2023-24 Communication

Owasso Parents & Guardians,

I hope this email finds you well. I am pleased to inform you that our SPARK Before & After Care program is now able to accept DHS assistance! This is something that we have worked toward for the past year and we are hopeful that this will allow more students to benefit from the enriching activities and supportive environment that SPARK offers.

To enroll in SPARK for the 2024-25 school year, please visit our website at https://owassops.reg.eleyo.com/. Space is limited, so registering early is recommended.

Please note, we are not able to accept DHS subsidies for SPARK Summer Enrichment Camps, only Before & After Care during the school year. 

If you have any questions or are in need of support with enrollment, please contact me at melissa.zumwalt@owassops.org or 918-928-4049.

Sincerely,

Melissa Zumwalt
Director of SPARK
Owasso Public Schools

Owasso Parents & Guardians,

As the school year draws to a close, I am filled with a profound sense of gratitude and pride as I reflect on the journey we have embarked on together. The past year has been marked by resilience, growth, and a shared commitment to excellence, and I am truly honored to have been part of this incredible community.

I want to take this opportunity to extend my heartfelt thanks to each and every one of you for your unwavering support and dedication to our students' success. Your involvement has been instrumental in creating a thriving learning environment for our children.

This year, our theme of intentionality has guided our efforts every step of the way. Every decision – from curriculum development to student support initiatives and everything in-between – has been made with the deliberate aim of nurturing the whole child and empowering them to reach their full potential.

As we conclude the 2023-2024 school year, I would like to share information with you about our summer activities and continuous strategic improvement plan.

Summer Activities 
We offer a variety of summer academic programming as well as summer sports camps, which can be found on our website or through flyers shared on the district’s Peachjar page. We are excited to bring you our brand new SPARK Enrichment Camps this summer. All of our camps offer students the opportunity to learn, explore, and grow during the summer months. 

Continuous Strategic Improvement (CSI)  
This school year we began the implementation of our 5-year Strategic Plan. There are 12 major initiatives we are set to achieve over the next five years. I’d like to share with you the progress we’ve made towards a few of these initiatives. Detailed information regarding progress  towards all initiatives can be found on our website. 

• Professional Learning Community (PLC) - We have continued to make great strides towards developing and building professional learning teams, with over 400 teachers trained in the PLC model. This foundational model drives the mastery of core content for our students, common formative assessments, academic interventions, and academic enrichments/extensions.
• Recruitment and Retention - Recruiting and retaining quality employees is essential to the academic success of our students. This year we launched our Supplemental Program and Activities for Ram Kids (SPARK), which has allowed district families and our employees the opportunity to have quality programming for their children before and after school hours while they're still at work. This program has been a huge success and we are excited to expand programming into the summer months with our SPARK Enrichment Camps. 
• Safe and Nurturing Environment - The safety and security of our students and staff is our top priority. Considerable time and effort go into practicing and enhancing school safety and security. Along those lines, we are enhancing the compensation package for our security personnel to increase the number of days in their contract. This will allow us to provide security officers over the summer months and support all of our summer programming and activities, while also preparing for the upcoming school year. Additionally, we have begun the process of seeking feedback from all stakeholders in order to help us identify our strengths and opportunities for growth, with regard to school safety. As you enroll your returning student through Infosnap, you will have an opportunity to complete a safety feedback survey to assist with these efforts.
• Facilities Improvement Plan - This school year we completed the creation of a Long Range Facilities Master Plan, which included feedback from parents, community members, students, teachers, and administrators. This 10-15 year master plan includes facility renovation and new construction, capacity analysis for each building in the district, and enrollment forecast through 2033. As we plan for future school bond issues, this comprehensive facilities plan provides a roadmap for district needs.
• Full-Day Pre-K - This initiative within the CSI plan, calls for OPS to begin offering full-day Pre-K within the next five years. Currently OPS does not have the capacity at each elementary school to offer full-day Pre-K, however through our Long Range Facilities Committee process, we have determined a way to begin offering full-day Pre-K at every elementary school, with the target date being the fall of 2027. The data collected through the Long Range Facilities planning process showed the strongest and most desirable solution would be to change the grade configuration in all elementary schools from Pre-K - 5th grade to Pre-K - 4th grade. By moving 5th grade out, it creates classroom space at every elementary to house full-day Pre-K. We will create a 5th & 6th Grade Center combining the two grades. To accomplish this, we will make it a part of our next bond proposal, expected in the spring of 2025.

In closing, I want to express my deepest gratitude for your continued support and partnership. Together, we have accomplished so much, and I am confident that the best is yet to come. As we bid farewell to another school year, let us carry the spirit of intentionality with us into the future, knowing that with purpose and dedication, anything is possible.

Wishing you and your family a safe, joyful, and rejuvenating summer.

Warm regards,    

Margaret Coates
Superintendent

Owasso Parents & Guardians,

The summer feeding program at Owasso Public Schools is back again this year and will run from May 28-July, 26, 2024. Starting on May 28, a free breakfast and lunch will be available to any child age 18 and under at Mills Elementary and the Owasso High School East Campus. 

No application or registration is required. Per USDA regulations, children must eat all meals at the serving location. No carry-out meals are allowed. Children do not have to be enrolled in Owasso Public Schools to participate in the summer feeding program.

Please contact the Owasso Child Nutrition office at 918-272-8034 or ram.meals@owassops.org with any questions or for more information.

Summer Feeding Locations and Hours

Mills Elementary
8200 N 124th E Avenue
Monday - Friday (closed July 1-5)
Breakfast: 8-9:30 a.m.
Lunch: 10:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. 

Owasso High School
12901 E 86th Street N
Monday - Friday (closed July 1-5)
Breakfast: 7:30 - 8:30 a.m.
Lunch: 10:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. 
 

Owasso Parents & Guardians,

This month’s edition of Minutes with Margaret, a video series with Superintendent Dr. Margaret Coates exploring various topics related to Owasso Public Schools, is available now! 

This month, we take a closer look at the Owasso Unified and Special Olympics programs with Susan St. John. The episode can be found on the district’s YouTube channel, along with its social media pages (Facebook & X [formerly Twitter]) and official website, owassops.org.

Thank you for watching and for your continued support of Owasso Public Schools!

2023-24 Episodes
Ag Ed & FFA
Robotics
OPS Veterans
OHS Leadership/Student Council
Owasso Athletics
Unified & Special Olympics

Owasso Public Schools

Owasso Parents & Guardians,

School leaders across the state are developing a vision and strategic plan for Oklahoma public education – and they are asking for your help! Students, parents, educators, employers and residents from all 77 counties – including YOU – are invited to share ideas, suggestions and feedback to help make a difference for Oklahoma students.

To participate, please complete the committee’s online exchange at ossba.org/vision. This interactive, two-way platform, powered by Thought Exchange, will allow you to share your thoughts about the future of public education and to rate the thoughts of other Oklahomans. Responses will be accepted through May 31.

The committee, convened by the Oklahoma State School Boards Association and the Cooperative Council for Oklahoma School Administration, will use the results to help create a strategic action plan that focuses on strengthening and expanding opportunities and services for Oklahoma students and compiles a collection of education best practices that can be shared across the state.

This is an opportunity for members of the Owasso school community to let their voices be heard. I encourage everyone to complete the online exchange and support this important work. With your help, we can make a meaningful difference for Oklahoma students, including those served in our schools.

The exchange includes two primary questions for Oklahomans to answer:

• In your opinion, what are the qualities of a life-ready Oklahoma public high school graduate?

• What do you think is important to ensure the success of public education in Oklahoma? Respondents will also rate submissions from fellow Oklahomans for this question.

Thank you in advance for your feedback. We appreciate your dedication to Oklahoma students and the future of public education in our state.

Sincerely,
 

Margaret Coates
Superintendent

Owasso Parents & Guardians,

At last night’s Board of Education meeting, the Board approved a calendar for the 2025-26 school year. 

A Calendar Committee – made up of parents, teachers, principals and district administrators – recently convened to construct the 2025-26 school and staff calendars. The district remains committed to always having two years of published calendars available to families and staff members, as this practice allows ample time for all to plan ahead as needed.

Click the link below to download and save the 2025-26 school calendar. You can always find updated calendars on the district’s website, owassops.org, by clicking the “QuickLinks” button at the top of the page and selecting “School Calendars”.

2025-26 School Calendar

Owasso Public Schools

Owasso Public Schools

Pre-K & Kindergarten Kick-Start

=New Enrollees for the 2024/25 School Year=

Parents, do you have a new student going into Pre-K or Kindergarten next year? Check out our Kick-Start, May 6-10! 

Kick-Start allows our elementary schools an opportunity to welcome our new young learners ahead of the upcoming school year. This day provides Pre-K and Kindergarten teachers an opportunity to administer a brief readiness screener on each child. This personal interaction with students helps our schools with balancing class placement and ultimately best supports the needs of our students. Currently enrolled Pre-K students do not need to attend this event.

During this event, parents are able to begin or finalize their child’s enrollment. If you have already completed your child’s enrollment, congratulations! You can simply visit your school’s table.

Students will leave with a Kick-Start goodie bag and have the opportunity to take a picture with their child’s elementary school banner. Parents will leave equipped with helpful preparedness information for the summer months and have the chance to connect with other resources.

Ahead of Your Visit:

• Begin the enrollment process for your new student 

• Confirm your elementary school boundary

• Contact the Owasso Enrollment Center at (918) 274-1904 with help for any of these processes.

The Day of Your Visit:

• Please be sure to bring your child. They are the STAR of the day!

• Officially begin or finalize your child’s enrollment process. All stages of enrollment are welcome.

• Learn more about SPARK, our new before and after program for students!

This is a come-and-go event. We encourage you to visit the day your elementary school representatives are present, if possible. Find your school’s assigned day listed below.

Owasso Parents & Guardians,

Enrollment for returning students of the district will open this week. An email titled "Owasso Public Schools Returning Student Enrollment" will be delivered to the parent/guardian email address for each student. Please follow the Snapcode link and instructions in that email to enroll your returning student for the 2024-2025 school year. If you do not receive an enrollment email within a week, please contact your child’s school.

Owasso Public Schools will continue to offer two education options for the 2024-2025 school year.  

• If you prefer your child learns in-person for the 2024-25 school year, you only need to complete the steps outlined in the "Owasso Public Schools Returning Student Enrollment" email.

• The Virtual School will be available for students in 6th-12th grades. You will have the opportunity to choose that option for your 6th-12th grade student from July 10-24. Please complete the steps outlined in the "Owasso Public Schools Returning Student Enrollment" email prior to July 10.

Additionally, as part of our continued focus on and commitment to the initiatives in our five-year strategic plan, the district will be asking for feedback from parents in the form of a voluntary survey during the enrollment process for returning students. The survey focuses on the experiences of your student(s), particularly as it relates to safety & security.

Should they choose to participate, students in grades 5-12 will also be given time during a class period the week of May 6-10 to complete a similar survey anonymously. Students who do not wish to participate may use the time to complete other classwork or sit quietly at their desk.

Should you have any questions throughout the enrollment process, please reach out to the Enrollment Center at 918-274-1904 or enrollment.center@owassops.org. If you have questions about learning options for your child, please reach out to your child’s principal.

Sincerely,

Margaret Coates
Superintendent

Owasso Parents/Guardians,

SPARK (OPS Before & After Care) Enrollment for the 2024-25 school year will open TOMORROW at 8:00 AM. Space is limited, so registering early is recommended. 

To enroll, visit the district's website at:  https://www.owassops.org/apps/pages/DD/T_LBeforeAfterCare/BeforeAfterCare/EnrollTuition

Melissa Zumwalt
Director of SPARK
Owasso Public Schools

Owasso Parents & Guardians,

Please be advised that we will be performing an upgrade to the PowerSchool servers over the upcoming extended weekend. During this time, PowerSchool will be inaccessible.

The upgrade will begin this evening (Thursday, April 18) at 6 p.m. and is scheduled to be completed by 6 a.m. on Monday, April 22.

Thank you for your patience during this upgrade and for your continued support of Owasso Public Schools.

Owasso Public Schools

Owasso Parents & Guardians,

This is a reminder that there will be no school on Friday, April 19. You can always access district calendars on owassops.org, the district's official website.

Owasso Public Schools

Pre-K & Kindergarten Kick-Start

=New Enrollees for the 2024/25 School Year=

Parents, do you have a new student going into Pre-K or Kindergarten next year? Check out our Kick-Start, May 6-10! 
 

Kick-Start allows our elementary schools an opportunity to welcome our new young learners ahead of the upcoming school year. This day provides Pre-K and Kindergarten teachers an opportunity to administer a brief readiness screener on each child. This personal interaction with students helps our schools with balancing class placement and ultimately best supports the needs of our students. Currently enrolled Pre-K students do not need to attend this event.

During this event, parents are able to begin or finalize their child’s enrollment. If you have already completed your child’s enrollment, congratulations! You can simply visit your school’s table.

Students will leave with a Kick-Start goodie bag and have the opportunity to take a picture with their child’s elementary school banner. Parents will leave equipped with helpful preparedness information for the summer months and have the chance to connect with other resources.

Ahead of Your Visit:

• Begin the enrollment process for your new student 

• Confirm your elementary school boundary

• Contact the Owasso Enrollment Center at (918) 274-1904 with help for any of these processes.

The Day of Your Visit:

• Please be sure to bring your child. They are the STAR of the day!

• Officially begin or finalize your child’s enrollment process. All stages of enrollment are welcome.

• Learn more about SPARK, our new before and after program for students!

This is a come-and-go event. We encourage you to visit the day your elementary school representatives are present, if possible. Find your school’s assigned day listed below.

Owasso Parents & Guardians,

Enrollment for new students entering grades Pre-K and Kindergarten for the upcoming 2024-25 school year is now open. The enrollment process can be completed entirely online using the steps on the Pre-K and Kindergarten Enrollment (2024-25) page of the district’s website.

Please note that students currently attending Owasso Public Schools for Pre-K will enroll in Kindergarten for the 2024-25 school year in May along with all other returning students. 

Other items to know:

• Pre-K is a half-day program, Monday through Friday

• Hours:

• Morning class hours are 9:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

• Afternoon class hours are 1:15 p.m. - 3:45 p.m.

• Kindergarten is a full day, 9:00 a.m. - 3:45 p.m., Monday through Friday

• Students must meet the following requirements on or before September 1, 2024:

• 4 years of age for Pre-K

• 5 years of age for Kindergarten

Should you have any questions throughout the enrollment process, please reach out to the Enrollment Center at 918-274-1904 or enrollment.center@owassops.org.

Owasso Parents & Guardians,

Good afternoon! Just a reminder that we are one week away from Election Day on April 2.

Each of the five individuals who serve on the Board of Education do so with a five-year term and every year there is a member whose seat is up for election. There are two candidates who have filed to run in this year’s election for the seat representing Ward 4. The candidates for the Ward 4 seat are (in alphabetical order): Brent England and Brandon Shreffler.

The candidate who receives at least 50% of the vote will begin serving the five-year term for Ward 4 at the next Board of Education meeting, which is scheduled for April 8. 

It is important to note that while the candidates up for election must reside in the Ward 4 boundaries, any registered voter who lives in the boundaries of the Owasso Public School District is eligible to cast a vote.

If you are interested in voting but are unsure where your polling place is, please visit the Oklahoma Voter Portal. 

Thank you for taking the time to review this information and have a great week!

Owasso Parents & Guardians,

Enrollment for new students entering grades Pre-K and Kindergarten for the upcoming 2024-25 school year will begin on Monday, April 1 at 8 a.m. The enrollment process can be completed entirely online using the steps on the Pre-K and Kindergarten Enrollment (2024-25) page of the district’s website.

Please note that students currently attending Owasso Public Schools for Pre-K will enroll in Kindergarten for the 2024-25 school year in May along with all other returning students. 

Other items to know:

• Pre-K is a half-day program, Monday through Friday

• Hours:

• Morning class hours are 9:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

• Afternoon class hours are 1:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

• Kindergarten is a full day, 9:00 a.m. - 3:45 p.m., Monday through Friday

• Students must meet the following requirements on or before September 1, 2024:

• 4 years of age for Pre-K

• 5 years of age for Kindergarten

Should you have any questions throughout the enrollment process, please reach out to the Enrollment Center at 918-274-1904 or enrollment.center@owassops.org. 

Ram Family, 

This afternoon the Oklahoma Office of the Chief Medical Examiner released its summary report regarding the death of Owasso High School student Nex Benedict. An update on the investigation can be found on the Owasso Police Department’s Facebook page.

The loss of Nex, a member of the Ram Family and the Owasso community, is devastating. We understand that the information released today may bring up additional thoughts, feelings and emotions for students and staff members. 

Because each person may respond differently, the district employs an experienced team of counselors that are available to students and staff every day. Any student who wishes to see a counselor can do so by visiting the counseling office or may schedule an appointment by emailing their counselor. If you or someone you know are in need of support outside of school hours, please dial 988 for access to free and confidential resources 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Additionally, the Crisis Text Line is available for emotional crisis support by texting HELLO to 741741.

As we mourn together, OPS remains focused on the safety and well-being of our students and staff. Let’s continue to lean on each other in the days ahead. 

Sincerely,

Dr. Margaret Coates
Superintendent
Owasso Public Schools

Owasso Parents & Guardians, 

Please see the message below, which was shared by Dr. Margaret Coates as part of her Superintendent's Report to the Board of Education at tonight’s meeting.

—

Board Members,

It’s with deep sadness that in my report tonight I address the recent loss of one of our own, Nex Benedict, a bright and promising young student.  As educators, when we look into the eyes of our students we see the reflection of our own children. This is why the passing of one of our students is always a profound tragedy and difficult for everyone. Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with Nex’s family, friends, teachers, and all who knew Nex.

I'm proud that in times like this, our school community continues to come together to reflect, support one another, and ensure that every student feels a sense of safety, security and belonging within our school walls.

As we continue to mourn this loss together, Owasso Public Schools remains focused on the safety and well-being of students and staff. Over the past few weeks we have offered continuous counseling support for both students and staff. We have also provided additional law enforcement and security personnel at our sites. And, we will continue to cooperate with local and federal officials.

I’d also like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to the Owasso community including our law enforcement partners, business leaders, chamber partners, faith leaders, and our own school community for the outpouring of support during this difficult time. The solidarity, compassion, and kindness exhibited by our students, teachers, parents, central office staff and board members has been a source of strength for myself and many others.  It is incredibly heartwarming to see our school family come together to support one another in the face of this tragedy. I’d also like to say a special thank you to High School Principal Tiffani Cooper and her administrative team along with the High School counseling team for their tireless dedication in  supporting and caring for our students and staff during this incredibly challenging time.

This heartbreaking situation serves as a reminder that we must continue our focus, as outlined in our district’s strategic plan, to create a safe and nurturing environment. As we move forward with our strategic plan this is an opportunity for us to review our policies, curriculum, and programs. I remain committed to listening and collaborating with our students, families, staff and community, and I invite everyone to join OPS in this important work. Our mission as a public school is to love, challenge, and prepare ALL students for life after high school. We embrace this mission wholeheartedly.

In closing, the best way we can honor the memory of Nex Benedict is to continue to simply treat others the way you want to be treated - with dignity, respect, compassion, and understanding every single day.  

Margaret Coates
Superintendent
Owasso Public Schools

Dear Ram Family, 

As expected, this afternoon the Westboro Baptist Church, a Kansas-based activist group, visited Owasso protesting briefly on the sidewalk in front of the Education Service Center and in front of the East campus of the High School. No unexpected issues were reported.

OPS continues to take safety and security matters very seriously. The district is deeply grateful for the support of our safety and security team, as well as the Owasso Police Department and our many local and state law enforcement partners who helped ensure the well-being of all involved during this non-school-sponsored, off-campus event. 

Recognizing that events like this can lead to added stress, I encourage all students and staff to take advantage of the supportive resources that are available through the district and other organizations. OPS will also continue our own efforts to foster an environment where everyone feels heard and supported.

Thank you for your partnership and ongoing support. 

Sincerely,

Dr. Margaret Coates
Superintendent
Owasso Public Schools

Dear Ram Family,

I want to provide you with an update on this week’s anticipated visit from Westboro Baptist Church, a Kansas based activist group who routinely engages in protests. It is our current understanding that a small portion of this group will be in Owasso on March 6.

As we’ve shared, this event is being hosted by an outside organization and is not associated with the district in any way.

The group is still expected to gather in two locations on Wednesday afternoon. First on the sidewalk in front of the Education Service Center from 1:45 - 2:15 p.m., and then on the sidewalk in front of the East campus of the High School from 2:25 - 2:55 p.m. They will not be allowed onto district property at any time.

We understand that school safety continues to be at the forefront of everyone’s mind, and I want to reassure our students, families, and staff that OPS takes all safety and security matters very seriously. We are committed to providing a safe and inclusive environment for all students and are deeply grateful for the support of our district safety and security team, as well as the many local and state law enforcement partners, who are working together to help ensure the well-being of all involved.

We recognize that events such as this can often lead to added stress for students and staff. It is important to remember that the district employs an experienced team of counselors who are available at each school site every day. We are grateful to this team for helping both students and staff process their thoughts and feelings. Any student who wishes to see a counselor can do so by visiting the counseling office or may schedule an appointment by emailing their counselor. If you or someone you know are in need of support outside of school hours, please dial 988 for access to free and confidential resources 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

While remaining focused on our mission of teaching and learning, the district continues to monitor Wednesday’s events closely. As these activities are scheduled for a brief period in the afternoon, we look forward to a regular and productive day of instruction.

Sincerely,

Dr. Margaret Coates
Superintendent
Owasso Public Schools

Dear Ram Family, 

OPS is aware that Westboro Baptist Church, an activist organization based in Kansas that routinely engages in disruptive protests, has plans to visit Owasso on Wednesday, March 6. 

Our understanding is they will gather in two locations. First on the sidewalk in front of the Education Service Center beginning at 1:45 p.m, and then on the sidewalk in front of the East campus of the High School from 2:25 - 2:55 p.m. They will not be allowed onto district property at any time. 

We understand that school safety continues to be top-of-mind, and I want to reassure our students, families, and staff that OPS takes all safety and security matters very seriously. 

District leaders are working closely with our law enforcement partners to monitor the situation, and I will provide you with updates as needed. 

Sincerely,

Dr. Margaret Coates
Superintendent
Owasso Public Schools

Dear Ram Family, 

This morning, some of our OHS students participated in a peaceful walkout at the East Campus. While OPS does not condone any disruptions during the school day, the district recognizes our students’ Constitutional rights to assemble peacefully, participate in student-led civic engagement, and express themselves in a respectful and appropriate manner. 

The district is deeply grateful for the support of our district safety and security team, as well as the many local and state law enforcement partners who helped ensure the wellbeing of all involved during this non-school-sponsored, off-campus event. 

We understand that school safety continues to be top-of-mind for many, and I want to reassure our students, families, and staff that OPS takes safety and security matters very seriously. As the district moves forward with normal school operations, you should expect to continue seeing an increased presence of security personnel at each building out of an abundance of caution.

The safety of students and staff is, and always will be, our top priority. Thank you for your ongoing support and understanding as we navigate this difficult time together. 

Sincerely,

Dr. Margaret Coates
Superintendent
Owasso Public Schools

Owasso Parents & Guardians, 

As we continue to navigate this difficult time together, I have heard from a number of students, families and staff regarding safety concerns that stem from the influx of comments found on our district social media accounts.

While OPS does not use social media as our primary form of communication with our students, families and staff, we realize it is an important channel for our stakeholders to be able to engage with us.

Although our content filters for language are currently at their strongest setting, as a public entity it is OPS’ practice to leave all social media comments posted that do not violate the terms of the platform. Our district team is, however, working diligently to report any comments that violate the terms of the platform so they can be removed. 

The safety of students and staff is, and always will be, our top priority as we work to foster an environment where everyone feels heard and supported. If there is ever a concern about student safety or well-being, please reach out to a teacher, counselor or principal at your child’s school.

Sincerely,

Dr. Margaret Coates
Superintendent
Owasso Public Schools

Owasso Parents & Guardians, 

Yesterday we informed you that the district is working with the Owasso Police Department and additional law enforcement agencies to investigate threats made against Owasso Public Schools and staff. Since that time, we have not received any additional threats and, to date, no threat has been verified as credible.

We will continue with school operations as normal and look forward to welcoming students this morning. Out of an abundance of caution, each building will continue to see an increased presence of security personnel, as well. 

We will continue to update you as necessary. Thank you for your continued support, partnership, and understanding as we work through these situations.
 

Sincerely,

Dr. Margaret Coates
Superintendent
Owasso Public Schools

Owasso Parents & Guardians, 

The district is working with the Owasso Police Department and additional law enforcement agencies to investigate threats made against Owasso Public Schools and staff. We are taking every threat seriously and are working diligently with agencies to determine the credibility of each threat.

Each of our schools are continuing with operations as normally as possible. We did not want you to be alarmed should you see increased security at our buildings.

We will continue to provide you with updated information. 

Sincerely,

Dr. Margaret Coates
Superintendent
Owasso Public Schools

Owasso Parents & Guardians,

Owasso Public Schools has cooperated fully with the investigation by the Owasso Police Department surrounding the death of a high school student on February 8, 2024. The district has limited its statements on the matter to this point due to the on-going investigation in an effort to not disrupt police, and out of respect and for the confidentiality for all involved. 

However, the speculation and misinformation surrounding the case has intensified in recent days. While there will still be pieces of information that the district will never be able to share due to federal privacy laws, we are reaching out to you today to address some of that misinformation, particularly statements that call into question the district’s commitment to student safety & security. We understand the importance of ensuring a safe and inclusive environment for all students and know that the information below doesn’t change the facts that a fight occurred on school grounds and a student passed away the next day.

We have worked with police to ensure that the information provided below will not disrupt their investigation. 

• On the afternoon of Wednesday, February 7, 2024, a physical altercation occurred in a restroom at the Owasso High School West Campus.
• Students were in the restroom for less than two (2) minutes and the physical altercation was broken up by other students who were present in the restroom at the time, along with a staff member who was supervising outside of the restroom.
• Once the altercation was broken up, all students involved in the altercation walked under their own power to the assistant principal’s office and nurse’s office.
• District administrators began taking statements from the students present in the restroom and began contacting parents/guardians of the students involved in the physical altercation.
• Following district protocols, each of the students involved in the altercation was given a health assessment by a district registered nurse. Per district protocols, students needing further support are transported to a medical facility either by ambulance or by a parent/guardian, depending on the severity of the injuries and preference of the parent/guardian. 
• While it was determined that ambulance service was not required, out of an abundance of caution, it was recommended to one parent that their student visit a medical facility for further examination. 
• Per district protocols, the parents/guardians of students involved in a physical altercation are notified and informed of the option to file a police report should they choose. Should they choose to file a police report, school resource officers are made available to the parents/guardians either at that time or they can schedule an appointment, if they choose, at a later date. These practices were followed during this incident.
• Physical altercations between students are unacceptable. Any student/s engaging in such action, jeopardizing the safety of others, will receive disciplinary consequences. These consequences can include out of school suspension for first offense. Due to federal privacy laws, we are unable to disclose the exact nature of disciplinary action taken against any student. That information can only be given to the parents/guardians of the student being disciplined. Any notion that the district has ignored disciplinary action toward those involved is simply untrue. 
• Additional counseling services were provided to students at the high school on Friday, February 9, and continue to be available for all students & staff.

We understand that for many, additional questions remain, however these are the facts that we are able to communicate at this juncture. We will continue to cooperate fully with the Owasso Police Department’s investigation. 

The loss of a student, a member of the Ram Family and the Owasso community, is devastating. We recognize the impact that this event has had on the entire school community and it is our priority to foster an environment where everyone feels heard, supported, and safe. If there is ever a concern about student safety or well-being, please reach out to a teacher, counselor or principal at your child’s school. As we continue to mourn the loss of this student, our hearts go out to their family and they will continue to be in our prayers. We are here to support them and everyone who has been affected by this situation. 

Owasso Parents & Guardians,

This is a reminder that there will be no school on Monday, February 19, due to Presidents' Day.

Dear Ram Family,

We are heartbroken with the loss of one of our High School students last Thursday, 2/8/24. We know there are questions and speculation surrounding the student's passing, however due to the active investigation by the Owasso Police Department, we are unable to make further comments at this time. As we mourn the loss of this student, please keep the student's family in your thoughts and prayers. 

Sincerely,

Margaret Coates, Ed.D
Superintendent
Owasso Public Schools

OPS Parents & Guardians:

The Oklahoma State Department of Education has announced the OK Reads Virtual Tutoring Program, which is available for 4th grade students in Oklahoma. Registration is now open should you wish to take advantage of this opportunity. 

Spring 2024 OK Reads Virtual Reading Tutoring Program Information:

• Open to Oklahoma 4^th grade students
• The program will run from February 20- April 20, 2024 (Tutoring will not occur March 17-23 for spring break.)
• Certified teachers trained in the Science of Reading will provide tutoring services.
• There is no cost to families for students to participate.
• If interested, register your child here.
• OK Reads is not associated with a school district. Please be aware that once you have registered, some communication may come from an employee of the Oklahoma State Department of Education (Tutoring@sde.ok.gov)
• For inquiries, please contact: Tutoring@sde.ok.gov

Owasso Public Schools

Owasso Parents & Guardians,

Sodexo and the Owasso Child Nutrition Department are looking for elementary students to compete in this year’s Future Chefs Challenge. 

The national initiative, now in its 12th year, was created to get students thinking about making healthy food choices while also encouraging them to be active and creative in the kitchen. Owasso students are joining over 2,500 other students representing more than 1,400 Sodexo-served school sites in 30 states nationally.

Interested students should submit their recipe online using the Student Recipe Submission Portal or by filling out a paper submission form provided by their school’s kitchen manager. This year, we are looking for students to “Complete the Plate” with their favorite fruit or vegetable side dish. The deadline to submit a recipe is February 17. 

One student from each of Owasso’s nine elementary schools will be selected to compete in the district Future Chefs Challenge on March 29 at Morrow Elementary. Students will be paired with an Owasso Child Nutrition employee to create their submitted recipe and present it to a panel of judges.

The winning student will go home with a prize package and will be considered for a regional finalist award. Selected regional finalists will vie to become one of five national finalists competing for the public’s online vote. 

If you have any questions about the Future Chef Challenge, please contact the Child Nutrition office at 918-272-8034.

We know how creative Owasso students can be and we look forward to seeing some amazing culinary creations!

Jon Beckloff
Director of Child Nutrition

Owasso Parents & Guardians,

This month’s edition of Minutes with Margaret, a monthly video series with Superintendent Dr. Margaret Coates exploring various topics related to Owasso Public Schools, is available now! 

This month, we take a closer look at Owasso Athletics with Executive Director of Athletics Zach Duffield and new Director of Football Operations Antonio Graham. The episode can be found on the district’s YouTube channel, along with its social media pages (Facebook & X [formerly Twitter]) and official website, owassops.org.

Thank you for watching and for your continued support of Owasso Public Schools!

2023-24 Episodes
September - Ag Ed & FFA
October - Robotics
November - OPS Veterans
December - OHS Leadership/Student Council
January - Owasso Athletics

Owasso Public Schools

Owasso Parents & Guardians,

Due to slick conditions on neighborhood roads and at school sites, Owasso Public Schools will continue with distance learning on Tuesday, January 23, 2024. 

No students or teachers will report to school sites. Please check with coaches, teachers and sponsors regarding extracurricular activities.

Students will log into Google Classroom and follow their normal schedule, receiving virtual instruction from their OPS teacher. If your student has a question or issue with logging into Google Classroom, please reach out to their teacher or school site. For additional information, please see the district’s Inclement Weather Distance Learning Plan.

Flexibility and grace will be extended to all students and families to resolve any issues that may occur on a distance learning day. If students are unable to log on during the day, assignments can still be accessed on any device and at any time of the day. 

We will communicate any further closures as necessary.

Thank you for your patience and stay safe.

Sincerely,

Dr. Margaret Coates
Superintendent

Owasso Parents & Guardians,

District personnel will continue to monitor road conditions throughout the night and into the early morning hours. Temperatures are forecasted to stay slightly above freezing overnight, however we know that a few degrees in either direction can have a big impact with the amount of precipitation that we’ve experienced.

District leaders will assess the conditions of roads as well as school parking lots and sidewalks in the morning. Once that assessment is completed, you will receive a communication regarding the status of school for Tuesday. That communication will be sent no later than 6 a.m.

Thank you for your patience and understanding as we navigate this latest round of unpredictable Oklahoma weather.

Sincerely,

Margaret Coates 
Superintendent

Owasso Parents & Guardians,

Due to forecasted inclement weather, Owasso Public Schools will move to distance learning on Monday, January 22, 2024. 

No students or teachers will report to school sites. Please check with coaches, teachers and sponsors regarding extracurricular activities.

Students will log into Google Classroom and follow their normal schedule, receiving virtual instruction from their OPS teacher. If your student has a question or issue with logging into Google Classroom, please reach out to their teacher or school site. For additional information, please see the district’s Inclement Weather Distance Learning Plan.

Flexibility and grace will be extended to all students and families to resolve any issues that may occur on a distance learning day. If students are unable to log on during the day, assignments can still be accessed on any device and at any time of the day. 

Temperatures are forecasted to climb above freezing on Monday and our intent is to resume in-person instruction on Tuesday, January 23.

Thank you and stay safe.

Sincerely,

Dr. Margaret Coates
Superintendent

Owasso Public Schools will resume in-person instruction on Thursday, Jan. 18. We look forward to seeing your students in the morning!

Owasso Parents & Guardians,

Owasso Public Schools will move to distance learning on Wednesday, January 17, 2024. 

District crews made significant progress in clearing school sites of snow and ice on Tuesday. While the sunshine helped clear some areas, temperatures remained below freezing throughout the day. Conditions on many neighborhood streets and rural roads continue to be slick and hazardous. 

No students or teachers will report to school sites. Please check with coaches, teachers and sponsors regarding extracurricular activities.

Students will log into Google Classroom and follow their normal schedule, receiving virtual instruction from their OPS teacher. If your student has a question or issue with logging into Google Classroom, please reach out to their teacher or school site. For additional information, please see the district’s Inclement Weather Distance Learning Plan.

Flexibility and grace will be extended to all students and families to resolve any issues that may occur on a distance learning day. If students are unable to log on during the day, assignments can still be accessed on any device and at any time of the day. 

Temperatures are forecasted to climb above freezing on Wednesday, which should help clear neighborhood streets and sidewalks. Our intent is to resume in-person instruction on Thursday, January 18.

Thank you and stay safe.

Sincerely,

Dr. Margaret Coates
Superintendent

Owasso Parents & Guardians,

This month’s edition of Minutes with Margaret, a monthly video series with Superintendent Dr. Margaret Coates exploring various topics related to Owasso Public Schools, is available now! 

This month, we take a closer look at the Leadership Class and Student Council at Owasso High School with teacher Shannon Beck and OHS student Kristen Range. The episode can be found on the district’s YouTube channel, along with its social media pages (Facebook & X [formerly Twitter]) and official website, owassops.org.

Thank you for watching and for your continued support of Owasso Public Schools!

2023-24 Episodes
September - Ag Ed & FFA
October - Robotics
November - OPS Veterans
December - OHS Leadership/Student Council

Owasso Public Schools

2024-25 OPS Staff Calendar Changes - December 14

Owasso Parents & Guardians,

At Monday night’s Board of Education meeting, the Board approved an updated staff calendar for the 2024-25 school year. 

The only changes that were made from the previously published calendar were in regards to how the week of Fall Break (Oct. 14-18, 2024) is structured for staff.

Please note, these changes do not affect days that your students are out of school. We are making you aware because it will change the order of items listed under the “Important Dates” section of the school calendar.

This change helps align our calendar more closely with surrounding districts, which will be beneficial to our employees who have students in schools outside of OPS.

Updated school calendars are always available on the district’s official website. If you have any questions regarding this change, please contact your child’s school.

Thank you for your continued support of Owasso Public Schools!

Owasso Public Schools

November 29, 2023

Owasso Parents & Guardians,

With the potential for winter weather in the coming months, it is a great time to refresh families with information regarding inclement weather closures, which would result in a distance learning day. Please familiarize yourself with this framework and the time-sensitive information included in the Inclement Weather & Distance Learning Plan. 

Presently, students in all grades use Google Classroom on a regular basis. Students in grades 6-12 already carry a device to and from school each day. Should inclement weather be on the horizon, elementary students will be sent home with a device and charging cord to use for distance learning.

Flexibility and grace will be extended to all students and families to resolve any issues that may occur on a distance learning day. 

In the event of a distance learning day, communication will come directly to you in a text message and email. Information about distance learning days will be posted on our official website (owassops.org), social media channels (Facebook & Twitter), and will also be sent to local media outlets to help spread the word.  

Should conditions in our community significantly inhibit the ability of teachers or students to participate in distance learning (i.e. widespread power or internet outages, etc.), the district may be forced to announce a traditional school closure. If such an event were to occur, the day would be made up at the end of the school calendar.

Thank you for your attention to this information and should you have additional questions, please contact your child’s principal.

Owasso Public Schools

Dear Ram Family … “Ramily,”

As we approach the season of gratitude, I am filled with immense appreciation for the invaluable partnership we share in the education and growth of your children. Beyond the classroom, your involvement in our school community creates a sense of belonging and support. From parent-teacher meetings to school events, your presence and enthusiasm enhance the overall educational experience for everyone involved.

This partnership is beneficial to every member of our school community. The benefits provided to our students within our school system is simply remarkable. Not only mastery of core content and critical thinking skills, but also, effective communication skills, organizational skills, goal setting, time management skills, collaboration, conflict resolution skills, technology, and life skills.  These benefits are part of our learner expectations, core beliefs, and core values laid out in our 5-year strategic plan. We are so grateful for our exceptional faculty and staff who provide these benefits with tireless intentionality. Our goal is to love, challenge, and prepare our students for life after high school!

I’d like to take this opportunity to provide an update regarding a few district initiatives.

Continuous Strategic Improvement (CSI): The implementation of our 5-year strategic plan, focusing on four (4) main goal areas, is well underway. Some of the initiatives within this plan include a continued focus on PLCs, ICAP, technology improvement planning, shared leadership opportunities, and retention, recruitment, and professional development of employees. New initiatives we have launched this year include SPARK, hiring School Security Officers, and creating a long-range facilities master plan. Future initiatives include implementing full-day Pre-Kindergarten, enhanced student engagement opportunities, and a transportation improvement plan. For a closer look at the strategic plan and the district’s progress, you can find detailed information on our website, including a scoreboard for each initiative within the plan. 

Long-Range Facilities Planning: One of the objectives within the strategic plan is to “Improve and Maintain District Infrastructure.” With this objective in mind, we have initiated a long-range facilities planning process with the goal of creating a “master” facilities plan for the district.  This plan will set the vision for “what” facilities the district will need or want for the next 5, 10, 15+ years to support district growth and our desire to continue to be a district of academic and extracurricular excellence.

Planning began last May with the executive committee meeting to develop the process and timeline. This process includes three (3) committee levels; executive, steering, and stakeholder. The stakeholder committee is composed of over 100 participants with representation from the District Office, Principals/Assistant Principals, Parents, Booster Clubs, Community Members, Teachers, and Support Staff. The stakeholder committee met in October to brainstorm facility ideas for six (6) areas: Athletics, Fine Arts, Grade Centers, High School/Ram Academy, Pre-K/Elementary Schools, and Transportation/Student Services. The stakeholder committee will meet 2-3 more times this school year to finalize and prioritize facilities. Once finalized by the stakeholder committee, the “Master” plan will be presented to the Board of Education for approval at the end of this school year.

Bond Projects: With the passing of the bond issue in the spring of 2022, it has allowed us to take care of annual needs such as maintenance, instructional resources, and technology, as well as much-needed projects. Completed projects include the High School West campus roof replacement and the Wellness Center second-floor training room renovation. We will soon be breaking ground on the track renovation and are currently in the design phase for the addition of the safe structure at Hodson Elementary.

SPARK: OPS SPARK (Supplemental Program and Activities for Ram Kids), began this school year and is a huge success! We are thrilled that we are meeting the needs of district families and employees by providing a safe and welcoming solution of trustworthy childcare that provides a  “spark” for students to dream, think, create, explore, and play. This program is offered at all nine (9) elementary school sites for students in PK - 5th grades and at the 6th Grade Center for students in 6th-8th grades. We have openings at all sites, with the exception of Hodson Elementary. For more information, please visit the SPARK webpage on the Owasso Public Schools website.

Owasso Parent Legislative Action Committee (OPLAC): Owasso Parent Legislative Action Committee is a nonpartisan organization of passionate volunteers committed to promoting policies that strengthen, support and protect our public school system. The Owasso organization is affiliated with the OKPLAC which serves as an umbrella organization of local PLAC chapters and affiliated Oklahoma grassroots organizations with common values. Owasso Public Schools is proud to partner with our Owasso organization as they advocate for legislation to keep our public schools thriving. We are grateful for their tireless effort and support of public education. If you’d like additional information, please go to the Owasso PLAC facebook page. 

Communication: We want your feedback regarding communication at both the district and site level to ensure that we are meeting your needs and communicating as efficiently and effectively as possible. In December, your child’s principal will be sending out a brief survey. Thank you in advance for completing the survey, as your feedback is important to us! 

Conclusion

As we gather with loved ones to celebrate Thanksgiving, I want to extend my deepest gratitude for the partnership we share. It is through this collaboration that we create an environment where students thrive. Wishing you a joyful and restful Thanksgiving surrounded by the warmth of family, friends, and the appreciation of a grateful school community.

Sincerely,
Margaret Coates
Superintendent

Owasso Parents & Guardians,

The safety and security of all students and staff members is the top priority of Owasso Public Schools. With that in mind, we would like to invite you to an Online Safety Presentation from 6-8 p.m. on Tuesday, August 22nd at the Mary Glass Performing Arts Center, located at the OHS East Campus. 

This Online Safety Presentation will be led by representatives from the FBI’s Violent Crimes Against Children and Threat Assessment & Threat Management squads. These representatives will cover a range of topics such as online threats, including sextortion, along with the role that social media plays in threat assessment & threat management.

The presentation is intended for parents and some content is not suitable for all ages.

OPS principals and administrators attended a similar presentation from the FBI in early August during Back-to-School preparations and felt it was important to give parents the opportunity to hear the information as well. 

For those who have never been to the Mary Glass Performing Arts Center, you can enter through the main doors of the OHS East Campus (12901 E 86th Street N). Upon entering, walk straight past the Ram statue and through a set of doors. The entrance to the PAC will be on your right.

If you have any questions, please contact your child’s principal or Director of Safety & Security, Mr. Paul Croft, at paul.croft@owassops.org or 918-272-2001.

Owasso Public Schools

Owasso Parents & Guardians,

For any student that takes prescription medication at school, the OPS Health Services Team has updated the guidelines for administering medication during the school day. Any prescription medication will need the authorization signature of the parent or guardian AND the prescribing physician. Authorization from the prescribing physician must be provided within two weeks of the medication being delivered to the school nurse.

Access the appropriate forms.

Thank you for your attention to this information. If you have any questions, please contact your school’s nurse.

Ator Elementary
Jessica Snyder, RN - jessica.snyder@owassops.org

BaileyElementary
Andrea Phillips, RN - andrea.phillips@owassops.org

Barnes Elementary

Jessica Snyder, RN - jessica.snyder@owassops.org

Hodson Elementary
Stacey Baker, RN - stacey.baker@owassops.org

Mills Elementary
Kellie Aylor, RN - kellie.aylor@owassops.org

Morrow Elementary
Stacey Baker, RN - stacey.baker@owassops.org

Northeast Elementary
Linda Urie, RN - linda.urie@owassops.org

Smith Elementary
Andrea Phillips, RN - andrea.phillips@owassops.org

Stone Canyon Elementary
Kellie Aylor, RN - kellie.aylor@owassops.org

6th Grade Center
Jennifer Chambers, RN - jennifer.chambers@owassops.org

7th Grade Center
Cassandra Batista, RN - cassandra.batista@owassops.org

8th Grade Center
Jennifer Chambers, RN - jennifer.chambers@owassops.org

OHS West Campus
Beth Boling, RN - elizabeth.boling@owassops.org

OHS East Campus
Haley Schlepp, RN - haley.schlepp@owassops.org

Ram Academy
Cassandra Batista, RN - cassandra.batista@owassops.org

Owasso Public Schools

Owasso Parents & Guardians,

At Monday night’s Board of Education meeting, the Board was presented with and approved updated school meal prices for the 2023-24 school year. Those meal prices reflect a 15-cent increase from the previous school year. 

Rising costs in food production, transportation, and other related expenses made an increase necessary, however, it was a priority of the district to keep this adjustment as minimal as possible. It was only after careful consideration and thorough analysis that it was determined an increase was necessary to continue to provide an array of nutritious, high-quality meal options to fuel students during the school day.

It is important to note that, for those who qualify, the cost of reduced-price meals remains the same as last year ($0.30 for breakfast, $0.40 for lunch). We encourage all families, regardless of income, to complete and submit a confidential Free & Reduced Meal Application prior to the start of the school year to ensure that there are no gaps in meal benefits for students who qualify for free or reduced-price meals.

Filling out the Free & Reduced Meal Application is quick and easy. We have several ways an application can be accessed and completed.

• For an online application go to www.myschoolapps.com. 

• Applications can be printed from our website at owassops.org on the Child Nutrition Page.  

• An application can be picked up at the Child Nutrition Office or Enrollment Center at 202 E Broadway.

• An application can be sent to you by emailing us at ram.meals@owassops.org

We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we work together to maintain a high-quality school meal program for the benefit of all students. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Child Nutrition office at 918-272-8034 or meals@owassops.org.

Thank you for your continued support of Owasso Public Schools!

Owasso Public Schools

Owasso Parents & Guardians,

Those wishing to enroll their students in Virtual School can do so beginning today, July 17th, by utilizing the sign-up form on the Owasso Public Schools website. Enrollment for the Virtual School will close at the end of the day on August 1st. 

The Virtual School will serve students in grades 6th-12th and bring online learning home by providing students the ability to receive their education through a virtual format, while also receiving assistance from certified, highly-qualified teachers. This full-time option allows students to complete 100% of their coursework online. Teachers are available to assist students outside the regular school day. Students enrolling in this option must commit for the entire semester.

If you are interested in the Virtual School for your secondary students, please visit the Virtual School webpage to review the expectations for families and FAQs before using the sign-up form.

If you prefer for your child to learn in-person for the 2023-24 school year, you do not need to complete any additional steps at this time. If you have not done so already, please complete the Infosnap process required for all returning students that was emailed to parents in May.

Should you have any questions regarding the Virtual School, please contact the Teaching & Learning office at 918-272-8182.

Owasso Public Schools

Owasso Parents & Guardians,

As we approach the beginning of the 2023-24 school year, we want to remind you about the benefits of school meals and the availability of free or reduced meals for students who qualify. 

Owasso Public Schools is continuing its partnership with Sodexo to provide food service at each school site. Sodexo delivers healthy and delicious school meals based on the USDA’s nutrition guidelines so that students are engaged and ready to learn in school. All meals include a variety of fresh fruit and vegetable choices and a variety of chilled non-fat or low-fat milk.

We encourage all families, regardless of income, to complete and submit a confidential Free & Reduced Application prior to the start of the school year to ensure that there are no gaps in meal benefits for students who qualify for free or reduced-price meals. 

Filling out the Free & Reduced Application is quick and easy. We have several ways an application can be accessed and completed.

• For an online application go to www.myschoolapps.com. 

• Applications can be printed from our website at owassops.org on the Child Nutrition Page.  

• An application can be picked up at the Child Nutrition Office or Enrollment Center at 202 E Broadway.

• An application can be sent to you by emailing us at ram.meals@owassops.org

At Owasso Public Schools we do everything possible to ensure that students who qualify for free or reduced-price meals:

• Feel no social stigma for applying to the program.

• Are treated & greeted the same at the cash register as any other student.

• Are not singled out in any way to ensure their complete anonymity.

• Can be confident that all information is kept completely confidential.

It is more than a meal application, other benefits from filling out an application may include:

• Discounts on academic test fees, such as the SAT and PSAT

• Discounts on college applications

• Discounts on home internet services

• Discounts on fees for youth programs

• Funding for district education programs

Our goal is to have all students take part in our school meal program. In our elementary schools, we offer four entree choices each day with our Clubhouse program. It includes hot entrees, traditional meals, salads, sandwiches and wraps. In our middle schools, we offer a wide variety of choices through our foodiE program, and our signature Taste4 program gives high school students endless variety through a number of exciting food stations.

Be sure to follow the Free & Reduced Application instructions carefully and if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the Child Nutrition office at 918-272-8034. We look forward to serving your students!

Sincerely,

Jon Beckloff
Director of Child Nutrition

**This institution is an equal opportunity provider.