View or translate this update at / Ver o traducir esta actualización en / عرض هذا التحديث أو ترجمته على / 查看或翻译此更新，网址为 / دا اپډیټ په کښې وویئ یا یې وژباړئ  Stillwaterschools.com

SPS Families and Staff,

Recently, I received an email that brightened my day from one Dennis Goda, a 90-year-old gentleman who attended school here in Stillwater in his youth. During World War II, his family had been confined to Japanese American internment camps in Jerome, Arkansas, and Gila River, Arizona, until his father was selected to teach Japanese to U.S. Naval officers at Oklahoma A&M College  (now OSU). They then relocated to Stillwater in February of 1945 and enrolled in Stillwater Public Schools. Mr. Goda wanted to confirm some details of his time here to share with his grandchildren, as it had been quite a while.

I took a moment to enter what we call “the vault” and was able to confirm his school and the spelling of his teacher’s name. There really are some things that go on your “permanent record” in school, including a teacher misspelling your name. :)

Mr. Goda shared some beautiful memories of his time in Stillwater. He described Stillwater as a "land of plenty," filled with kindness and abundance. He remembered fishing with his father at Lake Carl Blackwell, gathering pecans in the woods, and walking past trees with fruit just falling to the ground. His younger sister was often invited to slumber parties, and the friendliness of the community left a deep impression on his entire family, especially in light of the reception they had received in some places during the war. Dennis expressed gratitude for the opportunities his family found in Stillwater during such a difficult time in our nation's history, and he expressed hope that the young people of today appreciate the freedoms we experience in our country.

I was deeply moved by my chat with an individual who was a part of such a pivotal time in our nation and town’s history. With his permission, I wanted to share this story to remind all of us what a special place Stillwater has always been — a community built on kindness, generosity, and acceptance.

As we approach the end of the school year, many of our seniors and some of our students from other grades prepare to leave this community for sights and futures unseen. I hope in 80 years they look back on our special town as fondly as Mr. Goda does.

-Barry Fuxa
PR & Communications Coordinator
Stillwater Public Schools

 

In case you missed it…

• Tyler Bridges has been named SPS Superintendent. Learn more about him here. He’s already visiting the district frequently to help make sure we have a smooth transition. More to come from him in the near future!
  
• At the April board meeting the Board named Roberta Douglas as President and Rachel Dillin as Vice President for the year.
   

Celebrate Greatness

• Lunch Hero Day is this Friday, but we’re out of school that day, so we’re celebrating Lunch Hero Week. We appreciate all they do every day to help our students have the nutrition and energy they need to learn.
• We’ll be announcing our District Teacher of the Year this Friday. Look for an announcement that evening.
• Next week is Teacher Appreciation Week. Be sure to let those teachers know how much they’re loved!

Speaking of nutrition…

As state testing and finals continue in the coming weeks, please be sure your children have a healthy meal to start the day (they can get a free breakfast at school) and to get plenty of sleep.

Getting tickets to a great show is a… snap.

Don’t miss out on this week’s performances of the Addams Family Musical at SHS! Our performing arts students do an amazing job delivering top notch entertainment experiences. Get your tickets ($12 for adults. $10 for students) now at cur8.com/projects/TAF

 

Help us recognize our seniors

Each year SHS recognizes individual seniors with signs along  the HS campus. If you’d like to help support that effort, donations can be made via Venmo to the SHS PTO account @SHSpioneersPTO or cash and checks can be dropped off at the high school.

 

Shop Local

Stillwater FFA encourages you to shop local. They’ve built some lovely planter boxes for 50 local participating businesses, each with custom signs: "Shop Local," "Shop Stillwater," , and “Shop < Business Name >." Between May 1st and May 15th, any SPS student and their parents can shop at these businesses, turn in photos of their receipts for the chance to win gift cards. There’s $2,500 up for grabs. The more times a student enters, the more chances they have to win, and there is no limit to the number of times they can win. Find the list of businesses, and submit your receipts at https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdp32PG1_25ViXsgTbcwHZNMpk1cljbwTNCaICCsvY2A2U5zw/viewform

 

Community Health Needs Assessment

Complete the Payne County Community Health Needs Assessment at osdhcfhs.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cCrD0qnFcFSzRRA to help identify the biggest community health issues facing our community. This feedback will be utilized to create a community health improvement plan by multiple agencies and organizations within our county, including the Payne County Health Department and Stillwater Medical.  

 

#PioneerProud

Congrats to our Pioneers on these amazing recent achievements.

Academics:

• Seniors Alex Kim and Matthew Li were named Oklahoma 2025 Academic All-Staters! 100 top public high school seniors were selected from hundreds of nominations statewide, to receive a $1,500 merit-based cash award, honor cord and a medallion. They will be recognized at the 39th annual Academic Awards Celebration on May 10, 2025, at the Oklahoma City Convention Center.

 

Activities:

• Congratulations to Junior, Alex Kidangathazhe for winning Outstanding Economic Student from the Federal Reserve and the OCEE (Oklahoma Council of Economic Education). He was one of twelve students recognized from Oklahoma. He was nominated by his AP US History teacher Connie Parker. 

Agriculture:

• State Champion Ag Issues Team 
• State Runner-Up Livestock Judging Team 
• State Runner-Up Ag Mechanics Team 

Altruism:

• Stillwater Makes a Change presented a check for $87,404 to Payne County Youth Services!
  
• Congratulations and thank you to the following students for their commitment to serving our nation in the US. Armed Forces. 
  • Benjamin Earp – U.S. Air Force
  • Antonio Bugarin-Vega – U.S. Army National Guard
  • Tagen Chadrick – U.S. Army National Guard
  • Grant Jackson – U.S. Army National Guard
  • Casey Moore – U.S. Army National Guard
  • Isabella Reyes – U.S. Army National Guard
  • Raiden Silas – U.S. Army National Guard
  • Kira Vialpando – U.S. Army National Guard
  • Drayton Brandt – U.S. Navy
    

Arts:

• SHS Symphonic Band received superior ratings for their stage performance and sight reading at the OSSAA State Contest.
• The 8th grade band received straight superior ratings at the North Texas Festival of Distinction
  

Athletics:

• Good luck to all our spring sports as they head into regionals.
• Dee Lockett was named Oklahoma recipient of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame & Museum Dave Schultz High School Excellence Award!
   

We can't possible list all the amazing things our students do and the honors they receive here.
Be sure to follow the social media of your favorite student activities & school to learn more about these and other amazing student achievements.

 

Coming up- Details of events at Stillwaterschools.com/calendar

Fingers crossed that weather works out for all our outdoor athletic events, but… some events subject to possible rescheduling or cancellations.

• Thursday, May 1
  • State Agriscience Fair
  • HS- Soccer Boys JV at Edmond North Cup (9:40/12:40/4:40)
  • JH - Soccer vs Piedmont (Girls 4:45/Boys 6:15)
  • BBQ, Bids & Broadway - Band Fundraiser
  • SPRING MUSICAL
  • HS- Baseball vs Bixby (Senior Night - District Game)
• Friday, May 2
  • No School - Teacher Professional Development
  • HS - Boys Golf Regionals
  • HS- Tennis Girls V at Shawnee HS
  • HS - Soccer at Piedmont Cup (Boys Only)
  • SPRING MUSICAL
  • HS- Soccer Boys Homecoming Reunion
• Saturday, May 3
  • HS- Tennis Boys V at Shawnee HS
  • HS- Baseball vs Marlow
  • SPRING MUSICAL
• Sunday, May 4 
  • SPRING MUSICAL
• Monday, May 5
  • State FFA Convention (Day 1/3)
  • HS- Girls Golf V at State (MeadowBrook-Tulsa)
  • HS- Tennis Girls V at Regionals (TBD)
  • JH/MS- 7th/8th Grade Volleyball Tryout 2025
  • SMS Theatre Arts - "Live in Living Color: A Musical Revue

SPS Families and Staff,

We generally try to keep these weekly updates positive, but in asking my peers what my introductory statements should be this week, they invariably said, “You have to talk smack.” I'm a little hesitant to do so, but as a child of the 80s and 90s, I feel well equipped for the task and I've got a long list of things that need to be taken down a peg or two. So let me start with Coldplay, ranch dressing, the movie The Godfather, and people who don't like Weezer. These four things are everything that's wrong with…

 

What's that? I AM talking smack. Huh? Oh… S.M.A.C.! Got it. That I can do too. 

 

So, anyway…

 

It’s SMAC Week! Stillwater Makes a Change (SMAC) is an amazing student group. For 16 years, this student run philanthropy group has been fundraising for local non profits, and has raised more than $1,440,000 in that time. 

 

Along the way, the students who step up to lead the group develop incredible skills - event management, interpersonal and professional relationship building, and marketing skills, all things that will be incredibly applicable to many career paths and future endeavors.  This year at the SMAC Gala I was struck by how polished the hosts and presenters were. Having worked at OSU for 20 years, I've seen a lot of young people speak, and I'd put this group on par with any of the developed college speakers, and many seasoned professionals that I've seen over the years. 

 

This year’s SMAC beneficiary is Payne County Youth Services, which is a private, non-profit outpatient community-based and substance abuse treatment provider, emergency shelter, and crisis services.  PCYS assists children, youth, young adults, and families to improve their overall quality of life. It’s an amazing organization that changes and saves lives.

 

SMAC has loads of FUNdraising activities throughout the year with the bulk of those happening this week. Monday’s fashion show, Tuesday board game night, and Wednesday’s Mangeant is always exciting. Have you ever wondered about the painted reserved spaces at SHS? Well there’s a parking auction this Friday that determines who gets those prime locations. There’s also restaurant dine nights. If you need an excuse to not cook, it can be to help out a good cause.

 

How can you help? Attend the events, restaurant nights, and activities listed in the calendar at the end of this message with a giant SMAC on the event names.

 

Oh, and be sure to talk SMAC to your friends so they know how they can help support PCYS too! 

 

Go Pioneers!

Barry Fuxa
PR & Communications Coordinator
Stillwater Public Schools

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Measles?!

Each time I see measles in the news, the line “Don’t call it a comeback” from LL Cool J’s “Mama Said Knock You Out” pops into my head. Measles is one of the most contagious diseases on the planet and can cause pneumonia, brain swelling (including seizures and brain damage), and other infections. Before the 1960s, nearly every child in the US contracted measles, and about 1-3 of every 1,000 died as a result of this serious illness. It most definitely does not need to make a comeback. 

While we have not had any cases of measles reported in our area, our nurses and Health Department officials would like me to remind you to take precautions to protect you and your family. 

• So please, watch for symptoms:

• Check out some health department resources about measles: drive.google.com/drive/folders/1hvYzHI3lTZT3_S1kada931iMM0P9SPVX?usp=sharing 

• Be aware of the latest CDC data:

• And… maybe, avoid west Texas for a while where around 200 cases have been identified this year.

 

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We are known for our Wind around here.

Listen, both the SHS and the OSU Wind Ensemble are performing a shared concert on Tuesday, March 11 at 7:00pm. If you’ve never heard our Wind Ensemble perform, you are missing out. Throw in OSU’s and you’ve got a night of some impressive music. For free. You can’t beat that. This is the kind of thing that can’t happen in many towns or schools, and one of the reasons we’re a Best Community for Music Education 8 years in a row. So come pack the PAC and enjoy some tunes.

 

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Stunt!

Lee Majors has nothing on these girls when it comes to stunts. (Kids, ask your parents or grandparents about that reference). 

This Wednesday is your only chance to see SHS Stunt compete in town this year as they take on Blanchard and Jenks at the JV and Varsity levels. If you haven’t seen a stunt competition, it’s kind of like cheer mixed with a dance off and a little bit of a rap battle feel. It’s fun to witness the incredibly impressive athleticism on display.  So come cheer on some of the students that do so much cheering for their peers!

 

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#PioneerProud

Congrats to our Pioneers on these amazing recent achievements.

• Big shout out to the 83 SMS and SJHS students who submitted essays for the Civics Bee. This is a great level of participation! Those essays were judged by the committee at the US Chamber of Commerce, and 20 students were selected to participate in the Live Local Competition.

  • Leena Atiyeh

  • Lyla Barnes

  • Gracie Essary

  • Ava Haar

  • Elizabeth Heiner

  • Abigail Hicks

  • Lucas Huber

  • Jase Jackson

  • William Kiespert

  • Jennifer Ku

  • Kinley Nixon

  • Kaplan Novy-Bean

  • Sarah Park

  • Isaac Ringsmuth

  • Sara Roberts

  • Landon Rogers

  • Kelly Sanchez-Fuentes

  • Harper Scott

  • Jayden Smith

  • Gwen Surratt

They’ll compete Thursday, March 27 at 6:00pm, and first through third place will advance to the State Competition set for May 12. First place at that competition will win a free trip to DC for nationals! 

• Congratulations to the SMS team for winning the fourth place at MATHCOUNTS State Competition!

• Stillwater Special Olympics Cheer placed second at Broken Arrow and will compete again at the Special Olympics Summer Games. 

• Girls Golf took home first place at the Stillwater Tournament

• Kyriana Beard and Preslee Watley-Kindt - Preslee was named the Central Area Star in Agriscience while Kyriana was named the Central Area Star in Ag Placement. Both will go on to compete for State Star Awards as one of only five finalists in their areas. The winners of these State Star Awards will win $30,000 scholarships!

• Shout out to that kid who tied his shoes for the first time this week.

 

 

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Coming up- Details of events at Stillwaterschools.com/calendar

• Tuesday, March 11

  • JH- Tennis Boys at Union (9th Grade Center)

  • HS- Soccer vs Mustang (JVG 3:30/ JVB Gold 4:40/ VG 6:00/VB 8:00)

  • HS - Pom Tryout Clinic 2025-26

  • HS - JV Baseball Gold at Southmoore DH (5:00/7:00)

  • Stillwater Board of Education Special Meeting

  • SHS & OSU Wind Ensembles

  • SMAC Board Game Night

• Wednesday, March 12

  • HS- Tennis Boys V at Union (9th Grade Center)

  • SMAC Fundraiser: Raising Canes

  • HS- Boys Golf JV at Guthrie Tussle (Cimarron Trails)

  • HS - Pom Tryout Clinic 2025-26

  • HS - STUNT

  • SMAC Mangeant

• Thursday, March 13 

  • SMAC Fundraiser: Sweat Yoga

  • HS & JH Robotics - State Tournament

  • SMAC Fundraiser: Stilly Nutrition Fix

  • HS- Track at Edmond North HS

  • HS- Tennis Girls V at Edmond Memorial HS

  • HS - Pom Tryout Clinic 2025-26

  • HS- Baseball vs Ponca City

  • HS- Soccer Girls at Hilldale (JV & V 5:30)

  • HS- JV Baseball Gold at Broken Arrow

  • HS- JV Baseball Blue vs Ponca City

• Friday, March 14 

  • HS & JH Robotics - State Tournament

  • HS- Tennis Boys & Girls V at Shawnee HS

  • JH- Soccer vs Choctaw (Girls 4:00 & 6:30, Boys 5:15 & 7:45)

  • HS- Soccer Boys at Hilldale (JV 4:30/V 7:30)

  • HS - Pom Tryouts 2025-26

• Saturday, March 15

  • HS- Baseball at Grapevine

  • HS- Baseball at Flower Mound Marcus

 

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Spring Break
Next week is Spring Break! No school March 17-21, and our district offices will be closed on Friday, March 21.

 

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PreK Enrollment
Opens Tuesday, March 25, 2025 at 8am. See the process and documents you’ll need at stillwaterschools.com/enroll 

 

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Family Engagement Night
Mark your calendars for a fun and informative Family Engagement Night the evening of  April 7, details coming soon.

 

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View or translate this update at / Ver o traducir esta actualización en / عرض هذا التحديث أو ترجمته على / 查看或翻译此更新，网址为 / دا اپډیټ په کښې وویئ یا یې وژباړئ  Stillwaterschools.com

SPS Families and Staff,

What a beautiful week we had last week! I daresay we might (fingers crossed, knock on wood) be out of the kind of winter weather that can keep us out of school. Spring weather, please be kind. 

 

This week, I spent a little time in the middle school. I know in all districts  the middle school and junior high years can be a little awkward, and I think very few consider those years their favorite part of their school experience, but I love so much about our middle school and the things that happen there. And I LOVE that so many of our teachers feel called to work with kids in these important formative years.

 

Electives -  at SMS, kids, with the guidance of their parents, get to start charting a path, exploring careers, discovering their passions. For instance, as 5th graders tried out music options, I could see on some of their faces the click of “oh, yeah, I think this is for me” as they drew, blew, beat, or belted out their first note.

Competitions - Robotics, sports, and other groups start to give our kids ways to push themselves to outperform their peers at other schools. And as a ’89 &’90 Mathcounts competitor, I was really happy to see that particular group added this year.

 

The height differences - From tiny frames to those taller than my nearly 6 feet, the differing growth rates, really make it a unique place in terms of just walking down the halls.

 

Kids being kids - While they are growing up, middle schoolers are still very much kids. It’s fun to see them being silly, playing, and still holding on to some of the carefree innocence of youth. I love how much they enjoy the new playground. 

 

But the thing I love most about SMS is that it’s the place where the children of Stillwater come together for the first time as Pioneers. In my home town we had three middle schools, and we competed against each other in athletic and academic competitions, all during those formative and awkward teen years. After we came together in tenth grade, my high school still felt pretty divided along middle school lines. That’s not something I really feel or have heard about in Stillwater, and I credit the way SMS and its staff work to bring them together.

 

While we have three 6th grade teams and three 7th grade teams at SMS to create smaller communities and maintain strong supportive relationships within the school, that concept doesn’t seem to keep them from feeling the pride and connection of being one united school.

 

Having had one child go through SPS from PreK through graduation and another about to enter middle school. I’m glad we do things the way we do, and can’t wait to be a middle school parent again.

 

Go Pioneers!

Barry Fuxa
PR & Communications Coordinator
Stillwater Public Schools

 

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Taste of Stillwater

Bring the whole family and join us for dinner featuring some of Stillwater’s most beloved restaurants! Taste of Stillwater presented by BancFirst features over 30 local restaurants. Enjoy so many tasty offerings; from pizza toMexican food to desserts and drinks of all kinds! Ticket holders are able to visit all of the vendors as much as they’d like to sample all of the delicious food available!

 

Tuesday, March 4

5:30-7:30pm

Payne County Expo Center

 

Participating Restaurants:

7-Eleven • Arby’s • Bad Brad’s BBQ • Chick-fil-A • Chico’s Taco Cantina • Duncan Catering Co. • D.P. Dough • Dutch Bros Coffee • El Tapitio • Empire Slice House • Eskimo Joe’s • Fired Up Stilly • Freddie Paul’s Steakhouse • Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers • Fuzzy’s Taco • Shop • Granny’s Kitchen • Hatch • Hideaway Pizza • Homeland Bakery • HteaO • Mariachi’s • Mexico Joe’s • Nothing Bundt Cakes • Olive Garden • OnCue • Purdy Q Mobile Smoke Pit • Raising Cane’s • Red Rock Bakery & Deli • Roscoe’s Feed Shack • Sandwich Planet • Stillwater Sweets • Taco Los Primos • Texas Roadhouse • Whataburger

 

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Speaking of Stillwater Middle School…

Wednesday and Thursday, SMS  Theatre presents The Little Mermaid Jr.

 

March 5 & 6

7pm

Stillwater Community Center

 

Tickets at the door - $7 General Admission or $5 with an SPS student or staff ID. Cash or Check only. Come support these talented kids and have a great time with your family.

 

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#PioneerProud

Congrats to our Pioneers on these amazing recent achievements.

• State FFA Degree Recipients

  • Kyriana Beard

  • Gabe Campbell

  • Brandt Gazaway

  • Oakley Gross

  • Kyle Ruehle

  • Adria Spaulding

  • Preslee Wattley-Kindt

• 200 IM State Champion Swimmer Elias Mendez

• Lady Pioneer Wrestling State Tournament Placements

  • Abbie Rivero -2nd

  • Loyalty Lockett - 4th

  • Kahliyah Enko -4th

• Stillwater Wrestling, your 2025 Oklahoma State Champions, with 7 individual state champions, 3 runners up, and Dee Lockett being named the Outstanding 6A Wrestler! Dee Lockett 4x State Champion

• Winter Guard Gold took 1st at Piedmont

 

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Coming up- Stillwaterschools.com/calendar

• Monday, March 3

  • HS- Tennis Boys V at Union (9th Grade Center)

  • HS- Girls Golf V & JV at Stillwater Country Club

  • JH & HS  - Cheer Clinic 2025-26

  • Band Night at Chipotle

  • HS- JV Baseball Blue at Owasso

  • HS- Baseball vs Owasso

  • HS- JV Baseball Gold at Owasso

  • JH HS Choir Concert

• Tuesday, March 4

  • Maintenance Workers Day

  • Mardi Gras

  • Taste of Stillwater

  • HS- Tennis Boys & Girls JV at Ponca City HS

  • HS- Soccer vs Choctaw (JVG 3:30/ JVB 4:40/ VG 6:00/ VB 8:00)

  • JH & HS  - Cheer Clinic 2025-26

  • HS- Baseball at Jenks

  • HS- JV Baseball Blue vs Jenks

  • HS- JV Baseball Gold vs Jenks

• Wednesday, March 5

  • Ash Wednesday

  • HS- Tennis Boys & Girls JV at Union (9th Grade Center)

  • JH & HS - Cheer Clinic 2025-26

  • SMS - Spring Musical - Disney's The Little Mermaid, Jr.

  • Stillwater Community Center

• Thursday, March 6

  • HS- Track at Deer Creek

  • HS- Soccer JV Gold Boys @ Edmond Memorial (5:30/7:00

  • JH- Soccer vs OKC Storm (Girls 6:00/ Boys 7:30)

  • SMS - Spring Musical - Disney's The Little Mermaid, Jr.

• Friday, March 7

  • HS- Tennis Girls V at Jenks HS

  • HS- Soccer @ Coweta Cup (JV Girls & JV Boys) (TBA)

  • JH & HS - Cheer Tryout

  • HS- Soccer vs Edmond Memorial (JVB Gold 4:40/ VG 6:00/VB 8:00)

  • HS- Baseball vs Enid (at Owasso Invitational)

• Saturday, March 8

  • Winter Guard at WGI Tulsa Regional

  • HS- Girls Golf V at Bixby (South Lakes- Jenks

  • HS- Tennis Boys V at Jenks HS

  • SMAC Pickleball Tournament

  • HS- Soccer @ Coweta Cup (JV Girls & JV Boys) (TBA)

  • HS- Baseball vs Oktaha (at Owasso Invitational)

 

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PreK Enrollment
Opens Tuesday, March 25, 2025 at 8am. See the process and documents you’ll need at stillwaterschools.com/enroll 

 

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View or translate this update at / Ver o traducir esta actualización en / عرض هذا التحديث أو ترجمته على / 查看或翻译此更新，网址为 / دا اپډیټ په کښې وویئ یا یې وژباړئ  Stillwaterschools.com

SPS Families and Staff,

What a week! We hope everyone had a safe and enjoyable time at home and was able to stay warm.  I want to give a huge shout out to our custodians and maintenance staff for working so hard to get our schools ready to receive students. I know a bunch of kiddos who were very happy to be able to see their friends and teachers today.

 

Also a big shout out to every student who got their virtual work finished and the teachers and staff who made that possible!

 

I also appreciate our district leadership who communicate with local agencies and work to carefully make the best decisions they can with the information they have to keep our students safe and our schools operational when possible. I’m glad they have the responsibility of making the call on being closed or open, and that I just get to be the messenger.  :)

 

I’m less appreciative of mobile phone transcription services that incorrectly transcribe our voicemails for users.  I don’t think “particularly rural routes” sounds much like “tickly, tickly royal roads,” but… there it was. So if you ever have an odd transcription on your phone, please give the voicemail a listen; it should clarify things.

 

And I’m not at all appreciative of the artificial intelligence that summarized my call like this… 

We’re looking forward to a full week next week!

Go Pioneers!

Barry (Not a Monkey) Fuxa
PR & Communications Coordinator
Stillwater Public Schools

 

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Seats in Seats

Whether it’s a sporting event, a concert, a competition, or a play, our students want to see people in the stands; they feed off the energy. I encourage everyone to try to catch our student events, of course  when they happen here in town, but especially when they go out of town. Many of our groups, like Stunt, Winter Guard, and Track have most of their competitions away. Stillwater supporters have to drive a little farther than the average metro area fan, so that means sometimes our kids have fewer people cheering for them than their peers. So if you can, please make the extra effort to put your seat in a seat out of town and support your Stillwater Pioneers in all their endeavors. 

 

But… fill up on gas and snacks in Stillwater before you head to those metro areas. #shoplocal #shopSWO

 

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Lots of Event Adjustments Due Weather - Stillwaterschools.com/calendar

• Fri 2.21

  • HS - Wrestling Boys Regional Tournament (Day 1/2)

  • CANCELLED ~ HS- Baseball vs Southmoore (Scrimmage)

• Sat 2.22

  • HS - Wrestling Boys Regional Tournament (Day 2/2)

  • HS - Boys Soccer Varsity & JV Gold at Deer Creek Festival

  • JH- Soccer Boys JV Blue and Girls at Bartlesville Festival

  • HS - Girls Soccer Festival (Stillwater, BA and Owasso)

  • HS - Stunt at SNU

  • CANCELLED ~ HS- Boys Golf V & JV vs Ponca City (Lakeside Memorial GC)

  • HS- Varsity Baseball vs Ponca City (Scrimmage)

  • HS- JV Baseball Blue/Gold vs Ponca City

  • CANCELLED ~ HS- Soccer Girls at TU Preseason Festival

• Mon 2.24

  • Public Schools Week Starts

  • HS - Swim State (Day 1/2)

  • HS- Baseball vs Perry (Scrimmage)

  • 7th Grade Track Tryouts

  • JH- Soccer JV Girls 4:30 JV Boys 6:00 vs Crossing Christian

  • Lincoln Academy - Hideaway Restaurant Night

• Tues 2.25

  • HS - Swim State (Day 2/2)

  • HS- Soccer Boys Var./JV/JV Gold at Broken Arrow Festival

  • 8th Grade Track Tryouts

  • HS- Baseball vs Edmond North (Scrimmage)

  • HS- JV Baseball Blue at Ponca City

  • HS- JV Baseball Gold at Ponca City

  • MS/HS Side by Side Band Concert

• Thur 2.27

  • HS - Basketball Regional (Day 1/3)

  • HS - Wrestling State Tournament (Day 1/3)

  • HS- Baseball vs Guthrie (Scrimmage)

  • HS- JV Baseball Blue vs Guthrie

  • MS/JH Band Festival Concert

• Fri 2.28

  • HS - Basketball Regional (Day 2/3)

  • HS - Wrestling State Tournament (Day 2/3)

  • HS- Soccer Boys/Girls at Bixby Festival (JVG 3:30, JVB 4:40, VG 6:00, VB 8:00)

• Sat 3.1

  • Nutrition, Women's History, Athletic Training, & Music in Schools Month starts

  • HS - Basketball Regional (Day 3/3)

  • HS - Wrestling State Tournament (Day 3/3)

  • OSSAA District Solo & Ensemble Contest (band & orchestra) (at Edmond Santa Fe HS date tentative)

  • JH Golf Tryouts (Boys and Girls)

  • HS- Tennis Girls V at Union (9th Grade Center)

  • Winter Guard @ Piedmont

  • HS- Baseball at Piedmont (Opening Day)

  • HS- JV Baseball Blue vs Piedmont

  • HS- JV Baseball Gold at Piedmont

 

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Public Schools Week

February 24-28 is Public Schools Week.

 

We celebrate the incredible work happening every day, not only in Stillwater, but in public schools around the country. Public schools are the heart of our great nation's communities, providing opportunities for every child, regardless of background or circumstance. In Oklahoma, public schools allow more than 700,000 children to receive an education, the key to accessing a better life, higher income, and discovering, not just one path, but multiple paths to fulfilling careers.

 

Through our public schools, students encounter those from across their entire community, preparing them to interact with people from a variety of backgrounds and life journeys. The public school experience and dedicated educators and support staff empower public school students with life expanding opportunities.

 

We're public school proud every single day!

 

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Super Search Feedback

Today (2.21) is the last day to provide feedback for our superintendent search via the anonymous ThoughtExchange at tejoin.com/scroll/397354266 

 

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Taste of Stillwater
Tuesday, March 4, 2025, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Payne County Expo Center. Tickets on sale now at SPEF.Stillwaterschools.com 

 

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PreK Enrollment
Opens Tuesday, March 25, 2025 at 8am. See the process and documents you’ll need at stillwaterschools.com/enroll 

 

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Upcoming Musicals
Mark your calendars. 

• SMS - LIttle Mermaid, Jr. - March 5 & 6

• SJHS - Freaky Friday - March 28 & 29

• SHS - The Addams Family - May 1-4

 

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SPS Families and Staff,

Everyone talks about the Three Rs of school – Reading and wRiting and aRithmetic, but I prefer to think about what I call the Six As – Academics, Arts, Athletics, Agriculture, Activities, and Altruism. Nearly every week our district has great examples of all of those things, but I want to talk specifically about Altruism and thank community members for the great example you set for our students. The people in this town show up for each other to help, watch out for each other by reporting suspicious behavior, donate to good causes, and by and large lift each other up.

 

Your behavior inspires our students’ behavior, attitudes, and efforts to better the world. Their fundraisers like Pink Out and SMAC generate funds to fighter cancer and support local nonprofits. Our younger students, too, understand the value of community and altruism, as demonstrated by recent fundraising efforts by Skyline Cubs to raise and donate funds to Guiding Paws, which helps bring awareness about the blind and low vision and raise funds to support guide dogs.

 

Thank you, Stillwater, for being great people raising great kids.

 

Go Pioneers!

Barry Fuxa
PR & Communications Coordinator
Stillwater Public Schools

 

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Community Concerns

Many of our parents and community members have reached out with questions about recent changes in immigration procedures that are being discussed in the news, on social media, and among friends and families. Students may hear confusing information about complex issues and could worry about what it means. 

 

As you may know, last week, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security rescinded guidance that identified schools, hospitals, and churches as “protected areas” where immigration enforcement should be avoided. The full legal effect this change will have on schools is not yet clear, however under the guidance of legal counsel SPS district leadership has provided site principals protocols to ensure appropriate cooperation with authorities, while maintaining the safety, security, and positive learning environment of our schools.

 

In the event that any immigration action were to occur in the district, please know that our building entrance protocols remain in effect for anyone entering our schools, and FERPA guidelines provide protection of student records confidentiality, including enrollment and attendance. Any request for student educational records requires a valid court order or subpoena.

 

Although we cannot address every scenario, rest assured that student safety and rights are our first priority. We encourage parents and families to remain informed, seek support, and connect with local resources found at Stillwaterschools.com/StudentSupport when needed. Also, please know that, as always, we have caring counselors and educators ready to talk with any student needing to address possible anxiety or any feelings about this or any topic. 

 

If you have additional questions, please contact Acting Superintendent Dr. Janet Vinson, jvinson@stillwaterschools.com. 

 

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Weekend Fun!

Saturday is jam packed.

• A tasty Soccer Pancake Breakfast & Silent

• The competitive JH & HS Robotics competition at SJHS

• Family fun and Prom fundraising at the Hello Winter Carnival at SHS

• Ag Boosters Silent Auction and Dinner

 

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Taste of Stillwater

Save the date and get ready to grab your tickets for the 28th Annual Taste of Stillwater presented by BancFirst; proceeds benefit Stillwater Public Education Foundation

Tuesday, March 4, 2025
5:30-7:30 p.m.
Payne County Expo Center

Tickets go on sale February 3 at SPEF.Stillwaterschools.com or in person at: 

• BANCFIRST – 808 S Main and 508 Hall of Fame

• EXCHANGE BANK – 4301 W. 6th Avenue and 310 S. Main

• OKLAHOMA COMMUNITY CREDIT UNION – 311 E. McElroy Road and 1811 S. Sangre Road

• SIMMONS BANK – 308 S Main

• SPS ADMINISTRATION BLDG – 314 S. Lewis

 

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They’re growing up…
Have or know someone with a child that will be 4 by September 1, 2025? Pre-K Enrollment starts Tuesday, March 25. Please help spread the word to those who don’t have a child in the district yet, as we don’t  

 

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Pioneer Proud
We had a slew of honors come in last week. Many made it my way, but I’m sure I’ve missed some. 

• Swimming - at COAC this past weekend, Elias Mendez finished 1^st 200 Individual Medly and 2^nd 100 Backstroke

• Lady Pioneer Wrestling - Abbie Rivero and Kahliyah Enko both brought home 1st place, while the team finished third at the COAC Conference Tournament

• SHS Mock Trial - 2nd place finish at the MLK/Chappelle Tournament

• Shout out to all the NCDA band kids for a great clinic and performance last weekend!

• Pioneer Baseball is ranked #1 in the state by MaxPreps

• Congrats to Kyriana Beard on being one of only 10 seniors in the state to be named an OYE Academic All-State.

• The Livestock Judging Teams did great at the NE Area contest, with the Junior FFA Team placing 1st overall and Senior FFA Team placing 2nd overall.

• Congrats to SMS Robotics Teams Vortex and Step Bros on becoming champions at last weekend’s Stillwater tournament. Vortex also won Skills Champion, while Rust in Piece brought home the Innovation Award.
  

 

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Coming Up - Stillwaterschools.com/calendar

• Tues, Jan 28

  • HS - Basketball at Muskogee (JVG 3:30 / JVB 4:45 / Varsity Girls 6:00 / Varsity Boys 7:30)

  • HS/JH - Wrestling vs. Union (Sr. Night)

• Wed, Jan 29

  • Lunar New Year

• Thurs, Jan 30

  • HS - Pom UDA National Dance Team Championship (Day 1/4)

  • MS/JH - Basketball at Deer Creek (7th G 4:30 / 7th B 5:30 / 8th G 6:30 / 8th B 7:30)

  • JH - Basketball 9th vs. Norman North (9th G 5:30 / 9th B 6:45)

• Fri, Jan 31

  • HS - Pom UDA National Dance Team Championship (Day 2/4)

  • JH - Wrestling Boys at Edmond Tournament (Day 1/2)

  • HS - Basketball at Ponca City (JVG 3:30 / JVB 4:30 / Varsity Girls 6:30 / Varsity Boys 8:00)

• Sat, Feb 1

  • Black History Month Starts

  • Career & Technical Education Month Starts

  • HS - Pom UDA National Dance Team Championship (Day 3/4)

  • JH - Wrestling Boys at Edmond Tournament (Day 2/2)

  • Soccer - Pancake Breakfast

  • HS & JHS Robotics Tournament

  • Hello Winter Carnival

  • Ag Boosters Auction and Dinner

• Sun, Feb 2

  • Groundhog Day

  • HS - Pom UDA National Dance Team Championship (Day 4/4)

• Mon, Feb 3

  • MS/JH - Basketball vs. Yukon (7th G 4:30 / 7th B 5:30 / 8th G 6:30 / 8th B 7:30)

  • JH - Basketball 9th at Piedmont (9th G 5:30 / 9th B 6:45)

 

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SPS Families and Staff,

Welcome back and Happy New Year! In reverence to the late President Jimmy Carter, it seems timely to ring in the new year with a renewed mindset of service and sacrifice. Regardless of your political party, it is indisputable that President Carter lived a life of service and sacrifice for others. It is human nature to sometimes dwell on our deficits; we look at others that we perceive to have more, work less, that are more attractive, etc. It is my personal goal in 2025 to focus on the blessings that I have; health, home, friends and family. Because I am so blessed, I want to be more like President Carter and actively search out ways that I can CHOOSE to serve others instead of self. 

 

Having said that, I want to give a HUGE thank you to our teachers, interventionists, administrators, instructional staff, support staff and parents. As we recently heard, Stillwater Public Schools was highlighted in the Daily Oklahoman as one of the highest performing districts in the state of Oklahoma based on the Oklahoma School Report Cards. We learned Stillwater tied Moore for the most elementary schools (3) receiving an “A” grade. Stillwater has six elementary schools, and Moore has 25, making that achievement even more impressive, so we compiled a list to compare 6A district “Elementary School GPAs.” As you can see, SPS performed incredibly well.

 

Keeping in mind that this is one measure of success and there are many ways to determine school effectiveness, this recognition is one indication of the hard work and dedication of our staff. From the bus drivers making sure students arrive safely, to the child nutrition staff providing healthy meals for all children, to the counselors providing guidance and wellness strategies, everyone pours in to our students’ school experience to set them up for success. Perhaps most impactful is a well-qualified and caring classroom teacher. So thank you, teachers for YOUR service to our children. 

 

We are making GREAT strides in meeting our budget for this year and the 25-26 school year. We have already surpassed our goal for this year as shown in the chart below:

 

In addition, our midterm allocation from the State of Oklahoma is significantly higher than expected, so this will help us meet next year’s goal sooner than expected. The target of savings remains $5.5 million for next year, but with additional funding coming in, it gets us even closer to our savings goal for next year. We are very confident we will meet the $5.5 million goal through attrition and by implementing a few additional non-staff reductions. 

 

Also, this month is School Board appreciation month, so this gives us an opportunity to highlight the five community members that volunteer their time to provide oversight for our school district. Working alongside the superintendent and leadership team, these five members give countless hours to make sure each student receives the best education that Stillwater can offer. Our Pioneer Pathfinders and elementary students were kind and generous with their time and talents by providing gifts to recognize our board members as shown in the photo below. Please join me in a heartfelt thank you to Dr. Marshall Baker, Tim Riley, Rachel Dillin, Roberta Douglas and Dr. Gay Washington for your service and sacrifice to our children.

 

Go Pioneers!

Dr. Janet Vinson
Acting Superintendent
Stillwater Public Schools

 

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Cold Weather Safety
Please be aware Stillwater will be experiencing very low temps and wind chills over the next few days. School is planned to be in session. Please make certain students dress appropriately, especially if riding buses. Multiple layers, hats, along with scarves and/or face masks are recommended. If your student needs cold weather apparel please contact your school's office.

As always any change to the school days open status or start time, will be announced via email, phone, text, (if you are opted in), the website, and social media.

 

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No School Monday
Today we join the nation and state in recognizing Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day to honor the legacy of Dr. King and his contributions to civil rights and equality.

 

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Pioneer Proud
Last week, we announced and celebrated our eleven site Teachers of the Year. These individuals are great examples of exemplary service to their students, peers, and the families with whom they work. These teachers will all proceed to be considered for the overall district Teacher of the Year. Congratulations, thank you, and good luck on the next round of considerations to each of every one of them!

• Highland Park - Courtney Parks - Library Media Specialist

• Richmond - Zach Boydston - PE

• Sangre Ridge - Hannah Day - Kindergarten

• Skyline - Annie Ortiz - Enrichment

• Westwood - Caleb Davis - 5th Grade

• Will Rogers - Karen Holman - 3rd Grade

• SMS - Rebecca Jimenez - ELL

• SJHS - Madeline El Ouarraqe - Special Education

• SHS - Michael Porter - Mathematics

• Virtual Academy - Carmen Ryan - Special Education

• Lincoln Academy- Scott Peterman - Social Studies

 

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Coming Up - Stillwaterschools.com/calendar

• Monday, Jan 20

  • Inauguration Day

  • No School - Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

  • JH - Basketball 9th vs. Ponca City (9th G 5:30 / 9th B 6:45)

• Tues, Jan 21

  • HS - Basketball vs. Putnam City West (JVG 3:30 / JVB 4:45 / Varsity Girls 6:00 / Varsity Boys 7:30)

  • MS/JH - Basketball at Piedmont (7th G 4:30 / 7th B 5:30 / 8th G 6:30 / 8th B 7:30)

  • HS - Swim vs. Piedmont/Casady

• Wed, Jan 22

  • Richmond - Restaurant DAY (ALL DAY)- Panda Express

• Thurs, Jan 23

  • HS - Basketball Boys Varsity at Newcastle Tournament (Day 1/3)

  • HS - Basketball Girls Varsity at Deer Creek Tournament (Day 1/3)

  • HS/JH - Wrestling District Duals Quad

  • MS/JH - Basketball vs. Mustang Central (7th G 4:30 / 7th B 5:30 / 8th G 6:30 / 8th B 7:30)

• Fri, Jan 24

  • HS - Basketball Boys Varsity at Newcastle Tournament (Day 2/3)

  • HS - Basketball Girls Varsity at Deer Creek Tournament (Day 2/3)

  • HS - Wrestling Girls at McLoud Dual Tournament (Day 1/2)

  • HS - Wrestling Varsity Boys at Yukon or Owasso Tournament (Day 1/2)

 

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SPS Families and Staff,

We hope everyone had a spectacular and restful break. 

Welcome to an all new year and a new semester! 2025! As a child of the 80s that still sounds like the far future to me. I expected flying cars,  a moon colony, and hoverboards, but I digress.

New years are a great chance for fresh starts. The grade books are blank. Secondary students have new schedules and new electives. New students have just moved to town. It’s a chance to turn over a new leaf if needed, continue great behaviors that are working, and make the second half of the school year great!

It’s a short week, so just a few short updates follow. We’ll have a more substantive update in the next week or so from Acting Superintendent Dr. Janet Vinson.

Go Pioneers!

Barry Fuxa
PR & Communications Coordinator
Stillwater Public Schools

 

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Brrr.
Winter has arrived, be sure to bundle the kids up appropriately. Multiple layers help kids stay comfortable outside or inside and in drafty or cozy spaces. If your child needs warm weather gear or a new pair of shoes, please let your school office know.

District leaders are watching the weather, including a possibility of some inclement weather arriving on Thursday. We’ll keep you posted on any cancellations via email, text messages (if you’ve opted in), phone calls, and on social media and Stillwaterschools.com. Please note, we do not typically reach out to say school is on. If you don’t see an update from us, please assume school is on as scheduled. 

 

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Speaking of Winter...
The SHS Junior Class officers are hosting a winter carnival with carnival-style games, a bounce house, hot chocolate, treats, and prizes. There will also be a silent auction during the event with several items and gift baskets donated from local businesses. Fun for the family, plus funds raised will be used to make this year's prom an unforgettable experience for SHS students. Join them on January 11 from 5-9pm at the SHS Student Center for a cool time.

 

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Coming Up - Stillwaterschools.com/calendar

Wrestling and Basketball have a busy week!

• Mon - Jan 6

  • JH - Basketball 9th at Deer Creek (9th G 5:30 / 9th B 6:45)

  • Tennis Chipotle Fundraiser - 4-8pm

• Tues - Jan 7

  • 3rd Quarter Begins

  • HS - Basketball at Bixby (JVG 4:00 / JVB 5:00 / Varsity Girls 6:30 / Varsity Boys 8:00)

• Thurs - Jan 9

  • Law Enforcement Day

  • HS - Basketball Boys Varsity at Enid Tournament (Day 1/3)

  • HS - Basketball Girls Varsity at Bartlesville Tournament (Day 1/3)

  • JH - Basketball 9th at Edmond Memorial Tournament (Day 1/3)

  • HS/JH - Wrestling vs. Deer Creek (Homecoming)

• Fri - Jan 10

  • HS - Basketball Boys Varsity at Enid Tournament (Day 2/3)

  • HS - Basketball Girls Varsity at Bartlesville Tournament (Day 2/3)

  • JH - Basketball 9th at Edmond Memorial Tournament (Day 2/3)

  • HS - Wrestling Boys at Geary Tournament (Day 1/2)

• Sat, Jan 11

  • HS - Basketball Boys Varsity at Enid Tournament (Day 3/3)

  • HS - Basketball Girls Varsity at Bartlesville Tournament (Day 3/3)

  • JH - Basketball 9th at Edmond Memorial Tournament (Day 3/3)

  • HS - Wrestling Boys at Geary Tournament (Day 2/2)

  • Hello Winter Carnival

• Sun, Jan 12

  • VB - Little Lady Pioneer Volleyball Clinic (Grades K-6)

 

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SPS Families and Staff,

Hello all, Barry Fuxa, your friendly neighborhood PR & Communications Coordinator still filling in on our SPS updates.

Last week, I had the opportunity to visit a couple of our in progress Capital Improvement (Bond) projects. I swung by our Operations and Educational Services Facility to check out Nutrition’s new offices, and freezer. The “Old Kicker” facility was acquired in 2012 and other than a few functional modifications here and there it has been largely untouched since that time. It was great to see Nutrition in a much improved space and with the great equipment they need to store and deliver nutritious meals to our students. Renovations to the spaces are being paid for with Bond money, but the freezer  which is separate from other SPS budgets. The new, super cool (pun intended) freezer, for instance, was entirely purchased with Nutrition funds.  Walking through the plastic flaps of that doorway into an 8 degree room immediately took me back to my many hours spent unloading Chick-fil-A deliveries long ago. Shout out to Morgan Arnold and all our staff that spend brisk moments in there maintaining the “first in, first out” rotation!

 

I also stuck my head into the space that Technology will soon occupy, but it was filled with a cleaning crew moving with dizzying efficiency as they finish preparing the space for Technology to relocate there from their current home in the last remaining piece of Cimarron Plaza, so I got out of their way. It’s looking great and is almost ready for Tech to take over.

It was also great to see the warehouse racking system and to learn how quickly and efficiently they can locate and get to what’s needed through an inventory system and scannable codes. It always makes me happy to see QR codes being used in functional ways.

Phase 1 (interior and office) of transportation is set to begin first of the year, with phase 2 (outside ) beginning shortly after that , with the goal of having transportation out there for th 25-26 school year.

Roofing projects aren’t as flashy or exciting as new spaces, but they are vital and important. We’re currently completing roofing and mechanical projects  at Richmond and the Junior High, with only minor tweaks still occurring. The current SHS campus roofing project, which includes the PAC, fieldhouse, wrestling room, and stadium is coming to a close. The bids for the mechanical components of the PAC and Fieldhouse will be awarded by the board at the December meeting this week. Also awarded at that meeting will be bids for Sangre Ridge and SMS roofing and mechanical projects, which are scheduled to be completed by the beginning of the ‘25-’26 school year. 

Completion of these projects will ensure that SPS has no roofing or roof mechanical equipment older than 2013 at any of our sites, except for the SHS building itself, Lincoln, and the Virtual Academy. These projects are funded by bond dollars, which, in addition to capital improvements to buildings, can also be used for textbooks, transportation vehicles, technology, extracurricular uniforms, instruments, and equipment—essentially bond dollars can be used for a significant portion of district expenses, with the exception of salaries.

Now as exciting as roofs are…  I want to share something with a little more oomph. I don’t want to jinx it, but…

We’re just a little over 600 days from the first day of school in the new SHS! Steel decking, prefabricated components, and precast panels are going into place and you can really start to get a feel for the scale of the new facility. Construction has begun at the north end, which has a large amount of steel in place. The large concrete section coming of to the west is the beginning of the gym/storm shelter.  When completed the new facility will have 68 instructional areas.

Steel beams are largely in place on the north wing.

 

Crews install structural components of the gym/storm shelter.

An exterior wall precast panel of the visual arts wing.

Groundwork on the cafeteria and family and consumer sciences classrooms means loads of drains and pipes.

A southerly panel room will house a lot of wiring.

This space will eventually be the student center.

I also had the opportunity to meet with the architect this week to review some interior graphics (gotta make sure we’ve got the Ss, Pioneers,  and blues and golds correct), see a rendered walkthrough of the spaces, and provide feedback on graphics. It’s really cool to see things that started as sketches and conversations with staff and students, turn into designs, and actually start to be realized as structures go up!

 

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“Well, I just thought that you’d be getting tired of the same old stuff.”
As we head into the last weeks of the year, it’s not uncommon for students to bring gifts for teachers and staff.  We want to make sure that every student and family knows a few things. First and foremost, there is certainly no expectation of gifts for anyone working in any capacity, and we definitely don’t want anyone feeling like they need to compete with others to give “better” gifts.

Ralphie presents his teacher with a bountiful fruit basket in A Christmas Story.

Now, if gift giving is your love language, we don’t want you to feel restricted either.  So if you’d like to send your teacher a gift this time of year (or maybe you want to send someone you know, say…  Star Wars Lego), please feel free.

Most importantly, we want to make sure that those who want to express themselves with gifts, but for whom the home budget doesn't allow extra gift purchases, know that gifts from the heart, be they kind words written or spoken, a drawing expressing the joy of being a student in a teacher’s classroom, or some other expression of appreciation are the gifts that really resonate with teachers. Look in nearly any teacher’s classroom drawers, and you’ll find notes and cards kept for many years that touched their hearts. If you choose to give gifts this time of year they don’t have to be elaborate to be the best gift ever.   

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“Count your blessings instead of sheep…”
A few recent PioneerProud moments!

• Froshmore Gold Team took the championship in social studies

• Coach Drue Brown was named to the 2024 class of American Volleyball Coaches Association Thirty Under 30 High School honorees

• All State Musicians

  • Choir

    • Kyeson Daffern - Mixed Choir

    • Hannah Garrison - Treble Choir

    • Aiden Ray - Mixed Choir alternate

  • Orchestra

    • Stephan Zhang- 1st Chair First Violin

    • Alex Kim- 2nd Chair Second Violin (6th rank violin overall)

    • Emmy Xiang- 5th Chair Second Violin 

    • Joshua Li- 6th Chair Second Violin

    • Nicole Xiang- 3rd Chair Viola

    • Kathy Liu- 1st Chair Cello

    • Noah Taylor- 5th Chair Cello

    • Aiden Kim- 13th Chair Cello

    • Olivia Lao-Alvarado- 1st Alternate Cello

    • Stephan is leading the All-State Orchestra as concertmaster for the second year in a row, and Seniors Nicole and Alex have earned the rare 3-year-All-State medallion!

  • Band

    • Jenna Christian, 1st chair Wind Symphony piccolo

    • Audrey Zhang, 1st chair Symphonic Band flute

    • Julius Cundiff - 3rd chair Symphonic Band flute

    • Bella Genevro - 2nd chair Wind Symphony oboe

    • Emilie Knapp - 2nd chair Symphonic Band oboe

    • Cooper Perkins - 1st chair Wind Symphony bassoon

    • Joel Villasenor - 4th chair Symphonic Band bassoon

    • Moustafa Soliman - 1st alternate bassoon

    • Van Ho - 6th chair Wind Symphony clarinet

    • Audrey Edgar - 12th chair Symphonic Band clarinet

    • Allison Hoback - 15th chair Symphonic Band clarinet

    • SanJaya Burton - 5th chair Symphonic Band bass clarinet

    • Gabe Cantu - 1st alternate alto saxophone

    • Wyatt McNickle - 1st chair Wind Symphony French horn

    • Ben Wick - 4th chair Orchestra French horn

    • Isaac Ingram - 3rd chair Symphonic Band trombone

    • Matthew Li - 8th chair Wind Symphony percussion

• Wrestling had a great weekend!  

  • SJHS Wrestlers brought home the Sand Springs Jr. High Tournament Championship. 

  • At the Walsh Ironman Tournament, Ironman Champion Dee Lockett, Finalist Nos Villasenor 2nd, and Ish Guerrero 4th lead the Pioneers to a 6th place finish. Aydan Thomas and Ethan Teague both finished in the top 12, and Stockton Allen in the top 16.

• Stillwater Robotics teams continue to dominate.

  • 7 of 8 SMS made the teamwork finals at the Bixby VEX IQ Tournament.

    • SMS Team 18721B won the judges award.

    • SMS Team 18721F won tournament champions and will go to state!

  • SJHS Robotics attended Rudolf’s Red Dirt Rumble Robotics Tournament in El Reno.

    • 74074E Eclipse & 74074B Brainstorm - Tournament Finalists

    • 74074A Paradox - Design Award

    • 74074V Oblivion - Judges Award

    • This means so far this season Eclipse, Brainstorm, Seismic, and Paradox are already qualified for the state tournament in March.

  • SHS Robotics also attended Rudolf’s tournament in El Reno.

    • 74074Y Bamboozled - Excellence Award

    • 74074Y Bamboozled - Robots Skills Champion

    • 74074R Revenant - Design Award

    • 74074X Nexus - Sportsmanship

    • 74074X Nexus - Amaze Award

    • 74074X Nexus & 74074Y Bamboozled - Tournament Champs

    • Bamboozled, Nexus, and Revenant are all qualified for the state tournament.

 

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Coming Up - Stillwaterschools.com/calendar

Mr. Gordon has asked for grace around this coming up section, and I will ask for that as well as this week is PACKED with activities. My apologies if I’ve missed anything. Of particular note…  Holiday concerts, of course, and one of the rare home meets on Thursday for swimming.

• Tuesday, Dec 10

  • HS - Basketball vs. Ponca City (JVG 3:30 / JVB 4:45 / Varsity Girls 6:00 / Varsity Boys 7:30)

  • Stillwater Board of Education Meeting

  • HS - Swim at Booker T Washington

  • SMS and SJHS Bands Holiday Concert 7pm

• Wednesday, Dec 11

  • Richmond Restaurant Night - Ted's Tacos Cantina

• Thursday, Dec 12

  • HS - Basketball Boys Varsity at CCS Tournament (Day 1/3)

  • HS - Basketball Girls Varsity at Norman Tournament (Day 1/3)

  • JH - Basketball 9th at Union Tournament - TBD (Day 1/3)

  • SHS Art Show 4-6pm

  • MS/JH - Basketball at Yukon (7th G 4:30 / 7th B 5:30 / 8th G 6:30 / 8th B 7:30)

  • HS - Swim vs. Moore/Westmoore/Southmoore/PC North

  • SJHS Drama Production - The Great American Talent Show 5:30pm

  • HS-JH Wrestling at Broken Arrow (JH 6:00 / HS 7:00)

  • SHS Band - Holiday Concert 7pm

• Friday, Dec 13

  • HS - Basketball Boys Varsity at CCS Tournament (Day 2/3)

  • HS - Basketball Girls Varsity at Norman Tournament (Day 2/3)

  • JH - Basketball 9th at Union Tournament - TBD (Day 2/3)

  • HS - OSDTDA Pom State (Day 1/3)

  • HS/JH - Wrestling Girls at Wrestle Like A Girl Tournament (Day 1/2)

  • JH - Basketball at Sand Springs Tournament (8th VB / 8th VG) (Day 1/2)

  • JH - Basketball at Deer Creek JV Festival (8th JVB / 8th JVG)

  • HS/JH - Wrestling vs. Bixby

  • Advanced Acting One Act Plays (7:30pm Black Box Theater)

• Saturday, Dec 14

  • HS - Basketball Boys Varsity at CCS Tournament (Day 3/3)

  • HS - Basketball Girls Varsity at Norman Tournament (Day 3/3)

  • JH - Basketball 9th at Union Tournament - TBD (Day 3/3)

  • HS - OSDTDA Pom State (Day 2/3)

  • HS/JH - Wrestling Girls at Wrestle Like A Girl Tournament (Day 2/2)

  • JH - Basketball at Sand Springs Tournament (8th VB / 8th VG) (Day 2/2)

  • SJHS Theatre's Jolly Jamboree 1-4pm

• Sunday, Dec 15

  • HS - OSDTDA Pom State (Day 3/3)

  • HS - Cheer Basketball Clinic

• Monday, Dec 16

  • MS/JH - Basketball vs. Mustang North (7th G 4:30 / 7th B 5:30 / 8th G 6:30 / 8th B 7:30)

  • JH - Basketball 9th vs. Edmond Santa Fe (9th G 5:30 / 9th B 6:45)

 

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Go Pioneers!

Barry Fuxa
PR & Communications Coordinator
Stillwater Public Schools

 

 

SPS Families and Staff,

It’s that time of year. There’s finally a crispness in the air; the days are getting short, and the nights long.  With the arrival of Thanksgiving next week, it’s officially the start of the “holiday season.” There’s so many holidays celebrated by those in our community in December–, Advent (some of those Lego Advent calendars are on sale right now, btw, if that’s your jam), Bodhi Day, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Yule, just to name a few, plus New Year’s before you know it, and, of course, Christmas is right around the corner. Whether you celebrate any or all of these, secularly or religiously, we wish you all the Happiest of Holidays! And if you celebrate no holidays, we wish you the best of times. 

As we always do when we talk about holidays, we want to encourage you to ask your friends and neighbors about the things they celebrate and share about yours as well.  This is a great time of year to reach out, find commonalities, and share joyful traditions.

Now a few items of note headlined by some quotes from some of my favorite Christmas movies.

 

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“...and to all a good night!”

Tonight's the night!  November 22, 2024 @7pm. We know many have departed for Thanksgiving plans already, so please come out to pack the house and cheer on the Pioneers in the playoffs! It’s going to be chilly, so please bundle up and encourage kids to do so as well. Students in grades 6-12 must display their ids, and elementary students must be accompanied by an adult. Please note, this is an OSSAA event, so SPS staff, student, season ticket passes, and reserved parking do not apply.

 

 

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“Never feed them after midnight”
As we break from school for all of next week, have safe travels, good times with family and friends, but please don’t let schedules get too far off so that students can return well rested and tackle the last three weeks of the semester strong when they return on Monday, December 2. 

 

District offices will be closed Nov 27-29.

 

 

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“Should be beautiful this time of the year, with all that snow.”

The snow and cold can throw a kink in plans. Don’t get caught unaware or unprepared.

• Don’t miss out on notifications when snow days and inclement weather hit. Be sure to opt in to text alerts at stillwaterschools.com/optin. You can always check the website, email, and social media if travel conditions are questionable.

• Need a coat? We have more than 300 NEW coats on hand from sizes 2T on up and are happy to help those in need. Simply ask your school office or counselor or contact Natalie Brown at nbrown@stillwaterschools.com  with your size(s) and she’ll get those to your children. Please don’t hesitate to ask!

 

 

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"If you look for it, I've got a sneaky feeling you'll find that love actually is all around."

If you’re able, please help us spread love and make sure every SPS student and their families experience a joyous holiday season. To that end SPS Family Support Services is seeking help from local businesses, religious organizations, civic groups, and individuals that are interested in partnering to help provide a McKinney-Vento family with gifts this Christmas.

• What is McKinney-Vento? The McKinney-Vento act ensures children  experiencing irregular living conditions have access to education and other services they need. The McKinney-Vento act covers students/families living:

  • with a family member/friend due to economic hardship

  • in an emergency/transitional shelter

  • in a vehicle, camper, park, camp ground, or on the streets

  • in a house, building, or trailer without electricity or water

  • in a hotel/motel

  • with an adult that is not a parent or legal guardian

  • alone or in different locations without an adult serving as a caregiver

  • wherever they can find a place for the night

• Gifts and gift bags needed by Dec 11.

• For details on how you can help, please contact:
  Natalie Brown, SPS Family Resource Specialist & McKinney-Vento / Foster Care Liaison, nbrown@stillwaterschools.com 

 

 

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“I’m singing! I’m in a store, and I’m singing!”
Throughout December, SPS kids will be delivering so  many musical events to get you in the spirit of the season  AND to highlight their incredible talent and hard work. Mark your calendars for loads of festivities.

• Dec 3 - SMS Intermediate & SJHS Orchestra Holiday Concert - 7pm @ PAC

• Dec 5 - Beginner Demonstration and SHS Holiday Festival - 7pm @ PAC

• Dec 5 - Stillwater Parade of Lights featuring the SHS Band - 6:30pm @ Downtown

• Dec 10 - SMS and SJHS Bands Holiday Concert - 7pm @ PAC

• Dec 12 - SHS Band Holiday Concert - 7pm @ PAC

• Dec 13 - Stillwater Community Band (not SPS, but with many SPS students and staff performing) - 7pm @ STW Community Center

• Dec 14 - SJHS Theatre’s Jolly Jamboree Fundraiser - 1-4pm @ SJHS

• Dec 16 - SMS Holiday Choir Concert - 7pm @ PAC

• Dec 17 - SHS/SJHS Choir Holiday Concert with SHS Orchestra - 7pm @ PAC

 

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Coming Up - Stillwaterschools.com/calendar

• Friday, Nov 22

  • Substitute Teacher Day

  • HS - Wrestling Girls at Arlington Martin Invite (Day 1/2)

  • HS - Football Varsity 2nd Round Playoff @ Pioneer Stadium vs the winner of (PCNorth vs Southmoore on 11/15)

• Saturday, Nov 23

  • HS - Wrestling Girls at Arlington Martin Invite (Day 2/2)

• Monday, Nov 25 - Friday, Nov 29

• Monday, Nov 25

  • HS - Basketball at Enid (JVG 1:00 / JVB 2:15 / Varsity Girls 3:30 / Varsity Boys 5:00)

• Thursday, Nov 28

  • Thanksgiving

  • Free Thanksgiving Meal: The Community Thanksgiving Lunch will be at the First United Methodist Church from 10:30am-1pm. 

• Friday, Nov 29

  • Possible HS - Football Varsity Semi-Final 7pm, location TBA

• Sunday, Dec 1

  • Advent Starts

• Monday, Dec 2

  • Special Education Day

  • MS/JH - Basketball vs. Choctaw (7th G 4:30 / 7th B 5:30 / 8th G 6:30 / 8th B 7:30)

  • Lincoln Dine Night - Mexico Joe's 5-9pm

  • JH - Basketball vs. Yukon (9th G 5:30 / 9th B 6:45)

• Tuesday, Dec 3

  • Orchestra Beginner Demonstration/Holiday Festival Concert w/HS 7pm

• Wednesday, Dec 4

  • Richmond Restaurant Night - Da Vinci's 5-9pm

• Thursday, Dec 5

  • MS - Basketball at Deer Creek Tournament (7th Boys / 7th Girls) (Day 1/3)

  • JH - Basketball at Edmond North (9th G 5:30 / 9th B 6:45)

  • HS - Swim at Enid 5:30 – 7pm

  • MS JH Orchestra Holiday Concert 7 – 8pm

  • Stillwater Parade of Lights (SHS Band, Spirit Squad, and Others) 6:30pm

• Friday, Dec 6

  • MS - Basketball at Deer Creek Tournament (7th Boys / 7th Girls) (Day 2/3)

  • HS - Wrestling Boys at Ironman (Day 1/2)

  • JH - Wrestling Boys/Girls at Sand Springs Tournament (Day 1/2)

 

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Have a great Thanksgiving!

 

Barry Fuxa

PR & Communications Coordinator

Stillwater Public Schools

 

 

SPS Families and Staff,

Mr. Gordon is known for his phrase, “I love Stillwater.” I too love Stillwater for many reasons. It’s a unique place that blends the best of many worlds. First, I am a proud undergraduate and graduate school alum of Oklahoma State University. I fell in love with the community in 1986 when I moved here, and I have loved it since. Secondly, my husband is a graduate of Stillwater High School, and our extended family still lives here. I believe that Stillwater, in part, shaped him into an incredibly selfless and honorable husband, father and twenty-year Navy Veteran. Stillwater reminds me a lot of the community in which I was raised, as it has an eclectic blend of farm and ranchland, innovation, tradition, and world-class education and community leadership. This blend creates a culture of neighbor helping neighbor, where we value giving to others before we take for ourselves.

With the holiday season approaching, I am excited to see the outpouring of love and generosity to our neediest families. If you are in a position to help, our school-based services will be collecting toys and gifts to ensure all of our Pioneers have a gift to open and a meal to eat during the winter holiday season. We will be posting details on our website and social media soon. Likewise, if you are a family that needs help and support, please reach out to your school administrator or counselor.

Another recent piece of information that is important to share is the budget shortfall and planned budgetary changes for the 2025-2026 school year that were approved during the recent school board meeting this past Tuesday. The board has approved a plan for reductions in the general fund budget. This does not include other funding sources such as federal grants, competitive grants, bond allocations and other funding sources. This reduction outline can be found on the board meeting agenda. To be clear, the reductions will not be taking effect until the 2025-2026 school year, and they are simply bringing us back to pre-COVID levels of staffing and spending. One area that was deceiving at first glance was that we are reducing special education by 29%. This is not accurate. The area was titled, “student support” and actually reflects a combination of many different areas such as tutoring, necessary remediation as a result of COVID learning loss, and other support services. The planned reduction to the general budget funding in this area is 29%, but the plan is to move many of these costs into grants and other funding sources. Federal ESSER funds were used to boost staffing and resources in order to recover from the effects of COVID and that funding source has now ended. We have hired over 150 support and certified personnel for this school year alone, so we believe that most, if not all of the reductions will take place through attrition. We have a dedicated and experienced staff that has weathered many budgetary swings, and I am confident that we will absorb this decrease without reducing our connection to our students and families. To quote Brene’ Brown, “Connection is the energy that exists between people when they feel seen, heard and valued.” We value our students most of all, as they are the reason we exist.

So why do I love Stillwater…to quote Mr. Gordon, because “we are Pioneers” and that means we are made of grit, integrity and ingenuity. We tackle the challenges before us and continue to build a bright future for our children.

Thank you,

 

Dr. Vinson

Acting Superintendent

Stillwater Public Schools

 

 

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One week left before a full week off for Thanksgiving break. Once we come back holiday celebrations and end of semester events will make the days fly by. Please take the time to check your students grades and attendance, to make sure they are on track to close the semester out strong.

 

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Gourd Dance

The SPS Indigenous Peoples Education Parent Committee is hosting a  benefit Gourd Dance this weekend. Don’t miss out on the chance during Native American Heritage Month to experience this unique cultural ceremony.

Nov 16 

SHS
Gourd Dance 2-5pm
Supper served @ 5pm
Gourd Dance 6:30-8pm 

Details 

 

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Author Visit

We’re excited to welcome best-selling, Sequoyah Children's Book Award Winner, author/illustrator Adam Rex next week at our Elementary schools. Through the Adopt-An-Author fund at Stillwater Public Education Foundation, we are able to host exciting events like these for our students. Mr. Rex will discuss the writing and illustrating process, share some of his favorite works, and answer questions from students. 

 

If you would like to hear from and meet Mr. Rex while he is in Stillwater, you're invited to a special event open to all families hosted in conjunction with our friends at the Stillwater Public Library,  Mr. Rex will be speaking at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, November 19 at Stillwater Public Library. 

 

Thank you, SPEF!

 

Learn more at adamrex.com 

 

 

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A few Family Support Services announcements

• As cold weather approaches, please know there are multiple opportunities for those who are in need of coats. 

  • "CoatsGiving" is this weekend, November 17, at Simply Church. This event begins at 3:00pm, while supplies last. Use this link to gather more information. 

  • Simply ask your school office or contact Natalie Brown at nbrown@stillwaterschools.com with your student's size(s) and she’ll get those to your children. We have more than 300 new coats on hand from sizes 2T on up, and are happy to help those in need.  Please don’t hesitate to ask.

  • 

• Free Thanksgiving Meal: The Community Thanksgiving Lunch will be at the First United Methodist Church from 10:30am-1pm. 

• If you are in need of other food resources, check out Our Daily Bread!

• Families on our McKinney-Vento list have the opportunity to have some help for Christmas! 

  • We are looking for individuals, churches, and businesses that would like to partner with us to adopt a MV family this Christmas or donate new toys (infant-12th grade) for our program! We would also love gift bag donations! We have around 110 SPS students that qualify for our McKinney-Vento program. For more information about McKinney-Vento, use this link. 

  • To qualify for McKinney-Vento Christmas help:

    • - Be on our MV list (you should have received an email)

    • - Send me an email indicating that you are not receiving help from another source

    • - List in your email the number of children in your home, their name (first and last), age, school, favorite color, clothing sizes, and a few things that they are interested in. 

 

 

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Take a look. It’s in a book. A reading… forest? 

Thanks to the hard work of families and staff, Skyline Elementary recently unveiled a new addition to their outdoor classroom – a reading forest. Classes and even families can now use this hammock area to enjoy nature while reading, writing, and more.  Skyline’s Annie Ortiz explains:

“I saw a picture of a reading forest on a Twitter post a few years ago and was inspired by the principal who created it. Natalie, Claire and I talked to SPS Facilities and they said we could go for it. I wrote a Donors Choose grant for 30 hammocks that was funded in a day. Then of course, I had to call OKIE811 to make sure everything was cleared to dig. My husband was wrangled into cutting down a few dead trees in the Outdoor Classroom. Stillwater Building Center graciously donated the 20 posts and 60 eye screws to the project. One Saturday I invited the parents of my gifted student to volunteer to help dig 20 holes and install the posts. They brought post hole diggers, along with shovels, buckets, and tampers.  Mrs. Clark's husband, Brett, brought out his powered post hole digger which saved the day.  The ground was very dry and hard even with my watering it a few days before.  We worked from about 8 in the morning til about noon digging, dumping in gravel, a post, cement and water.  Some parents removed other dead trees and limbs. My husband and I later tamped down the soil and installed the 60 screws. On our most recent PD day, we had a ribbon cutting ceremony and teachers got to try them out. It was delightful! Teachers have taken students out this week to enjoy some time reading in the hammocks. They are each in their own space just reading. Families who have hammocks can come up on weekends and enjoy the area too.”

Thank you to Annie Ortiz, volunteers, and Stillwater Building Center for collaborating on this amazing space!

 

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Coming Up - Stillwaterschools.com/calendar

• Saturday, Nov 16

  • HS - Basketball Boys at Edmond Santa Fe Scrimmage 

  • Gourd Dance @ SHS 2-8pm

  • Stardust: a comedy presented by SHS Theatre

• Sunday, Nov 17

  • Stardust: a comedy presented by SHS Theatre

• Monday, Nov 18

  • MS/JH - Basketball vs. Piedmont (7th G 4:30 / 7th B 5:30 / 8th G 6:30 / 8th B 7:30)

  • Band Dine Night at Buffalo Wild Wings

• Tuesday, Nov 19

  • Froshmore Academic Competition @ Jenks

  • HS - Swim at Bartlesville

• Wednesday, Nov 20

  • Education Support Professionals Day

  • Sanger Supper Fundraiser- Raising Cane's

• Thursday, Nov 21

  • MS/JH - Basketball at Mustang Central (7th G 4:30 / 7th B 5:30 / 8th G 6:30 / 8th B 7:30)

  • Beginner Band Demonstration Concert at the PAC 7pm

• Friday, Nov 22

  • Substitute Teacher Day

  • HS - Wrestling Girls at Arlington Martin Invite (Day 1/2)

  • HS - Football Varsity 2nd Round Playoff @ Pioneer Stadium vs the winner of (PCNorth vs Southmoore on 11/15)

• Saturday, Nov 23

  • HS - Wrestling Girls at Arlington Martin Invite (Day 2/2)

• Monday, Nov 25

  • HS - Basketball at Enid (JVG 1:00 / JVB 2:15 / Varsity Girls 3:30 / Varsity Boys 5:00)

• Monday, Nov 25 - Friday, Nov 29

  • No School - Thanksgiving Break

 

 

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Go Pioneers,

 

Barry Fuxa

PR & Communications Coordinator

Stillwater Public Schools