Supt. Column: “We sell cookie dough so we can afford field trips for our students”
Normally, I try to write a column each month about issues significant with education in our community. You may have noticed that I skipped last…
Mike Simpson
Superintendent: “Who do I call?”
I was reviewing some old documents when I ran across a column I wrote in the spring of my first year in Guthrie. I find…
Video: Meridian Technology Center purchases land in Guthrie for future campus
The Meridian Technology Center Board of Education has purchased property that will serve as a future campus in Guthrie and expand services to residents in…
Superintendent: “We have a moral obligation as a society to provide the best for our children “
Several years ago, I was appointed to the Board of Trustees of the Oklahoma Teachers Retirement System. This was before the days of paperless meetings.
Superintendent: Social media’s criticism was embellished
Last Sunday morning, while the kids were getting ready for church I was reading yet another dismal forecast for revenue to education in our state. …
Superintendent: “Funding is still not there”
In October, I wrote about the challenges we face as a state to recruit and retain the best possible teachers for the classroom.
Superintendent: Relationships much more important than any material good
Since coming to Guthrie in 2012, I’ve learned to appreciate the vastness of the Bluejay Nation. Also, with improved travel, internet and social media, the world…
Often we don’t see our own treasures until they are recognized by others
When I think of my favorite holidays, Thanksgiving has always been at the very top. I’m not sure if it is the meal or the…
Superintendent: Olympic games resembling Guthrie Public Schools
As I watch the Summer Olympic Games, I’m reminded of two things: success normally follows intentional preparation and time doesn’t stand still. Both of these…
Superintendent: Guthrie’s greatest cheerleaders
During the summer months, I often try to complete projects that I wanted to do during the school year but couldn’t find the time necessary. …
Superintendent: School buildings continue to receive upgrades
If you like buffets, you will hopefully enjoy this month’s column and surely everyone will find something worthwhile! This month will signal the fourth year…
Superintendent: “Perfect storm” for our district from a financial standpoint
In January, in this column and through district email, I described the financial problems ahead for not only our district but also the state. On…
Superintendent: GPS is a safer school district than it was in 2012
Recently, we have experienced some threats to student safety. Unfortunately, this is not uncommon throughout the United States and I wanted to provide some understanding…
Superintendent: “Bad news” is programs and services will be cut
I don’t like to deliver bad news. Unfortunately, there are times where my job requires me to convey information that is less than encouraging. Following…
No student has the right to impede the education of another student
It is hard as a parent or educator to see the recent tragedies that have unfolded in France or even closer to home in Stillwater…
Superintendent: The triangle forms a successful educational environment
On the eve of parent-teacher conferences, I’m reminded of the complete triangle that forms a successful educational environment. The three members of the triangle are…
Superintendent: Oklahoma taxpayers fund education lower than all surrounding states
We’ve had a very smooth start to our school year at GPS. Our teachers and staff are hard at work every day working with our…
Superintendent: Conflict between parents and school officials may arise
In a few days, we will begin another school year. This will begin my 24th year in education and my 4th year as your Superintendent…
Superintendent: The Internet is no longer a novelty
Our family was fortunate to enjoy a quiet vacation this summer with our kids and one set of grandparents. It was in many ways a…
Superintendent: Bond election was no small hurdle for success
A funny thing happened on May 12th. The town that had become infamous statewide for the multiple bond issue failures said ‘ENOUGH’. Yes, the town…