The Orbit August 2025

AUGUST 2025

FROM OAK CLIFF TO ANGOLA

Inside the life and leadership of Epic esports head coach Steve “Breezy” Briggs

EPIC VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS

A TIME FOR CONTINUITY

In a year of upheaval, Justin Hunt brings stewardship, memory and a plan There was no news release. No fanfare.

Frankly, there wasn’t time.

One day, Epic Charter Schools had a superintendent. The next, it didn’t.

But in a moment of institutional crisis and uncertainty, Justin Hunt did what he always does. He stepped up, took the reins and set about forging a plan to realign the school he so dearly loves.

Since he was officially installed as interim superintendent in June, he has adjusted to his new title and what it means for the state’s largest virtual charter school. He said this has been the biggest summer of change in Epic’s history.

“I’ve come to grips with it,” Hunt said, “I’m ready to start the first day of school. I’m ready for folks to get in the groove and out of setup mode, though we’ve still got some setup to do.”

students. Hunt and his wife (an Epic student reassignment specialist) spend a lot of their free time shuttling their five children between sports practices, cheering them on every step of the way.

He credits a large, supportive network of family and friends to help him shoulder his new responsibilities.

“I don’t do any of it by myself, just like in this organization,” Hunt said. “It takes a village – at home and at work. I’m a firm believer that I don’t own any of the successes. It’s all shared.”

Hunt identifies as a listen-first kind of guy. Too often, he said, most people listen to respond, not understand. If there’s one thing he wants everyone to know, it’s listening comes first.

“Each of us has gone through the last 12 months differently,” he said. “The past year was hard for me, but it was just as hard – or harder – for others in different ways.”

Hunt earned his bachelor’s degree in math education from Northwestern Oklahoma State University in Alva, followed by his master’s degree in education administration from Southwestern Oklahoma State University in Weatherford. He joined Epic in 2017 as a managing director of instruction, and was promoted to deputy superintendent of instruction in 2021.

In fact, it was listening that got him excited about education in the first place.

Right out of college, he entered the classroom – teaching math and coaching football, basketball and baseball – for four years before stepping into administration.

That experience coupled with a seventhgrade math teacher who excelled at building relationships, began to steer his aspirations to teaching while always seeking solutions to the problems right in front of him.

“Sports have always been a part of my life,” he said. “As an adult, they’re part of my escape— part of what I enjoy outside of this.”

That’s usually where you will find him on the weekends and anytime he’s not busy leading a statewide school with some 30,000

Hunt credits a sixth-grade teacher of his who, he admits, he genuinely thought didn’t like him. He didn’t like her, either … or so he thought. He later learned she was just holding him to a high standard, a mindset he’s adopted for himself ever since.

“From that point on, I was observing every class I sat in, asking myself, ‘How would I handle that kid?’ or ‘How would I teach this lesson differently?’ That’s when I knew I wanted to teach,” he said.

The result? A lifelong quest for knowledge

and learning – that it’s not about the answers to tomorrow’s test but establishing a pattern of curiosity for life.

As for Epic’s future, Hunt said he hopes it’s one with him as full-time superintendent, but only after a thorough and transparent search by Epic’s board. To him, that’s the only way it will work.

“Just Justin” Five things you probably don’t know about Epic’s interim superintendent • Favorite kind of pizza?

Barbecue chicken but a good-old supreme pie is a close second. Hideaway is his go-to pizza joint.

• His favorite sports teams are the Oklahoma Sooners, the OSU Cowboys and the Oklahoma City Thunder.

• “Serve” is his favorite word.

• Justin refuses to eat meat off the bone. “It’s a texture thing, I think.”

• Favorite actor? Denzel Washington.

“I do want to be the next superintendent,” he said, noting that the continuity and institutional memory he would bring has value but only if he’s the right one for the job. “I also know a search is healthy. It’s healthy for the organization and it’s healthy for me. I respect the process. And I’ll move forward in whatever seat the board places me in.”

2025-2026

BACK TO SCHOOL VIRTUAL EXPO | AUG. 11-13

Join Epic Charter Schools for our 2025 Back-to-School Virtual Expo, taking place Aug. 11-13! Whether you’re new to Epic or a returning family, this exciting and informative event is your chance to explore new and updated resources to help you make confident choices for the 2025–26 school year. Hear directly from various Epic representatives and get your questions answered live! Learn about new programs, clubs, organizations, curricula – all from the comfort of your home.

Some event topics include: • 2025-26 Curriculum – Get a detailed overview of the curriculum offerings.

• Expanded Class Options – Math+, ENN (EPIC News Network), Internships, World Languages and others.

• Engaging Programs, Clubs, & Organizations – Learn about the numerous extracurricular activities available to Epic students.

• Epic Learning Models – Understand our One-on-One and Comet Academy options.

• Live Q&A Session – Get your questions answered by Epic representatives.

LEARN MORE AND REGISTER

CLUBS

Epic Charter Schools is excited to announce a newly restructured lineup of school clubs for the 2025–26 academic year!

With a dynamic range of options—including Academic Bowl (Grades 3–8), Chess Club, Military Club, Student Council (Middle and High School), ASL, 4-H, Key Club, National Honor Society (NHS/NJHS) and Games Club, just to name a few, we’re looking forward to engaging students across all grade levels.

To make these clubs thrive, we are inviting Epic Charter School staff to serve as enthusiastic advisors who can help lead and inspire our students.

If you’re interested or know another staff member who might be, please reach out to Katrina Cooper at katrina.cooper@epiccharterschools.org for more information.

For a complete list of clubs and events, visit the links below.

CLUBS

EVENTS

FALL COAT Drive

Help Keep Students Warm This Fall As the crisp fall air rolls in, many families in our community are in need of warmth.

Epic Charter Schools invites you to join our Fall Coat Drive, a heartfelt effort to provide coats, hats, scarves, and gloves to students across Oklahoma.

From Oct. 1 to Nov. 21, we’ll be collecting new or gently used items at micro sites statewide.

Every coat, every pair of gloves, every scarf you give wraps a child in warmth and love.

Together, we can make a difference.

Start collecting now and be a part of something bigger this fall.

CALLING ALL SUPER SPELLERS! If you have a way with words and want to show off your spelling skills while you represent your school, then it’s time to start studying for the Epic District Spelling Bees, happening this early October in Oklahoma City and Tulsa!

Winners from each district bee will have the chance to advance to the Scripps Regional Spelling Bee, and from there, possibly compete in the National Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C.!

Start preparing now to give yourself the best shot at success.

Here is a great resource to help you get started:

SPELLING BEE WORD CLUB Whether you’re aiming for school bragging rights or dreaming of the national stage, your journey starts now. Study hard, spell strong and BEE amazing!

HEALTH REMINDER

As recent years have made us more mindful about healthcare and what we can do to keep our students and families safe, we would like to remind you about the Health Resources on our Epic website. The website provides information about Meningitis, the causes, symptoms and treatment. In addition, there is information about the flu, chickenpox and other diseases. As another resource, here is the link to the Oklahoma State Department of Health website.

Thank you!

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AUG. 14, 2025 | 6 P.M. - 7:30 P.M. | ZOOM LINK

WELCOME BACK, EPIC! Epic Charter Schools invites students, families and staff to join us for a question-and-answer session as we explore all things college and career.

Team members will be available to facilitate questions and offer support in the following areas: • College and Career Advising.

• Internship, Virtual Internship, and Work-based Learning.

• Career Tech.

• Military.

• College Planning, including college tours, applications and letters of recommendation.

• Financial Aid and Scholarships.

• Concurrent Enrollment.

• Transition Services - supporting soon-to-be graduates as they prepare for life after high school.

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COLLEGE & CAREER

ADVISING

The CCA team will be continuing to meet with students for all of their ICAP needs.

Students will receive an email from their CCA with instructions on how to complete the Career Cluster Finder Survey and the Career Cluster Favorites Task. Please make sure this is completed before their first meeting with their CCA. CCAs are aligned by school and teacher. Students will need to attend ICAP sessions on the weeks they are assigned.

ICAP meetings begin on Sept.

2. Be on the lookout for your date and time options from your CCA.

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E G E L L O C Y A W H T PA

TEL TEL classes begin on Wednesday, Aug. 20.

If you’d like to take a TEL concurrent course this semester, have your Epic teacher submit a schedule-change ticket. The deadline to submit tickets for fall enrollment is Aug. 27.

ECA ECA new-student orientation will begin on Wednesday, Aug. 6.

Be checking your Epic inbox for more details!

AREA COLLEGE

IT’S TIME TO APPLY! If you are a high school student who is interested in taking concurrent courses in the fall, now is the time to apply!

Click here for your options by grade.

Important information regarding the Learning Fund and Concurrent Enrollment courses.

Student action needed.

Questions? Email: shannon.starr@ epiccharterschools.org

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SCHOLARSHIPS

BIG NEWS FOR TEACHERS WITH CHILDREN – OKLAHOMA’S PROMISE UPDATE Thanks to House Bill 1727, children of Oklahoma certified public school teachers with at least 10 years of service can now qualify for Oklahoma’s Promise regardless of household income.

This update took effect July 1, and is designed to ease college costs for families of long-term educators.

Applications are open through Dec. 31, for current seniors, and the program remains available to students in grades 8–11, as usual.

Apply online at www.okpromise.org, and for help or questions, email micah.burk@epiccharterschools.org.

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R E E CAR Y A W H T PA

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INTERNSHIPS

EPIC’S INTERNSHIP APPLICATIONS ARE OPEN!

Thinking about an internship position for the fall semester? Look no further!

Click here to view the full offering of Epic Charter Schools’ open positions.

Application Deadline: Sept. 5

INTERNSHIPS, WORK-BASED LEARNING AND WORK-STUDY WORKSHOPS ARE BACK THIS ACADEMIC YEAR. Students enrolled in these 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.

Workshop Details: 3-4 p.m. | Zoom

Workshop Dates: Aug. 27 Sept. 10, 17, 24 Oct. 1, 8, 22, 29 Nov. 5, 12, 19 Dec. 3, 10, 17

Jan. 7, 14, 21, 28 Feb. 4, 11, 18, 25 March 4, 11, 25 April 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 May 6, 13, 20

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VIRTUAL INTERNSHIP

ENROLLMENT IS OPEN FOR THE EPIC VIRTUAL INTERNSHIP PROGRAM. Epic Virtual Internship program courses are available to juniors and seniors looking to fulfill their Next Step course requirement.

Depending on the course, students will either prepare to take an industry certification exam or focus on developing 21st-century skills and professional preparedness. For questions, contact anita.manuel@epiccharterschools.org

Enrollment Deadline: Sept. 5

VIRTUAL INTERNSHIP: CERTIFICATION

ACCELERATED VIRTUAL INTERNSHIP: CAREER PREPARATION

Students who earn Industrybacked certifications possess the knowledge and skills necessary to be successful in a specific career. Students meet bi-weekly with their facilitator via Zoom.

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.

There are 18 different IndustryBacked Certification options in the VI-Certification course this academic year. These offerings range from Animal Health to Professional Communications to Small Engine Repair.

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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.

CAREERTECH

IF YOU’RE CURIOUS ABOUT CAREER TECH, START EXPLORING NOW! CareerTech programs offer hands-on learning and real-world skills — but spots can be competitive!

Not sure which tech center serves your area?

It’s based on your home address. Use this tool to find your CareerTech district: Find My Tech District.

Most programs are open to juniors and seniors, Want a Quick CareerTech Overview? Check out but students apply the year before they want this flyer for a snapshot of what CareerTech to attend. Some applications open as early is all about: CareerTech Overview Flyer. The as September! Start exploring the programs earlier you start exploring, the more options offered at your local technology center. you’ll have — don’t wait!

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TRANSITION SERVICES

WELCOME BACK, SENIORS! As the school year begins, so does a new chapter, one filled with opportunities to explore life beyond high school.

Epic’s Transition Services is here to support graduating students as they consider their next steps, whether that includes college, career, training, military service or another path.

For those who feel uncertain or unprepared, it’s never too early to begin the conversation!

A one-on-one appointment is a great place to start. These meetings are designed to help students create a personalized plan for life after graduation, based on their interests and goals.

Schedule a one-on-one appointment here.

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GRADUATE WITH THE OKLAHOMA SEAL OF BILITERACY The Oklahoma Seal of Biliteracy was established by the Oklahoma Board of Education in 2020. It is a distinction given by the Oklahoma State Department of Education to honor, recognize and credential any high school student who has attained a high level of proficiency in English and one or more additional languages.

This was Oklahoma’s contribution to a larger national conversation about the importance of language learning and language diversity as being a crucial component of being successful in the modern labor market and an increasingly global society. In fact, studies show that bilingual graduates enroll in college at a higher rate, tend to earn higher salaries and build stronger relationships and connections within their communities.

Epic graduate Alondra Ortiz earned the Oklahoma Seal of Biliteracy last year.

Any student in grades 9-12 who meets a set of predetermined requirements is eligible for the seal, which is an official certification recognized by the state board of education. Further, the achievement is noted on the student’s transcript and diploma upon graduation.

Epic has seen several of its graduates achieve this high level of distinction, and encourages all of its students to start thinking early about the benefits of earning the Oklahoma Seal of Biliteracy.

Click here for qualifications and further information.

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FROM OAK CLIFF TO ANGOLA Inside the life and leadership of Epic esports head coach Steve “Breezy” Briggs It’s not a nickname with some amazing origin story. It wasn’t born in a locker room or in the heat of a game. It happened because of a thick Texas accent and a simple misunderstanding.

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Steve Briggs had traveled to Indiana for a basketball tournament when a friend’s Italian brother met them at the airport. Briggs introduced himself as “Steve … breezy” in an effort to show some swagger.

“That’s not your name?” the brother later asked. “I thought your name was Steve Breezy, and that’s the best name I’ve ever heard!”

And so it stuck.

But if you spend any time with the Epic esports head coach, it quickly becomes clear that ”Breezy” is more than a nickname.

It’s a mindset, really. His calmness, inner confidence and cool demeanor make him more than worthy of the name.

Briggs was recently promoted to head coach of the Comets, Epic’s premier esports team.

The former assistant coach said his main goal is to keep the team’s winning streak intact but also to help them grow not just as players but as people.

“A lot of folks don’t see esports as a sport, but these kids practice daily, they earn scholarships, they face adversity and learn to work with others,” he said. “That’s life training. People need people, and this is how they learn to deal with them.”

Briggs grew up in Oak Cliff, a working-class neighborhood in Dallas County, Texas, where his mother raised not only him but also his brother and four cousins. After she remarried, the family moved to the suburbs.

That’s where he said he first met people who didn’t speak or act like him.

“A LOT OF FOLKS DON’T SEE ESPORTS AS A SPORT, BUT THESE KIDS PRACTICE DAILY, THEY EARN SCHOLARSHIPS, THEY FACE ADVERSITY AND LEARN TO WORK WITH OTHERS.”

“It got me out of my box. Most people live in their box and never leave,” he said. “That move helped me understand people better.”

Briggs was very close to his grandmother.

After losing her at the age of 13, he said a fire was lit within him, and he discovered basketball. But at 5’10”, he was told more than once that he wasn’t tall enough to succeed in the sport. Still, he kept pushing through the rejection and the pain of his adolescence, and just kept going.

When he finished college, with a string of three-point shooting records under his belt, he got the opportunity to play basketball in Germany, which he did for four years. His success there led him to play in Angola for what was supposed to be four games. That trip lasted four months.

“At the time, [Angola] was the second-most expensive country in the world. I had no idea. A cheese pizza was $30. Not even a

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big one,” he said. “But what struck me was the poverty – kids selling apples, no access to school. And here I am, being driven to practice. It grounded me even more.”

Before joining Epic in 2023, Briggs was a teacher and coach at Locust Grove High School in northeast Oklahoma. It was there he discovered that his son, Dagan, had cancer. Despite the instinct to drop everything and devote all his time to his son’s recovery, doctors encouraged him to

keep things as normal as possible. That’s exactly what he did.

“I wanted to give him that. I needed to be the one to carry it,” he said. “That’s your kid.

Nothing else matters.”

About a month later, his wife saw openings at Epic for a basketball coordinator position and an esports coach. He applied for both and was ultimately hired to fill the esports spot. The rest, he said, is history.

Dagan is now 16 years old and cancer-free.

Briggs, his wife of 10 years and their other son, Brevyn, are all grateful, he said, for the second chance they’ve been given.

“He (Dagan) rang the bell a few weeks ago,” he said. “It really put everything into perspective.”

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And perspective is exactly what Briggs hopes to instill in his players, showing them there are lessons to be learned and opportunities to seize everywhere. You just have to look for them.

the opportunities I’ve had. And if I can turn around and create opportunities for someone else – that’s what it’s about.”

“It’s about building trust, chemistry, communication – all the things you need in life,” he said. “Life is short. I’m just thankful for

“THERE ARE LESSONS TO BE LEARNED AND OPPORTUNITIES TO SEIZE EVERYWHERE. YOU JUST HAVE TO LOOK FOR THEM.”

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HOPE YOU HAD A BLAST THIS SUMMER! THANK YOU FOR READING. THE ORBIT WILL BE BACK IN SEPTEMBER WITH MORE OF WHAT’S HAPPENING AROUND YOU AT EPIC!

EPIC CHARTER SCHOOLS