Kelly Bales

The assembly included morning rituals such as the presentation of colors, pledge to the flag, and the Oklahoma state pledge, followed by the patriotic song of the month and the Woodlands creed. Key segments involved Chef Jeff demonstrating how to prepare guacamole from avocados, highlighting their nutritional benefits. Students from Mrs. Wilburn's third-grade class presented on their words of the year, which included 'grow,' 'overcome,' 'inspire,' 'achieve,' 'finish,' 'adventurous,' 'focus,' 'go,' 'brave,' 'energy,' and 'rise.' The event also featured the Ponca City Public Schools Foundation awarding four teachers with grants to purchase classroom items, including book sets and intervention kits. Finally, various class awards were presented, such as the Tip To Award, the Golden Lunch Tray, and the Tiptoe Award.

This strategic plan outlines the direction for Ponca City Public Schools, focusing on preparing students to live and work in a global society.

The assembly recognized students for achievements in reading, specifically for meeting their Accelerated Reader (AR) goals, with students from various grade levels and classes being acknowledged. The meeting also emphasized character education for September, focusing on 'Work Ethic.' Announcements were made regarding upcoming parent-teacher conferences, reminding parents to schedule them. Additionally, attendees were informed about a local football game schedule and encouraged to support school activities.

The May board meeting covered updates on major construction projects, including the completion of a 10,000 square foot weight training facility and progress on the Performing Arts Center, which is scheduled to open in September. Discussions included the hiring of a new strength and conditioning coach. The board recognized eight retirees, noting this was a significantly lower number than the typical average. Awards were presented to the Certified Employee of the Month (Jeff Shelton) and Support Employee of the Month (Loretta Levitt), as well as a Friend of Education volunteer (Erin Rut). A presentation was given on developmental education rates, comparing the rate of Poe High graduates needing remedial college courses against peer districts, showing favorable results. Building assessment reviews were presented by principals from East Middle School and Woodlands Elementary. The Superintendent reported extensive details regarding graduation plans, including the scheduled date, inclement weather contingency plans, and noting 323 graduates, including co-valedictorians and a salutatorian. Information was provided on the summer feeding program for students and the adjustment of the 2017-2018 school calendar to account for instructional time lost during a teacher walkout. Finally, the board handled the yearly renewal of various software and advisory contracts, and the rehire of assistant principals.

The meeting commenced with presentations recognizing outstanding personnel, including the Certified Employee of the Month, Liz Hargraves, Principal at Lincoln Elementary School, and the Support Employees of the Month, Marty Ladd (Director of Transportation) and Misty Hennigar (Transportation Secretary), alongside Friends of Education volunteer awards for the robotics team (Ken York, Ed Latimer, Eddie and Deb Randall). The Board then heard public comments, though none were registered. A significant portion of the meeting involved a detailed presentation and discussion on State Testing results and the Dropout Report, focusing heavily on OCCT Math, Reading, and Science scores across various grades. Discussions highlighted declines in Math and Reading scores, particularly in 8th grade, attributed partly to changes in testing standards for special education students and the removal of duplicated scoring for Algebra 1 students. For Science scores, attendees noted a significant statewide drop linked to changes in the criterion-referenced test cut scores set by the state superintendent, rather than the committee recommendations. Steps taken to address instructional gaps in Science, including curriculum analysis and professional training for science teachers, were also presented.