The Orbit November 2024

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Bart’s Blog

WELCOME TO THE NOVEMBER EDITION OF THE ORBIT !

As Epic’s monthly newsletter wraps up the calendar year, I am reminded that one of the best things about this time of year is family. That can mean different things to different people. For some, it’s a stressful time being around difficult family members. For others, it can mean joy and comfort being surrounded by loved ones. For many, it falls somewhere in the middle.

Mental health and wellness are big parts of our core beliefs at Epic, and providing our families with the necessary resources in those areas is our responsibility. If you are looking at a particularly stressful holiday season ahead, this issue examines some ways you can perhaps relieve some of that stress, set realistic expectations and engage in self-care this year.

Speaking of families, I am particularly excited to share with you the story of four women – spanning three generations – all of whom work for Epic. Mary Qualls, her two daughters and granddaughter share their story in this issue about how they all came to find the right work fit for them, and how much support they give each other and the families they serve.

This issue also focuses on Epic’s continued micro site expansion, with exciting news about new sites and ribbon-cutting ceremonies coming in the near future. This expansion is crucial to our mission of providing safe, clean and school-sponsored meeting places for students to learn. Our presence in the communities we serve is a reminder that Epic is committed to the mutually supportive partnerships we continue to forge in cities and towns across Oklahoma.

The Orbit will return next month with a spirit of renewed purpose and the determination to make 2025 the best it can be!

Until next time …

Bart

EVENTS NOVEMBER 2024

FIELD TRIPS

Durant Science Fair

November 12 | 10 am - 12 pm

EVENT DETAILS

OKC Philharmonic Field Trip

November 12 | 11:30 am - 1 pm

EVENT DETAILS

Thunder Blue Field Trip Day!

November 12 | 11 am

EVENT DETAILS

Full STEAM Ahead Tulsa Area

November 14 | 1 pm - 3 pm

EVENT DETAILS

Stillwater Science Fair

November 15 | 10 am - 12 pm

EVENT DETAILS

Full STEAM Ahead Norman

November 18 | 1 pm - 3 pm

EVENT DETAILS

OU College of Engineering K-12

Program Career Exploration

November 21 | 10 am - 12 pm

EVENT DETAILS

Keystone Ancient Forest - Hike

November 22 | 12:45 pm - 3 pm

EVENT DETAILS

Mabee Gerrer Museum Field Trip

December 3 | 10 am - 12:30 pm

EVENT DETAILS

Oklahoma State Capitol Career Exploration

December 5 | 10 am - 12:30 pm

EVENT DETAILS

PICTURE DAYS

Tulsa Office

November 8 | 11 am - 12:30 pm

EVENT DETAILS

Stillwater Micro site

November 13 | 11 am - 12:30 pm

EVENT DETAILS

Muskogee Micro site

November 13 | 11 am - 12:30 pm

EVENT DETAILS

Enid Micro site

November 18 | 11 am - 12:30 pm

EVENT DETAILS

Lawton Micro site

November 18 | 11 am - 12:30 pm

EVENT DETAILS

Midwest City Micro site

November 19 | 11 am - 12:30 pm

EVENT DETAILS

COMMUNITY SERVICE

Emergency Infant Services

November 7 | 9:30 am - 12 pm

EVENT DETAILS

Hope Center of Edmond

November 20 | 10:00 am - 2 pm

EVENT DETAILS

COLLEGE & CAREER READINESS

College, Career and Military Fairs: Tulsa LC

November 5 | 3 pm - 6 pm

EVENT DETAILS

Prepare U: How to Use LinkedIn

November 8 | 6 pm - 7 pm

EVENT DETAILS

Internship & Work Based Learning Assignment Workshop

November 13 | 3 pm - 4:30 pm

EVENT DETAILS

College Advising Pathway: Northwest Oklahoma meeting

November 14 | 7 pm - 8 pm

EVENT DETAILS

College, Career and Military Fairs: Enid Autry Tech

November 15 | 1 pm - 3 pm

EVENT DETAILS

College, Career and Military Fairs: Durant

November 19 | 1 pm - 3 pm

EVENT DETAILS

Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology Virtual Information Session

November 20 | 10 am - 11 am

EVENT DETAILS

Tulsa Community College Virtual Information Session

November 20 | 1 pm - 2 pm

EVENT DETAILS

Rose State College Virtual Information Session

November 20 | 2 pm - 3 pm

EVENT DETAILS

Prepare U: Workplace Culture

November 21

EVENT DETAILS

College Advising Pathways: Oklahoma City Metro Area Meeting

November 21 | 4:15 pm - 6 pm

EVENT DETAILS

College Advising Pathway: Northeast Oklahoma meeting

November 21 | 5 pm - 7 pm

EVENT DETAILS

Oklahoma City University Virtual Information Session

December 5 | 1 pm - 2 pm

EVENT DETAILS

Oklahoma City Community College Virtual Information Session

December 5 | 11 am - 12 pm

EVENT DETAILS

GENERATIONALLY EPIC

FOUR WOMEN, THREE GENERATIONS OF EPIC EMPLOYEES

It’s hard to believe that Mary Qualls, her two daughters and granddaughter have much difficulty finding things to talk about when they’re together. They all have one big thing in common – they all work for Epic Charter Schools.

Mary is a math interventionist. Her daughter, Ashley Stacy is a special education teacher. Her other daughter, Candice James, works as an early childhood teacher at Comet Academy, and her granddaughter, Caitlyn Stacy, is a customer experience agent. Together, they not only help the students and families they serve, but also help each other work with resources so they work better.

“We’re all very proud we work for Epic. This is something we’re proud to be a part of,” Caitlyn said. “We all love our jobs and we all have different roles … but we can increase all of our skills to help each other out.”

Mary was a retired brick-and-mortar teacher, a career she started in the 1980s. Ashley, who’s daughter is an Epic fourthgrader, convinced her to apply in 2019. Ater a health issue, Mary took a year off and came back in July of this year, along with Caitlyn, who joined Epic in August. Candice joined Epic in 2020.

The four all said the best thing about working at Epic is the support they receive from their coworkers and leadership.

Ashley said that kind of help and encouragement is something she didn’t experience in a traditional school setting.

“Nobody ever makes you feel stupid for asking questions,” Ashley said, adding that she doesn’t ever feel alone. “I think it’s something that just starts at the top and trickles down … You just help each other, and I don’t feel like that’s something that’s always reiterated at a [traditional] school.”

Candice said she expects Epic to continue to grow and evolve. She said the customizable, flexible education the school offers is becoming the new norm.

“This is the new wave,” she said, “We accommodate more people with different opinions and cultures and values and mindsets. We {Epic} are open to new ideas and it’s just going to continue to get better.”

Mary called Epic an accommodating, adaptable and compassionate school that may not be the right fit for everyone but she wouldn’t trade the flexibility and innovative nature of the school for anything. Ashley echoed her mother’s sentiments.

“You aren’t going to have this kind of flexibility anywhere else and you’re not going to get that time back with your kids,” she said. “My kids are home with me during the day and I love it.”

In the photo from left to right are Caitlyn James, Mary Qualls, Ashley Stacy and Caitlyn Stacy.

FALL IS IN THE AIR

Did You Know?

Colds can happen year-round, but the viruses that cause colds spread more easily just after a drop in temperature and humidity. So, buckle up Oklahoma, here we go!

If you’re like the rest of the sooner state than that means allergies too...but how do you know if it’s...

Fight The Ick, Avoid Getting Sick!

Sing your ABC’s! Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20sec. That’s the length of the ABC’s song! and so are viruses!

JESSICA JONES, BSN, RN

Nurses’ Notes

School Health & Services Coordinator

Jessica has been an RN for 13 yrs. She was the School Nurse, then District Health Coordinator for a local OKC public school district. Before that her experience is in Pediatrics, Medical/ Surgical/Ortho/Neuro care. She is married with 2 grown children and her favorite hobby is reading and spending time with family. Jessica will be serving our OKC community through the telehealth program.

More Joy, Less Juggle:

The Holiday Season can mean making memories with family and friends while celebrating each other and making plans for the new year. However, the holidays are also a time of great stress and emotionally taxing mental health situations for many.

Missy Riddles, Epic’s school counseling coordinators and a licensed professional counselor, said varying family dynamics, political discussions, financial stress or missing a loved one often accompany this time of year.

SCHEDULE AN OKC VISIT

“Most people think that the holidays are full of joy and happiness,” she said. “However, it can bring some stress that impacts mental health.”

Riddles said the holidays also bring disruption to ordinary schedules, so keeping a regular routine – consistent bedtimes, study times, etc. – can do a great deal for young people and maintain their mental health and state of mind.

She said there are several things families can do during the holidays to manage the inherent stress and chaos of the season.

1. Set realistic expectations about gifts and gift-

MIKAH COMPTON, BSN, RN

School Health & Services Coordinator

Mikah has been an RN for 11 yrs. She was a school nurse for a south Tulsa school district. Before that she worked in the NICU for 8 years and did 2 years as a Neonatal flight nurse. She is married with 2 boys ages 3 and 6. Her favorite hobby is spending time with family and watching her boys play sports. Mikah will be serving our TULSA community through the telehealth program.

SCHEDULE A TULSA VISIT

Not every family can provide the same gifts as others. Avoid disappointment by not setting expectations that are too high.

2. Realize that no matter how hard you try, not everything will be perfect. Engaging in self-care and taking breaks from stressful situations will make the season go

Create opportunities for open communication. When adults feel stress or anxiety, children can pick up on that and react accordingly. Be open about what you’re feeling and encourage them

Give children permission to say no to physical

Not everyone is comfortable with hugging or physical contact. Encourage alternative greetings, such as a high-five or a simple wave.

Create meaningful connections.

Making new memories and establishing new traditions can be a way to overcome holiday grief and create happy situations you will remember for a lifetime.

Riddles said students can always reach out to a school counselor or take advantage of the social and mental health services Epic offers its families. More information can be found by visiting https://www.epiccharterschools.org/outreach

THE GROWING EPIC FOOTPRINT

MORE MICRO SITES COMING TO A COMMUNITY NEAR YOU!

Epic Charter Schools is continuing its ongoing mission to have at least one micro site in each of the state’s counties with the highest number of students by establishing more of them in the coming year.

Hunter Sealock, Epic’s managing director of facilities development and operations, laid out the school’s plans for the expansion of its list of Epic-run, dedicated spaces for students and teachers to meet following a series of ribbon-cutting ceremonies earlier this year, which unveiled new sites in Oklahoma City and Piedmont and Midwest City. He said the expansion is necessary for several reasons, not the least of which has to do with the school’s emphasis on in-person instruction.

“We have some new models – primarily Comet Academy – that demand larger groups, which means we need larger rooms,” he said. “That means we need larger rooms. That was one of the reasons why we need more sites.”

Sealock said the next two micro sites in line for ribbon-cutting ceremonies are in Miami and Chickasha, both of which should be up and running by the end of 2024. He said the ribbon-cutting ceremonies are important because they let communities know Epic is there and ready to serve them.

“We want people to know we are there and supporting their community and that these sites are open to the public. It’s also for the teachers in those areas and the families,” he

said. “A lot of teachers may not know we have a site or what amenities we have on site. It’s really to pull in students and teachers and families to see what we have to offer in your community.”

Micro sites in Seminole and Claremore have recently come online. Sealock said the Seminole site is of particular interest to him because of its proximity to Seminole State College. As a student in the college’s online degree program, he said he could easily see a natural higher-education outlet for Epic students in the area.

“I’m from that area so I know the gravity of Seminole State College, how pivotal it is to those communities in the area and how much traffic comes in and out of there. I’m excited for so many people to see Epic’s brand and know that we are there to serve them,” he said. “I feel like it’s a natural step from Epic into their program because it’s affordable and effective.”

Sealock also mentioned that an upcoming micro site location at Northwest Expressway and Rockwell in Oklahoma City will be able to serve thousands of students and families because of its size, approximately 32,000 square feet. It will include the Epic STEAM Lab, room for small and large groups. That site is expected to open this school year.

For more information about Epic micro sites and to view an interactive map, click here .

NATIVE AMERICAN CELEBRATING

Native American Programs has some amazing clubs for Native American Students! Check us out on Facebook! Epic Indian Education

For more information regarding Epic’s Indian Education program, click below

SPIRIT

NOV. 18-22

MONDAY -11/18

REPRESENT

Share your tribal affiliation by posting a picture of you holding the name of your tribe.

#EpicNAHM #EpicCharterSchools

TUESDAY -11/19

ROCK YOUR MOCS

Wear your moccasins.

#RockYourMocs #EpicNAHM #EpicCharterSchools

WEDNESDAY -11/20 FAVORITE BOOK

Share your favorite Native author or book.

WHY NOVEMBER?

The first-ever American Indian Day was in New York on the second Saturday in May 1916. Several states followed but celebrated in September.

1990 President George H.W. Bush approved a joint resolution designating November “National American Indian Heritage Month.” It has since expanded to the National American Indian and Alaskan Native Heritage Month”.

#EpicNAHM #EpicCharterSchools

THURSDAY -11/21

NATIVE CAUSES

Help bring awareness to a Native cause that is special to you or your family. Ex: Wear Orange for Boarding School Survivors, Wear red for MMIW, etc.

#NativeCauses #EpicNAHM #EpicCharterSchools

FRIDAY -11/22

NATIVE BLING

Wear your native jewelry.

#NativeBling #EpicNAHM #EpicCharterSchools

WITH EVERY BEAD, A STORY:

EPIC CHARTER SUPPORTS NATIVE AMERICAN STUDENT EXPRESSION

Epic Charter Schools has taken a significant step in honoring cultural diversity by allowing students to wear tribal regalia during graduation ceremonies, setting a precedent in the state despite the passing of SB429 in 2023. This decision reflects our commitment to inclusivity and respect for Indigenous traditions, empowering students to celebrate their heritage during one of life’s most important milestones.

Students such as sisters Delyssa and Morgan Fryrear. When asked what wearing the regalia means to her, Delyssa said, “To me, it means a lot to be able to bead my cap and make moccasins, not only do I get to feel closer to my ancestors and learn about my heritage. I also feel like I’m making my family

proud and I get to express myself and my tribe up on the graduation stage. I feel very grateful and honored to be able to have this opportunity and I hope I can spread my love and knowledge to the new generation.”

Expressing similar sentiments, Morgan stated, “For me, beading my cap and making our moccasins makes me feel closer to my heritage, and to loved ones who have moved on. I feel immensely grateful for having this opportunity to not only take part and learn, but also for the support of my native peers.” By embracing this policy, Epic Charter Schools not only champions individual identity but also fosters a sense of community and belonging among its diverse student body.

ECHOES OF THE PAST THAT EMPOWER THE FUTURE

EPIC CELEBRATES NATIVE AMERICAN HISTORY MONTH

When Native American and Oklahoma Olympian Jim Thorpe competed in 1912, he won two gold medals in two different running shoes after his were stolen. This story is of particular interest to Epic Lead Native Student College and Career Specialist Kylee Montomery. A citizen of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, she said it’s a great example of Native resilience.

“We are resilient, resourceful and we never give up,” she said, adding that with November being National Native American Heritage Month, it’s a great time to let Native students and families know about all the opportunities her department has to offer.

“We’re still dealing with intergenerational trauma today with our kids,” she said. “That’s why we’re trying to educate our families through our Title VI program. We are here to help bridge that gap between the family and the education system while also supporting cultural initiatives.”

Montgomery said Epic also offers its participating Native students direct access to their culture

by engaging in academic achievement, cultural enrichment and College and Career Readiness opportunities. This includes teaching students about traditional Native regalia, visiting zoos and gardens to understand Native wildlife, test preparation and visiting indigenous colleges and universities.

She said she didn’t grow up in a traditional Native setting so she, along with the students and families she serves, is connecting more and more with her own culture.

“We are one tribe within Epic to uplift each other, offer encouragement and cultural engagement,” she said. “We’re learning our traditional dances, how to sew ribbon skirts and ribbon shirts, how to make moccasins. It’s OK if you don’t have the closest association. We are here to help you.”

Epic’s Title VI program – the federal initiative that funds its Native programs – is in its third year. Currently, approximately 8,000 Epic students identify as Native. For more information on Epic’s Native American Programs, click here.

SAY CHEESE!

Epic Picture Days will take place at sites across the state in November. A complete list, including registration links, can be found below.

Proofs will be sent to the email address used on the registration within a few weeks of the picture day. There is no obligation to buy. Families can view their proofs and the package options before deciding whether to place an order with Grand Life Photography. Caps and gowns will be available at each picture date for seniors who want to get a head start on graduation photos.

LEARN MORE

Tulsa Office

Stillwater Micro site

Muskogee Micro site

Enid Micro site

Lawton Micro site

Midwest City Micro site

November 8

November 13

November 13

November 18

November 18

November 19

Esports tryouts

JOIN OUR STATE CHAMP TEAM!

ALL SKILL LEVELS WELCOME. SHOWCASE YOUR GAMING TALENT!

COLLEGE ADVISING PATHWAY

Quarter 2 activities are happening now. Don’t miss out! Contact your CCA today to set up a meeting to get started on your future.

COLLEGE PATHWAY

TEL: If you are currently taking a TEL course, please remember that the end dates are approaching! TEL Future Ready ends Dec. 4 and all other TEL courses end Dec. 18. Stay focused and finish strong!

If you have any questions, please reach out to: Elisabeth Walsh elisabeth.walsh@epiccharterschools.org

ECA: Earn an associate degree by high school graduation! It’s possible with Epic Collegiate Academy! Applications for spring 2025 are open to students in grades 9-10 until Dec. 3.

If you have any questions, please reach out to: Angie Lee angie.lee@epiccharterschools.org

Parents and students can locate their CCA to discuss the state required ICAP, by accessing their student account. You will see Current CCA listed at the top of the student page. Meet with a CCA to get started on your 202425 activities in Naviance.

In person meetings are held at Comet Academy, Co-ops, and Micro sites. Virtual meetings can be held in small or large groups or individual meetings.

Dates to Remember:

Nov. 14 7-8 p.m. – Region 1 NW Oklahoma Meeting: Contact your CCA for the link to complete quarter 2 tasks.

Nov. 21 4:15-6 p.m. – Region 2 OKC Metro Meeting: Contact your CCA for the link to complete quarter 2 tasks.

Nov. 21 5-7 p.m. – Region 3 NE Oklahoma Meeting: Contact your CCA for an invitation and the link to complete quarter 2 tasks.

TBA – Regions 4-6: Details for large group meetings coming soon.

ATTENTION AREA COLLEGE CONCURRENT ENROLLMENT STUDENTS!

If you’re taking concurrent college courses, send your bursar bill to Epic’s Invoice Department to use your Learning Fund. Review the attached resource for invoice details, a required action item, and key information on waivers and book costs.

If you have any questions, please reach out to: Shannon Starr shannon.starr@epiccharterschools.org

COLLEGE PLANNING

If you are considering or pursuing college after high school graduation, early admission and priority scholarship deadlines will be approaching quickly for many colleges! Graduating college-bound students are encouraged to submit admission and scholarship applications soon. If you missed College Application Week, please check out the presentations, recorded information sessions and resources.

Upcoming College Planning Zoom Sessions:

11/20 – OSU Institute of Technology Virtual Information Session 10-11 a.m. | Zoom

11/20 – Tulsa Community College Virtual Information Session

1-2 p.m. | Zoom

11/20 – Rose State College Virtual Information Session

2-3 p.m. | Zoom

If you have any questions, please reach out to: Brianna Stickler brianna.stickler@epiccharterschools.org

12/05 – Oklahoma City Community College Virtual Information Session 11 a.m.-12 p.m. | Zoom

12/05 – Oklahoma City University Virtual Information Session

1-2 p.m. | Zoom

COLLEGE ADVISING PATHWAY

Internship/ Work Based Learning/ Work Study

Avoid the time crunch at the end of the semester! Complete your Internship/ Work Based Learning and Work Study courses before Thanksgiving.

Students seeking experience are encouraged to review the Epic Department Internship options for the spring semester. Applications will open on Nov. 12.

Looking to increase your employability and enhance your resume? Goodwill Industries of Central Oklahoma is enrolling now for their free short-term industry certification courses!

Are you interested in a career in the trades? Make plans to attend the 10th Annual Apprenticeship Open House on Nov. 22! Multiple trades will be represented! Trades such as electrical, plumbing, construction trades, pipe fitting and iron working.

WILSON,

METROTECH STUDENT AMBASSADOR

Recently selected as Student Ambassador, senior Abbigail Wilson has attended Epic Charter Schools for five years. She is actively enrolled in Metro Tech’s law enforcement program and is now in her second year. When asked what it means to be a student ambassador at MetroTech, Abbigail stated, “Well, it’s to be a leader and encourage others to start their own adventure at MetroTech.” As a student ambassador, Abbigail attends different events and schools and has the opportunity to share her CareerTech experiences and knowledge about her program.

TRANSITION SERVICES

Attention Early Graduates! Graduating early is an exciting milestone, but it can also raise questions about what comes next.

Transition Services is here to support all seniors as they navigate life after graduation. If you’re set to graduate this December, be sure to schedule a meeting with our Transition Specialist. Let’s start planning your future today!

PREPARE U EVENTS

11/08 – Prepare U: How to Use LinkedIn 6-7 p.m.

11/21 – Prepare U: Workplace Culture Asynchronous

We want to extend a big congratulations to all winners of the Hispanic Heritage Month Art Contest! During our celebration of Hispanic Heritage month, we encouraged all Epic students to submit an art piece of any medium. We asked students to create pieces that highlighted their interpretations of what Hispanic Heritage and culture means to them. Congratulations again to each of the winners, your talents and creativity are inspiring!

Clockwise from top left: Jenitxa Tosado, 7th grade; Jack Woodell, 8th grade; Khloe Sandoval, 9th grade; Luna Rakes, 6th grade. Below: Mariana Rameriz, 10th grade.

EPIC IS ONCE AGAIN PARTNERING WITH THE HUGS PROJECT

The HUGS Project is a nonprofit organization that prepares and sends care packages to members of our US Armed Forces deployed overseas. The HUGS Project, which began right here in Oklahoma, aims to provide gratitude, comfort and encouragement to individuals who are far from families, friends and loved ones. Some units are stationed in places like Somalia and the Middle East, where they cannot purchase essentials and often have limited access to a store. These packages and letters let our troops know they are not forgotten.

From Oct. 1- Nov. 15, Epic students, families and staff are encouraged to gather items and assemble care packages to be dropped off just in time for Veterans’ Week!

WHAT MAKES A COMPLETE CARE PACKAGE?

A 12x12x6 inch box filled with items from the Top Requested Items List . When the box is packed, ensure there is no extra space and there aren’t any moving items.

United States Postal Service (USPS) boxes are free and can be picked up at any post office or ordered online from USPS.

You can purchase items locally or use the Amazon Wishlist for easy ordering from the comfort of your home.

This does not need to be a one-person project. We encourage individuals to work together with their friends, families, classmates or department to gather items for the care packages. Divy up the responsibility and partner with others!

DROP-OFF DETAILS

Please drop off completed care packages and letters by Nov. 15 at any of the locations listed below. Completed care packages may also be dropped off during community service or field trip events this fall. Teachers and staff can also bring completed boxes to the Teacher Appreciation Luncheon in Norman on Dec. 13.

S 103rd E Ave., Floor 2

Epic Hugs Project

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