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

TPS is preparing to welcome more than 34,000 students back to class with expanded free meal programs, a focus on high-quality curriculum, fewer teacher vacancies and upcoming community engagement events.

Thursday, August 14th 2025, 9:46 am

By: Brooke Cox

TULSA, Okla. -

Tulsa Public Schools, the largest school district in Oklahoma, is gearing up to welcome students back on Aug. 20. Superintendent Dr. Ebony Johnson said staff have been preparing for months to ensure a smooth start to the school year.

“Year we're super excited. Our teachers have been preparing. And getting ready, our leaders have been preparing our support. Staff members are busy at work,” Dr. Johnson said. “We've been doing that all ever since the summer and…we are pumped for this upcoming year.”

The district will start classes on Wednesday, bringing in more than 34,000 students. Dr. Johnson highlighted the work done over the summer to ready teachers, support staff, and facilities for the return of students.

Changes to Testing

If a federal waiver is approved, Tulsa Public Schools could adjust its approach to state testing. Instead of the standard Oklahoma School Testing Program, the district would be able to choose from a list of state-approved assessments that better match its benchmarks.

Dr. Johnson said the change would still include an end-of-year assessment, just not the traditional statewide test.

Universal Free Meals Continue

Tulsa Public Schools will continue providing free breakfast and lunch to all students through the Community Eligibility Program. The program recently expanded to include secondary students, ensuring all district students have access to meals without cost to families.

Dr. Johnson said the program has been in place for several years and is fully approved by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

“Our parents do not pay for lunch in our district and we're very happy to have that program,” she said.

Officials say universal meals help remove barriers to learning and allow students to focus on school rather than worrying about food security.

Curriculum Focus and Classroom Standards

The district plans to maintain focus on approved standards and high-quality instructional materials. Dr. Johnson said the district emphasizes using vetted textbooks and materials to meet state standards, while staying flexible to meet students’ needs.

She said the district prioritizes covering all academic expectations efficiently, allowing teachers to focus on instruction rather than administrative tasks.

“We stay very true to our standards… and we use those materials to teach our students,” Dr. Johnson said.

The district also continues to carefully review and select instructional content to ensure it meets the needs of all students.

Teacher Hiring And Recruitment

Recruitment and retention efforts have led to a significant decrease in teacher vacancies. The district currently has about 30 unfilled positions, down from 147 at the same time last year.

Dr. Johnson credited strong working conditions and supportive environments for helping attract and retain teachers.

Community Engagement

TPS is inviting families and community members to provide input on strategic planning and future bonds.

Dr. Johnson encouraged participation at an upcoming meeting on Aug. 26 at Memorial High School, calling it an opportunity for the community to learn about district programs and facilities.

“We are very grateful that parents are raising their hands and saying I'm choosing Tulsa public schools,” Dr. Johnson said. “We're very excited about how awesome our school year is going to go.”