Superintendent Dr. Mike Simpson honored by State Legislature

In a special recognition at the Board of Education meeting on Monday night, State Representative John Talley presented Guthrie Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Mike Simpson with a citation from the State of Oklahoma for being named Superintendent of the Year.

The citation, a testament to Dr. Simpson’s exceptional leadership and dedication, was signed by Rep. John Talley, Rep. Collin Duel, Rep. John Pfeiffer, and Senator Chuck Hall.

Talley, who has known Simpson for nearly 50 years, spoke warmly of his long-time friend and colleague. “I wanted to honor you for being Superintendent of the Year for Oklahoma,” Talley said. “The reason why it’s a big deal is because this is picked by people who know you, respect you, and they love you.”

The Oklahoma Association of School Administrators (OASA) announced last month that Simpson was named the 2024 OASA State Superintendent of the Year. He was also honored as the OASA District #3 Superintendent of the Year.

Simpson will be recognized for his achievements at the upcoming Cooperative Council for Oklahoma School Administration (CCOSA) Summer Leadership Conference and the AASA National Conference on Education in 2025.

Dr. Pam Deering, Executive Director of CCOSA/OASA, highlighted the significance of the award. “Leadership is about building community, cultivating and empowering other leaders, and focusing on student success,” Deering stated. “School leaders are leading through many challenges. They work tirelessly to provide opportunities for students to learn, grow, and realize their full potential. Dr. Simpson represents the best of Oklahoma school administrators as the State Superintendent of the Year. We are excited and proud to recognize Dr. Simpson and the many other outstanding leaders at our upcoming CCOSA Conference. They are truly Champions for Kids!”

Simpson has served as the Superintendent of Guthrie Public Schools since 2012. His career in education spans several decades, during which he has held multiple significant roles, including Assistant Superintendent of Schools with Ponca City Public Schools and Director of Athletics and Activities with Stillwater Public Schools.