Owasso Unveils Comprehensive School Improvement Plan Ahead of September Bond Vote
Owasso Public Schools (OPS) has finalized a wide-ranging proposal aimed at enhancing safety, upgrading facilities, and expanding educational opportunities across the district. The initiative, shaped by extensive public input, will go before voters on September 9 as part of a $169.18 million bond election.
If approved, the plan would fund projects throughout the district without raising taxes, a detail officials say reflects strategic financial planning and strong local support.
The bond proposal is the product of three years of planning, including facility assessments and more than 22,000 points of community engagement through meetings, surveys, and public forums.
"We’ve listened to input and made revisions that reflect what matters most to Owasso residents,” said Superintendent Dr. Margaret Coates. “This new plan asks voters to invest in critical improvements to bolster students’ experiences in academics, safety, athletics, and the arts—all without increasing taxes.”
Student safety is a cornerstone of the proposal. Planned upgrades include new security cameras, controlled entry systems, Automatic External Defibrillators (AEDs), tornado shelters, and other emergency infrastructure enhancements.
“There is nothing more important than student safety,” said Stephanie Ruttman, president of the Owasso Board of Education. “These investments ensure our schools remain secure learning environments for every child.”
One major component of the plan involves the construction of a new 5th Grade Elementary Center adjacent to the existing 6th Grade Center. District officials say this reconfiguration would allow OPS to:
Expand pre-kindergarten to a full-day program
Launch an elementary art program
Free up classroom space at the district’s nine elementary schools
Dr. Coates said the realignment is intended to support students’ academic and developmental transitions between elementary and middle school.
The bond proposal includes district-wide improvements such as:
Roof and flooring replacements at the Owasso High School East Campus
Classroom expansions and tornado-safe spaces at the 7th and 8th Grade Centers
New playground equipment for early learners
Updated technology, including student Chromebooks and network security upgrades
Expanded resources for arts and athletics programs
Community members have voiced support for the plan’s scope and tax-neutral approach. Resident Dee Sokolosky called the proposal “an investment in the future of our community,” while parent Chad Balthrop noted the multi-generational impact of quality public education in Owasso.
“For two generations, Owasso Public Schools have shaped my family,” Balthrop said. “This plan positions future students to receive a world-class education.”
The bond proposal must secure at least 60% voter approval to pass. Voter registration for the election closes on August 15.
For detailed information about the plan, including project breakdowns and financials, residents can visit www.owassops.org.
OPS officials say they hope the bond will be viewed as both a reflection of community priorities and a step forward for students, staff, and families.