Local Schools React to Walters’ Bible Requirement
Oklahoma state superintendent Ryan Walters announced a directive requiring the Bible in public school curriculums for grades five through 12 during an Oklahoma State Board of Education meeting. This mandate has sparked opposition from various groups concerned about church and state separation. Schools like Owasso Public Schools are awaiting more information before commenting, while Collinsville Public Schools plan to balance religious text use with respect for diverse beliefs and constitutional guidelines.
Source: Area schools respond to Walters’ Bible mandate
Oklahoma City Indian Clinic Helps Native Youth with Heritage and Health
The Oklahoma City Indian Clinic hosts programs to promote physical activity and cultural awareness among Native American youth. These include dance programs, TURTLE Camps, Kids in the Kitchen, Mixed Martial Arts camps, and Clinic Culture Nights. By investing in these activities, OKCIC aims to heal generational trauma from the American Indian Boarding School era while teaching kids the importance of a healthy lifestyle and preserving their heritage.
Source: Oklahoma City Indian Clinic Empowers Native Youth Through Heritage and Health
Press Release: City Releases Report on OKC’s Mental Health Response Efforts
Are you curious about Oklahoma City’s mental health services? A detailed 20-page report, “Transformational Progress,” is available at okc.gov/mentalhealth. This document outlines the city’s efforts to support residents in crisis and highlights initiatives like the Fire Department’s new Crisis Call Diversion Unit. These programs aim to enhance public safety while providing professional mental health care. Visit their website for more information on these vital services.
Source: PRESS RELEASE: City releases report on OKC’s mental health response efforts
Move-In Day: Cherokee Nation Citizens Get First Look at New Homes
The Cherokee Nation built homes for tribal families facing financial struggles in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The Carter family experienced a special moment moving into their new home. Larry Carter felt joy seeing his wife’s reaction and knowing they have something to pass down to future generations. This initiative addresses the housing crisis, providing economic upliftment. Additionally, the Nation added a playground with workout equipment for the families’ enjoyment.
Source: MOVE IN DAY: Cherokee Nation citizens get first look at new homes
Oklahoma City Reveals New Standards in Mental Health Services with Detailed Report
Oklahoma City released a 20-page report titled “Transformational Progress, Oklahoma City’s Mental Health Services.” This document informs residents about the city’s mental health programs and services. Assistant City Manager Jason Ferbrache emphasized the city’s dedication to improving mental health resources. The report also details new initiatives like the Crisis Call Diversion Unit, funded in the FY25 budget, which adds counselors to 911 calls for crisis intervention.
Source: Oklahoma City unveils new benchmarks in mental health services with detailed report
Teams Compete for $43,000 in Rural Health Innovation Challenge
Oklahoma State University’s Center for Health Systems Innovation and the Public Health Institute of Oklahoma awarded $43,000 in prizes to winners of the Rural Health Innovation Challenge on June 20. Teams addressed critical health issues like cardiovascular health, diabetes, mental health, and social drivers of health. The top prize was $10,000 while others won various amounts. The event highlighted innovative solutions improving rural community healthcare access.
Source: Teams compete for $43,000 in Rural Health Innovation Challenge State University
Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt Celebrates $51 Million Investment in Tulsa Region’s Tech Hub
Governor Kevin Stitt celebrated a $51 million federal investment in Tulsa’s Tech Hub, which focuses on autonomous technologies like drones. This initiative, led by Tulsa Innovation Labs and the George Kaiser Family Foundation, aims to make Tulsa a global leader in innovation. The designation allows for additional funding and is expected to create nearly 60,000 high-paying jobs while strengthening Oklahoma’s economy and national security.
Source: Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt celebrates $51 million investment in Tulsa Region’s Tech Hub
Local Nonprofit Has Remaining ARPA Funding for OKC Food Businesses
In Oklahoma City, a local nonprofit is using American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to support small businesses. The Alliance for Economic Development helps local restaurant owners by providing customized business advice and planning. With the ARPA deadline approaching, they’ve created two programs: The Real Deal and The OKC Food Truck Business Accelerator. These initiatives offer training and potential grants up to $15,000 or $8,000 respectively. Applications are open now for qualifying businesses.
Source: Local nonprofit has remaining ARPA funding for OKC food businesses
Red, White & Blue and Healthier You – Tulsa Health Department
Fireworks can cause severe injuries like burns and cuts. In hot weather, your body might struggle to cool down, leading to health issues. Summer often sees more foodborne illnesses; ensure your July 4th picnic is safe. Drowning is a major risk for young children. Bugs such as mosquitoes and ticks spread diseases like Zika and Lyme disease. Tulsa Health Department has ten locations providing services to keep families healthy.
Source: Red, White & Blue and Healthier You – Tulsa Health Department
Hertz Puts Another Property Up for Sale in Oklahoma City; Is the Longtime Employer Leaving?
Hertz, a major Oklahoma City employer for over five decades, has listed its call center at 5601 Northwest Expressway for $16.9 million while transitioning to a lease agreement. Despite selling the property, Hertz remains committed to operations in OKC. This sale follows their previous office sale to Costco before filing for bankruptcy in 2020. The move raises questions about potential employee shifts to work-from-home arrangements without layoffs being confirmed yet.
Source: Hertz offers another property for sale in Oklahoma City; is the longtime employer leaving?
Local Nonprofit Pivot and OKDHS Team Up to Open New Tiny Homes for At-Risk Youth
Pivot, an OKC-based nonprofit, is hosting an open house on July 12 to showcase their new tiny homes and community center for youth facing housing insecurity. This initiative aims to support young people transitioning out of foster care by providing stable housing and resources for self-reliance. The project was made possible through a partnership with Oklahoma Human Services and a grant from Impact Oklahoma. Visit the event at 201 NE 50th Street from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Source: Local nonprofit Pivot, OKDHS partner to open new tiny homes for at-risk youth
Oklahoma Education Chief Talks About Why He’s Requiring Public Schools to Teach the Bible
Oklahoma’s top education official has mandated that public schools teach the Bible and the Ten Commandments, following a similar law in Louisiana. State Superintendent Ryan Walters, who issued this directive, insists it will help students understand American history and core values. Critics argue it’s unconstitutional and may lead to division among students. The policy demands immediate compliance, with further guidance for teachers expected soon.
Source: Oklahoma education head discusses why he’s mandating public schools teach the Bible
New Education Rules Will Change Student Outcomes in Oklahoma
Gov. Kevin Stitt recently approved rules linking school accreditation to student outcomes, which caused some concern among those wanting no changes in schools. Schools where less than 50% of students score “basic” or above on English and math tests will get a deficiency rating. Critics argue this might hurt economic growth and property values, but the aim is to improve education by making schools address their shortcomings directly.
Source: New education rules will change student outcomes in Oklahoma
Early Childhood Education Center Looking for Students
Two preschoolers join ECEC’s 2023 homecoming celebration. Sand Springs Public Schools want new students for the 2024-25 school year at their Early Childhood Education Center, which offers a full-day pre-K program. Principal Morgan Douglas says kids from ECEC are well-prepared for kindergarten. Parents with four-year-olds can enroll online or ask questions about the transition to pre-K. Enrollment is open for new and transfer students.
Source: Early Childhood Education Center seeking students
Anonymous Donors Give University of Tulsa $30 Million for Athletics
The University of Tulsa received an anonymous $30 million donation from former student-athletes and other donors, directed toward its Athletics Endowment Fund. This gift will contribute to a long-term goal of a $100 million endowment funding athletic scholarships perpetually. The announcement was made by retiring athletics director Rick Dickson, who praised the donors’ generosity. President Brad Carson highlighted the significant impact on attracting talent and enhancing facilities.
Source: Anonymous Donors Give University Of Tulsa $30 Million For Athletics
