WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE A CHAMPION FOR KIDS?

In keeping with our Summer Leadership Conference theme, we asked these CCOSA award-winners to share their answers to this critical question.

Melisa Kifer

As a special educator and administrator, I champion our students every day! This means that their needs are first and foremost in what I do. Our students living with disabilities have needs that are vast and unique to their circumstances. The education of students can look very different for our students. It may not always be fully focused on academics. Our special education teachers and staff take great pride in learning everything about their students necessary to ensure they have a safe and productive learning environment each and every day. This means coordinating many different team members as we create individualized plans for each student. My journey began as a special education teacher in the classroom. My kids filled a special place in my heart and will always be “my kids.” In my present role as an administrator, I can now work with our teachers and staff to problem solve and provide what they need day to day to champion their kids. This is an incredibly challenging job that fills every part of my being with joy and pride. I start my day by reflecting and praying for guidance to be the leader our staff and students need!

Melisa Kifer, the Executive

Director

of Special Services for Stillwater Public Schools, is the ODSS Special Services Director of the Year.

Ashley Mackey

“Being a champion for kids means advocating for their best interests, supporting their growth, and ensuring they have the resources and opportunities to succeed. As school leaders, we are privileged to work directly and indirectly with all students to make a significant impact. Ensuring our students have the pathway to success means that we, as leaders, are intentional with teacher support, ensuring all classrooms are safe learning environments and advocating for funding to provide various experiences.

A champion for kids listens to students’ needs, encourages a growth mindset, and is the biggest cheerleader for all students, no matter their goals. As educators, we are responsible for being positive role models and proving that we can be resilient, make an impact, and succeed. Ultimately, it’s about making a meaningful difference in their lives and helping them become confident and successful individuals.”

Ashley Mackey was an Assistant Principal at Deer Creek High School for two years before becoming Principal this past July. In fall 2023, she was named OASSP Assistant Principal of the Year.

Arlis Henegar

“Being a champion for kids means advocating tirelessly for their well-being, growth, and success. It involves creating a supportive environment where each child feels valued and empowered to reach their full potential. We must actively listen, understand their diverse needs, and ensure equitable opportunities for learning and development. It also means fostering a culture of respect, kindness, and inclusion, where every voice is heard and every achievement celebrated. Furthermore, being a champion for kids means leading by example, inspiring educators and stakeholders to prioritize the best interests of students above all else, and making decisions that positively impact their lives both in and out of the classroom.”

Arlis Henegar has been the Principal at Jay Middle School for the past eight years and was recently named OMLEA’s Principal of the Year.

Ashley Hoggatt

“As the early childhood leaders at D.D. Kirkland, not only have we have been given an opportunity to educate our students, we have been given the opportunity to serve and support the parents of our students too! We know that being a champion for students means championing the whole family.”

Lynn Cordes

“Being a champion for kids is not just a slogan or a statement. It means much more to me as an administrator, educator, and parent. My past experiences and fortitude to push through challenges and obstacles set the path to this opportunity I have as an administrator today. To be a champion for kids means fighting for the possibilities and ensuring our students believe that they are capable of achieving their goals and aspirations no matter their circumstances or situation.

To be a champion means to never settle for average, to understand that what got me here is not what will keep me here. To achieve excellence, you must expect excellence. Students who know you believe in their excellence will not let their past experiences depict their next chapter. They, too, will believe in the possible.

Ashley Hoggatt, Principal at D.D. Kirkland Elementary in Putnam City Schools, is the OAESP Principal of the Year.

I have had many champions in my life who believed in me as a student and as an educator. I want to continue to make them proud because without their support and encouragement, I would not be where I am today. As a champion for kids, I am committed to the grind of setting our students up for success and creating opportunities that never existed before. It is an honor to serve my district, our students and community members, and the state of Oklahoma.”

Lynn Cordes, Executive Director of Communications for Lawton Public Schools, was recently named one of two OASA Assistant Superintendent/ Central Office Administrators of the Year.

Joe Ballard

“Being a champion for kids goes beyond academics, activities, and athletics; it’s about creating an environment for all kids to be successful. As the principal at Poteau High School, I must ensure we provide those experiences through programs that encourage inclusivity and support. A champion listens, advocates, and ensures every child feels valued. A school that is a champion for kids addresses diverse needs, demonstrating that education is not one-size-fits-all. It’s about creating safe and supportive environments where students can excel emotionally, socially, and academically. Champions for Kids should also serve as role models, inspiring students to reach their potential and believe in their abilities, as well as educators who will always believe in them no matter the boundaries or obstacles that may stand in the way! This approach will help produce a strong culture, school, and community that will ensure a future generation of stakeholders. We must stick with our mission that every child has the opportunity to succeed, and when they graduate from Poteau they will be college or career-ready. Go, Pirates!”

Joe Ballard has served as Principal of Poteau High School for the past nine years. In April, he was named OASSP High School Principal of the Year.

Dr. LaShonda Broiles

“As an educator, being a champion for kids means embodying a relentless commitment to their growth, well-being, and success. It involves advocating for each student’s unique needs, ensuring they have the resources, support, and encouragement necessary to thrive academically and personally. A true champion for kids recognizes the potential in every child. We tirelessly nurture it through differentiated instruction, building meaningful relationships, or fostering an inclusive and safe learning environment. This role requires educators to be not just teachers but mentors, role models, and unwavering supporters who believe in the limitless possibilities within each student.

Moreover, being a champion for kids means leading by example and continuously striving to improve as an educator. It involves reflecting on one’s practices, seeking out professional development opportunities, and most importantly, staying informed about the latest educational research. This commitment to staying informed ensures that educators are providing the best possible instruction. It also means listening to students, understanding their challenges, and advocating for systemic changes that benefit all children. Ultimately, a champion for kids is an educator who goes beyond the classroom, impacting students’ lives in lasting ways and empowering them to achieve their fullest potential.”

Dr. Lashonda Broiles, a 25-year educator, is the Deputy Superintendent for Midwest City-Del City Public Schools. She was recently named one of two OASA Assistant Superintendent/Central Office Administrators of the Year. ■