Tulsa Public Schools Shine With Success
By KELSY LORIN TAYLOR
Web Editor and Feature Writer
ROAD TO SUCCESS: Tulsa Public Schools has become a leader in the region for education. Central High School Principal Dr. Oliver Wallace has enjoyed his experience as both a student and administrator in the district. He notices quality in every aspect of the schools on a daily basis.
KELSY LORIN TAYLOR for GTR Newspapers
Teachers and administrators are looking forward to the 2010-2011 academic year and all of the educational opportunities that are in store for the students.
There are currently more than 41,500 students enrolled in the Tulsa Public Schools District, making it the second largest in the state. With every new term comes an increased number of students.
Tulsa Public Schools currently boasts 83 instructional sites throughout the community. There are 59 elementary schools, 15 middle schools and nine high schools within the Tulsa Public Schools District.
Community involvement is very important in the district. Effective communication with students, teachers, administrators and patrons has built a foundation for the schools.
An Advanced Placement Program is available at the secondary level for students in grades 10 through 12. The courses are academically challenging and are often focused on specific areas of study. Analytical and writing skills are reiterated throughout the courses to prepare students for continued education. Students in the Advanced Placement Program have the opportunity to earn credit for college.
Also offered is the district are Pre-Advanced Placement Program. Available in middle school, these courses prepare students for college level work and help them to succeed in high school.
Students are encouraged to become involved in the organizations that have been formed through the years at Tulsa Public Schools. Some of these organizations include the National Honor Society, Fellowship of Christian Athletes and Student Council.
The organizations at Tulsa Public Schools serve as an extension of the curriculum and offer endless learning opportunities to students. Memberships are voluntary and do not impact classroom grades.
Athletics has become a very important part of the student experience in the district. Coaches focus not only on helping athletes become their best at a sport but also focus on leadership, goal setting, organization, work ethic, self-discipline, communication, determination, cooperation, dependability, honesty, perception and relationships.
In recent news, Tulsa Public Schools has been struggling with challenging budget cuts as are many of the other area districts. A total of 286 teachers were just given notice of non-renewals. This is equivalent to nearly 10 percent of the faculty in the district. In addition, 125 support staff positions have been eliminated.
Despite the severe budget cuts, those involved in the district are keeping a positive outlook on the upcoming academic year. The first day of class will be Aug. 23.
For more information about Tulsa Public Schools, call (918) 746-6800.
Updated 07-23-2010
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