The Morris Public Schools Board of Education met in regular session on February 9, 2026, at Morris High School to review routine district business, financial reports, student outcomes and several action items related to transportation, staffing and the upcoming school calendar.

The meeting opened with roll call and a recitation of the district’s mission and vision statements, reaffirming Morris Public Schools’ commitment to student success, Eagle pride and preparing lifelong learners.

-Consent agenda approved The board approved the consent agenda in a single vote. Items included minutes from the Jan. 9 special board meeting and Jan. 12 regular meeting, along with multiple financial and activity reports.

Financial reports covered included the following:

• General Fund encumbrances (Purchase Orders 378-410), which included caps and gowns, Hall of Fame expenses, senior gifts, student drug testing and additional technology access points in kindergarten classrooms to address connectivity issues.

• Building Fund expenses, including replacement of a heat exchanger in the high school gym, snow removal services and plumbing work at the agriculture and science facilities.

• Child Nutrition expenditures, including repairs to a transportation vehicle pump module.

• District administrators explained that plumbing issues at the new high school and ag/science areas were caused by undersized piping. The district is addressing each issue fully as it is identified, rather than applying temporary fixes.

• The Treasurer’s Report showed the district remains in a strong financial position. Compared to the same point last year, Morris Public Schools is operating approximately $400,000 ahead, with funds strategically invested to cover major payroll obligations later in the year. Activity fund reports showed the high school remains the most active campus financially.

The board also approved:

• Three substitute teachers: Dezarai Persinger, Keara Richardson and Kyle Richardson • One resignation: Sherry Howk

• An overnight trip for high school regional wrestling, scheduled for Feb. 19-21 — Superintendent’s report highlights busy spring

The superintendent’s report outlined a packed February and March calendar, including the county livestock show, basketball games, parent- teacher conferences, senior night, archery state competition and the approaching basketball playoffs.

District enrollment remains stable at 898 students, with gains and losses balancing evenly.

Board members also received updates on board training requirements and a legislative conference attended by district leadership. Administrators reported that more than 800 education-related bills are under consideration statewide, with possible impacts including literacy initiatives, discussions around third-grade retention, renewed focus on writing assessments and a gradual move toward a 180-day instructional calendar.

District leaders cautioned that while Oklahoma has experienced several strong budget years, future funding may tighten. Schools were advised to prepare for potential reductions of approximately $100 per student, as state resources are redirected to other priorities, including mental health services.

A recap of the district’s Hall of Fame event closed the superintendent’s report, highlighting strong attendance, improved organization and community support.

— Board takes action on key items The board reviewed and approved several action items under “Items to be Considered by the Board:

• Annual Dropout Report (Grades 7-12): The board reviewed the required annual report, noting four students classified as dropouts under state reporting rules. Administrators explained how homeschool and discontinued virtual enrollment are counted and stated that overall dropout numbers remain within acceptable ranges.

• Annual College Remediation Report: The board reviewed the most recent available data, which reflects graduates from three years prior. While math remediation was identified as an area for continued improvement, administrators noted progress and increased alignment in curriculum and staffing since that time.

• Lease of Two Activity Buses (Effective July 1, 2026): The board approved leasing two new activity buses through Midwest, citing positive past experiences with the company’s service, responsiveness and reliability.

• FY 26 National Board-Certified Teacher Bonuses: The board approved bonuses and benefits for three eligible teachers: Lisa Merrill, Tannis Carrier and Whitney Tucker.

• Approval of the FY 27 School Calendar: The board approved the Morris Public Schools calendar for fiscal year 2027, which remains at 166 instructional days. Administrators explained that recent state law changes restrict the use of virtual days, even when district plans are approved and noted efforts to find creative alternatives for professional development and instructional pacing.

— Executive Session

Following an executive session and return to to open meeting, the following items were approved: Administrative assignments for FY 27.

Jake Box Morris High School Principal Jimmy Whitlock Morris Middle School Principal Nancy McCune Morris Elementary Principal Brandon Heath Morris MS/HS Assistant Principal Bryon Balding was hired as Custodial position for the remainder of the FY 26 school year.