Edmond Life and Leisure - August 14, 2025

Feel good about sending child to EPS

Edmond Public Schools (EPS) is a highly regarded school district. It is the reason our population growth is so high here and has long since been the best economic pull we have. It works in tandem with a welldefined University of Central Oklahoma. Known for its commitment to academic excellence, the district serves a diverse student population and offers a wide range of programs and services to meet the needs of its students. Over the years, EPS has garnered numerous accolades and achievements, making it one of the top school districts in the state and the nation.

One of the standout qualities of Edmond Public Schools is its commitment to academic excellence. The district boasts a rigorous curriculum that challenges students to reach their full potential. EPS offers a variety of Advanced Placement (AP) courses, honors classes, and specialized programs to cater to the diverse academic needs of its students. All my kids benefited from this excellence from EPS and all five have gone on to incredible careers. All have college degrees, and we have two master’s and one on the way to get her doctorate. The district's emphasis on high academic standards is reflected in consistently hightest scores and graduation rates.

The success of any school district is largely dependent on the quality of its teachers, and EPS is no exception. The district employs highly qualified and dedicated educators who are committed to providing the best possible education for their students. Many teachers in the district hold advanced degrees and have received recognition for their excellence in teaching. The district also invests in ongoing professional development to ensure that teachers stay current with the latest educational practices and technologies.

EPS offers a wide range of extracurricular programs that cater to the diverse interests and talents of its students. From athletics to arts to academic clubs, there is something for everyone. The district's athletic programs are particularly noteworthy, with numerous state championships and accolades in various sports. Additionally, the district's arts programs, including music, theater, and visual arts, have received recognition at both the state and national levels.

The success of EPS is also attributed to the staunch support it receives from the community. Parents, local businesses, and community organizations play an active role in supporting the district's initiatives and programs. This collaborative effort helps create a positive and nurturing environment for students to thrive. The district's commitment to fostering strong community partnerships is evident in the numerous volunteer programs, fundraising events, and community outreach initiatives.

Edmond Public Schools consistently rank among the top school districts in Oklahoma and the nation. According to Niche, a leading school ranking and review platform, EPS has received high marks in various categories:

Best School Districts in Oklahoma: EPS is ranked 2nd out of 429 school districts in Oklahoma.

Best School Districts for Athletes in Oklahoma: EPS is ranked 5th out of 397 school districts.

Best Places to Teach in Oklahoma: EPS is ranked 20th out of 424 school districts.

Districts with the Best Teachers in Oklahoma: EPS is ranked 21st out of 416 school districts.

Best School Districts in America: EPS is ranked 250th out of 10,561 school districts in the United States.

Best School Districts for Athletes in America: EPS is ranked 276th out of 9,961 school districts.

One of the most significant achievements of Edmond Public Schools is the recognition of its schools as Blue Ribbon Schools. The Blue Ribbon Schools Program, administered by the U.S. Department of Education, honors schools that demonstrate overall academic excellence or progress in closing achievement gaps among student subgroups. EPS boasts 11 Blue Ribbon Schools, the most of any district in the state. This prestigious recognition is a testament to the district's commitment to providing a high-quality education for all students.

Edmond Public Schools consistently scored above the state and national averages on the ACT test. The district's average composite score on the ACT is 23.6, which is significantly higher than the state and national averages. This achievement reflects the district's strong academic programs and the dedication of its teachers to preparing students for college and career success.

Each year, Edmond Public Schools consistently produce National Merit Finalists and Commended Scholars. This prestigious recognition is awarded to students who demonstrate exceptional academic ability and potential for success in rigorous college studies. The district's success in producing National Merit Scholars is a testament to the high academic standards and the supportive learning environment provided by EPS.

Edmond Public Schools have a strong tradition of excellence in athletics. The district's high schools have garnered more than one hundred Oklahoma Secondary School Activities Association (OSSAA) state athletic championships. This impressive achievement reflects the district's commitment to providing high-quality athletic programs and the dedication of its student-athletes and coaches.

In addition to its academic and athletic achievements, EPS is also known for its awardwinning arts programs. Studies show that including a strong arts program enhances all other STEM education. The district's bands and orchestras have been invited to perform at prestigious events such as London's New Year's Day Parade, New York's Carnegie Hall, and Baltimore's Strathmore Center. These accolades highlight the district's commitment to fostering creativity and artistic expression among its students.

EPS students consistently achieve elevated levels of academic success, as evidenced by their performance on standardized tests, college entrance exams, and other assessments. The district's commitment to providing a rigorous and challenging curriculum has resulted in numerous academic accolades and recognitions for its students and schools.

The district's athletic programs have achieved significant success, with many teams winning state championships and competing at the national level. EPS athletes have earned numerous awards and honors, and many have gone on to compete at the collegiate and professional levels. The district's commitment to athletics is evident in the success of its teams and the development of talented athletes.

The fine arts programs in Edmond Public Schools have also achieved notable success. Students have received numerous awards and recognitions for their performances, exhibitions, and competitions. The district's commitment to the arts is reflected in the elevated level of talent and creativity demonstrated by its students.

EPS students are actively involved in community service and leadership activities, making a positive impact on their schools and the community. The district encourages students to engage in service projects, volunteer work, and leadership development programs, fostering a sense of responsibility and civic engagement. The contributions of EPS students to the community are a testament to the district's commitment to developing well-rounded individuals who are prepared to be effective in the world.

The number one reason for the success of any school system is parents getting involved. You can see the disaster that takes place in school districts where parents are not involved. By that, I do not mean at school every day telling teachers how to do their job. I mean parents that work with the staff, educators and their own child to get the best outcome possible for them.

It will be interesting to see how the new state law affects class scores with no phones allowed during school hours. You must think it would be a boost to attention levels. I talked to a teenager the other day who said the kids have already figured out a way around the proposed system. My thought is that if you cannot keep cell phones out of a prison how are they going to stop them at school? I hope it is a giant success. It is getting old to see our state at the bottom of the list in education, but I will have more on that next week.

(Ray Hibbard, publisher of Edmond Life & Leisure, may be reached at ray@edmondpaper.com)