Watonga schools return on Thursday, while Geary began classes last week
WATONGA – Watonga Public Schools are preparing to reopen their doors this week, while Geary Public Schools held their first day of class last Thursday, Aug. 12.
For both districts, this fall semester marks their first under a new superintendent and with new elementary school principals; Watonga hired a new high school principal, as well.
On Facebook, Geary Superintendent Sean Buchanan said the district had an “exceptional” first day. “I am so proud of our staff and leadership team for ALL they did to provide a positive and energetic start to this most important of school years!” he wrote. “It was great to see so many students with smiling faces!”
Buchanan was hired as Geary superintendent in June after serving as the district’s elementary school principal for the past several years.
Meanwhile, in Watonga, staff has spent the past week attending in-service training and preparing for the year. The staff has had meals catered by various local companies and organizations including American Fidelity, the Oklahoma Education Association, the Watonga Chamber of Commerce, Lions Club, the Kiwanis Club and Senior Citizens Center, and the Watonga First United Methodist Church.
On Monday, Watonga faculty heard from guest speaker Aaron Hansen, a former principal who helped turn around a rough-and-tumble middle school in rural northern Nevada.
Watonga teachers ended their Monday with a picnic at the Roman Nose pool.
Watonga Superintendent Kyle Hilterbran told his teachers Monday that the district has enormous potential. “We can be the hub for everything that’s great in education,” he said. “We can be the most innovative place. We’re going to provide you with all the resources you need, and if you have a problem, we’re here to help you. It’s my job and our administrators’ job to make your job easier.”
The Watonga district made extensive renovations to its campuses over the summer, including a complete remodel of the floors and walls at the elementary school building. The middle school also saw upgrades to its entryway and bathrooms.
Already the fastpitch softball season has begun at both schools, with football and cross country not far behind. More information about upcoming events and activities can be found online at gearyschools.org and watongapublicschools.com.