Broken Arrow superintendent highlights new classrooms, programs as students return

Students in Broken Arrow returned to classrooms on Wednesday, kicking off the new school year across the district. Superintendent Chuck Perry said the first day went smoothly for the district’s more than 20,000 students.

Positive Start for Students and Staff

Perry praised the staff for creating a welcoming environment for students. He said the district’s teachers, support staff, custodians and IT team all contributed to a seamless start.

“Our teachers were so positive yesterday and smiling, welcoming our students back,” he said.

New Facilities and Classrooms

The district completed several construction projects over the summer, including the opening of the Sequoia 8th Grade Academy, designed to prepare students for high school and provide early career pathway exposure.

Perry said the academy will help alleviate class sizes as the district continues to grow. Thirteen additional classrooms were added at elementary sites, including Rosewood and Highland Park.

RELATED STORY: Broken Arrow schools add classrooms, safety upgrades for new year

Assessments and Accountability

The district will continue to evaluate student success through multiple measures rather than relying solely on standardized tests.

Perry said, “I think [standardized testing] can be a sliver of [measuring success], and we're still waiting to see all the details come out of how we're going to do that in the future.”

RELATED STORY: Oklahoma to allow schools to opt out of government-mandated end-of-year state testing

Student Nutrition and Support

Broken Arrow continues to ensure students have access to meals, including breakfast and lunch. The district maintains a “love account” funded by donations to ensure no student goes hungry.

Perry emphasized the connection between nutrition and academic success, saying, “No child will go hungry in Broken Arrow public schools.”

RELATED STORY: OSDE to require free school lunches without new funding

Bible in the Classroom

The district provides access to the Bible on student Chromebooks, and Bibles are available in media centers. Perry said they are included as historical texts in the curriculum and noted that teachers will continue to meet state education standards.

Perry expressed enthusiasm for the year ahead, highlighting the district’s growth and commitment to supporting both students and staff.

RELATED STORY: Are Bibles really required in Oklahoma public schools?

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See Also:

🔗 Union superintendent outlines plans for new school year

🔗 Owasso superintendent says schools are ready for first day of classes

🔗 TPS superintendent ready to welcome back more than 34,000 students

Back-to-School Stories:

🔗 Broken Arrow schools launch real-time bus tracking app for parents

🔗 How Broken Arrow Schools are helping students face back-to-school anxiety

🔗 Broken Arrow Public Schools adds propane-powered buses with air conditioning to fleet

🔗 Broken Arrow Schools' new bell schedule for upcoming school year

🔗 School start dates across Tulsa County and surrounding areas

🔗 Q&A: New eighth-grade academy opens at Sequoyah Middle School in Broken Arrow

🔗 Oklahoma State Department of Health shares back-to-school wellness checklist