Enrollment and Special Education Director Carrie Schlehuber hugs retiree Karen Biggs

While students have left for summer break, Sandite teachers and staff gathered for their End of the Year District Assembly! Employees heard from representatives of the Sand Springs Board of Education, Sand Springs Education Association, Sand Springs Education Foundation, and Oklahoma House of Representatives. District leaders reflected on the school year and presented recognitions to several Sandites.

Some highlights from the assembly:

  •  More than 80 teachers and employees received the Think Beyond Award, which recognizes those who apply for and obtain grants.

  • Discoveryland Ranch received the Sand Springs Education Association’s Friend of Education Award for their outstanding support of Sand Springs students.

  • Representative Clay Staires presented Citations of Congratulations on behalf of the Oklahoma Legislature. These citations recognized 13 teachers for their commitment to excellence, exceptional teaching skills, and dedication to their students.

  • 29 Sandites were recognized for reaching milestones in their consecutive years of service. The highest milestone recognized this year went to Ms. Pam Frunk with 45 years.

  • Of this year’s retirees, three teachers had more than 40 years of service: Ms. Janet Turner with 41 years, Ms. Vickie Harbaugh with 44 years, and Ms. Sheree Baker with 47 years.

Thank you to our guest speakers for coming out to celebrate with us. And thank you to our teachers and staff for making this a great year. Enjoy your summer!


Limestone Technology Academy's Terri Lee, Stephenie Sivadon, and Vickie Harbaugh wait in the crowd for the assembly to begin.


SSPS celebrates this year's retirees. Thank you for your dedication and service!


29 Sandites are recognized for reaching milestones in their consecutive years of service.


Representative Clay Staires presents Citations of Congratulations to:

  •  Madison Orme – Early Childhood Education Center Teacher of the Year

  • Reanna Barr – Angus Valley Elementary Teacher of the Year

  • Stephenie Sivadon – Limestone Technology Academy Teacher of the Year

  •  Melissa Nelson – Pratt Elementary Teacher of the Year

  • Taylor Grippando – Northwoods Fine Arts Academy Teacher of the Year

  • Amber Alexander – Garfield STEAM Academy Teacher of the Year

  • Kay Jackson – Sixth Grade Center Teacher of the Year

  • Katy Edmonson – Clyde Boyd Middle School Teacher of the Year

  • Kaitlyn Knowlton – Charles Page Freshman Academy Teacher of the Year

  • Jessica Sprague – Charles Page High School Teacher of the Year

  • Caysie Yeatman – Sand Springs Virtual Academy Teacher of the Year

  • Neely Horn – Tulsa Boys Home Teacher of the Year

  • Barbie Jackson - Oklahoma Medal for Excellence in Elementary Teaching Recipient