RIGHTING THE SHIP
How Michael Flory and his team saved the day
FROM DR. SHAUN
One of the best things about Epic Charter Schools is that every one of our families, students, teachers and staff chose to be here. Each of them decided to join us because they wanted school to be different while still having access to an individually tailored, high-quality education.
In the end, the choices we make are what shape who we are and who we will become. That’s why Epic places such a high premium on ensuring every one of our students is prepared for life after high school – that they have a handle on what choice is best for them.
PK-12 education is not meant to be merely a funnel that points kids to a specific outcome. Rather, it should be a way to foster curiosity about their interests and the world around them, and, yes, to choose from an ever-increasing list of options that will present themselves differently for each student.
There’s a phrase we use here at Epic: we’ve got a path for that.
Whether your path is a four-year college experience, CareerTech, the right combination of certifications, a military career or even taking over the family business, there are so many definitions of success that have never existed before. Those definitions will only increase as the choices students have do the same in the years to come.
When we talk about customization in education, especially at Epic, it’s not just about deciding whether to learn virtually or in person. It’s not just about curriculum shopping or deciding how best to use Epic’s Learning Fund. It’s also about choosing concurrent enrollment and graduating high school with an associate degree at no cost. It’s also about deciding to earn a high school diploma at age 30 through our Pathways program. It’s also about choosing clubs and organizations that will look good on a college application.
At its core, Epic is about opening doors and providing options. Teaching our students to locate their passion and providing a way for them to realize it is perhaps the best thing we can do for a group of young people who will eventually be running the show.
At just shy of a month in my new role as superintendent, I am continually amazed at the community I am so fortunate to lead. I look forward to the work we will accomplish together as we continue to provide even more choices for everyone who chooses Epic.
In service,
Dr. Shaun Ross
EPIC VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS
RIGHTING THE SHIP
HOW MICHAEL FLORY AND HIS TEAM SAVED THE DAY
When Michael Flory took the reins as Epic Charter Schools’ chief financial officer last spring, there was no clear starting line. It was a transition that took months, often overlapping with his other duties, as he tried to untangle a mess that was not of his making.
“May first was the official start date,” Flory said. “It was a little fuzzy in that time period because it was unofficial.”
What was not fuzzy was the condition of the school, particularly its finances.
“The first thing I needed to identify was who knew we were overencumbered, we were so over budget and who didn’t,” he said.
What he found was a hard-working and committed finance team that had been kept largely in the dark about the school’s financial realities. Flory said he witnessed a group of dedicated staffers going about
“As Brené Brown reminds us, ‘Integrity is choosing courage over comfort; choosing what is right over what is fun, fast or easy.’ Michael’s decision to assume significant financial responsibilities reflects that principle in action. His willingness to lead with courage and accountability has been instrumental in safeguarding the stability of Epic Charter Schools and ensuring our continued ability to serve students and families.”
– Dr. Shaun Ross Superintendent, Epic Charter Schools
their jobs without access to critical financial information that would have enabled them to understand just how close Epic was to financial ruin.
“I discovered a great group of people who are willing to do whatever it takes, but they just had no idea.”
Flory is not new to Epic, having held leadership roles that span virtually every facet of the organization since he joined the school in its earliest years. Accounting, though, has always been his formal background.
The father of an Epic student, he earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in accounting from Hendrix College in Conway, Ark. He is also an alumnus of the Harvard Strategic Data Project.
That mix of institutional memory and financial training proved invaluable as the scope of Epic’s financial problem became clearer.
Flory expressed his feelings of disappointment that, for him, carried weight far beyond just numbers on a page. For someone who has spent nearly 15 years at a school that his own child attends, it’s a much bigger deal.
“I never thought a job would be more than a job,” he said. “It’s like a baby that you’ve raised, and you don’t want to see it all just crash and burn.”
Righting Epic’s financial ship would take more than money. It would require rebuilding systems – and trust – from the ground up and inside out.
Still, Flory said what amazed him most about the situation was the finance team, which dug in and set to the hard work ahead. More importantly, though, they stayed. He said they immediately began leaning into new systems, working longer hours and operating in a broader context. Flory likened the team to a stable of horses that have been set free and allowed to stretch their financial legs.
He added that Epic’s data team also played a crucial role in adding transparency to the school’s financial processes very quickly, and that the school would not be in the solid financial position it is now without that partnership.
“Without the synergy and teamwork among these teams, the picture today would be entirely different,” Flory said.
Further, he said, Epic has moved away from decision-making being concentrated with a few leaders to a model of shared ownership and accountability. Zero-based budgeting and including departments in the financial decision-making process earlier, with greater transparency, are now the norm.
“We’ve got a ways to go,” he said, “But financially, Epic is in good shape.”
By temperament, Flory is not a public-facing leader. He dislikes public praise and rejects narratives that center on individuals rather than institutions. That said, what matters most to him is not recognition but continuity and sustainability.
“I’m just happy Epic will continue to be here,” he said, “for students like my daughter and for the many others to come.”
“At one of the organization’s most vulnerable moments, Michael Flory and the finance team stepped up with the solutions needed to ensure continuity and stability. By embedding his expertise of data and analytics into every aspect of finance, and empowering the finance team, Michael played an integral role in moving the organization into 2026–2027.”
– Justin Hunt Assistant Superintendent
INNOVATORS EPIC DAY
On Dec. 2, Epic students gathered to show off their projects, inventions and ideas at Epic Innovators Day in Oklahoma City. Held in conjunction with the annual Scholastic Book Fair, families came together for a day of fun, camaraderie and, of course, innovation! In its effort to ensure every student is future-ready and in demand, Epic Charter Schools takes STEAM seriously. In fact, almost 75% of Epic teachers hold STEAM-related certifications from the Oklahoma State Department of Education.
Epic Charter Schools is once again making a meaningful difference!
As part of our ongoing commitment to serve, we are excited to announce our 2026 Diapers and Wipes Drive, running from March 1- April 10. Diapers and wipes can be dropped off at any Epic microsite or facility, making it easy for everyone to participate. As a Title I school, many of our families face real and ongoing needs, and we also proudly support students who are parents themselves. This drive is one powerful way we can show up for one another and strengthen our Epic community.
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, dignity and support to families who need it most.
Thank you for your generosity, your heart for service and for helping make a lasting impact on our Epic families. Together, we can do amazing things!
EPIC’S GOT TALENT & ART SHOW RETURNS –BIGGER AND BETTER THAN EVER!
Epic Charter Schools is thrilled to announce the Third Annual Epic’s Got Talent and Art Show, returning on Friday, Feb. 20, at Oklahoma City Family Church (8300 S. Santa Fe Ave., Oklahoma City, OK). This beloved event has become one of the highlights of our school year. It is so popular, in fact, that this year we’re expanding it into two shows to give everyone a chance to shine!
Afternoon Show (1:30 p.m.–4 p.m.):
Enjoy performances and artwork from our kindergarten through 7th-grade students. Expect adorable acts, creative energy and tons of heart!
Evening Show (5:30 p.m.–8 p.m.):
Our 8th through 12th-grade students take the stage with inspiring performances and advanced artistry that will leave you amazed.
Both shows feature incredible student talent, stunning visual art displays and a welcoming atmosphere for families and friends to celebrate creativity together. Admission is FREE, and everyone is invited!
Come support our talented students and experience an unforgettable day filled with music, art and Epic pride!
EPIC CHARTER SCHOOLS
INVITES YOU!
Students, oh students, please lend us your ear. A Seuss-tastic event is almost right here! Come join us…not far from your home!
The fun will begin from 10:00 to 12:30. Jump right on in!
LIVING WAX MUSEUM & LITERACY DAY
It’s bursting with stories and learning galore. With pages that pop and ideas that soar!
We’re honoring Dr. Seuss (oh yes, that’s the plan!) With a special guest, the Cat in the Hat himself, yes, we can!
There’ll be story time, crafts you can make, Hands-on activities; create and awake!
Meet book characters and figures from history, Learning made fun? Why, that’s no mystery!
And what’s this, you ask? Oh, here’s something neat! Every student leaves with a FREE brand-new book - what a treat!
So come one, come all, big readers and small, There’s something for everyone; yes, one and all! With so much to see and so much to do, This is one Epic event you simply must do!
We’ll see you there. Don’t be late, don’t delay, It’s Living Wax Museum & Literacy Day- the Seuss-tacular way!
1-3 LIVING WAX MUSEUM GRADE PACKET
4-12 LIVING WAX MUSEUM GRADE PACKET
1-3 GRADE PACKET (CULTURE / TRAVEL GUIDE)
4-12 GRADE PACKET (CULTURE / TRAVEL GUIDE
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.
Feb. 5
OKC Brixton Square Microsite
Times: 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Register Here
Feb. 12
OKC 50 Penn Place
Times: 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Register Here
Feb. 19
Stonegate Microsite
Times: 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Register Here
March 12
OKC I-35 South Microsite
Times: 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Register Here
UPCOMING DAYS SCHOOL PICTURE
Dates and Locations
FEB. 12
11 a.m. – 2p.m.
1900 NW Expressway, Floor R3
Oklahoma City, OK 73118
MARCH 3
11 a.m. – 2p.m.
1900 NW Expressway, Floor R3
Oklahoma City, OK 73118
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
MAKING A DIFFERENCE ONE DONATION AT A TIME
Epic Student Council held a blood drive Jan. 15, continuing its ongoing commitment to community service and lifesaving efforts.
Through Epic Charter Schools supported blood drives over time, student and staff donors have helped save an estimated 414 lives, including 39 lives from the January drive alone, according to donor impact data.
The data highlights the reach of Epic’s donation efforts, including blood types collected, geographic areas impacted and total annual contributions. Organizers emphasized that each donation plays a critical role in supporting patients in need and strengthening local health systems.
Epic Charter Schools thanked all participants for their continued dedication, noting that donors are not only giving blood but helping change lives through sustained service.
LIVES SAVED IN JANUARY 414 LIVES SAVED OVER TIME
CHILDREN’S DENTAL HEALTH MONTH
Strong, healthy teeth are the foundation for a lifetime of smiles.
This month is a great time to remind students to brush for two minutes, twice a day and floss daily. Encourage healthy snacks like fruits, veggies, and cheese—and save sugary treats for special occasions.
Tips
• Brush twice daily with toothpaste.
• Floss once a day.
• Limit sugary snacks and drinks.
• See the dentist twice a year.
Questions? Reach out to:
Jessica Jones, BSN, RN School Health & Services Coordinator healthservices@epiccharterschools.org
YOU DON’T HAVE TO REINVENT YOURSELF
A steady, confident start to the new year.
As we move through the school year—especially in a virtual setting—it’s easy to feel pressure to do more, be more or start over. New routines, new goals, new expectations can quietly become overwhelming.
Here’s an important reminder for our entire school community:
Progress doesn’t require reinvention.
Often, the most meaningful growth comes from small, intentional adjustments to what’s already working.
Why this matters (for everyone)
Research consistently shows that small, achievable changes are more effective than big resets:
• James Clear’s habit research highlights that tiny improvements (even 1%) compound over time into lasting change.
• Self-Determination Theory (Deci & Ryan) shows that motivation grows when people feel competent rather than pressured.
• Studies on student well-being indicate that consistency and predictability—especially in virtual learning—reduce anxiety and increase engagement.
In other words:
Confidence grows when expectations feel manageable.
Learning sticks when routines feel familiar.
Success is built through steady momentum, not sudden overhauls.
What this looks like in virtual learning
For Students
You don’t need a brand-new study system or a perfect schedule.
• Keep one routine that’s already helping you (logging in on time, using a checklist, asking for help).
• Choose one small goal instead of many big ones.
• Remember: showing up consistently matters more than doing everything perfectly.
For Families
Support doesn’t require doing more—just doing what works with intention.
• Maintain predictable routines around sleep, workspace and check-ins.
• Celebrate effort, not just outcomes.
• Ask reflective questions like: “What helped you most this week?” instead of “What didn’t you finish?”
For Teachers
Sustainable teaching is effective teaching.
• Refine one instructional practice instead of redesigning everything.
• Reuse structures students already understand to reduce cognitive load.
• Focus on clarity and connection—both are proven to improve virtual engagement.
This Week Try: Small Actions, Big Impact
Choose just one strategy below to try this week:
Students
• Write down one priority task per class per day—no more.
• End each school day by naming one thing you did well
Families
• Set a 10-minute weekly check-in instead of daily pressure.
• Create a shared “win list” to track progress and effort.
Teachers
• Keep one lesson structure consistent across the week.
• Offer one clear success criterion for assignments to boost student confidence.
The takeaway
You don’t need a fresh start—you need a gentle continuation.
By building on what already works, we create a learning environment where:
• Students feel capable.
• Families feel supported.
• Teachers feel sustainable.
• Let’s move forward together—calmly, confidently and one small step at a time.
References & Research
Clear, J. (2018). Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones. Avery.
Deci, E. L., & Ryan, R. M. (2000). The “What” and “Why” of Goal Pursuits: Human Needs and the SelfDetermination of Behavior. Psychological Inquiry, 11(4), 227–268.
Darling-Hammond, L., Flook, L., Cook-Harvey, C., Barron, B., & Osher, D. (2020). Implications for educational practice of the science of learning and development. Applied Developmental Science, 24(2), 97–140.
Dweck, C. S. (2006). Mindset: The New Psychology of Success. Random House.
COLLEGE ADVISING PATHWAY
Announcements
Our College and Career Advising Team is excited to begin meeting with 8th-grade students to aid in their transition to high school.
Parents and students can locate their College and Career Advisor (CCA) by logging into their student account. Students’ CCA is listed at the top of the student page.
COLLEGE PATHWAY
TEL
TEL autodrop will happen at 8 a.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 4. All students must have completed the syllabus quiz in their TEL courses by that deadline; otherwise, they will be removed from the course.
The deadline to submit TEL withdrawal tickets is Wednesday, Feb. 25. This is the last opportunity for students to exit TEL courses.
Any questions regarding TEL? Contact Angie Lee.
or 9th grader who is interested in earning a significant amount of college credit up to an Associate degree or a current 10th grader who is interested in earning one full year of college credit, you are encouraged to apply. Click here for the application form.
Area College
If you’re participating in concurrent enrollment at an area college this Spring semester, congratulations! This is an exciting opportunity, and we’re glad to support you on your academic journey. To help ensure you’re well-informed about concurrent enrollment tuition, billing, charges and tuition waivers, please take a moment to review carefully the important information below.
Area Concurrent Enrollment and the Learning Fund: Oklahoma Tuition Waivers for Public Colleges/Universities - Click Here
• Please note: These waivers apply only to tuition. Juniors are typically covered for up to nine credit hours, and seniors for up to 18 credit hours. Once the allowable credit limit is reached, students will be charged tuition and fees. Students must verify concurrent enrollment eligibility with the college offering the courses.
• Students have an action step to use available funds towards their college concurrent billSee Resource.
College Planning
For Seniors: College Deadlines Are Approaching Quickly! Now is the time to submit college admissions applications. If you need help with:
• Navigating the admissions process.
Epic Collegiate Academy applications open on Monday, Feb. 23. If you are a current 8th
• Completing college applications.
• Sending high school transcripts to colleges.
• Requesting counselor recommendations.
Please connect with College Planning Counselor, Brianna Strickler:
• Via email: brianna.strickler@ epiccharterschools.org.
• During Office Hours on Thursdays from 9:30-10:30 a.m. via Zoom.
Love working with engines and hands-on learning? Kickstart a career in motorcycle training! Fort Scott Community College, located in Fort Scott, Kan., in partnership with HarleyDavidson, offers an exciting opportunity to train as a motorcycle technician in a real shop environment while learning the technical skills employers want. Students can earn a one-year certificate or a two-year Associate of Applied Science degree while gaining experience with industry tools and software. Interested? Click here to learn more about admissions, costs and how to apply.
Interested in pursuing a career as a pilot?
Check out Riverside Flight Center! Riverside Flight Center (RFC) is a fully accredited private and commercial pilot training center based in Tulsa, Oklahoma. RFC is offering Remote Pilot Training February 9-13, from 6-9 p.m. nightly, featuring 15 hours of instruction with a certified instructor plus one year of access to test questions. To learn more about Riverside Flight Center, please click here. To register for Remote Pilot Training, please call Isaac at 918-298-3164.
Are you a junior interested in Washington University in St. Louis, Mo.? Consider WashU FLI-In, a selective three-day, on-campus program for first-generation and limitedincome students. During this event, students explore an academic area of interest, connect with WashU students and faculty, gain guidance on telling their story in the college application process, and experience campus life. The
deadline to apply is May 15. For details and to apply, click here
Dates to Remember
College Information Session: OSU-OKC, RSC, TCC | Feb. 3 | 1-2 p.m. | Zoom
College Planning + Admissions Office Hour | Feb. 5 | 9:30-10:30 a.m. | Zoom
Oklahoma Christian University Information Session | Feb. 5 | 11 a.m.-12 p.m. | Zoom
College Planning + Admissions Office Hour | Feb. 12 | 9:30-10:30 a.m. | Zoom
College Planning + Admissions Office Hour | Feb. 19 | 9:30-10:30 a.m. | Zoom
College Planning + Admissions Office Hour | Feb. 26 | 9:30-10:30 a.m. | Zoom
College Fair: CASC, OCCC, NEO, RSC | Feb. 26 | 1-2 p.m. | Zoom
Scholarships
Seniors – Let’s Get One Step Closer to Graduation!
Complete your FAFSA Application or FAFSA Opt-Out Form today and contact Micha Burk for support if needed!
Seniors, don’t forget! The first step to earning scholarships is completing your college admissions application. If you want to be considered for scholarships, make sure you start there first, as many schools in Oklahoma have automatic scholarship deadlines in February and March! If you need any help along the way with those admissions applications, don’t hesitate to contact Brianna Strickler
If you are a Junior who will be graduating early (May 2026), you still need to complete the FAFSA Application of the FAFSA Opt Out Form!
Oklahoma Christian University wants YOU! Offering every Epic graduate an automatic $2,000 scholarship, they are excited to guide you through the college exploration process to see if OC may become your college of choice. With many highly accredited programs, an active and involved student body, and an affordable private education, they would love to connect with you! Apply to admissions here to claim your $2,000 scholarship. Also, consider applying for the $14,500 Epic Difference Maker Scholarship by Feb. 28. We will be hosting a full-hour session where you can learn more about OC and get any questions answered—find details and the Zoom link below!
Dates to Remember
Oklahoma Christian University | Feb. 5 | 11 a.m.noon | Zoom
Decoding Your Financial Aid Award Letter | Feb. 18 | 1:30-2:30 p.m. | Zoom
CAREER PATHWAY
Work-Based Learning & Internship
Join Us for the Pre-Nursing Boot Camp!
DRH Health’s EHCO (Exploring Healthcare Career Opportunities)
Program, in partnership with OU College of Nursing, is excited to host our Pre-Nursing Boot Camp on Thursday, February 24, 2025, at the DRH Learning Center!
Safe Haven Animal Clinic Internship
In partnership with the Department of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) and the National Center for Disability Education and Training (NCDET), Pre-Employment Training Services (Pre-ETS) through the University of Oklahoma (OU), we are excited to offer a paid internship!
Eligibility:
• Ages 16-21
• IEP or 504 plan or documented disability.
Attention, Students! Get a Head start on your career.
Join Construct My Future for an intentional job fair that connects companies with motivated young talent preparing to launch their careers in the construction industry.
This is not a traditional job fair — it is intentionally structured to create meaningful workforce opportunities.
Feb. 20
9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Virtual Internship Program
There is still time for juniors and seniors to enroll!
The Accelerated Virtual Internship is an eight-week learning experience designed for students seeking to strengthen their resumes and prepare for life after high school. This Next Step course offers students the opportunity to complete a virtual internship through weekly live Zoom sessions and guided assignments.
Throughout the program, students build 21st-century skills and develop key aspects of professional preparedness. The course
includes weekly one-hour Zoom classes, weekly assignments, a final exam, and a capstone project that showcases each student’s growth and learning.
Enrollment Deadline: Feb. 27
Class Begins March 5
CareerTech
CareerTech tours for this school year have concluded. However, many applications remain open. Several technology centers have priority application deadlines in February, so students are encouraged to review them carefully.
Verify Your CareerTech District
CareerTech districts are based on a student’s home address and determine eligibility for specific technology centers. Students and families can confirm their assigned district using the CareerTech District Lookup Tool.
Important Reminder for Applicants & Admission Timeline
Students who have already submitted a CareerTech application should monitor the email address used to complete the application. Technology centers may reach out with application updates, requests for additional information, or interview invitations. Most technology centers begin reviewing applications and making admission decisions in late March or early April.
Questions or Need Assistance?
For questions related to applications, deadlines or CareerTech eligibility, please contact: Hadley Miller, Epic CareerTech Specialist at Hadley. miller@epiccharterschools.org
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!
