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OKCPS Foundation Honors Distinguished OKCPS Alumni, Celebrates Student Talent at 41st Annual Wall of Fame Dinner & Awards

Abbie Vaughan — Fri, 31 Oct 2025 16:06:06 +0000

October 2025

The Oklahoma City Public Schools Foundation hosted its 41st Annual Wall of Fame Dinner & Awards, honoring distinguished Oklahoma City Public Schools (OKCPS) alumni, recognizing exceptional educators, and celebrating the remarkable talent of OKCPS students during the inaugural Student Spotlight Reception.

The annual event also raises vital support for Foundation programs that directly impact teachers and students across the district. This year’s celebration focused on honoring the legacy of OKCPS graduates while investing in the future of public education in Oklahoma City.

“Wall of Fame reminds us of the talent, potential, and excellence within OKCPS,” said Kendra S. Horn, President and CEO of the Oklahoma City Public Schools Foundation. “Honoring exceptional alumni, along with this year’s addition of the Student Spotlight Reception, truly brought this year’s Wall of Fame to life. Our mission to strengthen our schools is a community effort. Together, we truly are stronger.”

This year’s honorees included Marilyn Luper Hildreth, community leader and civil rights advocate; Patience Sewell Latting, former Oklahoma City Mayor, honored posthumously; William ‘Bill’ Citty, former Oklahoma City Police Chief; and Richard and Glenna Tanenbaum, recipients of the Mary Mélon-Tully Unsung Hero Award.

The dinner was hosted by former Mayors Ron Norick and David Holt and emceed by KOCO anchor Jessica Schambach.

In addition to celebrating alumni achievements, the Foundation recognized two outstanding OKCPS STEM educators, each receiving a $2,500 cash award generously sponsored by Oklahoma Natural Gas (ONG) and the OKCPS Foundation.

A highlight of the evening was the addition of the new Student Spotlight Reception, featuring more than 200 students from across the district. The showcase included performances and exhibits in art, dance, musical theatre, cheer/pom, band, orchestra, film, STEM, and academics, representing the incredible range of OKCPS talent from elementary through high school.

“When our community stands with OKCPS, our students stand taller,” said Dr. Jamie Polk, Superintendent of Oklahoma City Public Schools. “Every investment of time, talent, or treasure helps us provide the quality education our scholars deserve and prepares them to graduate ready for college, career, and life.”

During the program, the Foundation unveiled its new mission and vision, underscoring its role as a leading advocate for public education in Oklahoma City. Through initiatives such as Coat-A-Kid, the Teacher Pipeline Program, and ReadOKC, the Foundation works to remove barriers to learning and empower students to succeed.

“The Wall of Fame is a time to celebrate the extraordinary talents of OKCPS students, both past and present,” said Abbie Vaughan, Senior Director of Strategic Partnerships & Programs for the OKCPS Foundation. “We strive to make every Wall of Fame a night that honors the alumni and supporters who have continued on to lead accomplished lives after their time in OKCPS — proof that investing in our schools helps our entire community.”

Funds raised through the Wall of Fame Dinner help sustain the Foundation’s programs and inspire future giving. The OKCPS Foundation continues to call on businesses, civic leaders, and community members to support Oklahoma City Public Schools by becoming a Friend of the Foundation or partnering on initiatives that strengthen the district and its legacy.

To learn more about the OKCPS Foundation, visit okckids.com.

ABOUT THE OKLAHOMA CITY PUBLIC SCHOOLS FOUNDATION
The Oklahoma City Public Schools Foundation is a trusted nonprofit committed to being the leading advocate for OKCPS through community investment, strategic partnerships, and innovative programs. For more than 40 years, the Foundation has led efforts that support student achievement, empower educators, and build long-term success across the district. Working alongside OKCPS, the Foundation unites community members, civic leaders, and businesses to align resources with the district’s most pressing needs.

Media Contact
Emily G. Haskell, Communications Manager at OKCPS Foundation
emily@okckids.com

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Bank of Oklahoma and OKCPS Foundation Partner to Keep Students Warm Through Coat-A-Kid and New Glove Drive

Abbie Vaughan — Wed, 29 Oct 2025 20:15:00 +0000

October 2025

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK — The Oklahoma City Public Schools Foundation (OKCPSF), in partnership with Bank of Oklahoma, distributed hundreds of new winter coats to Oklahoma City Public Schools (OKCPS) students at Hawthorne Elementary, as part of the Foundation’s annual Coat-A-Kid campaign. Volunteers from Bank of Oklahoma joined teachers and staff to help students select coats that fit just right, ensuring each child leaves with warmth, comfort, and a sense of care.

Since 2016, Coat-A-Kid has provided nearly 66,000 brand-new coats to OKCPS students thanks to generous support from our community and sponsors. This year, we’ve added another 4,800 coats—bringing our total to more than 70,000 warm coats delivered to students in need.

With 92% of the district’s 33,000 students living at or below the poverty line, the program meets a critical need by removing barriers to learning and helping students feel confident and ready to succeed during the cold.

Thanks to generous partners like Bank of Oklahoma and individual community members, Coat-A-Kid has raised over $150,000 – with the goal of continuing its momentum into the holiday season.

“Something as simple as a warm coat can make a huge difference in a child’s school experience,” said Kendra Horn, president and CEO of the Oklahoma City Public Schools Foundation. “Bank of Oklahoma’s leadership as our presenting sponsor is setting an example and helping ensure that every student is prepared for the colder months. Their commitment to our students truly embodies what community partnership looks like.”

BOK + COAT-A-KID

As this year’s leading sponsor, Bank of Oklahoma has expanded the initiative through the “Warm Hands. Bright Futures.” glove drive — a new companion effort designed to further support OKCPS students through the winter. From November 3 to 14, community members can donate new gloves at any of the 15 Metro Bank of Oklahoma branch locations.

“We are excited to launch our first-ever glove drive in partnership with the OKC Public Schools Foundation’s Coat-A-Kid campaign,” said Greg Wheeler, Bank of Oklahoma, OKC Market President. “By hosting this initiative at our banking centers and encouraging employee participation, we hope to provide students with an essential piece of winter clothing.”
The OKCPS Foundation works directly with the district to identify students and coordinate distribution. Donations can be made year-round, with coats distributed each October ahead of the winter season. Together with Bank of Oklahoma and community donors, OKCPS Foundation continues its mission to remove barriers, meet essential needs, and create brighter futures for every child.

The OKCPS Foundation welcomes donations of $25 or more to Coat-A-Kid year-round, with coats distributed each October ahead of the winter season. Through both community and corporate support, Coat-A-Kid continues its mission to directly serve OKCPS students and meet their essential needs so they can succeed.

For more information or to learn how to support Coat-A-Kid, visit www.okckids.com

ABOUT THE OKLAHOMA CITY PUBLIC SCHOOLS FOUNDATION
The Oklahoma City Public Schools Foundation is a trusted nonprofit committed to advancing excellence and equity across OKCPS. For more than 40 years, the Foundation has led strategic partnerships and innovative programs that support student achievement, empower educators, and build long-term success throughout the district. As a proud advocate for public education, the Foundation works closely with OKCPS and the broader community to align resources with the district’s most pressing needs. Learn more and get involved at www.okckids.com.

Media Contact
Emily G. Haskell, Communications Manager at OKCPS Foundation
emily@okckids.com

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Oklahoma Complete Health Sponsors Coat-A-Kid, Distributing Hundreds of Coats to Students at Martin Luther King Elementary

Abbie Vaughan — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 16:26:27 +0000

October 2025

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK — The Oklahoma City Public Schools Foundation (OKCPSF), in partnership with Oklahoma Complete Health, distributed hundreds of brand-new winter coats to students at Martin Luther King Elementary on October 8, 2025, as part of the annual Coat-A-Kid initiative.

Oklahoma Complete Health’s $5,000 sponsorship helped fund more than 500 new coats for students in need so they can head into the winter months prepared and confident.

Since 2016, Coat-A-Kid has served as a critical program to provide high-quality winter coats to OKCPS students. With 92% of the district’s 33,000 students living at or below the poverty line, the program aids students and their families by removing barriers to learning and boosting each student’s confidence, comfort and attendance.

“We are excited to welcome Oklahoma Complete Health as a new partner through Coat-A-Kid,” said Kendra Horn, president and CEO of the Oklahoma City Public Schools Foundation. “Their commitment to building community and generous support is providing the gift of warmth for hundreds of OKCPS students. As temperatures fall, these new coats ensure that cold weather doesn’t keep kids from the classroom. Oklahoma Complete Health’s generous investment of time and resources removes barriers and builds confidence to help students realize their potential. We look forward to growing together!”

OCH + COAT-A-KID

Thanks to the support of community members and corporate partners like Oklahoma Complete Health, volunteers helped students select brand new coats in the right size and color of their choosing.

“Oklahoma Complete Health is honored to support the Coat-A-Kid initiative and partner with the Oklahoma City Public Schools Foundation in their mission to meet the essential needs of students,” said Oklahoma Complete Health CEO and President Clay Franklin. “We recognize health and education go hand in hand, and this effort reflects our commitment to improving the health and well-being of the communities we serve, starting with our youngest members.”

The OKCPS Foundation welcomes donations of $25 or more to Coat-A-Kid year-round, with coats distributed each October in preparation for winter. Through community and corporate support, Coat-A-Kid will continue its mission of directly supporting and advocating for the essential needs of OKCPS students to ensure their success.

For more information or to learn how to support Coat-A-Kid, visit www.okckids.com

ABOUT OKLAHOMA COMPLETE HEALTH

Oklahoma Complete Health is a care management organization that serves the needs of Oklahomans through a range of health insurance solutions. Oklahoma Complete Health serves our communities by focusing on under-insured and uninsured individuals through its SoonerSelect plan and SoonerSelect Children’s Specialty Program, its federal insurance marketplace plan, Ambetter of Oklahoma, and its Medicare Advantage Plan, WellCare. Oklahoma Complete Health is a Centene Corporation company. For more information, visit www.oklahomacompletehealth.com.

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OnCue Partners with OKCPS Foundation to Support Students Through Coat-A-Kid

Abbie Vaughan — Wed, 08 Oct 2025 20:17:59 +0000

October 2025

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK — The Oklahoma City Public Schools Foundation (OKCPS Foundation), in partnership with OnCue, purchased more than 800 brand-new winter coats for students at four OKCPS elementary schools: Arthur, Eugene Field, Fillmore, and Prairie Queen. On October 2–3, 2025, more than 400 of those coats were distributed at Fillmore and Eugene Field, alongside the presentation of OnCue’s total contributions, including proceeds from their state-wide fundraising cup sales and employee donations, to commemorate this year’s 2025 kick-off to Coat-A-Kid.

Since 2016, Coat-A-Kid has served as a critical program to provide high-quality winter coats to OKCPS students.

With 92% of the district’s 33,000 students living at or below the poverty line, the program aids students and their families by removing barriers to learning and boosting each student’s confidence, comfort and attendance.

“When students have what they need, they can focus on learning,” said Kendra Horn, president and CEO of the Oklahoma City Public Schools Foundation. “OnCue’s generous support not only removes barriers for families, it also shows our students that their community cares. We are extremely grateful for their partnership and ongoing support.”

Today, Coat-A-Kid has distributed more than 66,000 coats across the district.

COAT-A-KID + ONCUE

Thanks to the generous support of community members and corporate partners like OnCue — a Coat-A-Kid supporter since 2022 — volunteers helped students select brand new coats in the right size and color of their choosing.

“Every child deserves to start the day feeling warm, confident, and ready to learn,” said Laura Aufleger, President of OnCue. “A winter coat may seem like a small thing, but for many families, it’s one more worry and expense. Through our partnership with the OKCPS Foundation, we are honored to help ease that burden so students can focus on what truly matters – learning.”

The OKCPS Foundation welcomes donations of $25 or more to Coat-A-Kid year-round, with coats distributed each October in preparation for winter. Through community and corporate support, Coat-A-Kid will continue its mission of directly supporting and advocating for the essential needs of OKCPS students to ensure their success.

For more information or to learn how to support Coat-A-Kid, visit www.okckids.com

ABOUT ONCUE

OnCue is a growing innovator in the Oklahoma and Texas convenience store markets, focused on people, community, sustainability and quality food service. OnCue employs more than 1,800 team members dedicated to creating exceptional customer experiences. OnCue supports local communities through its ongoing charitable cup campaigns and local partnerships, recently being named a Beacon Award winner by the Journal Record for their philanthropic impact. OnCue also has had a 17-year partnership with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and has worked with Stillwater Medical to create the Level II OnCue Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. OnCue strategically invests in new energy and sustainability practices to increase efficiency and minimize resource consumption. The company is an early adopter of alternative fuels, including E85, CNG, electronic vehicle charging and hydrogen. OnCue continues to focus on growth through the addition of stores every year, and the creation of multiple restaurant concepts in stores. These efforts led to OnCue being named Food Service Innovator to Watch in 2024 by Convenience Store News and a silver award winner in 2025 for Best Use of Technology in Food Service. The continuous goal of innovation keeps OnCue, and its customers fueled. Learn more at www.oncueexpress.com.

Media Contact

Laura Aufleger, President

Media@oncueexpress.com

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OKCPS Foundation Response To Resignation of State Superintendent Ryan Walters

Abbie Vaughan — Thu, 25 Sep 2025 18:58:51 +0000

September 2025

Oklahoma City, OK – In response to Oklahoma State Department of Education Superintendent Ryan Walters’ resignation announcement, Oklahoma City Public Schools Foundation President & CEO Kendra S. Horn issued the following statement:

“We look forward to working with a state superintendent who will follow the law and prioritize the needs of our students and teachers instead of ideological litmus tests. A strong public education system is an investment in our future, in our communities, in our economy. Improving our public schools is essential to building a well-prepared workforce that elevates every student, every community, and the future of our state.”

– Kendra S. Horn
President & CEO OKCPS Foundation

The OKCPS Foundation reaffirms its commitment to collaborating with state officials, administrators, and community partners to ensure that every OKCPS student and educator has the resources and support they need to succeed.

For more information on the OKCPS Foundation, visit www.okckids.com

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OKCPS Foundation Highlights Collaboration at OSSBA/CCOSA Educational Leadership Conference

Abbie Vaughan — Wed, 17 Sep 2025 15:01:26 +0000

September 2025

Oklahoma City, OK — The Oklahoma City Public Schools Foundation was honored to take part in the 2025 Oklahoma State School Boards Association (OSSBA) and Cooperative Council for Oklahoma School Administration (CCOSA) Educational Leadership Conference.

This year’s conference brought together education leaders from across Oklahoma to share strategies, lessons, and successes in public education. The OKCPS Foundation joined fellow partners to highlight the power of ongoing collaboration between school foundations, districts, and community leaders in driving opportunities for students and educators statewide.

“Collaboration is at the heart of everything we do,” said Kendra Horn, President & CEO of the OKCPS Foundation. “When education leaders, foundations, and communities work side by side, we create stronger, more sustainable outcomes for students in every corner of Oklahoma.”

The Foundation extends deep appreciation to partners, including the Edmond Public Schools Foundation, Tulsa Public Schools, Enid Public Schools, Broken Arrow Public Schools Foundation, and the Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence. Their continued support and dedication showcase the strength of collective action in championing public schools.

The OSSBA/CCOSA Educational Leadership Conference remains one of the state’s premier gatherings for advancing education, offering a platform for collaboration, shared learning, and renewed commitment to Oklahoma students.

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OKCPS Foundation Celebrates Rotary Club Teacher of the Month

Abbie Vaughan — Wed, 17 Sep 2025 14:52:05 +0000

September 2025

Oklahoma City, OK – The Oklahoma City Public Schools (OKCPS) Foundation is proud to celebrate Ms. Jackee’ Brown, an English Language Arts teacher and basketball coach at Southeast High School, who has been named the Rotary Club of Oklahoma City’s Teacher of the Month.

This honor highlights her unwavering commitment to Oklahoma City Public Schools (OKCPS) students and her passion for helping them succeed in every aspect of life. Earlier this year, Ms. Brown was also named a finalist for the 2025 OKCPS Teacher of the Year award, further underscoring her reputation as an exceptional educator and leader within the district. These back-to-back recognitions reflect her deep dedication to student achievement and her ability to inspire both in the classroom and on the basketball court.

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“Ms. Brown embodies the heart of teaching,” said Kendra Horn, president and CEO of the Oklahoma City Public Schools Foundation. “She gives her students the tools, encouragement, and belief in themselves that they need to succeed. Oklahoma City is stronger because of teachers like her who dedicate their lives to lifting up the next generation.”

The Rotary Club honor was presented by community leaders, including OKC Mayor David Holt, underscoring the importance of educators like Ms. Brown who help shape the future of Oklahoma City.

The Oklahoma City Public Schools Foundation proudly joins in honoring Ms. Brown’s accomplishments, recognizing the powerful role she plays in shaping the future of OKCPS students.

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Fueling Literacy: Love’s and OKCPS Foundation Partner to Restock ReadOKC Book Buses

Abbie Vaughan — Fri, 05 Sep 2025 15:35:15 +0000

Oklahoma City, OK – The Oklahoma City Public Schools (OKCPS) Foundation and Love’s Travel Stops hosted a Volunteer Day to fuel a love of reading across the district. Love’s employees teamed up with Foundation staff to organize, restock, and prepare the ReadOKC On the Go! Book Buses — affectionately known as Stella and Percy.

“Partnerships like this demonstrate the powerful impact we can make when our community rallies behind OKCPS students,” said Kendra Horn, President and CEO of the Oklahoma City Public Schools Foundation. “Thanks to Love’s, our Book Buses are ready to bring joy, imagination, and opportunity to classrooms across the district this new school year.”

The Book Buses travel each year to every OKCPS school giving K-12 students the opportunity to browse a wide selection of genres and authors, select any book, take it home, and begin to build their home libraries, sparking a lifelong love of reading.

Today, nearly 90,000 books have been distributed since July 2021.

Love’s Volunteer Day

Through this partnership, Love’s assisted in cleaning and restocking thousands of new books, ensuring shelves were full and ready for students this school year. Their hands-on involvement highlights the importance of community partnerships in advancing the OKCPS Foundation’s mission and vision — positioning Oklahoma City Public Schools as a leader in education and creating opportunity for every child.

The OKCPS Foundation is committed to supporting innovative programs that cultivate strong community relationships and inspire student success beyond the classroom.

Media Package Details

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OKCPS Foundation Celebrates Rotary Club Teacher of the Month

Abbie Vaughan — Wed, 03 Sep 2025 17:18:23 +0000

August 2025

Oklahoma City, OK — The Oklahoma City Public Schools (OKCPS) Foundation is proud to celebrate Mr. Faisal Madni, a Physical Education teacher at Wheeler Middle School, who has been named the Rotary Club of Oklahoma City’s Teacher of the Month.

Mr. Madni, who was also recognized as a 2025 Finalist for OKCPS Teacher of the Year, continues to inspire students and colleagues alike through his passion for education and unwavering commitment to student growth. His engaging approach to teaching Physical Education emphasizes teamwork, confidence-building, and lifelong healthy habits, creating a positive impact that reaches far beyond the classroom.

Each day, Mr. Madni strives to encourage his students to push themselves while having fun along the way. Whether he’s coaching on the basketball court or leading fitness activities, he fosters an environment where every student feels supported and motivated to succeed.

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“Teachers like Mr. Madni exemplify the spirit of OKCPS—committed, passionate, and deeply invested in their students’ success,” said Kendra Horn, President and CEO of the Oklahoma City Public Schools Foundation. “We are thrilled to see his hard work celebrated by the Rotary Club of Oklahoma City.”

The Rotary Club honor was presented by community leaders, including OKC Mayor David Holt, underscoring the importance of educators like Mr. Madni who help shape the future of Oklahoma City.

The OKCPS Foundation proudly congratulates Mr. Madni on this achievement and thanks him for his continued dedication to OKCPS students.

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OKCPS Foundation Kicks Off 2025 Coat-A-Kid Campaign

Abbie Vaughan — Wed, 06 Aug 2025 19:58:32 +0000

August 6, 2025

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Public Schools (OKCPS) Foundation launched its 2025 Coat-A-Kid campaign, a signature annual effort to provide new winter coats for students in need. The campaign ensures students stay warm, focused, and present in school during the coldest months of the year.

“No child should have to face winter without a coat,” said Kendra S. Horn, President and CEO of OKCPS Foundation. “Coat-A-Kid is one of the most tangible ways our community can show students they are seen, valued, and supported. Whether you give $25 or $25,000, your contribution makes a real difference. This is more than a coat; it’s an investment in our students and their bright futures.”

This year’s theme, “Warm Coats. Bright Futures,” highlights the Foundation’s goal to distribute more than 6,500 brand-new coats across the district, ensuring every student in need is equipped for Oklahoma’s harsh winter weather. Since 2016, the Foundation has distributed over 60,000 coats, making Coat-A-Kid one of the most impactful student-focused efforts in Oklahoma City.

The Foundation is calling on individuals, businesses, and community groups to help reach this year’s goal. Every $25 donation provides one high-quality, brand-new coat for a student this season. Thanks to continued support from longtime lead sponsor Bank of Oklahoma, the Foundation is on its way to meeting this critical need.

“We’re proud to serve as a lead sponsor for Coat-A-Kid,” said Greg Wheeler, Oklahoma City Market President for Bank of Oklahoma. “This year, we’re also stepping up by collecting new gloves at our banking centers during the first two weeks of November. We hope this added effort helps even more students stay warm this winter.”

Donation Opportunities
The OKCPS Foundation invites individuals and organizations to join the campaign now. Supporters not only fund essential winter wear for students — they also invest in bright futures for all OKCPS students.

Delivery Event Opportunities
Organizations or businesses interested in funding coats for an entire school site will have the opportunity to participate in an exclusive coat delivery event this fall. Please contact Abbie Vaughan at abbie@okckids.com for more information.

To learn more about the OKCPS Foundation and the Coat-A-Kid program, visit okckids.com/coat-a-kid

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