Welcome to the Wildcat Family

Every one of us has a first job story. I’d like you to think back to your very first day at that first job.

You probably don’t remember the quiet knot in your stomach, that unfamiliar space and the underlying questions: “Where is the bathroom and do I fit in here?” Now, imagine a friendly face stepping up to offer a warm welcome, showing you the ropes and taking a genuine interest in your success. That single act of support changes everything. It turns hesitation into confidence, allowing a newcomer not just to survive, but to truly flourish.

As we kick off a fresh school year in Ponca City, we are welcoming 38 new teachers into our Wildcat family. These talented men and women chose Ponca City Public Schools because they believe in our kids and want to make a lasting difference. They are stepping into our classrooms ready to pour their energy, wisdom and hearts into the 4,200 students who walk through our doors every day.

If we want our schools and Ponca City to thrive, we must be the people who choose to help them flourish.

It is no secret that public education often finds itself under a microscope today. On social media, where the loudest, most negative voices tend to grab the microphone, it can be easy to lose sight of reality. State and national narratives suggest that public schools are focused on political agendas or indoctrination. But here in Ponca City, that couldn’t be further from the truth.

Our mission is simple, transparent and grounded in Ponca City values: we are in the business of pouring knowledge into Ponca City’s children so they can have the best possible start to life.

Every morning our dedicated educators walk into classrooms to teach reading, math, critical thinking, problem-solving and character. They coach teams, direct bands/orchestras, sponsor clubs and offer a safe, encouraging environment where children know they matter. As we continue developing our long-range strategic plan for the district (projected to conclude in November 2026), our ultimate goal remains focused on transparency, continuous improvement and deep accountability to the parents and community members who entrust us with your children.

I often get asked if I’ve viewed some negative story online or someone’s “constructive feedback.” I have to pause sometimes and remind myself that building public trust isn’t done through online debates; it’s built in the daily, quiet work of community partnerships. It happens when an employer hosts a Wildcat intern student, when a local business sponsors a school through our Partners in Education program or when someone simply offers a kind word of encouragement to a teacher pulling into the Walmart parking lot.

With 14,000 followers on our social channels, we know Ponca City cares deeply about our schools. This September, I challenge each of us to turn that interest into intentional support. Please help me in welcoming our 38 new educators when you see them around Ponca City. Ask a Wildcat what they are excited to learn this week. Speak life and pride into our Wildcat community.

When a community takes an active, positive interest in its schools, our teachers flourish, our public trust strengthens and most importantly, our 4,200 students win. Let’s make this school year our best one yet.

Thank you, Ponca City!

Adam Leaming