MetroFamily Magazine. OKC Family Fun & Resources. Local events calendar.
JANUARY 2020
Oklahoma’s First Lady on prioritizing mental health Sarah Stitt
Family- friendly healthy meals
and fitness inspiration Nature Schools
5 things to know Annual Education Guide 49 local schools and resources
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St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic School PreK3 - 8th Grade Edmond, OK stelizabethedmond.org 405.348.5364 Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School Secondary College Preparatory Grades 9 - 12 Oklahoma City, OK bmchs.org 405.842.6638 Cristo Rey OKC Catholic High School Secondary College Preparatory Grades 9-11 Oklahoma City, OK cristoreyokc.org 405.945.9100 Catholic School of St. Eugene PreK3 - 8th Grade Oklahoma City, OK steugeneschool.org 405.751.0067 Mount St. Mary Catholic High School Secondary College Preparatory Grades 9 - 12
Rosary Catholic School National Blue Ribbon School PreK3 - 8th Grade Oklahoma City, OK rosaryschool.com 405.525.9272 St. John Nepomuk Catholic School PreK3 - 8th Grade Yukon, OK sjnok.org/school 405.354.2509 St. Philip Neri Catholic School PreK3 - 8th Grade Midwest City, OK stphilipnerischool.com
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PreK3 - 8th Grade Oklahoma City, OK ckschool.com 405.843.3909 St. James Catholic School
PreK3 - 8th Grade Oklahoma City, OK Stjamesokc.com 405.636.6810 Holy Trinity Catholic School PreK3 - 8th Grade Okarche, OK holytrinityok.org 405.263.4422
Oklahoma City, OK mountstmary.org 405.631.8865 Bishop John Carroll Cathedral School PreK3 - 8th Grade Oklahoma City, OK bjccs.org 405.525.0956 St. Charles Borromeo Catholic School PreK - 8th Grade Oklahoma City, OK scbokc.org 405.789.0224
All Saints Catholic School National Blue Ribbon School PreK - 8th Grade Norman, OK allsaintsnorman.org 405.447.4600
Features 6 Top Trends in Nature Schools 5 things to know about metro programs 8 Taking on 2020 Family-friendly healthy meals & fitness inspiration 10 First Lady Sarah Stitt Prioritizing mental health in Oklahoma 16 Education Guide Dozens of schools and resources to benefit students 42 Oklahoma Teacher of the Year How public school saved Jena Nelson’s life In Every Issue 26 Calendar Kick off the new year with 104 family fun events 40 Local Family Fun Conquer cold-weather blues with indoor entertainment 44 Exploring Oklahoma with Children Plan close-to-home vacations for every season in 2020 48 Super Kids of the Metro Fashion-forward teen knows no boundaries 54 #okcfamilyfun Readers out and about in OKC
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informative event on Saturday, Feb. 22 at Cole’s Community Center. Enjoy workshops by local experts, shop and compare baby products, enter for prizes and giveaways and, NEW this year, take part in a “cutest baby contest!” Register and find more information at bumpbabyandmore.com. Save the date for Kids Fest! We’re gearing up for our annual celebration of all things family at Kids Fest on Saturday, March 28 at the Cox Convention Center. Families can check out dozens of booths with hands-on fun and local resources,
groove to stage entertainment, engage in workshops and enter for door prizes. Find out more at metrofamilymagazine.com/kids-fest. LAST CALL for Children’s Business Fair entrants In conjunction with Kids Fest on March 28, MetroFamily will host the Acton Children’s Business Fair. Young entrepreneurs will gain business training and then get to sell their goods or services at the fair. Kids ages 6 to 14 with clever business ideas should apply before Jan. 15 at metrofamilymagazine.com/cbf.
Bump, Baby & More is Feb. 22 If you are expecting or have young kids, mark your calendar for this
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This Month’s Cover As Oklahoma’s First Lady, Sarah Stitt’s platform includes improving access to mental health care resources and trauma- informed care, particularly for the youth in our state. Wife of Gov. Kevin Stitt and mom of six, Stitt’s own tumultuous childhood serves as the inspiration for shaping a brighter future for Oklahoma’s children. Story on page 10. focusing on challenges in our education system. Read more about how we can each encourage our kids’ teachers and support our schools on page 42. Perhaps most heartening for me was meeting Courtney Gaines, our Super Kid of the Metro, whose refusal to acknowledge barriers others might name for her means she’s living a beautiful life of no boundaries. This teen’s tenacity in advocating for others with special needs is causing me to reevaluate how I can more aptly live to serve. Find Courtney’s story on page 48. D o you write resolutions or choose a word to live by in the new year? It’s not a practice I’ve often subscribed to myself, but as we celebrate our arrival into a a new decade, one word keeps ringing true to me for what is to come for our city, and me personally, in this new year: Hope. I was honored to talk with First Lady Sarah Stitt about her vision for the future of Oklahoma’s children, hers, mine and yours included. Championing improved trauma- informed care and mental health resources is personal for her, and I believe her strength and determination will help Oklahomans band together to ignite positive change. Learn more about how the First Lady’s difficult childhood inspired her to make a difference on page 10. A similar message of hope resonated from Oklahoma’s 2020 Teacher of the Year Jena Nelson, whose platform also includes improved trauma-informed care for students as well as a boost of morale for our teachers. I was impassioned by her appeal for parents of school kids to call, email or message our legislators to tell them what’s going RIGHT with our schools and teachers, rather than
Publisher Sarah Taylor Managing Editor Erin Page Assistant Editor Lindsay Cuomo Contributing Writer Madi Pontikes Contributing Photographers Bridget Pipkin, Lauren Smith
READ ABOUT COURTNEY GAINES ON PAGE 48.
How will you inspire hope in your corner of our city this year? I’d love to hear your vision for Oklahoma City’s future — and how you’re working to bring about that change. Email me at editor@metrofamilymagazine.com. With great hope for our future,
Art Director Stacy Noakes Project Manager Kirsten Holder Sales Athena Delce Dana Price Office/Distribution Kathy Alberty Marketing Assistant Lauren Smith Contact us 318 NW 13th St, Ste 101 OKC OK 73103 Phone: 405-601-2081 Fax: 405-445-7509
Erin Page Editor
sarah@metrofamilymagazine.com www.metrofamilymagazine.com
MetroFamily Magazine is published monthly. Copyright 2019 by Inprint Publishing, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Articles and advertisements in MetroFamily do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the magazine or Inprint Publishing, Inc. We do not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. The acceptance of advertising by MetroFamily does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services, or information. We do not knowingly present any product or service which is fraudulent or misleading in nature.
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BY ERIN PAGE . PHOTOS PROVIDED. 5 things to know about N atu r e School Nature Schools • •
AT NATURE FIELD CREATIVE ACADEMY (ABOVE) AND LITTLE LEAF PLAY- GARDEN (BELOW) THE OUTDOORS IS AN EXTENSION OF THE CLASSROOM.
The popularity and presence of nature schools is growing exponentially across the nation, and the trend is catching on in the OKC metro as well. But is a nature school right for your child? We asked the directors of three local nature schools how their programs differ from traditional schools. Marked by small classroom sizes, longer lunch times, plenty of time spent outdoors and individualized curriculum, teachers in these schools seek to provide developmentally-appropriate education. Editor’s note: Our panel included Abigail Ramirez, founder of Nature Field Creative Academy (NFCA) in Moore, Emma Yeung, founder of Little Leaf Playgarden in Oklahoma City, and Jenny Dunning, owner/ founder and director of development at Keystone Adventure School in Edmond.
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Little Leaf Playgarden students spend hours playing outdoors every morning, which Yeung says allows kids to independently and confidently expand creativity through play. She sees the benefits to her students especially in their risk assessment capabilities. “If we trust in the children, they know their own capabilities and strengths and weaknesses,” said Yeung, relating specifically to kids climbing trees. “We [should] inspire kids to trust their own instincts.” Yeung says play is especially critical in kids’ first six to seven years, building a foundation for later academic success. “Studies show exposure [to nature] consistently for an extended amount of time helps memory and social skills,” said Ramirez. Dunning says the sensations kids experience through their bare feet inspires neurological organization, helping kids retain and apply what they are learning. “It gives them an anchor and more clarity as to where they fit into world,” said Dunning. “Unstructured time and space allow for the biggest epiphanies in learning.” 2 • Unstructured play time, especially outdoors, is key to foundational learning.
Curriculum is child-led.
At Nature Field Creative Academy, teachers first observe students in order to understand their interests and how they learn, then develop curriculum. For example, student discussions about blood and snot turned into curriculum incorporating dramatic play, math and reading related to the human body. At Keystone Adventure School, students care for barnyard animals, build structures with power tools and have a voice in everything from what they’re learning to the names of newborn animals. “Once they understand they are are in charge, they are lifelong learners,” said Dunning. “Children are much more likely to stay with something when they are invested and feel they have a voice.” These schools ensure students aren’t being introduced to academic concepts before they are developmentally ready. “Parents think ‘my child should be prepared to read by kindergarten,’ but as educators we know the window for being ready to read is all the way to third grade,” said Ramirez. The same philosophy applies to behavior. “Kids developmentally shouldn’t be sitting for long periods of time,” said Ramirez. “Those are expectations kids aren’t able to meet; their bodies can’t do what you are asking of them.”
Find out which metro public schools are incorporating nature into curriculum and learn more about metro nature schools, including programming open to the community at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/nature-schools.
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Social and emotional development are as important as academics.
Ramirez wants her students to gain a love of learning, stellar social skills and the ability to self advocate. Empathy, kindness and inclusion are woven in to the curriculum. “Since the start of the school year we have noticed a shift in [Violet’s] ability to express her feelings and her anxiety drop,” said Brooke Ellison, whose daughter Violet is in kindergarten at NFCA. “She now views things that were once scary to her as something she can accomplish if she tries.” All three schools strive to develop students who aren’t afraid to fail or give wrong answers. Aubry Gragg, Keystone parent, says she’s learned her kids should “fail” as often as possible because it teaches them important lessons. “They know it’s a process, not an outcome,” said Dunning. “They take risks, and that’s where the biggest learning happens.”
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STUDENTS AT KEYSTONE ADVENTURE SCHOOL FEED AND CARE FOR BARNYARD ANIMALS.
Traditional assessments don’t exist.
At NFCA, there are no report cards; rather portfolio assessments determine where a child lands developmentally and where individualized attention can be given to enhance strengths and shore up challenges. “We feel like there is too much focus on testing in public schools,” said Ellison. “We want Violet to develop a love for learning and not just memorize test answers and sight words.” At Keystone standardized tests are adminis- tered differently than in public school. “It’s untimed, we have snacks for the students and we have conversations about the questions,” said Dunning. “This is a safe environment where we can really get an authentic read on the knowledge base of the child and move forward to help that child be the best version of themselves.”
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LITTLE LEAF PLAYGARDEN STUDENTS PLAY OUTSIDE FOR HOURS EACH MORNING.
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Students are supported in transitioning to their next schools.
Keystone, which goes through fifth grade, provides middle school prep classes in fourth and fifth grades to get students ready for their next school setting. “By the second semester of fifth grade, we are packing their tool belt, preparing them academically but also socially and emotionally, and helping manage their expectations,” said Dunning.
Gragg, whose oldest son Owen now attends Edmond Public Schools, has found the transition easier than anticipated. “His confidence is mind blowing,” said Gragg. “He participates in his education, he’s not intimidated and doesn’t need me to be his voice. He asks questions and has been taught to do that in a way that’s respectful.”
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METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / JANUARY 2020 7
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What’s for dinner? Happy healthy new year
BY MADI PONTIKES. PHOTOS PROVIDED.
Find a food style. I love to cook dinner for my family but rarely use a recipe. My rule of thumb is that our plates must have vegetables, a protein and a whole grain. I add fruit for my two girls, too. If you love to make crock pot meals, do them often. If rice and veggie bowls are you jam, go for it. Repeat your favorites. Stick to the basics. Oftentimes when we think of healthy eating, elaborate recipes with foreign ingredients come to mind. Every meal doesn’t have to rival a 5-star dining experience! Keeping meals simple can be key to long-term success. Make more (and use eco friendly storage!) I always double up on what I make so my husband and I can have leftovers for lunch. Leftovers can sometimes be bland, so adding hot sauce or flavorful cheese (goat or feta, yum!) can help change up the flavor. While you’re changing up habits this new year, invest in metal or silicone food storage bins for a healthier, greener and more economical option. Don’t shy away from frozen fruits and veggies. Most people don’t realize frozen fruits and vegetables are often more nutrient-dense than fresh because they are flash-frozen at peak ripeness. It’s also more cost-friendly to buy your berries, fruits and veggies in It’s a new year, making it a perfect time to start fresh with your family’s nutrition. While eating “in” is typically the healthier option, cooking nutritious options for the entire family can feel overwhelming with the endless other to-dos life hands us. I hope these tips will help you feel empowered to feed your family well.
bulk from the freezer section. I prepare the veggies by either baking or sauteing. We use frozen fruits and berries for smoothies, also a fantastic way to sneak more veggies into your diet. Create a routine. This is most important when it comes to creating a healthy household. If you try to wing it every day, you’ll inevitably take the path of least resistance, a drive-thru or delivery. If my husband is home before dinner, he takes on the kids while I tackle the kitchen. After dinner, one parent bathes the kids while the other does dishes. If my husband isn’t home before dinner, I do a crock pot meal that day or I set out an activity for the girls in the kitchen so they’re entertained while I’m cooking. Remember all changes have a learning curve but after the initial work, it becomes your new normal. However, a huge part of your health is the mental aspect. If you need to schedule one night a week for take-out, do it and don’t lose sleep over it! Then ensure the rest of the week packs in some veggies. Need a few ideas for simple meals to cook? Visit www.metrofamilymagazine.com/ family-cooking for my favorites and my top tips for enticing picky eaters! Editor’s note: This is the first article in a three-part series exploring ideas for cooking as a family from local moms.
Madis’ Go-to Smoothie: Ingredients: ½ cup frozen strawberries ¼ cup frozen blueberries Handful of ice 2 cups spinach 1 tbsp chia seeds ½ cup almond milk 1 tbsp peanut butter 1 scoop vanilla organic vegan protein powder Instructions: Place ingredients in a blender and add water until it sits just above the ingredients. Blend and enjoy!
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Taking on 2020 Madi’s top 5 for staying active and inspired
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Sound snoozing One thing that should be at the top of everyone’s to-do list in this new year: get enough sleep. I’m a stickler for the early to
bed, early to rise mantra for our entire family. We’ve had a Dohm Sound Machine in each room since our kids were babies to inspire sound sleep.
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Parks without play equipment Kids need to move and they’ll do it anywhere! I have always been a fan of visiting nature parks with my kids, perhaps because the combination of toddlers and play structures puts me on edge. I love that my kids can run free in nature, use their imaginations and I can sit on a blanket and relax, or even get in my own quick workout while they play. Our favorites are Will Rogers Gardens, the Myriad Gardens great lawn and Martin Park Nature Center.
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Podcast power
My personal go-tos are the Goop and Ted Talk podcasts. I started listening to these on stroller walks
and encourage everyone to get in to the podcast craze. It is quite transformative to simply listen and learn about anything from home décor and the way your body works to politics and events across the world. Exercise essentials
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Prioritizing fitness doesn’t have to mean hours in the gym. There are a plethora of inexpensive, online workout programs that can be done in your own home for 30 minutes or less a day, which can feel much more doable for busy moms to fit into their lifestyles. I like options that combine dumbbells with interval exercises for fast-paced workouts to build and maintain strength, health and physique.
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Fanny pack fanatic Parents of the world, get this: A fanny pack is the perfect size to hold my keys, phone, lipstick and a snack without being bulky. Being able to use both my hands is so freeing. My favorite is the Lululemon fanny pack, which is high quality with an affordable price tag.
Editor’s note: Madi Pontikes is an early childhood educator, personal trainer and the creator and owner of Move by Madi. She creates workouts that fit into the modern mom’s daily routine, sheds light on the real aspects of healthy living and parenting and is passionate about promoting a mindset of loving your body for what it CAN do. Connect with Madi on Instagram @movebymadi or movebymadi.com, where you can find her favorite workout guide for the new year, the 12 Week Power Program.
METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / JANUARY 2020 9
Oklahoma’s First Lady champions improved mental health awareness for state youth Sarah Stitt
First Lady Sarah Stitt’s warm nature cuts through a cold, dreary Oklahoma morning as she walks the grounds of the Oklahoma Governor’s Mansion. Adept at multitasking, she carries conversation while also pausing to turn off the heater in the Oklahoma-shaped pool, likely left on by her oldest son, she quips, who gets a pass because true to his care-taking disposition,
he had taken two of his younger siblings swimming.
BY ERIN PAGE. PHOTOS BY BRIDGET PIPKIN AND PROVIDED.
GETTING IS GOOD. GIVING IS BETTER .
GOV. KEVIN AND SARAH STITT WITH THEIR CHILDREN, NATALIE, 19, DREW, 17, KATE, 13, PIPER, 11, REMINGTON, 9, AND HOUSTON, 5.
As the discussion often does among moms, the universal topic of trying to take family photos with a gaggle of kids surfaces. “I always say, just try to look normal, and my kids are like, ‘What’s normal?!’” laughs Stitt, who adds that husband Gov. Kevin Stitt has concocted just the right recipe of bribery and fun. “He’ll say, ‘If we can get this done in under 35 minutes, I’ll get you ice cream. If we can get it done in under 45, you can watch extra TV.’” (We’re all adding Gov. Stitt’s method to our mental checklist for future family photos.) Considering politics It’s the Stitts’ six kids, ranging in age from 5 to 19, who are their pride and passion, as well as what drove the family to seek office. Neither career politicians, the Stitts believe looking through their kids’ eyes gives them fresh perspective. “We started to realize they probably won’t all stay here,” said Stitt. “We need to make Oklahoma a place where our kids can be healthy and have a bright future.” When Gov. Stitt first told Sarah he wanted to run for governor, she asked him not to tell anyone else, perhaps hoping she could talk him out of it. “He’d bring me statistics, saying, ‘Did you know Oklahoma has the highest incarceration rate?’” recalls Stitt. “And I’d say, ‘Then why do you want to be governor?!’”
Gov. Stitt’s logic, and the vision Sarah Stitt began to believe in wholeheartedly too: they could make a difference. As Stitt warmed to the idea, she considered what it would mean for their family. “When Kevin talked about running for governor, I thought, ‘My life is about to jump tracks,’” said Stitt. “I had developed this great world where I felt pretty in control.” That world included her own professional accomplishments, founding Gateway Mortgage Group in 2000 with her husband only two years after the couple was married in 1998. Stitt also held a career in residential home building. All of Stitt’s professional and personal experiences prepared her in various ways for her role as First Lady, her strong work ethic, love of learning, grace under pressure and gift for public speaking all coming into play, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t still surreal, even a year later. “Sometimes I think, ‘What am I doing here?’” Stitt laughs. “I’m such an informal person and [sometimes] feel overwhelmed or like the least qualified person for this.” Just as she was concerned about her young kids racing through the halls of the historic governor’s mansion, heirlooms and breakables at their fingertips, she also jokes that she’ll probably make the news during her reign for one of her kids throwing a fit in Walmart. In truth, she is learning to navigate a world she was completely unfamiliar with.
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“But long ago I stopped worrying about what other people might think,” said Stitt. “I am embracing this opportunity and know everything I’ve been through in my life I can use for a purpose.” Leading with purpose As the family began to campaign in earnest, Stitt considered her potential platform as First Lady. Her tumultuous childhood was riddled with the instability of parents dealing with mental health challenges. The effects linger still, but she believes she is stronger and more empathetic for it. “I knew early on I wanted to focus on mental health, so I started slowly bringing it forward and talking to people about it,” said Stitt. Every time Stitt mentioned the topic on the campaign trail, Oklahomans thanked her and shared mental health struggles. Since she became First Lady, Stitt has championed improved mental health and trauma-informed care and the organizations heeding that call. After extensive research on Adverse Childhood Experiences, traumatic events experienced before age 18, Stitt knew to
make the greatest impact she should focus her sights on improving mental health awareness among Oklahoma children and youth. “I’m feeling the momentum, more than I did two years ago, even six or eight months ago,” said Stitt. “From the government to the schools and medical professionals, everyone is open to the conversation about how to give our kids a better future, a healthier future, so they can stay here and be successful.” According to America’s Health Rankings, Oklahoma is the least healthy state in the country when it comes to the percentage of children with Adverse Childhood Experiences, which include things like child abuse or neglect, poverty, discrimination and a parent with untreated mental illness or substance abuse disorder. Kids with ACEs are more likely to experience poor mental and physical health, drug and alcohol abuse and suicide attempts, all placing added economic burdens not just on the family but the community as a whole. Improved ACE prevention strategies, treatment access and community education can move the needle toward long-term
improved individual and community health. Oklahoma schools were a natural place to affect change, as that’s where kids spend much of their days. “[Oklahoma State] Superintendent [of Public Instruction] Joy Hofmeister has done a great job implementing resources and practices with kids, getting outside resources involved and helping support teachers to give kids the tools they need to navigate life,” said Stitt. Challenging beginnings Stitt grew up in Tulsa, her move to Oklahoma City last year the first time she’s lived elsewhere. Her mom’s own traumatic childhood led to mental health issues not properly treated or diagnosed, which greatly affected Stitt’s household growing up. Being homeschooled and living in a poor district meant not much time was spent outside her tumultuous living conditions. When Stitt became a teenager, she began to attend public school and realized her family’s normal was not what other kids her age were experiencing. Her faith, then and now, helped her navigate dark times.
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“I remember specific times as a young girl and teen feeling very alone or feeling suffocated,” said Stitt. “But at around 14 or 15 I decided everything going on in my life could be used to better myself and the lives of others. I had to embrace that way of thinking and keep my head up. There were still hard times, times I felt isolated and helpless, but I just tried to make the right decisions.” The stigma of mental illness was very strong, a reality Stitt hopes to continue to change. “As a child I was not allowed to talk about the issues in my family because my mom was afraid we’d be judged or what people would think,” said Stitt. “That keeps families isolated and keeps them from getting the resources to help them walk through their lives.” As First Lady, she’s often asked how she overcame and navigated her mom’s suicide attempts and sibling’s drug addiction. “When my siblings and I look back, we could have that initial anger and frustration over what our life was like,” said Stitt. “But I’m thankful our lives weren’t even more traumatic.”
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FACT: It takes
four weeks to go from egg, larva, pupa to adult.
Stitt says there weren’t the resources then to help her mom, or her dad cope with caring for her mom. Even as her dad has developed his own mental health struggles, Stitt chooses to focus on the positive. “My siblings have used their experiences to help change the lives of others,” said Stitt, whose mom has been one of her biggest champions for her platform on mental health. “We look at our lives as an opportunity to help others. I’ve been able to offer counsel and resources and friendship to others going through similar things.” Making mental health a priority As Stitt has advocated for her father to receive proper mental health care, she’s experienced the challenges in that process. “Getting a cohesive path was hard,” said Stitt. “It’s not like going to the doctor and saying you have cancer and here are the three treatment options. Mental health depends so much on the individual’s situation and environment.” Even with the time and resources to make calls and research options, luxuries she knows not everyone has, Stitt floundered. None of the mental health care options recommended by her dad’s primary care physician had appointments sooner than six months out. “There’s a need to have more professionals providing therapy and psychiatry,” said Stitt, who praises the caliber of medical schools in our state. “We need to attract and keep those professionals in Oklahoma.” Though she struggled to connect with resources for her dad, she knows Oklahoma has powerful mental health care options available to community members. “We need to start treating mental health like we do physical health, providing more community support to the nonprofits and community resources that can help,” said Stitt. Mental health at home Stitt prioritizes mental health in her home by encouraging an ongoing open dialogue. She strives to teach her kids how to walk through tough situations without becoming overwhelmed and focuses on instilling
empathy and perspective, reminding them when they encounter a difficult person that they don’t know what could be going on in other kids’ lives to cause them to act out. “We use those moments to ask what that other [child] might be walking through,” said Stitt. “[Then] they realize not everyone is out to get them. We’re unable to live healthy and successful lives thinking that way.” Stitt can relate to that knee-jerk reaction, recalling that her own childhood instinct was survival. “That’s really hard for someone who’s lived in trauma and instability because you feel like you have to fight for everything,” said Stitt. “It’s really hard to change that mentality.” Stitt says it’s her husband who helps her gain perspective. “Kevin has to say to me, ‘Look at the bigger picture; take a step back,’” said Stitt. “I get stuck in what’s happening right now in front of me.” Part of Stitt’s own self care has been determining how to prioritize her time so she can give her best to her family and others who depend on her. She clearly defines her priorities and sticks to them, though it’s not always easy, especially when as First Lady she has a deluge of positive opportunities to consider. “All of us are guilty of over-committing ourselves, over-committing our children, over-committing our professional lives,” said Stitt. “In the long run there may be things you say no to or think you might have missed out on, but you will have so much more peace and a lot less stress in your life, which allows you to give your best to your children, family and career.” The Stitts all recharge on Sundays, dedicated to family time. Weekly family meetings are for going over the upcoming week, talking through problems and celebrating successes and blessings. Spending quality time as a family of eight, or one-on-one time with their kids, particularly being active outdoors, keeps the Stitts connected and refreshed. “Kevin does a great job of finding time to connect with each kid individually, finding the things they are passionate about and doing those activities with them,” said Stitt.
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Hope for the future As Stitt watches Oklahomans take more personal responsibility for changing the landscape of mental health care in our state, she feels more hopeful than ever about the future. “We think, and we have been guilty of it too, that government will take care of things, but we have to get involved and take responsibility at a very basic community level,” said Stitt. “In every corner of the state I hear people asking how they can help — and they’re not just asking to ask — they say, ‘Show me where I can get involved to make a difference.’” With a unique perspective not of leading the state but rather of linking arms with fellow Oklahomans, Stitt believes the state’s children will indeed have brighter futures. “The most rewarding thing is seeing people come alive with their own passions and desires to make a difference in our state,” said Stitt. “I love seeing pathways opening for people and am really excited about the idea of every Oklahoman having hope for a healthy and successful future.”
FIRST LADY STITT AND DAUGHTER KATE FILM A MADE IN OKLAHOMA COOKING SEGMENT TOGETHER.
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Education Guide
Educational opportunities for Oklahoma City-area kids abound. Our annual Education Guide helps parents sort through the endless options by highlighting incredible schools and learning programs throughout the metro. In the following pages, find Catholic and private schools, preschool programs, field trip options and enrichment opportunities offered in and around Oklahoma City.
Private Schools and Preschools
Casady School 9500 N. Penn Ave. 405-749-3100, www.casady.org Grades PreK3-12th Open House for grades 2nd-8th on Feb. 10. Call 405-749-3200 or email admission@casady.org to register.
The Goddard School Western 17440 N. Western Ave., Edmond 405-348-4442 www.goddardschool.com Open Houses from Feb. 3-7, 9am-4pm.
The Goddard School located on Western in Edmond offers a child care program through PreK that nurtures a lifelong love of learning by providing dedicated teachers in a private preschool setting. Offers enrichment programs for students such as Spanish, STEAM, chess, dance, sign language, soccer and more. Full- and part-time enrollment options.
A premier PreK3-12 independent school in the heart of Oklahoma City, Casady offers an immersive, college-preparatory curriculum and a focus on the whole child: mind, body and spirit. The school believes in developing excellence, confidence and integrity in students while instilling in them strong spiritual and moral values.
Destiny Christian School 3801 S.E. 29th St. 405-677-6000 www.destinywildcats.com Grades PreK3-12th Open House for grades PreK3-6th on Feb. 6.
Heritage Hall School 1800 N.W. 122nd St. 405-749-3001, www.heritagehall.com Grades PreK3-12th Established in 1969, Heritage Hall is a private, coeducational, college- preparatory school, serving a student body of approximately 900 students
CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
This fully accredited (ACTS/OPSAC) private school has been operating since 1981. Professional staff and strong academics promote active learning along with many extracurricular opportunities in athletics and fine arts. The school believes in “learning beyond books, loving beyond words and living beyond tomorrow.” New student enrollment opens March 1 for the 2020- 2021 school year.
TO L EARN • TO L EAD • TO S ERVE
from preschool through grade 12 on a safe and welcoming campus in northwest Oklahoma City. As one of the leading independent schools in the Southwest, Heritage Hall inspires its students to realize their fullest potential—intellectually, socially, creatively and physically—at every stage of a lifelong educational journey.
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Early Childhood Program at Quail Springs United Methodist Church 14617 N. Pennsylvania Ave. 405-755-3258 www.qsumc.org/ecp Infant-5 years This program offers early childhood education to children 2 months-5 years, providing a fun, safe and loving environment with daily opportunities to develop a love of learning in a Christian atmosphere. Call for a tour.
Keystone Adventure School and Farm 19201 N. Western Ave., Edmond 405-216-5400 www.keystoneadventureschoolandfarm.com Grades PreK3-5th Open House on Jan. 26, 2-4pm.
In this accredited preschool and elementary school, students receive an individualized education with unique learning opportunities in outdoor classrooms, teamwork-based physical education, music, art, Spanish, experiences with animals and more in a loving and respectful environment. They also offer Summer on the Farm camps open to the community. Monthly tours available. Trinity School at Edgemere 3200 N. Walker 405-525-5600 www.trinityschoolokc.org Grades K-12th Open House on Feb. 6, 6:30-8:30pm. Trinity School educates K-12 students with learning differences, each according to their special needs, in a supportive and encouraging environment.
Pantone River Blue 15-4720 TPX
OKC Heartland Montessori School 6120 N. Drexel Blvd. 405-463-5523 www.okcheartlandmontessori.com Open House on Feb. 1, 9-11:30am. The school’s mission is to provide a loving, secure and well-prepared Montessori environment for every child
H M S
to learn, develop and grow into an independent and confident person who enjoys learning, loves people and appreciates Mother Nature.
MAKE THE MOST OF PLAYTIME
LAUNCH RIGHT IN WITH . . . a SUPER SPACECRAFT!
GATHER THESE MATERIALS:
Scissors (with an adults help)
Pencil
2 toilet paper tubes
Paper towel tube
Paper
Glue
Small piece of cardboard Markers or paint
2. Draw a rounded nose to the traced shape. Then draw two rounded triangles for wings.
3. Cut out the shape.
5. Glue your cut tube on top of the cardboard in the shape of a spacecraft, and let it dry.
1. Lay a toilet
4. Trace the bottom of a toilet paper tube on top of another. Then cut out the round shape.
paper tube on top of a piece of cardboard. Trace it.
6. Color or paint your spacecraft. You can also decorate it with stickers. Place a small toy inside and go for a ride. Tell a story about where you’re going!
TinkerActive Workbooks cover essential skills using curriculum-based exercises and interactive tinkering, making, and engineering activities using common household materials!
Odd Dot An imprint of Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group
The Active Way to learn through play AVAILABLE WHEREVER BOOKS ARE SOLD
METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / JANUARY 2020 17
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Private Schools
St. Mary’s Episcopal School 505 E. Covell Rd., Edmond 405-341-9541, www.smesedmond.org 30 months-5th grade Open House on Feb. 11.
The school’s purpose is to foster an education that develops each student academically while providing a values-centered, character-building education to prepare each student to live a creative and compassionate life, worthy of a child of God. Westminster School 600 N.W. 44th St. 405-524-0631, www.westminsterschool.org Grades PreK3-8th Founded in 1963, Westminster is an independent, coeducational school for students from PreK3-8th grade.
Their mission is to educate children by engaging them actively in experiences that challenge students to solve problems as cooperative, confident and responsible learners. Their goal is for each student to graduate as confident and connected people who think well, work hard and work well with others.
Wildflower: An Acton Academy N.W. Oklahoma City 405-451-3450 www.wildfloweracton.com Ages 4-11 The school employs learner-
driven, Socratic methods to teach students how to be independent, lifelong learners. Affiliated with Acton Academy. Opens Fall 2020.
YMCA Child Development Center Edward L. Gaylord Downtown YMCA
1 N.W. 4th St. 405-297-7760 ymcaokc.org/children-youth/child-development-center Grades PreK and kindergarten
The center specializes in encouraging a child’s natural desire to learn. Developmentally-appropriate activities help grow children emotionally, socially, spiritually and intellectually. A language program and swim lessons are offered. Financial assistance available.
Gardner Hale (American, 1894–1931). Triumph of Washington (detail), 1931. Oil on canvas. Oklahoma City Museum of Art. Gift of D. Wigmore Fine Art, 2017.070
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The Catholic Schools of the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City
All Saints Catholic School 4001 36th Ave. N.W., Norman 405-447-4600 www.allsaintsnorman.org Grades PreK-8th Open House on Jan. 26, 1-3pm. This school’s mission is to teach
Cristo Rey Oklahoma City Catholic High School 900 N. Portland Ave. 405-945-9100 www.cristoreyokc.org Grades 9th-11th
Shadow day visits and tours available.
children to know, love and serve God through academic pursuits and service to others. It received recognition as a National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence by the U.S. Department of Education in 2007.
Designed for young women and men of all faiths and limited financial means, this new school integrates rigorous college- preparatory academics, professional work experiences through a unique Corporate Work Study Program and spiritual development to empower graduates to succeed in college and life.
Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School 801 N.W. 50th St. 405-842-6638
Holy Trinity Catholic School Missouri & N. 2nd St., Okarche 405-263-4422 www.holytrinityok.org Grades PreK3-8th This school provides small classes, excellent teachers and strong technology at each grade level within a Catholic faith- formation environment. Steve Lykes is the principal. Call for tours.
www.bmchs.org Grades 9th-12th Shadow visits & tours available. Bishop McGuinness High School is a coeducational college- preparatory institution with a diverse student body, dedicated to the development of the whole person.
Mount St. Mary Catholic High School 2801 S. Shartel Ave. 405-631-8865 www.mountstmary.org Grades 9th-12th Shadow visits and tours available. This school provides a college-preparatory, coeducational Catholic education with a diverse student body and a variety of clubs, organizations, fine arts and athletics.
Catholic School of St. Eugene 2400 W. Hefner Rd. 405-751-0067 www.steugeneschool.org Grades PreK3-8th Open House on Jan. 26, 2-5pm.
Located in the heart of The Village, St. Eugene is a school rich in tradition, achievement and diversity. The school
excels in nurturing children and fostering a love of learning, family and Christ. Contact the Eagle Ambassador for a tour at eagleinfo@ steugeneschool.org.
Rosary Catholic School 1919 N.W. 18th St. 405-525-9272 www.rosaryschool.com Grades PreK3-8th
Christ the King Catholic School 1905 Elmhurst Ave. 405-843-3909 www.ckschool.com Grades PreK3-8th Open House on Jan. 26, 1:30-3pm.
Open House on Jan. 26, 11am-2pm. A state accredited school, Rosary promotes a strong foundation based on faith, education and culture. Classes are designed to challenge the students to attain their full potential and develop a true sense of self-esteem.
Christ the King Catholic School is committed to upholding the Catholic faith and tradition and, in partnership with families, helping students develop academically for a life of faith, integrity and service.
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Catholic Schools
St. Charles Borromeo Catholic School 5000 N. Grove St. 405-789-0224, www.stcharlesokc.org Grades PreK3-8th Open House on Feb. 9, 2-3:30pm.
St. Charles Borromeo maintains a high standard of academics both in curricula as well as achievement. Equally important is the Catholic faith, which means the school is Christ-centered and focused on prayer and living in faith to enact the church’s social teachings.
St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic School 925 S. Boulevard, Edmond 405-348-5364, www.stelizabethedmond.org Grades PreK3-8th Open House on Jan. 26, 1-3pm.
This school’s education program is rooted in the values of love, respect and justice for every individual and form of life existing in God’s creation.
Horsin’ Around January 4 10:00 a.m. – Noon Horses have long been an important element of Western lifestyles. Celebrate these majestic animals with horse-related crafts, storytelling and a showing of Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron . Pinch Pots February 1 10:00 a.m. – Noon Learn the fun pottery technique “pinching” while creating a pot of your own and listening to Caddo potter Chase Earles.
St. James Catholic School 1224 S.W. 41st 405-636-6810, www.stjamesokc.com Grades PreK3-8th Open House on Jan. 26, noon-2pm.
This school provides a diverse community that focuses on excellence in faith formation, academics and service to others.
St. John Nepomuk Catholic School 600 Garth Brooks Blvd., Yukon 405-354-2509, www.sjnok.org/school Grades PreK3-8th Call for Open House date. Open to children of all faiths, this school provides
a program that grows the whole child. Their mission is to provide each student with tools to become a just, good, respectful, trustworthy and loving person who is at an academic level to compete and achieve in high school and beyond.
St. Philip Neri Catholic School 1121 Felix Pl., Midwest City 405-274-9685, www.stphilipnerischool.com Grades PreK3-8th Open House on Jan. 26, 12:15-2pm.
#MyWest
Students find success in science and engineering fairs, receiving top honors at both the state and national levels,
and the dedicated staff have been recognized by various organizations. A variety of sports, electives and extracurricular activities are offered such as art, music, photography, computer, Spanish and yearbook. The mission of the school is to promote charity, humility and excellence through a Christ-centered education.
nationalcowboymuseum.org/kids 1700 Northeast 63rd Street Oklahoma City, OK 73111 Mon – Sat, 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Sun, Noon – 5:00 p.m.
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Free with Museum admission. Available while supplies last.
Miscellaneous
Artsy Learning Center 1215 36th Ave. N.W., Norman 405-343-4064 www.artsylearningcenter.com Open Houses on Jan. 25, 10am and March 28, 10am.
Goldfish Swim School – Edmond 10 N.W. 146th St., Edmond
405-696-7500, www.goldfishswimschool.com This swim instruction school believes every child should know the basics of water safety,
offering a special 20-minute W.A.T.E.R. safety presentation to children ages 3-7 at schools, daycare centers, churches and other facilities for FREE. This come-to-you, entertaining and educational presentation includes a visit from Goldfish’s mascot Bubbles. The program introduces the concept and importance of water safety, ideas to avoid potential dangers in and around the water and more. To schedule a W.A.T.E.R. safety presentation at your organization, email Kristy Blew at edmondmarketing@goldfishss.com.
The center offers homeschool classes for reading and math for kindergarten and first graders and provides art enrichment for grades PreK-6th.
Artsy Rose Academy 7739 W. Hefner Rd. 405-603-8550 www.artsyrose.com This art studio offers an assortment of art activities for homeschool students, kids
OKCPHIL 424 Colcord Dr., Ste. B 405-232-7575 www.okcphil.org/education
The OKCPHIL provides inspiration and joy through orchestral music for children in the OKC area. They offer several free school programs with curriculum provided through classroom teachers. Teachers are encouraged to explore these options early as they are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Families can also enjoy three affordable Discovery Series concerts, each specifically designed for ages 4-13 and held at the Civic Center Music Hall. A fun hour of hands-on projects in the lobby is held prior to each concert.
ages 5 and older and adults. On Mondays from 4:15-5:15pm, the Academy offers enrichment for ages 5-15. Students work with all mediums (oil pastels, clay, colored pencils, paints, etc.) and methods (painting, sculpting, drawing, collage, etc.) throughout the semester. Each week is a new adventure. Each lesson is $15.
EPIC Charter Schools 1900 N.W. Expressway, Floor R3 405-749-4550 www.epiccharterschools.org Grades PreK-12th As the state’s largest public virtual charter school, EPIC offers an individualized one-
Tutoring by Gail Moss, M.Ed N. OKC, Edmond, Deer Creek areas 405-285-7450 gmoss101@hotmail.com Experienced teacher Gail Moss offers beginning reading, writing and math tutoring for grades K-6th. She is a learning disabilities specialist with special expertise in dyslexia. References available.
Tutoring
Learning Disability Specialist
on-one virtual charter option for students throughout the state and a blended learning option for students in Oklahoma and Tulsa counties. Call to schedule an appointment.
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