School & Community Relations

Newspaper

2008-09 News

The Latest EPS News

August 13, 2010
Greenbrier to welcome four-year-old class
Enid PS will be the only district with two intergenerational programs

A collaboration between Enid Public Schools and Greenbrier Village will make history this fall when the district opens its first full-day pre-kindergarten class and its second intergenerational program.

Enrollment is currently open for EPS at Greenbrier, which will be taught by a certified early childhood educator. Parents interested in the program are encouraged to call Chris Smith, EPS early childhood consultant, at 366.7000 or visit Central Office at 500 S. Independence. Enrollment is limited, and classes begin August 25.

"We are extremely grateful to Greenbrier for this opportunity," Smith said. "I am confident this program will be a bright spot for the students we serve and for the residents who call Greenbrier home."

Intergenerational programs allow children to interact with seniors, and research has found that there are significant rewards for all involved. The children will have all the benefits of a typical early childhood classroom, while also learning from "grandmas" and "grandpas" who volunteer their time.

EPS also offers an intergenerational program at The Commons. EPS is the only district to offer two intergenerational programs, and only a handful of programs like it are known to exist nationally.

"How wonderful for our district to be able to expand this innovative program," Smith said. "We know that students learn best when they have individualized time and attention, and they feel secure and loved. What better way for them to experience their first year of school than surrounded by caring adults."

According to Herman Hackett, who founded Greenbrier, his staff and residents are excited to welcome the program's students.

"The whole concept of bringing these two generations together seemed like an enriching experience for both the children, as well as for the many grandparents who make their home at Greenbrier," Hackett said.

"Children bring the renewed feeling of a home-like atmosphere to adults. As the little children connect to the aging generation, both are well served through those exchanges, even for years to come."

The pre-kindergarten room will be located in The Homes of Greenbrier, located at 1119 E. Garriott. The classroom's configuration will allow residents to watch the children's activities from their activity room. A playground will also be created in the center's courtyard.

"We are supporters of the schools of Enid and their endeavors to create a unique learning experience for the very young," Hackett said. "Our entire staff is excited and supportive of this new beginning."

The class will be from 8 a.m.-3 p.m., and students will enter and exit from the west side of the building. Students must be four-years-old on before September 1 in order to enroll. Openings are still available in several EPS four-year-old programs, including The Commons, which is an intergenerational, ½-day program.

The staff of Greenbrier Village, family owned and operated since 1971, strives to promote meaningful lifestyles at all ages and phases of life. Greenbrier includes five levels of care within its facilities, which include Burgundy Place, Greenbrier Residential Living, Greenbrier's Rogers Home, The Homes of Greenbrier and Greenbrier Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.

August 4, 2010
EPS Enrollment Verification Coming Soon

News You Can Use About Back-to-School 2010-11

As the 2010-11 school year approaches, parents and students are asked to mark their calendars for Enid Public Schools' enrollment verification dates.

"Enrollment verification is very important, because it tells us how many students are planning to attend our district this fall," Amber Graham Fitzgerald, Director of School & Community Relations, said. "Although we pre-enroll in the spring, we know that families move over the summer... to and from our district, as well as within our district. Enrollment verification helps us manage class sizes and schedules for the coming year."

Enrollment verification and new student enrollment for all elementary schools will be August 16 from 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. Parents are asked to call or visit their child's school.

Students attending Emerson Middle School, Longfellow Middle School and Waller Middle School will have enrollment verification, schedule pick-up, and new student enrollment from 8 a.m.-noon on August 11 and 12.

Enid High School will have enrollment verification and schedule pick-up on August 11 and 12 according to the following schedule: August 11, 8-10 a.m., seniors; 10 a.m.-noon, juniors; and August 12, 8-10 a.m., sophomores; 10 a.m.-noon, freshmen. New students are scheduled to enroll from 9-11:30 a.m. and 1-3 p.m. on August 9-10; 9-11:30 a.m. and 1-3 p.m. on August 13; and 9-11:30 a.m., 1-3 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. on August 18.

For those interested in getting an early start on their school shopping, supply lists for elementary students can be downloaded by visiting www.enidpublicschools.org.

Free- and reduced-price lunch applications are available at Central Kitchen, 519 S. Washington, according to the following schedule: 7:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. through August 13; 7:30 a.m.-3 p.m. August 16 - 20; 7:30 a.m.-8 p.m. August 23-26; and 7:30 a.m.-3 p.m. on August 27. Weekend hours will be 10 a.m.-1 p.m. on Saturday, August 28. The schedule will return to 7:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. on August 30. Applications can be downloaded at the district website and returned to Central Kitchen or any school.

EPS classes begin August 25. For more information, please call Amber Fitzgerald at 366.7000.

July 28, 2010
EPS to upgrade phone service
More cost-efficient system will result in new numbers

Enid Public Schools is adopting a new phone system, which will result in improved customer service and new telephone numbers. The change is expected to save the district tens of thousands of dollars annually when fully implemented at every school.

The transition will impact four sites this year: Central Office, Monroe Elementary School, McKinley Elementary School and Emerson Middle School. The district plans to upgrade phone service at all school sites within the next few years, pending funding opportunities.

The new numbers will be effective August 2; however, callers will have one month to call either the new number or the old number to reach school officials.

The voice-over-internet system will include voice mail and staff directory options; however, the main line will still be answered by a school employee during regular business hours. Callers will also be able to leave messages in the evening or on weekends.

According to Amber Graham Fitzgerald, Director of School & Community Relations, this combination should allow the district to provide members of the public with even better customer service.

"Callers will still have the opportunity to speak directly with someone, not just a machine," Fitzgerald said. "If the appropriate school official is not available, the caller can leave a message detailing their questions or concerns. We can then return the call with all of the information that they need."

EPS has reserved 2,000 telephone numbers in order to fully implement the system. Immediate changes include: Central Office, 580-366-7000; Monroe, 580-366-7500; McKinley, 580-366-7375; and Emerson, 580-366-7250. The upgrade will not affect fax numbers at this time.

The cost for the new system will be paid for primarily by E-rate, a federal program that assists schools across the country with technology purchases. EPS will only be required to pay 21% of the fee.

The system uses the district's computer network to make phone calls, so traditional phone lines will not be needed. District officials estimate that this will eventually save the district more than $50,000 annually, while providing 1,000 more lines than the previous system.

"It's really win-win," Fitzgerald said. "We can have better equipment, be more efficient and provide better service, while at the same time saving money. It is a good move for the district, for taxpayers and for those who call our schools each day."

May 19, 2010
Summer Academy Enrollment Continues
EPS program, including driver's education, open to area students

Enrollment is still being accepted for Enid Public Schools' 2010 Summer Academy, hosted by Enid High School and Lincoln Academy. Tuition-based classes are available for students who were enrolled during 2009-10 in the eighth- through 12th-grade. Enrollment is limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis to area students.

ENID HIGH SCHOOL COURSES
Enid High School will offer classes for students who have completed the eighth- through 11th-grade. The courses will be offered 8 a.m.-12 noon, June 1-28 (session I) and July 6-Aug. 2 (session II). Classes for both sessions include Algebra I, geometry, Algebra II, U.S. history and driver's education. Tuition for each session is $155. Classes, excluding driver's education, require two sessions. Each session is worth ½ unit of credit.

LINCOLN ACADEMY COURSES
Lincoln Academy will offer classes for students currently enrolled in the eighth- through 12th-grade. The courses will be offered June 1-28 from 8 a.m.-12 noon. Lincoln is located at 600 W. Elm. Classes include: English I-IV, government, U.S. history, world history and Oklahoma history. Tuition is $155 per session. Each session is worth ½ unit of credit.

Lincoln also will offer a reading exam preparation course, which lasts two weeks and costs $155. It will be offered June 1-11. It is designed to help students pass the reading exam to obtain a driver's license. The reading exam will be administered free of charge at the end of the course. No credit is given for the class.

ADDITIONAL PROGRAMS
Title I, ACE and Reading Sufficiency summer school will be offered at multiple sites for students who qualify. The curriculum will include an emphasis in reading, math and language. Please call your child's teacher or Vivian Bunch at 234-5270 for more information.

MUSIC PROGRAMS
Summer music activities and camps are planned, including middle school and high school band and orchestra. Please call the EHS Band Office at 249-3535 or visit enidpublicschools.org/summeractivities.pdf for more information.

ATHLETIC PROGRAMS
Summer athletic activities and camps are planned, including elementary, middle school and high school programs in the areas of softball, football, basketball, soccer and wrestling. Please call the EHS Athletic Office at 237-2407 or visit enidpublicschools.org/summeractivities.pdf for more information.

CHILD NUTRITION PROGRAM
EPS again will offer the Summer Child Nutrition Program. Through this program, the district will provide breakfast and lunch free of charge to any person between the ages of 1 and 18. The program will be offered weekdays from June 1-25. Breakfast will be served from 7:30-8:30 a.m. and lunch from 11:20 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Sites include Adams Elementary, 2200 E. Randolph; and Monroe Elementary, 400 W. Cottonwood. For more information, call 234-6324.

MORE INFORMATION
EPS officials plan to offer the courses listed above during the summer of 2010. However, if budget reductions occur, or if enrollment is insufficient to support the classes, fewer courses may be offered. A public announcement will be made if changes are necessary.

Please place enrollment by calling EHS at 234-2404 or Lincoln at 242-6170.

May 5, 2010
Student Artists Learn Reading Inspires,
Drawing Expresses Thanks to Park Avenue Thrift

Enid students will be rewarded for their creativity Friday night when Park Avenue Thrift announces the winner of its "The Sky is the Limit" Read and Draw Art Contest.

The award ceremony will begin at 6 p.m. at Park Avenue Thrift, 507 S. Grand, in conjunction with this month's First Friday "Stars on Main Street" event.

The contest, coordinated by library media specialists for first- through fifth-grade students, serves as an opportunity for students to play with visual concepts and sharpen their creativity by illustrating what they read in books.

"Artistic talent, creativity, imagination and craftsmanship are hallmarks of a healthy community," said Margaret Moss, Park Avenue Thrift Emerging Artists Gallery curator.

First-, second- and third-place awards will be given at every grade level. Each winner will receive a $100 check to give to their school library to purchase more reading resources. The winning students will also receive a $10 gift certificate to Park Avenue Thrift.

From 6-9 p.m., Park Avenue Thrift will feature live music by Sylvan Reynolds, George Davis and others. Weather permitting, the planetarium at Northern Oklahoma College will also set up telescopes on the courthouse lawn for star viewing.

Entries for "The Sky is the Limit" contest will be on display during May in the Emerging Artist Gallery at Park Avenue Thrift. Photos produced by Gretchen Cole-Lade's special education class at Enid High School will also be displayed.

The mission of the Emerging Art Gallery is to infuse financial resources and aesthetic experiences into the Enid community.

Park Avenue Thrift is the dba of Our Father's Business, a non-profit Oklahoma corporation. Its mission is to give away 100% of its profit to community endeavors.

April 28, 2010
Festival of Stars Slated for May 3
See Event Schedule Below

The stars of Enid will shine next week as the Enid Public School Foundation hosts its annual Festival of Stars event.

The family event is scheduled for Monday, May 3 from 5 to 8 p.m. in the Enid High School Food Court, located at 611 W. Wabash.

EPSF is a non-profit organization, governed by a volunteer Board of Trustees, which supports Enid Public Schools. Proceeds from Festival of Stars, as well as other fund-raisers, benefit the organization's Grants-To-Teachers program, which provides as much as $30,000 in materials and programs to schools annually.

"Festival of Stars is an incredible combination of entertainment, food and community," foundation executive director Nancy Campbell said. "The festival celebrates Enid Public Schools' student talents and Enid's fine foods, all to benefit the foundation, which, in turn, invests its proceeds in the classrooms."

Festival of Stars includes an evening of musical performances, featuring EPS students of all ages. Bands, orchestras, choirs and dance groups will take the stage at venues - the auditorium, the east wing and food court.

The event also features the "Taste of Enid," a food fair that allows ticket holders to enjoy cuisine from local restaurants and eateries. This year Advance Food Company will provide grilled hamburgers and chicken breasts. Local vendors will share a selection of side dishes, desserts and specialty items.

"Community members look forward to attending each year, not only because it is a fun family event, but because they know the proceeds find their way into the classrooms of Enid Public Schools in the way of grants to teachers," Campbell said. "Festival of Stars is a wonderful way to support Enid Public Schools and the Foundation."

Tickets are $5. The cost includes admission and two food coupons, which can be used at food fair booths. Additional food coupons can be purchased for $1. Tickets can be purchased from Board of Trustee members. Tickets also will be available at the gate.

Taste of Enid sponsors include Advance Food Company, Wings to Go, Rose Rock Bank, Sisters' Cupboard, Chick-Fil-A, Pastimes, Pizza Hut, Sonic, Jumbo Foods, Donna's Catering and Atwoods.

Festival of Stars Talent Schedule

Stage 1: Auditorium Second Floor
5:00-5:30 Waller Pop Choir (Cindy Wieden)
5:30-6:00 EHS Select Choir Ensembles (Randy Johnson)
6:00-6:30 Waller Show Choir (Cindy Wieden)
6:30-7:00 Waller Orchestra (Shaemon Fuston)
7:00-7:30 EHS Freshman Orchestra (Shaemon Fuston)
7:30-8:00 EHS Orchestra (Dena Haselwander)

Stage 2: East Wing Classroom Building E-1
5:00-5:30 Adam Elementary Choir (Lindsey Schroder)
5:30-6:00 Monroe Elementary Honor Choir (Marsha Lines)
6:00-6:30 McKinley Elementary 3rd Grade Choir (Eddie Lou Strimple)
6:30-7:00 Hayes Elementary Honor Choir (Marquita Dickinson)
7:00-7:30 McKinley Elementary 4th & 5th Grade Choirs (Eddie Lou Strimple)

Stage 3: Food Court East Wing
5:00-5:30 Emerson Jazz Band (Gayla Heinrichs)
5:30-6:00 Waller Jazz Band (David Toelle)
6:00-6:30 Longfellow Jazz Band (Danny Powers)
6:30-7:00 EHS Freshman Jazz Band (Eric Pennello)
7:00-7:30 Enid High Jazz Band II (Eric Pennello)
7:30-8:00 Enid High Jazz Band I (Eric Pennello)

April 21, 2010
Public Invited to Emerson Lead Guitar Concert

Emerson Middle School will host its first classical guitar concert Thursday night at 7 p.m. in the auditorium. The concert will feature students from the school's Lead Guitar music program.

The public is invited to attend. Admission is free, but a donation of $5 is encouraged. All proceeds from the fundraiser will be used to support Enid Public Schools' classical guitar program.

Lead Guitar was co-founded in 2006 by Brad Richter, an accomplished classical guitarist and composer and an Enid High School graduate. Through the not-for-profit program this school year, more than 850 students nationally are learning how to play the guitar.

Lead Guitar was brought to Enid through a collaboration between EPS and Enid Arts with support from the Oklahoma Arts Council.

April 16, 2010
4-Year-Old/Kindergarten Art on Display

Enid Public School's youngest artists are showcasing their talents for the public this month, thanks to Park Avenue Thrift.

The Week of the Young Child Art Exhibit will be on display April 19-30 in the Park Avenue Thrift Emerging Arts Gallery, located at 507 S. Grand. The display features the artwork of four-year-olds and kindergarten students from across the district.

Week of the Young Child is held nationally each year to honor young children and to thank teachers and all those who make a difference in young children's lives. The theme for WOYC 2010 is Early Years are Learning Years.

April 16, 2010
EHS Speech/Drama Students Qualify for State

Four Enid High School students are representing the community this weekend at the Oklahoma Secondary School Activities Association State Speech and Debate Competition at the University of Oklahoma in Norman.

Those attending include Elizabeth Lewis, who is participating in prose, and Alan Tarin, who is participating in dramatic interpretation. Two students, Emily Payne and Savannah Whipple, earned alternate positions in poetry and original oratory, respectively.

The students qualified for the competition by placing at regional competition. They are coached by Lisa Hamilton and Tana Germundson.

April 15, 2010
Kindergarten Enrollment Friday

About the EPS Kindergarten Program

Enid Public Schools will welcome its newest kindergarten students tomorrow (Friday).

Full-day kindergarten enrollment is scheduled for 8 a.m.- 3 p.m. Parents of kindergarteners should enroll their children at their home school. Transfers may be requested. Students must be 5 years old on or before Sept. 1, 2010 to enroll. Five-year-old students are required to enroll in kindergarten and are not eligible for the 4-year-old program.

Parents enrolling their children as EPS students for the first time should bring the children's immunization record, birth certificate and social security number. If a child is currently an EPS pre-kindergarten student, it is not necessary to attend kindergarten enrollment; however, parents should contact the school about their plans for next year.

Elementary students will pre-enroll May 3-7. Packets will be sent home with information that needs to be updated for the upcoming school year. The information should be returned to school by the date specified by the building principal.

For more information, contact the Board of Education at 580.234.5270.

April 15, 2010
Hime Selected as Outstanding Administrator

Shawn Hime, Superintendent of Enid Public Schools, will be recognized next week for his commitment to effective school-community relations.

The Oklahoma School Public Relations Association selected Hime as the recipient of its 2010 Administrator's Award. He will be honored Thursday, April 22 at the OKSPRA annual spring conference.

The OKSPRA Administrator's Award recognizes a practicing administrator for outstanding leadership in school public relations and communications. The award is modeled after the National School Public Relations Association Bob Grossman Leadership in School Communications Award.

Since taking the helm of EPS in 2008, Hime has overseen the implementation of several new programs and projects, including the move to a middle school model and the passage of a $99 million bond issue. Hime also worked with local business partners to secure a $3.4 million private donation to EPS, the largest of its kind in Oklahoma history.

Hime is a former teacher, coach, athletic director, assistant principal and assistant superintendent. In 1999, he became the Director of Student Assessment for the Oklahoma State Department of Education, leading school improvement teams working with low-performing schools and providing oversight of the state's student-testing program.

In 2004, he was hired as assistant state superintendent. His responsibilities included the management of state aid, financial accounting, school personnel records, transportation, transfers and capital improvement departments. In addition, he collaborated with state legislators on pending legislation and its impact on public schools.

During his career, Hime has been a frequent state-wide presenter, covering topics ranging from curriculum alignment and early childhood education to Oklahoma's tax structure and No Child Left Behind mandates.

OKSPRA is an award-winning state chapter of the National School Public Relations Association, the nation's leading school communications organization. OKSPRA is a knowledge-based organization seeking to serve, motivate and educate school administrators, school staff members and boards of education about the importance of school public relations.

The organization's mission is to improve the quality of education by facilitating public understanding through responsible communications, community involvement and leadership.

April 5, 2010
Summer Academy Offers High School Courses & More!
EPS Program Open to All Area Students

Northwest Oklahoma students who need to make up a high school credit or wish to get ahead on their studies are invited to enroll in Enid Public Schools' 2010 Summer Academy, hosted by Enid High School and Lincoln Academy.

EPS is currently accepting enrollment for the program. Tuition-based classes are available for students who were enrolled during 2009-10 in the eighth- through 12th grade. Enrollment is limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis to area students.

ENID HIGH SCHOOL COURSES
Enid High School will offer classes for students who have completed the eighth- through 11th-grade. The courses will be offered 8 a.m.-12 noon, June 1-28 (session I) and July 6-Aug. 2 (session II). Classes for both sessions include Algebra I, geometry, Algebra II, U.S. history and driver's education. Tuition for each session is $155. Classes, excluding driver's education, require two sessions. Each session is worth ½ unit of credit.

April 5, 2010
Pride of the Plainsmen Nominations Accepted this Month

Members of the Enid High School Student Council are currently accepting nominations for the Pride of the Plainsmen Award.

Those nominated for the award must meet the following criteria: (1) have attended, served, honored or supported EHS in some way, (2) have demonstrated the ideals stated in the Plainsmen Creed, AND (3) have reflected a high degree of success in service to education, community or his/her career field.

Members of the EHS Student Council will select the Pride of the Plainsmen honoree. He/she will be recognized at the annual Class Day assembly in May. The application deadline is April 29.

For more information or to request a nomination form, contact Linda Outhier, Student Council sponsor, at the Enid High School office 234-2404.

March 26, 2010
Elementary Enrollment Coming Soon
4-year-old, kindergarten enrollment open in early April

It's time for Enid Public Schools elementary students to enroll for the 2010-11 school year, beginning with the district's youngest students.

Enrollment for the four-year-old program will be 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. Friday, April 9 at all 10 elementary sites. Enrollment for the four-year-old programs at The Commons and the YWCA will be Thursday, April 8 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Hayes Elementary School, 2102 Beverly Drive.

"We know that a great education starts with a great beginning," Fitzgerald said. "We are very excited to welcome a new class of 4-year-olds to the district. We look forward to working with them and their families until they don caps and gowns as the Enid High School Class of 2024."

All EPS 4-Year-Old programs focus on the social, academic, physical and emotional needs of children. Students must be 4 years old on or before Sept. 1, 2010. Parents can select from a combination of morning or afternoon classes, as room allows. Parents are responsible for transportation, and daily sign-in and sign-out by an adult is required.

Classes are limited to 20 students and are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Students must enroll at their home site, unless enrolling at The Commons or the YWCA. Transfers can be requested.

EPS at The Commons, made possible through a partnership with The Commons, the Inasmuch Foundation and Smart Start, features an intergenerational program. Residents of the center volunteer in the classroom and serve as "grandma" and "grandpa" buddies for the children.

Students enrolled in the YWCA program can spend half the day in the EPS pre-kindergarten program and half the day in childcare, if parents wish. Priority will be given to children enrolled in the YWCA childcare program.

Full-day kindergarten enrollment is scheduled for 8 a.m.- 3 p.m. Friday, April 16. Parents of kindergarteners should enroll their children at their home school. Transfers may be requested. Students must be 5 years old on or before Sept. 1, 2010 to enroll. Five-year-old students are required to enroll in kindergarten and are not eligible for the 4-year-old program.

Parents enrolling their children as EPS students for the first time should bring the children's immunization record, birth certificate and social security number. If a child is currently an EPS pre-kindergarten student, it is not necessary to attend kindergarten enrollment; however, parents are encouraged to contact the school about their plans for next year.

Elementary students will pre-enroll May 3-7. Packets will be sent home with information that needs to be updated for the upcoming school year. The information should be returned to school by the date specified by the building principal.

For more information, please contact the Board of Education at 580.234.5270.

March 11, 2010
Enid Announces Largest Public Education Donation in State History

Enid, OK - The largest monetary gift to an Oklahoma school district was announced this week in Enid.

Nine businesses and individuals contributed $3.4 million to Enid Public Schools to assist with capital improvement needs. The funds will be coupled with a $99 million bond issue recently approved by Enid voters. The private donation is the largest ever contributed to an Oklahoma kindergarten to 12th-grade school system.

"The businesses and individuals involved have set the bar high for what a private/public partnership can accomplish," said Shawn Hime, Enid Public Schools' superintendent. "What an incredible way to invest in our children and to invest in the future of this community. Their gift will impact Enid for generations."

The private donors include: Continental Resources (NYSE: CLR), $1.5 million; Advance Food Company, $1 million; Groendyke Transport, $250,000; Atwoods, $200,000; Lew and Myra Ward, $125,000; Security National Bank, $100,000; the Dillingham Family, $100,000; Parrish Enterprises Ltd., $100,000; and Northcutt Auto Group, $25,000.

Business leaders in Enid said they understand that strong schools play an important role in economic development. They pointed to the connection between quality education and a thriving local economy. Education is essential to a community's quality of life, they said.

Harold Hamm, chairman and CEO of Continental Resources, said his involvement in the project stems from his belief that public education impacts, not only the future of individuals, but also the success of a community. Continental Resources is an Enid-based independent natural gas and oil exploration and production company with operations in the Rocky Mountain, Mid-Continent and Gulf Coast regions of the United States.

"Quality public schools certainly have provided me the opportunity to escape the poverty cycle. I also want to express my gratitude to the other private donors for their participation in this noble endeavor. It is indeed rare for the private sector to fund primary education," Hamm said. "The importance of building exceptional public schools cannot be understated. As a CEO recruiting professional talent to Enid, I frequently see the significance of a strong school system in attracting and retaining talented people for our community. Passing this school bond election is among the most significant achievements our community has accomplished and will pay dividends for decades."

Paul Allen, co-founder of Advance Food Company, said he hopes Enid's private/public partnership will inspire others to invest in public education. Advance Food Company, founded in Enid, is a leading national manufacturer of value-added, center-of-the-plate meat products, reaching customers through restaurants, foodservice venues, schools and universities, military bases and healthcare facilities.

"We have a passion for this community. One of the foundations of a great community is a strong public education system. We are thankful the community feels the same and passed the school bond," Allen said. "We are pleased to participate in this donation and help reduce the financial burden on the community. With these tough economic times, the private sector needs to stretch itself and be financially supportive of community improvements."

The contributions will be used to help fund a three-year facility improvement plan developed by Enid residents. The donations and bond funds will be used to update all district schools and build two new elementary schools.

The private donations allowed the district to lessen the amount of its bond issue request, while also keeping taxes as low as possible for local residents.

"The generosity of these companies created new possibilities for our schools," Hime said. "As you look around Enid, and take in what makes it special, you'll find the footprints of these companies everywhere. They are true community partners, and we're glad to have them as friends of Enid Public Schools. There's not a thank you big enough for what they've done."

Enid Public Schools consists of one high school, three middle schools, 10 elementary schools, an alternative academy and adult education center. Its highly qualified teaching staff serves 6,800 students and a community of 50,000 residents. Last year, Enid Public Schools' enrollment grew by nearly 5 percent, outpacing other districts across the state.

March 10, 2010
OCEC Recognizes EHS Athlete and Teacher

The Oklahoma Council for Exceptional Children recently bestowed two state-wide awards to members of the Enid High School family - one to a teacher and one to a student.

KayeLoni Moulton, EHS student, was selected for the OCEC "Yes I Can" Award in athletics. KayeLoni was selected for outstanding achievement in bowling, bocce, horseshoes, volleyball, track and field, cheerleading, softball and art and music. She is also an accomplished swimmer and a member of the EHS Pacer swim team. She will represent Oklahoma in the Special Olympics National Summer Games in 2010.

"KayeLoni thrives on the competition, the camaraderie, and the challenge of each sport," her teacher wrote in her nomination. "She has developed a strong sense of confidence in her abilities (although she will tell you she is nervous before each competition). She is a leader within our program …"

Dusty Hugaboom, EHS science teacher, was named OCEC's 2010 Outstanding General Education Teacher. The award honors an outstanding general education teacher in Oklahoma who is currently employed by a public school district. He or she must have taught general curriculum a minimum of three years and made a significant contribution to the education of students with exceptionalities in that setting.

"It is a privilege to have him as (my child's) teacher," one parent wrote in her nomination letter. "He is what teaching is about. I hope that you will consider him for this prestigious award. I couldn't imagine a teacher more deserving than him."

Hugaboom and KayeLoni were presented with their awards at the OCEC state conference last month.

March 10, 2010
EHS Speech/Debate Students Qualify for Regional Competition

Fourteen Enid High School speech and debate students are headed to regional competition this weekend, March 12-13 at Rose State College in Midwest City.

The competition includes Lincoln-Douglas debate, as well as individual events such as public speaking, extemporaneous speaking, poetry and prose readings and acting events.

Regional qualifiers include: Alan Tarin, in five events; Emily Payne and Savannah Whipple, both in three events; Jeanie LaFon, Michelle Locke, Katie Huse, and Sean Allen, each in two events. Other qualifiers include Elizabeth Lewis, Sara Loos, Lacey Whipple, Win Offill, Kayla Dearing, Chris Andrukaitis, and Jessica Reeves.

The students are coached by Lisa Hamilton and Tana Germundson.

The EHS speech and debate team will enter regionals in the midst of a successful season. They won a sweepstakes trophy at three of the four qualifying tournaments they attended. They earned first place at the Jenks High School tournament.

Students who qualify at regionals will then compete at state next month. It is hosted by the University of Oklahoma.

February 24, 2010
Carver Adult Education Enrollment through March 5

Enrollment for Carver Education Center's Academic Improvement Classes is slated for March 1-5. Those interested should visit Carver, 815 S. 5th, between the hours of 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. or call 237-1400 to enroll by phone.

Limited seating is available, and classes will close March 9.

Carver offers FREE classes to help participants prepare for the new state high school diploma (GED) test, as well as to improve their academic skills. Students receive academic assessments to ensure proper placement. Curriculum includes instruction by quality teachers and reinforcement through the school's computer lab software.

Classes will be available in five core subjects: math, English, science, social studies and literature. Classes begin March 8 and will be conducted Mondays through Thursdays, 9-11:30 a.m. ESL classes will be offered Mondays through Thursdays from 1-3:30 p.m. and Monday and Wednesday evenings from 6-9 p.m.

The program is sponsored by Enid Public Schools and the State Department of Education's Lifelong Learning Section.

February 19, 2010
EPS Names Teachers of the Year

Enid Public Schools is proud to announce the 2009-2010 Teachers of the Year.

The 2009-10 EPS building-level Teachers of the Year are: Jamie Aguilar, Adams Elementary; Debra Loop, Coolidge Elementary; Karen Boileau, Eisenhower Elementary; Janet Jones, Garfield Elementary; Dale Denny, Glenwood Elementary; Jean McCollough, Hayes Elementary; Sandra Lippard, Hoover Elementary; Donita McClurg, McKinley Elementary; Jaci Tolbert, Monroe Elementary; Susan Shewey, Taft Elementary; Heather Reames, Emerson Middle; Sheila Collins, Longfellow Middle; David Fischer, Waller Middle; Erin Merritt, Enid High; and Connie Hood, Lincoln Academy.

"I am pleased to congratulate these outstanding educators," Superintendent Shawn Hime said. "Every day, they come to school and give everything they've got to ensure success for our students. This award is important because it is a special way that colleagues say, 'thank you,' and 'job well done.' Today, I join them as they applaud the efforts of these talented and caring teachers."

The honorees, selected by their colleagues at each school, will now be considered for Enid Teacher of the Year. An announcement will be made during a special event later this semester. The winner will then represent Enid Public Schools in the state-wide competition.

EPS Teachers of the Year are often recognized at the state-level for their skills and achievement. In recent years, the district has had three Teacher of the Year state finalists, as well as two Rising Stars, which recognizes accomplished educators who have been in the classroom for less than five years. Get to know the 2009-10 building-level Teachers of the Year

February 19, 2010
EPS Teachers Earn National Board Certification

Three more Enid Public Schools teachers, Janet Jones, Rhonda Harlow and Cristin Ashcraft, recently attained National Board Certification, one of the profession's top honors.

Jones is a fifth-grade teacher at Garfield Elementary School. Harlow is a reading specialist at Monroe Elementary School, and Ashcraft is library media specialist at Waller Middle School.

An "extraordinary group," is how U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan referred to this year's class of National Board Certified Teachers. He said teachers and school counselors who have achieved National Board Certification this year have "demonstrated a commitment of taking their teaching practice to an entirely different level," adding, "these are amazing leaders."

EPS has 31 nationally certified teachers, and more than 20 other nationally certified professionals including speech and occupational therapists and school nurses.

"EPS has an incredible teaching staff," Superintendent Shawn Hime said. "I applaud these teachers for taking this step. It is a well-respected, rigorous process. This distinction is good for them and for the district, but most importantly, it will benefit our students."

The National Board of Professional Teaching Standards has more than 20 years of experience in developing rigorous standards and corresponding assessments for teachers who want to demonstrate advanced teaching knowledge, skills and practices.

NBPTS is an independent, nonprofit, nonpartisan and nongovernmental organization governed by a board of directors, the majority of whom are classroom teachers. For more information about NBPTS, please visit http://www.nbpts.org.

October 12 , 2009
Carver Accepting Pre-Enrollment

Enrollment is open for Carver Education Center's Academic Improvement Classes. Those interested should visit Carver, 815 S. 5th, between the hours of 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. or call 237-1400 to enroll by phone. Limited seating will be available after October 14.

Carver offers FREE classes to help participants prepare for the new GED test, as well as to improve their academic skills. Students receive academic assessments to ensure proper placement. Curriculum includes instruction by quality teachers and reinforcement through the school's computer lab software.

Classes will be available in five core subjects: math, English, science, social studies and literature. Classes begin October 19 and will be conducted Mondays through Thursdays, 9-11:30 a.m. and Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6-9 p.m. ESL classes will be offered Mondays through Thursdays from 1-3 p.m.

Assessment dates for new students will be October 19-23.

The program is sponsored by Enid Public Schools and the State Department of Education's Lifelong Learning Section.

September 3 , 2009
Planning for the Future
EHS to Host College Fair This Month
Enid High School students and other area juniors and seniors are invited to attend the EHS College Fair on Tuesday, September 15 from 8:30-10:15 a.m. in the school's food court, located in the east wing at 611 W. Wabash.

According to Anita Trojan, EHS guidance department chair, dozens of colleges, universities, career tech centers and military representatives will be on-site to visit with students.

For more information, call the EHS Guidance Office at 234-3615.

July 22, 2009
EPS Enrollment Verification Coming Soon
As the 2009-10 school year approaches, parents and students are asked to mark their calendars for Enid Public Schools' enrollment verification dates.

"Enrollment verification is very important, because it tells us how many students are planning to attend our district this fall," Amber Graham Fitzgerald, Director of School & Community Relations, said. "Although we pre-enroll in the spring, we know that families move over the summer... to and from our district, as well as within our district. Enrollment verification helps us create the best learning environment for students by managing class sizes and schedules for the coming year."

Enrollment verification and new student enrollment for all elementary schools will be July 31 from 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. Parents are asked to call or visit their child's school.

Secondary schools will have enrollment verification and schedule pick-up at the following times:

Enid High School
9th grade August 4 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
10th grade August 4 8-10 a.m.
11th grade August 3 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
12th grade August 3 8-10 a.m.
New Students August 5 & 7 9-11:30 a.m., 1-3 p.m.
New Students August 6 9-11:30 a.m., 1-3 p.m., 6-8 p.m.

Emerson Middle School
6th-8th grade & New Students August 3-5 5:30-8 p.m.

Longfellow Middle School
6th-8th grade August 4-6 8 a.m.-12 p.m. / 1-3 p.m.
New Students July 29 & 30 8 a.m.-12 p.m. / 1-3 p.m.

Waller Middle School
6th-8th grade & New Students July 29-31 8 a.m.-12 p.m.
For those interested in getting an early start on their school shopping, supply lists for each elementary school and grade can be downloaded by visiting www.enidpublicschools.org. Lists are also available at a number of local discount and school supply stores.

EPS classes begin August 12. For more information, please call Amber Fitzgerald at 234-5270.

July 28, 2009
You're Invited: EPS Open House
The Enid Public Schools school year kicks off August 12, but parents, students and community members are invited for a sneak peek during open house activities in early August.

Students and their families will be given the opportunity to meet their teachers, talk with their principals, put their supplies in their desks and tour their buildings. Parents will also be able to sign-up to volunteer.

According to Amber Fitzgerald, Director of School & Community Relations, open house allows students to be better prepared for their first day of school..

"It's a great a way to start the school year. Open house gives students an opportunity to see their classrooms, to meet their teachers and visit with classmates," she said. "The teachers and principals want the back-to-school events to be fun and to help students prepare for the first day of school."

Many schools will host booths from their respective PTA organizations, as well as other community organizations such as the Boy Scouts and Girls Scouts.

While many of the Open House activities revolve around the students and their families, community members are encouraged to visit their neighborhood schools during this special time.

The EPS Open House Schedule for August 6 is as follows: Emerson Middle School, 5:45-8:15 p.m.; Longfellow Middle School, 5:30-7:30 p.m.; and Waller sixth-grade, 5:45-8:15 p.m. The schedule for August 10 is elementary schools, 5:30 -7 p.m.; and Waller eighth and ninth-grade, 6:30 - 8:15 p.m. and 7:30-8:15 p.m., respectively. EHS open house will be August 11 from 6:30-8 p.m.

All media inquiries should be forwarded to Amber Graham Fitzgerald