![](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/profile/avatar/208111/circled_a9456fbf-c2ad-426c-a8e2-f895d6b7cf26.png)
REMINDER: There is no school tomorrow, Friday, March 15. Happy Spring Break, Trojans! See you Monday, March 25! π
![principal holding hands out and getting high fives](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/7446187/large_Happy_Spring_Break__Trojans_2024.png)
![](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/profile/avatar/208111/circled_a9456fbf-c2ad-426c-a8e2-f895d6b7cf26.png)
Dr. Butterfield kicked off her Thursday by visiting Jenks Northwest Elementary. She hopped right into some fun building animals out of k'nex pieces with creative pre-k students! The tiny Trojans have been reading fiction and non-fiction books about animals and today, they were free to create their own 3 eyed rabbits, flying dragons, and monkeys. Afterwards, she took a seat in Ms. Spencer's 4th grade class where they were learning how to manage emotions. Thanks for making our week, NWE!
![Dr. Butterfield playing with K'nex with pre-k students](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/7439489/large_730A9283.jpg)
![pre-k student smiling](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/7439488/large_730A9328.jpg)
![teacher playing with student](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/7439491/large_730A9331.jpg)
![teacher smiling](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/7439487/large_730A9232-2.jpg)
![assistant principal smiling](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/7439490/large_730A9242.jpg)
![students discussing](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/7439492/large_730A9238.jpg)
![](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/profile/avatar/208111/circled_a9456fbf-c2ad-426c-a8e2-f895d6b7cf26.png)
And now, the winners for best employees in a supporting role...
JPS employs more than 800 classified staff members and these 17 employees were selected by their colleagues to represent all JPS sites and departments as the 2023-24 Classified Employees of the Year. Not only do these employees play an essential role in the day-to-day operations of the District, they provide vital services to our students, families, and fellow employees. Every day, these employees approach their work with an attitude of positivity, humility, and dedication. They lift up their peers, lead by example, and put the interests of others before their own. These members of the JPS Trojan Family are truly deserving of this recognition!
![2023-24 classified employees of the year District Police: Onyx Bonner, District Police Officer Child Nutrtion: Liz Guinn, Cafeteria Manager East Intermediate: Brittney Milligan, Site Administrative Assistant High School: Diane McCrackin, Administrative Assistant Freshman Academy: Debi Stinson, Registrar West Intermediate: Janell Gibbs, Administrative Assistant Transportation: Sarah Sawtell, Bus Driver and Fueler Southeast Elementary: Mary Ames, Site Administrative Assistant East Elementary: Emily Collins, Community School Coordinator West Elementary: Makayla Melton, Paraprofessional IT: Andrew Ingle, Technology Data Specialist Community Education: Kathryn Innis, Adventure Club Coordinator Education Service Center: Brandi Bezenah, Human Resources Specialist Facilities Management: Patrick Brothers, Electrician Middle School: Janelle Shelton, Library Media Assistant Northwest Elementary: Anna Rath, Site Administrative Assistant Printshop/Warehouse: Shelby Mitchell, Printer](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/7413853/large_2023-24_Site_Classified_Employees_of_the_Year__5_.png)
![](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/profile/avatar/205480/circled_2df06cda-2b83-4d09-be98-e900b7c4c920.png)
Registration for students returning to Jenks Public Schools in the 2024-25 school year is open now. If your student(s) are returning to JPS for 2024-25, please complete registration by May 31, 2024. IMPORTANT: Back to School Registration is ONLY for students returning to JPS for the 2024-25 school year. Click here to get started and find answers to frequently asked questions https://www.jenksps.org/page/24-25-back-to-school-registration
![Back to School Registration for 2024-25 open now!](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/7411064/large_2024-25_BTS_Registration.png)
![](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/profile/avatar/205480/circled_2df06cda-2b83-4d09-be98-e900b7c4c920.png)
ICYMI...ALL videos about our outstanding Site Teachers of the Year are available to view now on the JPS YouTube channel! Get to know these excellent educators and let them know in the comments how much you appreciate all they do for students! https://www.youtube.com/@JenksPublicSchools1/videos
![screenshot of YouTube channel page](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/7404390/large_Screenshot_2024-03-11_at_6.18.15_PM.png)
![](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/profile/avatar/205480/circled_2df06cda-2b83-4d09-be98-e900b7c4c920.png)
We have no objection to the following statement: The Jenks High School Mock Trial Team just won the State Championship! This is the second state title for the JHS program and the students will compete in the National Mock Trial competition in Wilmington, Delaware in May. Congrats to all the Mock Trial students and coaches on this achievement!
![Jenks High School Mock Trial team with trophies](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/7332409/large_MockTrial20242.jpg)
![](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/profile/avatar/208111/circled_a9456fbf-c2ad-426c-a8e2-f895d6b7cf26.png)
Tomorrow - Friday, March 1 - is a Distance Learning Day for students. All JPS students will stay home tomorrow to participate in distance learning. Tomorrow is a collaboration day for JPS staff members who will use the time for professional development and strategizing on how to best support students.
Students in grades PreK-2 will bring home assignments in folders, while students in grades 3-12 will access assignments via Canvas.
For a full explanation of what to expect on JPS Distance Learning Days, go to https://www.jenksps.org/article/1262751
![collaboration/distance learning days " march 1, April 5. No in person learning on these dates](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/7247876/large_2023_CollaborationDistance_Learning_Days__4_.png)
![](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/profile/avatar/208111/circled_a9456fbf-c2ad-426c-a8e2-f895d6b7cf26.png)
So many of our administrators were shaped by public education. They are giving back because they know firsthand what it means to students when educators and education professionals invest in them. Everyone deserves an equal opportunity to succeed. Well said, Catrina. #PSW24 #PublicSchoolProud
![Principal Catrina Thomas and her quote I am a product of public school and owe much of my success to the dedicated and caring teachers throughout my education. These teachers gave me the encouragement, skills, and tools I needed to help shape the person I am today. These public school educators counseled and guided me through various difficult phases of my life, and never gave up on me. They made me feel heard, important, valued, and special. I am proud to work in public education because I know first-hand the opportunities it provides ALL young people. Every child in every community, no matter their socio-economic status, special education category, race, ethnicity, or gender, deserves an equal opportunity to find success and to learn the skills necessary to be a contributing member of society. Public education is not broken - we will continue to find new ways to inspire student success in an ever-changing world, and I canβt imagine a higher calling than that.](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/7242847/large_catrina_psw_24.png)
![](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/profile/avatar/208111/circled_a9456fbf-c2ad-426c-a8e2-f895d6b7cf26.png)
Did you know? JPS has over 800 classified employees who work with students and behind the scenes to support the daily work of the district. We couldn't do what we do without people like Jennifer Odegaard and so many others. #PSW24 #PublicSchoolProud
![Admin assistant Jennifer Odegaard and her quote on the left:"I chose to work in a Public School because I believe they shape the heart of the community they serve. Once a Public School is established, they are around for generations and that means a lot to me. I am proud to be a lifelong Trojan and a Jenks graduate; a title I'm proud to share with my husband and children. Public School shaped me into who I am today and what a joy it is to come back and work at JPS because they are committed to serving every child in the district; a district that is one big family."](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/7221927/large_PSW24___6_.png)
![](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/profile/avatar/208111/circled_a9456fbf-c2ad-426c-a8e2-f895d6b7cf26.png)
Jenks East Intermediate 6th graders were inspired to create mini sculptures today after viewing a sculpture made completely out of recyclable materials by artist Rafael Corzo. Students were instructed to include at least 3 colors, 3 materials, and 3 textures in their sculptures and their creations are impressive! Once they are finished, their sculptures are shown off under a blacklight to glow in the dark! Thank you, Jenks Public Schools Foundation, for making this immersive Growing Through the Arts experience possible!
![picture of student made sculptures](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/7215103/large_IMG_6264.jpeg)
![students gluing things to their sculpture](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/7215099/large_730A8526.jpg)
![student painting a ball](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/7215106/large_730A8491.jpg)
![students painting cups and bottles](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/7215105/large_730A8480.jpg)
![up close of a sculpture](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/7215098/large_730A8548.jpg)
![sculture created out of recyclable materials by Rafael cores](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/7215104/large_730A8502.jpg)
![student laughing up at another student](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/7215100/large_730A8521.jpg)
![student carefully cutting something on their sculpture](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/7215101/large_730A8538.jpg)
![upcloase photo of a sculpture](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/7215108/large_730A8558.jpg)
![sculpture by Rafael cores next to a table of all student mini sculptures.](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/7215107/large_Image.jpeg)
![](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/profile/avatar/208111/circled_a9456fbf-c2ad-426c-a8e2-f895d6b7cf26.png)
It's Public Schools Week and we're proud. Our employees work incredibly hard every day to serve our students and their families. They could work in other industries or jobs, but they choose to work here because they believe in the mission of public schools. This week, we'll hear from a few of our employees on what public education means to them. #PSW24 #PublicSchoolsProud
![Grace Luckett second grade teacher at southwest elementary on the left with her quote on the right. "I am honored to work for Jenks Public Schools because we encourage a love for learning but also a heart for others. Being a public school teacher has been a dream of mine since I was a little girl. I am who I am because of the teachers who invested in me. I believe public school brings our differences together and unites us to have one vision. I am beyond proud to work for a public school district that creates opportunities for students each day they walk through the front doors. I am proud to be a Trojan and feel blessed to have the opportunity to invest in the many generations to come! "](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/7209313/large_PSW24___5_.png)
![](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/profile/avatar/208111/circled_a9456fbf-c2ad-426c-a8e2-f895d6b7cf26.png)
Positivity ROCKS!
If you visit the ESC or downtown Jenks, you might find rocks with positive affirmations written on them by Jenks High School FCCLA students. A small act of kindness goes a long way. Thank you for bringing joy to the community, Trojans!
![group of FCCLA students with rocks](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/7165995/large_730A8119.jpg)
![a student holding 3 rocks](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/7165992/large_730A8125.jpg)
![student placing a rock in a tree](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/7165993/large_730A8130.jpg)
![a student placing a rock on a rock](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/7165994/large_730A8139.jpg)
![a rock on a ledge that says love!](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/7165991/large_730A8146.jpg)
![](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/profile/avatar/208111/circled_a9456fbf-c2ad-426c-a8e2-f895d6b7cf26.png)
Happy National FFA Week! ππΎπ
Whether they are showing livestock or being involved in career development events, this organization prepares Trojans with leadership and communication skills for their future careers. Students in 8th-12th grade enrolled have the opportunity to learn about plant science, animal science, Ag communications, metals, welding, and so much more. Thank you to all the FFA Teachers for the incredible work they do to make Jenks one of the largest and most successful programs in the state. We are proud of our future leaders!
![GRAPHIC WITH FOUR DIFFERENT PHOTOS. ONE OF A JHS STUDENT GROOMING HER GOAT, ANOTHER OF A CLOSE UP SHOT OF STUDENTS CUTTING METAL, A PIG, AND THE 2023-24 FFA OFFICERS](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/7163221/large_HAPPY_FFA_WEEK_2024.png)
![](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/profile/avatar/208111/circled_a9456fbf-c2ad-426c-a8e2-f895d6b7cf26.png)
The first CareerTech Discovery Day at Jenks Middle School was a success!
Jenks High School students and teachers in CareerTech electives, like ag mechanics, FCCLA, marketing, and sports medicine set up tables and activities to introduce 8th graders to classes and organizations they can be involved in at the Freshman Academy. Students explored their options and enjoyed hearing from their upperclassmen. Thank you, JHS, for providing this opportunity!
![JMS students smiling](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/7154531/large_730A8035.jpg)
![close up of a JMS student wrapping a plush dog's paw](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/7154533/large_730A8088-2.jpg)
![High school marketing students smiling for the photo](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/7154534/large_730A8094.jpg)
![student listening to the sports medicine](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/7154532/large_730A8072-2.jpg)
![JHS student showing the JMS student ag mechanics](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/7154536/large_730A8047.jpg)
![planting a succulent](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/7154530/large_730A8064.jpg)
![student talking to others](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/7154535/large_730A8008.jpg)
![](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/profile/avatar/208111/circled_a9456fbf-c2ad-426c-a8e2-f895d6b7cf26.png)
It is one of the highest honors a high school senior can earn in Oklahoma.
Congrats to the four members of the Jenks High School Class of '24 on being named Oklahoma Academic All-State honorees by the Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence.
Rylee Cole, Elaine Gao, Karissa Lu, and Diya Patel are among the 100 seniors selected from across the state. Each of the four JHS seniors will receive $1,500 and will be recognized at an awards banquet in Norman on May 4.
Way to go, Trojans!
![Photos of JHS Oklahoma Academic All-State recipents](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/7153195/large_2023-24_Oklahoma_Academic_All-State.png)
![](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/profile/avatar/205480/circled_2df06cda-2b83-4d09-be98-e900b7c4c920.png)
WATCH: Why are you so happy all the time? A student posed that question to Destinee Frazier. It was an easy answer for the Northwest Elementary Site Teacher of the Year. For someone who grew up loving every teacher and everything about school, there was never another path for Mrs. Frazier. She canβt see herself doing anything else. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_70ryauFVOU
![Destinee Frazier reading book to class](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/7126480/large_Screenshot_2024-02-20_at_5.41.39_PM.png)
![](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/profile/avatar/208111/circled_a9456fbf-c2ad-426c-a8e2-f895d6b7cf26.png)
Wondering what Jenks Northwest Elementary 1st graders were up to this morning? π€
Learned the science behind sound waves π
Created homemade flutes out of straws πΆ
Explored the Discovery Lab exhibits π
In part of the arts initiative funded by the Jenks Public Schools Foundation, JNWE 1st graders set off on their adventure to learn about the place science and math have in the arts. During the spring semester, all JPS first graders will have the opportunity to visit the Discovery Lab to learn all about sound science! Thank you, JPSF!
![](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/profile/avatar/205480/circled_2df06cda-2b83-4d09-be98-e900b7c4c920.png)
WATCH: Courtney Coffey was a student at Jenks East Elementary and now she is the Site Teacher of the Year! The Jenks lifer sat in the same classrooms and walked the same hallways as her kindergarten students of today. Itβs where she was inspired to be a teacher and first dreamed of guiding a room full of children. She remembers how much she loved school, and she wants to create the same kind of memories for her students. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BCEXvF96Dvg
![Courtney Coffey in classroom at East Elementary](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/7112540/large_Screenshot_2024-02-19_at_4.01.04_PM.png)
![](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/profile/avatar/208111/circled_a9456fbf-c2ad-426c-a8e2-f895d6b7cf26.png)
Congrats to the 3rd and 4th graders from Jenks East Elementary who saw months of practice and hard work pay off last Friday as they participated in the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Challenge Bowl in Okmulgee. The competition tests students' knowledge about history, government, and language of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation. These Trojans have been preparing for this day since September and competed against 19 other schools. We love seeing our students embracing these opportunities!
![JEE Challenge Bowl Team](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/7109954/large_428415659_714625790805919_4773850430909344079_n.jpeg)
![Some students posing with the Muscogee Creek Princess](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/7109956/large_IMG_6802.jpeg)
![Students studying before they compete](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/7109957/large_IMG_6798.jpeg)
![](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/profile/avatar/208111/circled_a9456fbf-c2ad-426c-a8e2-f895d6b7cf26.png)
Jenks High School Trojanaires are GRAND CHAMPIONS! π
This past weekend, JHS Trojanaires won the Rockbridge Southside Showdown competition in Columbia, Missouri. But wait, there's more! They also won Best Costumes, Best Choreography, Best Vocal Sound, and Best Closer. What a way to end their season! We are so proud, Jenks Vocal Music!
![One Trojanaire amongst others holding the trophy up high](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/jenks_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/7110066/large_427751507_372355259082039_8214834352721062312_n.jpeg)