Voluntary Resolution Agreement

Owasso Parents & Guardians,

I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to inform you that the U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights (OCR) has completed its investigation of Owasso Public Schools following a complaint last spring. OCR did not find a violation of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act or Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act. However, as part of our ongoing commitment to ensuring a safe and inclusive environment for all students, the district will enter into a voluntary agreement with OCR to resolve a Title IX complaint made against the district. 

While we continue to believe the original complaint made to OCR was based on inaccurate information, OPS understands the importance for the district to remain in compliance with Title IX regulations in regard to policies, procedures, training, and documentation. This voluntary resolution agreement reaffirms our dedication to fostering a non-discriminatory and harassment-free environment for all students and ensures the district will continue to receive federal funding which is critical in supporting and serving our students with disabilities, English Language learners, and economically disadvantaged students.

The voluntary resolution agreement outlines several important steps that we will be taking throughout the remainder of the 2024-25 school year. These steps include, individual remedies, updating and revising policies, processes, and procedures, updating parts of our website, as well as additional training for staff and students. The complete resolution agreement may be accessed here.

OPS is committed to fulfilling these requirements with the utmost seriousness and care, as we believe every student has the right to learn in an environment free from discrimination and harassment. We are confident that these steps will enhance the safety and inclusivity of our school community. 

Should you have any questions or concerns regarding these measures, or if you would like more information about our Title IX policies and procedures, please do not hesitate to contact our Title IX Coordinator – Mark Officer, Assistant Superintendent for Teaching & Learning – at mark.officer@owassops.org or 918-272-8182.

Thank you for your continued support as we work together to make our schools a place where every student feels safe, respected, and valued.

Sincerely,

Dr. Margaret Coates
Superintendent