First day at Jenks Public Schools brings new rules, program growth

Classes are underway at Jenks Public Schools as several Green Country districts open their doors for a new year. Superintendent Dr. Stacey Butterfield, who is going into year 13, says the first day always brings a surge of energy and optimism.

What to know on the first day

The district expects the morning and afternoon rush to be busier than usual as families settle into new drop-off and pickup routines. Officials are asking everyone to be patient during the first week back.

How staff prepared

Teachers and administrators began getting ready in May with professional learning and workshops.

“When school is out in May, we immediately start in with professional learning opportunities, different workshops that our teachers can attend. Our administrative leaders can attend in the early summer months, and then we also then come back with an extensive new training for our new teachers to the district,” Dr. Butterfield said.

Veteran teachers also have opportunities for continued professional learning throughout the summer.

New this year in Jenks

Students and families will see several changes and additions across the district:

1. A bell-to-bell cell phone policy requires phones to be off and put away during the school day.
2. Construction continues on the final wing of the Freshmen Academy, which is expected to be ready in August 2026.
3. The aviation course is expanding into the sophomore year, giving students two courses to build on.

“I would say as far as there are so many similarities as far as the excitement goes around every new school year, and at the same time, it's exciting to look back and reflect on how much education continues to evolve and what we offer our students and the different programs that are available for our students," Dr. Butterfield said.

Students already getting involved

In the lead-up to the first bell, students picked up schedules, met teachers and the 7th graders participated in a middle school introduction program to get acclimated.