State of Schools Address From Superintendent

Watonga Public Schools are achieving new levels of excellence, and we couldn’t be prouder of our students, teachers, and community! Our programs reflect a strong commitment to student achievement and continuous improvement. Recent state rankings show significant academic success across all grade levels. STATE Rankings:

• Watonga High School is ranked #23 of 445 high schools in Oklahoma

• Watonga Middle School is ranked #85 of 402 and has been recognized as a National Model PLC School, one of only 500 in the nation

• Watonga Elementary School is ranked #176 of 667 Source: U.S. News & World Report A focus on

Wheat

academic opportunity remains one of the district’s highest priorities. Onethird of Watonga sophomores are currently enrolled in honors courses. Among juniors and seniors:

• Half take Honors or Advanced Placement (AP) courses

• Half attend Chisholm Trail Technology Center

• One-fourth are enrolled in college courses through concurrent enrollment

• Ten students are taking concurrent classes while also attending CTTC College- bound students are getting ahead financially as well as academically. Current seniors have already earned the following college credits:

• 1 senior – 3 hours

• 1 senior – 6 hours

• 4 seniors – 9 hours

• 3 seniors – 12 hours

• 2 seniors – 15 hours

• 1 senior – 20 hours

• 1 senior – 21 hours These concurrent enrollment opportunities allow families to save significantly on future college tuition. Estimated savings for every 15 credit hours earned include:

• $7,000 at NWOSU, UCO, NOC, RCC, or SWOSU

• $12,500 at Oklahoma State University (OSU)

• $15,850 at University of Oklahoma (OU) Watonga Public Schools has also made major capital investments to enhance learning, safety, and student experience across the district. Recent improvements include:

• Renovated elementary and middle school facilit ies

• New cafeteria and STEM labs 

• Updated classrooms with modern furniture and technology

• New district gymnasium

• New wrestling room

• Endzone building with concession, restrooms, weight room, and locker rooms

• Turf and facilities upgrades at Bernhardt Field for baseball and softball

• Continued development of the Dunbar Monument (completion expected in February)

• Acoustic upgrades for in the gymnasium for band concerts and gradua tion

• New transportation fleet, including activity buses, Ag truck and trailer, and band trailer These achievements reflect the dedication of our teachers, support staff, parents, and students.

Watonga is a community that believes in its schools, and our progress shows what can be accomplished when expectations are high and students are supported. We will continue to invest in academic growth, career readiness, student opportunities, and safe, quality learning environments.