From campus safety improvements to postseason athletics and financial planning, the Henryetta Board of Education covered a wide range of district business during its regular meeting Monday evening, Feb. 9, at the Board of Education office.

The meeting opened with routine procedures including the call to order, roll call, and the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by reports from administrators and staff outlining ongoing projects, student activities and operational updates across the district.

In Superintendent Jason Price’s report, district leadership provided updates on transportation, maintenance, security and nutrition services, noting that day-today operations across the district remain stable and functioning well.

All school buses are currently in service and operating normally, and officials reported that additional campus security measures are scheduled to be installed soon. Plans include new fencing and an automatic gate on the north side of the Knight Center, designed to improve safety while also making it easier for staff and bus drivers to access the area during severe weather.

District officials emphasized the importance of balancing accessibility with security, noting that automated access helps prevent unauthorized entry while allowing employees to move efficiently in challenging conditions.

Maintenance crews continue routine work throughout the district, and preparations have already begun for spring and summer groundskeeping, including servicing mowing equipment.

In child nutrition, cafeterias across the district are operating smoothly, with all required reports submitted on time. New cafeteria tables have been delivered and are already in use, improving seating capacity and student comfort. Administrators also reported that planning is underway to implement a third-meal program beginning in the 2026– 27 school year, an effort aimed at expanding food access for students.

Technology upgrades are also ongoing, including the installation of new hallway monitors at the high school and the purchase of additional Chromebooks to increase student access and prepare for upcoming testing.

Administrators and principals provided updates highlighting a busy period for students and staff across all grade levels.

Middle school officials reported completing required emergency drills and preparing for upcoming parent-teacher conferences. Students were also scheduled to attend a production of the musical Annie, which involves participation from students and staff across the district.

At the high school, administrators reported that basketball playoffs are approaching and that scholarship meetings and ACT testing preparations are underway. Practice ACT exams are expected to begin soon as students prepare for state and college-readiness assessments.

Elementary school administrators highlighted recent academic achievements, including a spelling bee in which top students qualified to advance to the Eastern Oklahoma Spelling Bee in April. Preparations are also underway for state testing, along with fundraising efforts scheduled later this month.

District officials noted that parent-teacher conferences were scheduled for mid-February, giving families an opportunity to meet with teachers and review student progress.

Athletics were a major topic of discussion, with administrators noting that basketball season is nearing the postseason and several teams are preparing for playoff competition.

Henryetta is scheduled to host smallschool playoff games and area tournaments in the coming weeks, which administrators said should bring a significant number of visitors to campus and the community.

Coaches and staff also reported strong performances by students in powerlifting and wrestling, with athletes bringing home medals and gaining valuable experience.

The girls basketball team was recognized for reaching its first 10-win season since 2018, with the possibility of finishing with its first winning season in more than a decade if postseason play goes well.

Officials also noted that several students have transferred into the district in recent weeks, a trend administrators hope will continue.

Board members reviewed encumbrances and financial reports for the 2025-26 fiscal year, with administrators explaining that planning is already underway to estimate carryover balances and ensure both the general fund and building fund remain strong through the end of the fiscal year.

District officials emphasized the importance of maintaining a healthy balance in the building fund for facility maintenance and improvements, while also ensuring the general fund remains strong to support daily operations.

Administrators indicated that additional building fund revenue is expected in the coming months and that financial adjustments may be considered later in the year based on projections and needs.

During the business portion of the meeting, the board approved the minutes from the Jan. 12 regular meeting and voted to approve fundraisers for the 2025-26 school year.

Board members also accepted the resignation of paraprofessional Kimberlee White-Thomas, effective Jan. 29. In her resignation letter, White-Thomas expressed appreciation for the opportunity to work in the district and said she had enjoyed her time supporting students and staff.

Administrators noted several upcoming events and activities, including parent-teacher conferences, testing preparation, athletic playoffs and continued planning for future programs and initiatives.

With multiple academic, extracurricular and operational efforts underway, district officials said the coming weeks will remain busy as the school year moves toward spring activities and postseason competition.

The meeting adjourned after all agenda items were completed.