Ponca City Public School District

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.

The discussion centered on actions taken during the September board meeting. Key topics included the Board voting to join a resolution with the Oklahoma State School Board Association regarding concerns about high-stakes testing, specifically noting new state law concerning third-grade reading test failures leading to retention and requirements for graduating seniors to pass four out of seven end-of-instruction tests. Future bond projects were detailed, scheduled for mid-February, intended to cover expenses such as new buses, technology upgrades (including iPads for elementary schools), and facility improvements at Trout, Woodlands, and Liberty schools, which involve adding classrooms and relocating main offices for safety. Additionally, salary schedule updates were approved for all support employees, including a step increase, a general 10-cent increase across all salary lanes, and enhanced salary lanes for site secretaries and certified teaching assistants. A contract renewal with the YMCA for swim team practice facilities was also mentioned.

The assembly featured an announcement regarding the lunch menu. Key discussion points included encouraging students to learn and understand 'weak words' for an upcoming test to aid in summarizing and analysis. The assembly heavily emphasized October as Attendance Awareness Month for the entire district, with related flyers to be posted around town. A 'One Book One District' initiative was announced, starting Monday, where families would receive the book "The Mouse and the Motorcycle" by Beverly Cleary, with associated daily reading assignments and a newsletter. Students were reminded about sign-ups for birthday lunch, Parent-Teacher Conferences scheduled for October 13th and 18th, and picture day on October 13th (requiring payment beforehand). A fundraising event involving Chili's was also promoted. Finally, numerous students across Kindergarten, First Grade, Second Grade, and other grades were recognized and awarded for consistently demonstrating the character trait of patience through their behavior, waiting their turns, and interacting positively with peers and teachers.