When stepping into a new role, the natural first question people often ask is: What are your first priorities? The truth is that priorities rarely show up neatly packaged and ready to go. In fact, the first task is to learn from and listen to the people who already understand the history of the work being done.
This has been my focus during the last two months. In that time, I have spoken with teachers, administrators and staff across every department in our school. I have been learning how the intricacy of systems work together to support the state’s largest virtual charter school and the 31,500 students and families we serve.
Epic Charter Schools is a large and complex organization sustained by a talented group of people who care deeply about our mission to provide a tailored, highquality educational experience. Epic’s story won’t be rewritten overnight. Time and understanding, though, will get the job done.
What has become clearest to me is that Epic’s strength is and always has been its people. Our learning model was born from Oklahoma families’ need for school to be different - meeting them where they are continues to define who we are.
There is important and meaningful work happening at Epic. Our job - each of us- is to support that work, align it and keep it focused on what matters most: increasing student outcomes and overall success.
Sixty days is nowhere long enough to draw sweeping conclusions about the future. It is enough time, though, to recognize the dedication of our families, teachers and staff who show up every day for our students.
I am grateful for the patience and time that have been extended to me while I’ve been learning.
And so the learning continues because understanding Epic well is the key to leading it well.
In service,
Dr. Shaun Ross
EPIC VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS
Letters2Heroes Letters2Heroes Letters2Heroes
HONORING MONTH OF THE MILITARY CHILD
APRIL 1 - APRIL 30
Everyone’s Participation Matters!
Epic Charter Schools is proud to partner with our families in a meaningful outreach project to support our military personnel currently deployed overseas. This is a wonderful opportunity for our entire school community (students, families and staff) to come together and make a real difference.
While we may not know the challenges our service members face each day, we do know that they serve and protect with courage and dedication. A simple note of thanks or encouragement can remind them that their service is seen, appreciated and valued.
We encourage everyone to take a few minutes to write a letter or note. Those few moments of kindness can have a powerful impact and truly brighten someone’s day. Your words matter, and together we can show our deployed military members that they are appreciated.
You can drop off your letters at any Epic microsite or send them to letters2heroes@epiccharterschools.org.
Thank you for helping Epic Charter Schools make this outreach project meaningful and impactful through your participation.
We’re a thinking of you!
From, Jamie
Hi Soldier, My name is Jamie. I just wanted for everything you do. I hope this le er makes you smile.
SPRING ALLERGY SEASON IS ON THE WAY
Warmer weather is coming, and so is allergy season. Help your child manage symptoms so they can enjoy the season:
• Check pollen counts before outdoor activities. Allergy Reports Archive | Oklahoma Allergy and Asthma Clinic
• Close windows on high pollen days to keep allergens out.
• Wash up after playing outside— clothes, face, and hands.
• Be prepared – Make sure allergy medications and school forms are up to date.
Questions?
Jessica Jones, BSN, RN School Health & Services Coordinator
healthservices@epiccharterschools.org
FROM EPIC TO THE ER
Hailey Cannon’s impressive path to nursing
At 16, Hailey Cannon earned her associate degree.
At 17, she completed her bachelor’s degree in nursing.
At 18, she passed her boards and became the youngest registered nurse in Oklahoma.
These points on Haley’s timeline are matters of plain fact. The ambition behind it all is anything but plain.
Also a fact: she didn’t just stumble into nursing. For her, it was something she’d always been ready for.
“I’ve always wanted to go into the medical field,” Hailey said, “but nursing just called to me.”
She said nursing is all about proximity, which separates it from other roles in the field.
“I really see nursing as very patient-focused,” she said, adding that nurses are often the first ones to notice subtle changes in patients. “I love the one-on-one interactions. I am the first line in patient care. I am an advocate for the patient, as well. I’m really just there with them throughout their health journey.”
When she speaks of holding the hands of someone who is scared or in pain, or of being at the bedside of someone in need of more than a surgery or a prescription, it’s easy to see that nursing is more than just a profession for Hailey.
For her, presence matters most.
Being the youngest RN in the state has earned Hailey deserved admiration. It’s also earned her more than her fair share of challenges.
“I typically don’t tell people my age for fear of the stigma,” she said. “I’ve really tried to
prove that I’m a capable adult, that I’m a capable nurse.”
She said that whether 18 or 26, it’s the competence that matters most, something she takes great pride in. Taking on so much responsibility at such a young age is something she saw as a challenge, not something to fear.
“I was very eager to start the program, and very eager to become a nurse,” she said with the quiet confidence of someone who has always known what their trajectory would be.
Hailey joined Epic in the 9th grade. By 16, she had completed her associate degree via Epic Collegiate Academy, a model that allows students to take dual-credit classes instead of just high school courses.
She said it was this structure that played a key role in getting to where she is now.
“Epic really put me on that path and gave me the resources to succeed,” she said.
As someone who succeeded at accelerated learning, it’s not hard to see how she was able to get accepted to a one-year BSN program at one of the nation’s top nursing schools: Kramer School of Nursing at Oklahoma City University.
Kramer has consistently ranked among the top 200 schools of its kind nationally (out of approximately 3,000). Its highly competitive program accepts only about 50 students a year. In short, graduating from Kramer is a big deal in the nursing field.
“I’ve had people literally come up to me multiple times and say, ‘You’re from Kramer? We love their nurses!’” Hailey said.
Hailey’s sister, Emma, is following the exact path. In fact, once Kramer became aware that Hailey’s sister would also be applying, they were very eager to give her a seat.
“They were talking about her before she’d even applied,” said Hailey’s mother, Janna, of her daughter Emma. “Once they realized the type of students Epic produced, they were so eager to take Emma, and she was at the top of the list.”
Hailey now works at OU Medical Center in Oklahoma City, but her first day in clinicals, like many nurses, was in a nursing home.
“It was a little bit chaotic at first,” she said, “but I just sort of grew to fit that vibe.”
She plans to begin her career in what’s called med-surg, a broad discipline common among new nurses. Eventually, she wants to move into ER or ICU nursing, with the ultimate goal of becoming a nurse practitioner with her own clinic.
As one might guess, her path doesn’t stop in Oklahoma.
In May, she heads to Cusco, Peru, to embark on a mission trip to serve communities without regular access to healthcare.
“Many of the places I’ll be are high up in the mountains or deep in the jungle,” she said, “and they just don’t have access to the resources to meet their medical needs.”
A self-proclaimed hobbyist, she recently learned to play the ukulele.
“My hobby is collecting hobbies,” she said.
If you had to sum up Hailey Cannon in a few words, these would be a very good start:
“I just love learning,” she said.
EPIC CONTINUES TO ‘GOT TALENT’
Wrapping up its third year, students are still the stars of the show
For the third year, Epic Charter Schools hosted Epic’s Got Talent and Art Show, which brings students from all over Oklahoma to prove one thing: school talent doesn’t need a traditional classroom to thrive.
According to Shannon George, a family engagement specialist at Epic, parent data has consistently been used to strengthen and improve on the previous year’s event. This practice has resulted in significant growth, which means expansion.
This year, for the first time, the event was divided into two separate showcases - one for K-8 and the other for 9th-12th - allowing for more stage and exhibition space for more students to share their talents.
In all, 26 performers and 65 student artists participated in this year’s event. This included an array of vocalists, instrumentalists, dancers, original pieces and a gallery-style art show, where students both displayed their work and met face-to-face with guests.
This is far more than just entertainment, George said.
“We truly have an incredible amount of talent at Epic that often goes unseen in a virtual setting,” George said. “This event gives students a meaningful platform to share their gifts.”
Further, George said, because Epic is not a brick-and-mortar-only school, rehearsal time is rare. So much so that the entire
Epic’s Got Talent show doesn’t actually get rehearsed … until the day of.
“That really would make many educators nervous,” she said, “but Epic is different.”
Each year, Sean Ridenour and his videographers have covered the event, recording hours of video and audio, along
with hundreds of still shots, all of which capture the history and heart of Epic.
Epic’s multimedia production coordinator pointed out that the event’s talent continues to improve each year. He also called out some of the night’s standouts, including operaist Ella Maliszewski, and Sydney Williams’ animated short about the value of our differences.
He also singled out his co-host for the event, Harrison Favero.
“He just has a knack for being an emcee,” Ridenour said.
As for the future, if things keep on track, Epic’s Got Talent and Art Show is on its way to - just maybe - changing someone’s life.
“I look forward to the event growing each year and hope to see the next big star get their start at Epic’s Got Talent,” Ridenour said.
Judah Brown
Tanner Jenkins
Victoria Biederman
Oliver Clyde
Owen Terry
CELEBRATING NATIONAL MERIT SCHOLAR FINALISTS
We are thrilled to share the exciting news that five of our outstanding students have been named National Merit Scholar Finalists, a remarkable achievement that reflects years of hard work, dedication and academic excellence. The five are: Victoria Biederman, Judah Brown, Owen Terry, Tanner Jenkins and Oliver Clyde.
Becoming a National Merit Scholar Finalists is no small accomplishment. This distinction places our student among the top 1% of high school scholars in the nation, recognized for exceptional performance on the PSAT/NMSQT and for maintaining an extraordinary academic record. Behind this honor are countless hours of studying, a commitment to learning, perseverance through challenges and an unwavering drive to achieve personal bests.
What makes this recognition even more meaningful is the character and determination that have defined their journey. Achievements like this are not simply earned through talent alone. They are built on resilience, focus and the courage to aim high.
We are incredibly proud of all that these five students have accomplished. Their success inspires peers, honors the support of teachers and family, and highlights what is possible through dedication and self-belief. This milestone is not just a celebration of academic success, but of the bright future that lies ahead.
Please join us in congratulating our National Merit Scholar Finalists on this extraordinary achievement. We look forward to cheering them on as they continue to pursue their goals and make a positive impact in the world.
COLLEGE ADVISING PATHWAY
Announcements
College and Career Advisors are meeting with students in grades 8-12 to complete their Individual Career and Academic Plans (ICAPs).
Students can locate their College & Career Advisor (CCA) to discuss the ICAP by logging in to their student account. The student’s CCA is listed at the top of the student page.
Students’ ICAP requirements must be completed with their CCA by May 1. Students should email their CCA if their ICAP is not complete.
COLLEGE PATHWAY
TEL
TEL auto-withdrawal is Monday, March 9.
All TEL students must have the midterm completed by 8 a.m. on that date in order to stay enrolled in the classes. Contact Angie Lee with any questions.
ECA
Epic Collegiate Academy applications open Fall 2026 Epic Collegiate Academy applications are open now! If you are a current 8th-, 9th- or 10th-grader who would like to earn a significant amount of college credit at no out-of-pocket cost, please apply now! Click here for the application form.
Area College
Area Concurrent Enrollment Students, please ensure you have provided your teacher with your college schedule so they can schedule your concurrent courses on your Epic schedule, per Step 4 of the Steps to Apply and Enroll Resource. Failure to do so may result in a delay in your concurrent grade finalization at the end of the semester.
Additionally, please make sure you follow the required steps to have your available Learning Funds applied to your concurrent bill, as you have an action step. Click here for more information.
College Planning
If you’re a high school junior with big college dreams, QuestBridge’s College Prep Scholars Program is a great place to start.
QuestBridge is a national nonprofit that connects high-achieving students from low-income backgrounds with top colleges and universities. The College Prep Scholars Program helps students build confidence, learn about the college application process, and gain early access to selective colleges looking for talented students like you.
The application includes a short writing exercise and questions about activities, with no essays or recommendations required. Students are selected based on academic achievement, financial circumstances, and personal qualities.
Click here to learn more about the program and to apply. The deadline to apply is March 24.
College Planning &
Financial
Aid: What Rising Seniors Need to Know
Epic Charter Schools’ 11th-grade students and their families are invited to attend a virtual session covering the college planning process as students prepare for senior year. Learn what steps to take now and over the summer, what to expect during senior year, key application deadlines, and the basics of financial aid and scholarships, including Oklahoma’s Promise and FAFSA. No registration required.
March 25 at 11 a.m. via Zoom.
Two Events, One Location: Senior Day & College and Career Awards Ceremony Information
We are excited to celebrate our graduating seniors! Please note that the following are two separate events. They will be held at the same location and during overlapping times for your convenience.
Senior Day (All Graduating Seniors – No Registration Required)
May 5 from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Glenpool Convention Center 12205 S Yukon Ave., Glenpool, OK 74033
May 6 | 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Epic Charter Schools (OKC) 1900 NW Expressway, R3, Oklahoma City, OK 73118
Senior Day is open to all graduating high school seniors. Students may:
• Purchase caps and gowns (Herff Jones).
• Pick up honor cords, stoles, and medals.
• Take senior photos (Grand Life Photography).
• Return school assets (if finished with requirements).
No registration is required for Senior Day.
College & Career Awards Ceremony (Registration Required by April 23)
This ceremony is specifically for seniors who have earned one or more of the following:
• Institutional or CareerTech scholarship.
• Epic Collegiate Academy Associate Degree or Plus One completion.
• 30 or more concurrent college credits.
• CareerTech certification.
• Virtual Internship certification.
• Military enlistment.
If you qualify and would like to be recognized, you must complete the registration survey here by April 23. Students, if you are awarded further recognition after you have already submitted your registration survey, email micah.burk@epiccharterschools.org, and she will update your registration. This survey serves as your RSVP. After submitting, you will receive additional event details by email.
Scholarships
As we approach the midpoint of the spring semester, here are a few key reminders to keep you on track:
8th-11th Grade: Don’t miss out on Oklahoma’s Promise! This program covers college tuition for eligible students. Learn more and apply here.
12th Grade: FAFSA or Opt-Out Form REQUIRED to Graduate! To ensure a smooth transition, submit your FAFSA or Opt-Out Form by April 30. Start your FAFSA application or complete your Opt Out Form today!
Need help? Contact Micah Burk at: micah.burk@epiccharterschools.org.
Dates to Remember
Show Me the Money: Finalizing Your College Funding Plan | March 25 | 10 a.m.10:45 a.m. Zoom
College Planning & Financial Aid: What Rising Seniors Need to Know | March 25 | 11 a.m.-noon. | Zoom
CAREER PATHWAY
Work-Based Learning/Internship
Not Your Average Joe - Paid Work-Based Learning Opportunities! The company’s mission is to inspire our community by including students and adults with Intellectual, developmental and physical disabilities in the creation of exceptional coffee in an encouraging atmosphere.
Career Pathway Training: Goodwill Central Oklahoma’s mission is clear. We help Oklahomans overcome employment challenges. Goodwill works to enhance people’s dignity and quality of life by strengthening their communities, eliminating their barriers to opportunity, and helping them reach their full potential. Every service we provide works toward fulfilling that goal, whether it’s serving individuals with disabilities or those who need a second chance. We meet individuals where they’re at to provide them with the training and skills they need to get on the path to a successful career.
Work-Based Learning Course Workshops:
Students enrolled in Work-Based Learning/ Work Study or Internship courses are invited to join a student assignment workshop! These workshops are available for students who need or want a little extra support while working through their assignments. Time will be spent working on one or more assignments in a collaborative Zoom session where students can ask questions and receive immediate support as they work.
Virtual Internship Program
Sophomores and Juniors: Are you already looking forward to the next academic year? Are you thinking about the electives you’d like to take and how to find one that is essential for your success? The Epic Virtual Internship Program teaches valuable skills to prepare students for their next step after high school. It is an environment where students experience hands-on, careeressential learning that prepares them to enter the workforce. There are two tracks for the Virtual Internship Class.
CareerTech
Admission Decisions & What’s Next
March is a key month in the CareerTech process. Many technology centers begin releasing admission decisions in late March or early April, and students may start receiving emails or letters regarding acceptance, waitlist status, or next steps.
Here’s what to know:
Admission Notifications
Admission decisions are sent directly by the technology center. Students should regularly check the email address used on their application.
Responses may include:
• Acceptance
• Waitlist placement
• Requests for additional information
If Your Student Is Accepted
Review all communication carefully. Follow any instructions regarding confirmations, enrollment paperwork or orientation.
If
Your Student Is Waitlisted or Not Accepted
Waitlists can move as students accept or decline seats. Some technology centers may offer additional opportunities or alternative programs.
Please reach out to Epic CareerTech Specialist Hadley Miller (hadley.miller@ epiccharterschools.org) with any questions. Transition Services
Graduating Students
Are you planning to graduate this spring? Transition Services is here to support you as you prepare for your next steps. Whether you’re exploring college, training programs, a job or the military, guidance is available to help you move forward with confidence.
1:1 Appointments
Schedule a personalized meeting to:
• Explore post-graduation options.
• Get help with resumes, applications, or interviews.
• Create a post-graduation plan.
Book your appointment today: Click here to schedule
Learn how to job search with purpose. We’ll cover where to find real opportunities and tools to make the process smoother. Sign up in advance for a calendar invitation reminder!
Prepare U: Time Management for Work & School | March 10 | 5 p.m. | Zoom
Discover practical strategies to manage your time effectively and balance school, work, and personal commitments. Sign up in advance for a calendar invitation reminder!
Prepare U: How to Create a Resume | March 26 | 6 p.m. | Zoom
Whether you’re starting from scratch or updating an old version, learn what employers are looking for and how to make your resume stand out. Sign up in advance for a calendar invitation reminder!
Stay connected with all the exciting opportunities happening at Epic. From upcoming events to unique field trips, our Event and Field Trips page is your go-to resource for what’s next. Visit the page regularly to stay informed and make sure you don’t miss a chance to be part of the experiences that bring our school community together.
Epic Charter Schools is once again making a meaningful difference!
As part of our ongoing commitment to serve, we are excited to share details about our 2026 Diapers & Wipes Drive, taking place March 1 through April 10. Diapers and wipes can be dropped off at any Epic microsite or facility, making it easy for everyone to participate.
Many of our families face real and ongoing needs. Whether you grab an extra box during your next store run or use the Amazon link below to ship items directly to Epic, every donation makes a difference. These simple essentials provide comfort and support to families who need it most.
Thank you for your generosity and for helping our Epic community. Together, we can do amazing things!
Epic Charter Schools is thrilled to announce the 3rd Annual Kindergarten Graduations, returning on multiple dates, times, and locations for your convenience. This beloved event has become one of the highlights of our school year.
To make sure your kindergarten student has a spot to participate, please register them for one ceremony at the location most convenient for you. Registration is required due to limited space.
We ask that you limit your registration to the kindergarten student and a maximum of 8 guests. You’re welcome to check back closer to the event to see if additional tickets become available.
Lawton-Thursday, April 2 at 2 p.m.
Oklahoma City-Friday, April 10, 11 a.m., 2 p.m. and 6 p.m.
Tulsa- Tuesday, April 14 at 11 a.m., 2 p.m. and 6 p.m.
Durant-Tuesday, April 21 at 1 p.m.
More detailed information in the registration links regarding the event details, such as agenda, attire and location. You can choose from the following locations: Please register to secure your spot. You can register easily by clicking on the links below.
Tulsa
Saturday, May 23, 2026
12:00 pm & 5:00 pm
University of Tulsa
Donald W. Reynolds Center 3208 East 8th Street Tulsa, OK 74104
Saturday, May 30, 2026
12:00 pm & 5:00 pm
University of Oklahoma
Lloyd Noble Center 2900 South Jenkins Avenue Norman, OK 73019
DON’T MISS OUT ON EPIC’S FREE VISION SCREENINGS!
Free vision screenings are available to all Epic Charter Schools students in Oklahoma. Early detection matters—schedule your child’s no-cost screening today.
March 12
OKC I-35 South Microsite
Times: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Register Here
March 12
Tulsa Logan Building
Times: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Register Here
UPCOMING DAYS SCHOOL PICTURE
Dates and Locations
MARCH 5
11 a.m. – 2p.m.
3810 S 103rd Ave East Tulsa, OK 74146
APRIL 13
11 a.m. – 2p.m.
1900 NW Expressway, Floor R3
Oklahoma City, OK 73118
APRIL 16
11 a.m. – 2p.m.
3810 S 103rd Ave East
Tulsa, OK 74146
MAY 5 11 a.m. – 2p.m.
3810 S 103rd Ave East
Tulsa, OK 74146
MAY 6
11 a.m. – 2p.m.
1900 NW Expressway, Floor R3 Oklahoma City, OK 73118
WHEN STUDENTS HIT EMPTY: HOW TO SPOT
BURNOUT AND HELP
BRAINS RECHARGE
Even with the benefit of flexibility, Epic students face heavy demands on attention, memory, and self-regulation. Extended screen time, limited movement, and fewer social cues in remote learning can lead to burnout, emotional exhaustion, low
Signs of Burnout in Virtual Learners
Students may:
• Seem mentally foggy or forgetful.
• Start work but struggle to finish.
• Avoid participation.
• Procrastinate more than usual.
• Feel tired no matter how much they sleep.
Teachers may notice:
• More incomplete or late work.
• Faster drop-off in attention.
• Lower academic energy/stamina.
• Irritability or shutdown behaviors.
Sustained mental effort without breaks reduces working memory and attentional control, a challenge that is amplified in virtual and independent learning settings.
Have students stand, stretch, or look away from screens for 1–3
Keep breaks predictable.
Better reengagement and less zoning out.
Try This #2: Movement to Reset Attention
What it is: Quick physical activity between learning segments.
Why it works: Movement supports executive functioning, attention, and mood (Donnelly et al., 2016; Hillman et al., 2008).
How to use it:
• Two minutes of stretching or marching in place.
• A quick walk or standing task.
Result: Increased alertness, especially later in the day.
Try This #3: Chunk Learning
What it is: Shorter teaching segments with processing pauses.
Why it works: Spacing and chunking improve retention and reduce overload (Cepeda et al., 2006).
How to use it:
• Teach 8–12 minutes.
• Pause for a reflection, poll, or summary.
• Then move on.
Result: Better participation and recall.
Try This #4: Strengthen Connection
What it is: Consistent, low-pressure relationship building.
Why it works: Belonging supports motivation and persistence; disconnection increases exhaustion (Baumeister & Leary, 1995; Fredricks et al., 2004).
How to use it:
• Start with quick check-ins.
• Use partner or small-group discussions.
• Acknowledge effort.
Result: More engagement and less withdrawal.
Try This #5: Teach Students to Start Small
What it is: Helping overwhelmed learners focus on the first tiny step. Why it works: Smaller starting points reduce cognitive load and increase task initiation.
How to use it:
• Say “Complete question 1” instead of “Do the assignment.”
• Provide micro-step checklists.
Result: Less shutdown, more follow-through.
The Bottom Line
Virtual burnout is brain fatigue, not a character flaw. When we reduce overload, increase movement and space learning, and strengthen connections, students regain energy and focus.
Small, consistent adjustments make a real difference.
References and Resources
Ariga, A., & Lleras, A. (2011). Cognition, 118(3), 439–443.
Baumeister, R. F., & Leary, M. R. (1995). Psychological Bulletin, 117(3), 497–529.
Cepeda, N. J., et al. (2006). Psychological Bulletin, 132(3), 354–380.
Donnelly, J. E., et al. (2016). Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, 48(6), 1197–1222.
Fredricks, J. A., et al. (2004). Review of Educational Research, 74(1), 59–109.
Hillman, C. H., et al. (2008). Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 9, 58–65.
In Loving Memory of
Erica Nilsson
Epic has lost an educational giant and an unforgettable friend. Longtime educator and Math+ founder Erica Nilsson passed away following her brave battle with cancer.
Please join us in extending our sincerest condolences to her family and teammates as we commit to cherishing the legacy of someone who changed the lives of so many others.
HOPE YOU HAD A BLAST, THANK YOU FOR READING. THE ORBIT WILL BE BACK NEXT MONTH WITH MORE OF WHAT’S HAPPENING AROUND YOU AT EPIC!
