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#Momentum23 Bond Update: New Turf for MHS Softball is Complete! 🥎

Exciting news from Mustang High School! As part of the ongoing enhancements supported by the #Momentum23 Bond, United Turf and Track has officially completed installation of the brand-new turf field for our Mustang High School softball team.

This state-of-the-art field beautifully complements our recently installed facilities for football 🏈 and baseball ⚾️, elevating our athletic complex and providing exceptional playing surfaces for our student-athletes.

Field grooming and training sessions are finished, and our Lady Broncos have already stepped onto the field as the slow-pitch softball season kicks off!

Thank you to the Mustang community for supporting these important improvements. Your continued investment in our students helps create outstanding opportunities for growth, teamwork, and athletic excellence.

Stay tuned for more updates on the transformative projects from the #Momentum23 Bond initiative.

Mustang Public Schools Names 2024-2025 Support Employees of the Year

(Mustang, Oklahoma – April 1, 2025) – Out of nearly 700 dedicated support employees across the district, Mustang Public Schools is proud to recognize three exceptional individuals as the 2024-2025 Support Employees of the Year. These honorees were selected through a nomination and committee review process and represent the very best of Mustang’s commitment to excellence, service, and community.

"Support employees are often the unsung heroes in our schools," said Superintendent Charles Bradley. "These honorees exemplify our core values by showing up every day with purpose, compassion, and professionalism. They create the conditions for learning and success, and we are proud to honor them."

"Our support staff are the foundation of our operations, and these three individuals are among the very best," said Chris Tobler, Executive Director of Human Resources. "Whether it’s through problem-solving, relationship-building, or going above and beyond in their daily responsibilities, they make Mustang a better place for students and staff alike."

The 2024-2025 Support Employees of the Year are:

Shiella Vardeman – Financial Administrative Assistant, Mustang Middle School: Shiella is the backbone of Mustang Middle School’s daily operations. From managing school finances and employee leave to coordinating sub coverage and maintaining a welcoming front office, her impact is felt by staff, students, and families alike. Known for her problem-solving, dependability, and heart for service, Shiella goes above and beyond to ensure everything runs smoothly and every person who walks through the doors feels supported.

Nelly Maria Meza De Sorto – Custodian, Creek Elementary School: Nelly is the friendly face who makes Mustang Creek feel like home. Arriving before dawn and often staying after hours, Nelly brings care, consistency, and joy to her work. Whether she's fixing lights, lending a hand, or simply greeting everyone with a smile, she embodies what it means to serve with heart. As one nominator put it, "Every school needs a Nelly."

Jack Warden – General Maintenance Mechanic, Trades & Operations: Jack is known across the district for his unmatched work ethic and positive energy. As a General Maintenance Mechanic, he ensures that the district fleet is safe and ready to go—but he doesn’t stop there. Jack is always willing to jump in wherever help is needed. With a can-do attitude, an infectious laugh, and a servant’s heart, he has earned the respect and gratitude of colleagues districtwide.

These individuals represent the spirit and strength of Mustang Public Schools. Their behind-the-scenes efforts are critical to ensuring a safe, efficient, and welcoming environment where teachers can teach and students can thrive.

About Mustang Public Schools
The Mustang Public School District covers over 72 square miles in Oklahoma and Canadian counties, with the City of Mustang at its center. The district is the largest employer in Canadian County, with more than 1,800 certified and support employees, and serves over 13,500 students. As one of Oklahoma’s Top Workplaces, the school district offers a comprehensive compensation package for full-time employees, in addition to a satisfying working environment. There are eight (soon to be 9) elementary schools (grades PreK-4), three intermediate centers (grades 5-6), three middle schools (grades 7-8), one high school (grades 9-12), and an educational center which houses pre-kindergarten and alternative education.
www.mustangps.org
Facebook/X(Twitter)/Bluesky - @MustangSchools
Instagram/Threads - @MustangPS

Mustang Public Schools Names 2024-2025 Rookie Teachers of the Year

(Mustang, Oklahoma – April 1, 2025) – With more than 200 first-year educators joining Mustang Public Schools for the 2024-2025 academic year, the district is proud to announce three standout recipients of its annual Rookie Teacher of the Year honor. Selected through a nomination and committee review process, these educators have demonstrated exceptional promise, professionalism, and a commitment to student success in their first year of teaching.

"These outstanding educators represent the very best of what Mustang Public Schools aspires to nurture—passionate professionals who lead with heart, integrity, and purpose," said Superintendent Charles Bradley. "They bring energy to their campuses, connection to their students, and a commitment to our core values that is already making a lasting impact."

"The transition into teaching is no small feat, and these three have exceeded expectations in every way," said Chris Tobler, Executive Director of Human Resources. "From building student relationships to collaborating with peers and mastering their instructional craft, they have shown us what’s possible when commitment meets heart. We’re proud to recognize them and look forward to seeing their continued impact."

The 2024-2025 Rookie Teacher of the Year recipients are:

Tyra Thompson – 6th Grade Science Teacher, Canyon Ridge Intermediate:  A former school nurse, Tyra brings positivity, compassion, and a growth mindset to her classroom. Her team-first approach, dedication to student learning, and ability to foster an uplifting classroom environment have quickly made her an integral part of the CRI family.

Kinley Purcell – 3rd Grade Teacher, Lakehoma Elementary:  Kinley is known for her student-first mindset, innovative lesson planning, and ability to build strong relationships. Her commitment to supporting students both in and out of the classroom has had a lasting impact in her first year, and her dedication to data-informed instruction and community involvement stands out.

Mike Snowden – 9th Grade English Teacher, Mustang High School:  After a full career in law enforcement, Mike began a second chapter in education—and quickly proved that it was a natural fit. He is admired by colleagues and students alike for his positive energy, professionalism, and ability to foster trust and engagement in his classroom. His team-player attitude and heartfelt connection with students have made a lasting impression.

This recognition highlights Mustang Public Schools’ continued commitment to mentoring and celebrating emerging talent in education. These Rookie Teachers of the Year exemplify the district’s vision: Highly effective, compassionate teachers in every classroom delivering a world-class education to every student in a safe and mutually respectful environment so that Mustang students achieve at their highest level and contribute to their world in meaningful ways, both now and in the future.

About Mustang Public Schools
The Mustang Public School District covers over 72 square miles in Oklahoma and Canadian counties, with the City of Mustang at its center. The district is the largest employer in Canadian County, with more than 1,800 certified and support employees, and serves over 13,500 students. As one of Oklahoma’s Top Workplaces, the school district offers a comprehensive compensation package for full-time employees, in addition to a satisfying working environment. There are eight (soon to be 9) elementary schools (grades PreK-4), three intermediate centers (grades 5-6), three middle schools (grades 7-8), one high school (grades 9-12), and an educational center which houses pre-kindergarten and alternative education.
www.mustangps.org
Facebook/X(Twitter)/Bluesky - @MustangSchools
Instagram/Threads - @MustangPS

April brings a month full of awareness, appreciation, and advocacy across Mustang Public Schools!

Month of the Military Child – Honoring the strength & resilience of children in military families.

Autism Awareness Month – Celebrating neurodiversity & fostering inclusion for all students.

Child Abuse Prevention Month – Raising awareness & standing together for safe, supportive environments.

National Occupational Therapy Month – Recognizing the incredible work of OT professionals in empowering lives.

National Volunteer Month – A huge THANK YOU to the volunteers who make a difference in our schools & community!

School Library Month – Celebrating the spaces that inspire curiosity & a lifelong love of reading!

Let's make April a month of support, recognition, and gratitude across MPS! #WeAreMustang