News Summary
Stillwater Public Schools is expanding its high school capacity by incorporating 9th graders into a new facility scheduled for completion by fall 2026. This development aims to accommodate a growing student body, improving educational experiences within a unified campus. Starting from the 2023-2024 school year, the new grade configuration will facilitate a better social and academic environment for students. The construction includes a performing arts wing and is designed to cater to future enrollment increases, ultimately enhancing the overall educational offerings in the district.
Stillwater, Oklahoma – Stillwater Public Schools is set to expand its high school capacity by welcoming 9th graders into a newly constructed high school facility, which is currently underway. This significant development aims to accommodate a growing student population and enhance educational experiences within a unified campus environment.
The new high school, under construction and slated for completion by fall 2026, will have the capacity to house up to 1,960 students, providing ample room for concurrent enrollment and supporting various off-campus activities. This expansion comes as the current high school, only serving grades 10 to 12, currently has an enrollment of approximately 1,700 students. The move to integrate 9th graders into the high school system is part of a broader transition that will change the district’s grade configuration.
Beginning in the 2023-2024 school year, the district will implement a transitional setup where 9th graders will join their older peers in high school instead of remaining in junior high. The planned final grade configuration aims for Pre-K through 4th grade in elementary school, 5th and 6th grade in middle school, 7th and 8th grade in junior high, and 9th through 12th grade in high school. This shift is expected to provide 9th graders with a more integrated social experience and centralized coursework.
Superintendent Tyler Bridges has emphasized the district’s commitment to adapting its educational model to better support student needs. Historical data shows that approximately 50% of summer school attendees have been 9th graders seeking credits to graduate, highlighting the necessity for more focused curricula and dedicated staff to address their academic requirements.
Construction and design features of the new high school include a 36,240 square foot performing arts wing and additional classroom spaces, marking a significant development that has emerged approximately ten years ahead of schedule. As the district anticipates an increase in student enrollment, the new school will also account for future expanded class sizes, addressing the needs of the community.
Upon completion of the new academic buildings, the current high school facility will be demolished by fall 2026. This decision is financially motivated, as renovation costs are estimated to exceed $30 million, whereas demolition will only cost around $1.5 million. Assistant Superintendent of Operations Bo Gamble noted that the construction plans are progressing more rapidly than initially expected.
The construction of extracurricular spaces is anticipated to commence shortly after the academic buildings are completed, further fostering an environment that supports students’ needs outside of the classroom. The district aims to maintain its vision for student growth and success throughout this transition.
Overall, the initiative to welcome 9th graders into the new high school signifies a pivotal change in Stillwater Public Schools, enhancing both academic offerings and social integration for students as they prepare for their futures.
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Additional Resources
- OC Olly: Stillwater High School Vision
- KOCO: Stillwater Public Schools Cuts
- Stillwater News Press: New Superintendent
- CBS News: Stillwater Schools Data Breach
- KSTP: Multi-Grade Classrooms Complaints
- Wikipedia: Education in Oklahoma
- Google Search: Stillwater Public Schools
- Google Scholar: Stillwater Public Schools
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Education
- Google News: Stillwater Schools
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