By Jeff Knapp
May 24, 2004
"The need for technical education in today's world is paramount," states Western Heights Public Schools Superintendent Joe Kitchens. "Very few jobs are available, anymore, that do not have some type of hands-on application. Francis Tuttle's proactive expansion will allow more students to enter the workplace ahead of their competition in high demand fields, while the data shows that the majority will continue their education or seek employment as productive, tax-paying citizens."
Francis Tuttle Technology Center will build a third campus to expand services to the southern and western portion of the district-primarily Western Heights, Putnam City West and Putnam City (Original) schools. Focus groups conducted over the last several months have indicated a strong need for programs in closer proximity to those areas.
Dr. Melani Mouse, Putnam City Schools Director of Secondary Education, said "Our district has a strong partnership with Francis Tuttle. We support this new campus wholeheartedly, and as I understand it, this expansion will open some slots on their other campuses."
Putnam City (Original) Principal Dr. Don Wentroth added "We are excited about Francis Tuttle's move to serve students better in the future. This will allow even more to take advantage of their many excellent programs. I can't imagine a citizen being successful in the future without a high school diploma and skills ready to contribute to society."
Francis Tuttle Deputy Superintendent/COO Dr. Tom Friedemann said that capacity is set at the state level to ensure adequate student/teacher ratios for an optimum learning level of the high demand fields taught at Francis Tuttle. "Over the last five years, an average of ninety percent of Francis Tuttle students have left their program with employment in the field they've trained for. Oklahoma employers demand the skills and comprehension that are instilled through the curriculum that they've helped design to ensure a productive and highly qualified workforce."
Putnam City West Principal Dr. Linda Everett commented "Our students look forward to attending Francis Tuttle and learning skills that will help them get jobs or continue to college. With this campus being located so near our school, I anticipate many more students requesting to attend. We are pleased that Francis Tuttle has responded to our needs."
The Francis Tuttle Board of Education approved a plan to enter into an agreement to purchase a site at West Reno and Rockwell Avenues, adjacent to the former Lucent facility. The plan will go before the State Board of Career and Technology Education on Thursday, May 27. Construction is expected to be completed in time to hold classes beginning August 2005.
Edmond Superintendent Dr. David Goin also supports Francis Tuttle's move to accommodate students. "Francis Tuttle adding to their capacity will allow more Edmond students to fill openings at their other two campuses. We fully support this proactive measure."
The Francis Tuttle district is comprised of the Crescent, Deer Creek, Edmond, Millwood, Putnam City and Western Heights Public Schools districts.