Editor’s Note: This is Part 2 of coverage from the Oct. 14 Okmulgee Board of Education meeting. In this portion, Principal Scott Bein gives a report on student performance, curriculum and staffing.

– Okmulgee High School and Dunbar Principal Scott Bein gave a detailed report last Tuesday, addressing the district’s board. Speaking candidly, he shared both the successes and struggles of leading two campuses simultaneously during a year of transition.

Bein began with an update on academic remediation tools: “We’re implementing Exact Path, which connects with MAP scores to pinpoint student gaps in English and math,” he explained. “Every teacher will devote about ten minutes, three times a week, for students to work on personalized learning paths to close those gaps.”

He said Dunbar began using i-XL software for lower grade remediation this week.

“We’re using every- thing we can – if it helps one student catch up, it’s worth it,” Bein said.

The principal spoke passionately about his staff and students.

“I’ve fallen in love with this place,” he said. “I will bend over backwards for our students and staff, even if it means driving myself to the ground. I love my school. My heart is here.”

He praised Assistant Principal Steven Lobaugh for stepping up during training absences and acknowledged the district’s strong leadership support: “We’re a team. I have great support from my superintendent and colleagues. When we call for help, they’re always there.”

— Staffing & Health Challenges

Bein acknowledged ongoing challenges with staff absences and substitute shortages, particularly at Dunbar.

“If we could have even two more subs, it would make a world of difference,” he said. “We’ve had a bad run of health issues – not excuses, just reality. Some days I’m managing two schools with five teachers out, and that’s like herding cats.”

Despite those obstacles, he noted that student morale remains high.

“Our kids are doing as well as they can under the circumstances,” Bein said. “Every kid at the high school has come through Dunbar- I know every one of them by name. They’re adapting, and they’re thriving.”

— Feeding Students, Meeting Regulations

A major logistical issue for both schools involves meal service while the high school is housed at the Dunbar campus. Bein and staff explained why the district buses students to Dunbar for lunch rather than serving on-site.

“Because our district is CEP, all students eat free, but that comes with strict state and federal rules. We can’t hand a pre-packed meal to a student – they must have choices. Without a certified kitchen, the only way to stay compliant is to take them to a full cafeteria.”

The board learned that restoring the kitchen at the C.A.A.T. would require a six-month health certification process and equipment replacement.

“When we moved out, we decommissioned that kitchen,” Supt. Copeland noted. “We didn’t want to invest in something temporary when we didn’t know our long-term plan.”

Copeland added that the arrangement was a short-term solution to keep the free-meal program intact.

“We made the move in two weeks,” she said. “Given the time frame, it wasn’t possible to do otherwise.”

— Progress, Optimism and a Passion for Okmulgee Bein concluded his report on a hopeful note, emphasizing teamwork, teacher commitment and ongoing improvement.

“I walk every classroom, every day,” he said. “My teachers aren’t complaining – they’re working. They’re teaching bell-to-bell, passionate about their students.”

He described the new Special Needs classroom nearly ready for use, equipped with adaptive features like an automated lift table and accessible shower.

“It’s a beautiful space,” he said. “I can’t wait for our kids to move in.”

Bein also highlighted counselor Mr. Kindrick Cunningham’s work in college and career readiness, praising his efforts to help students explore higher education and trades alike.

“He doesn’t let students say, ‘I can’t.’ He asks, ‘What’s your plan?’” Bein said. “That’s the kind of mindset that changes lives.”

— Board Response

Board members commended Bein and his staff for their transparency and effort. Member Vicky Jones expressed appreciation for his honesty about challenges, while Superintendent Copeland reaffirmed the district’s commitment to supporting both campuses.

“It’s not ideal, but we’re making it work,” Bein said in closing. “This isn’t about complaining – it’s about caring. We’re doing everything we can for our kids, and I’m proud of that.”