boys and Girls Club of Sand Springs is the local chapter of an international organization rooted in Christianity. The ministry seeks to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination. For more information, visit www.salarmytulsa.org