By Bailey Coyle, FOX23.com News Staff
TULSA, Okla. — Union Public Schools is welcoming students back to the classroom with a continued focus on early literacy, career readiness and helping students navigate technology in the classroom.
Superintendent Dr. John Federline said the district is excited to have students and teachers back after the summer break.
“Obviously, literacy. We have always had a high priority, especially on early childhood literacy,” said Dr. Federline. “With the new state legislation, we have obviously doubled down on our efforts at early childhood literacy.”
Dr. Federline said the district has also seen gains in math and reading scores and is continuing to expand its career-focused academy programs at the high school level.
Union’s aerospace program has nearly doubled in size, while its construction program is entering its sixth year and its medical academy will be in its third year.
The goal is to give students opportunities whether they plan to attend a four-year university or enter the workforce after graduation.
“Our mission here at Union is 100% graduation and college-career readiness and 100% means 100%.”
Union is expanding career exploration opportunities for younger students, including new middle school labs where students can explore different vocational fields.
Federline said students can rotate through modules covering areas such as civil engineering, veterinary medicine, cosmetology, electric work and plumbing.
The goal is to help students discover what interests them—and what doesn’t—before they reach high school.
“We really want to ignite that passion for learning and make sure they understand that we’ve got pathways as they go through high school.”
Those pathways are also designed to connect students with careers in the Tulsa area.
Federline pointed to the district’s aerospace program as one example.
Four students who graduated from the program last year completed internships with aerospace industry partner Norden and now all four are working in the aerospace industry in Tulsa.
Federline said that’s exactly the type of outcome the district hopes to create through giving students career opportunities while also helping keep talent in the Tulsa area.
The medical academy is similarly designed to prepare students for a variety of careers, including opportunities that don’t require a four-year degree.
Students can explore fields such as pharmacy technology, radiology and medical billing through hands-on experiences and partnerships with health care providers.
Technology will continue to be part of the school day, but Federline said the district is emphasizing appropriate use based on students’ ages and developmental needs.
Union has already banned cell phones during the school day and plans to be stricter about enforcement at the high school level this year.
Federline said there are exceptions for students who have medical technology needs or other special circumstances. He said students can work with the school if they need access to a phone during the day.
Artificial intelligence is another evolving issue for educators.
Federline compared the current conversation around AI to the introduction of the internet, saying educators are still learning how to use the technology appropriately while addressing concerns about its impact on student work.
Some English teachers, for example, have returned to paper and pencil essays to better evaluate students’ individual writing abilities.
Federline said the district is also continually reviewing its AI policies as the technology and state requirements change.
“There’s so much change in the technology and AI world. We have to balance out what we can afford to spend and what is best for students and their development and their educational career.”
As students return, Union is also working to fill transportation positions.
Federline said the district needs bus drivers and is increasing bus driver pay by $1 per hour this year.
The district also has an incentive program for employees who refer a bus driver who stays with the district for a certain amount of time.
The district provides training for people who have never driven a school bus before.
Federline said the position comes with significant responsibility, with drivers transporting students to and from school as well as athletic events, fine arts activities, internships and other programs throughout the year.
Federline said the district is also preparing to ask voters to consider an almost $200 million bond package focused heavily on safety and security, along with replacing aging HVAC systems.
He said maintaining the district’s buildings and protecting students and staff remain top priorities.
As the new school year begins, Federline said he expects students and teachers to bring the same level of excitement and engagement he sees throughout the school year.
“I think it’s amazing, the level of engagement, the level of excitement. You could visit any classroom in Union Public Schools at any time throughout the year and you’re going to see that same level of education, of engagement and excitement from the kids and from teachers.”
