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August 4, 2025

August 5, 2024

It is that time again! The pages are turning, and a brand new chapter is beginning in the story of Putnam City Schools. Last week, we had the joy of welcoming our principals back into buildings across the District. Their leadership sets the tone for everything we do, and seeing their energy and focus as they prepare for the year ahead was inspiring.

This week, our teachers and staff officially return, ready to bring classrooms, hallways, cafeterias, buses, and offices to life. They are the heart of every school, and their presence marks the beginning of something truly special. Their work writes the opening lines of so many students’ stories.

Next week, on August 13, we welcome our students! Each one brings their own "what if" moments, their own dreams, and their own chapters yet to be written. There is something inspiring about the start of a school year, the sense that anything could happen, that something new is just beginning. Back-to-school truly is a reminder that every moment in our schools is a chance to imagine, to begin, and to become - Boldly.

As we embark on this new school year, let us choose to fill it with stories of kindness, curiosity, growth, and determination. I encourage every member of our District community to start strong, set goals, show up for one another, and take pride in the part you play in shaping the narrative. Together, let’s make this a year filled with moments worth remembering and stories worth telling.

-Dr. Fred Rhodes

August 13 - First Day of School!

Putnam City Families,

Welcome to a brand-new school year! There’s something truly special about the first days of school with crisp notebooks, sharpened pencils, and wide-open possibilities. At Putnam City Schools, we believe every child’s story is still being written, and this year brings another chapter full of promise, growth, and discovery. We’re honored to be part of that journey with your family.

We want to highlight a few important updates for this year. First, a new Oklahoma law is in effect that limits the usage of personal electronics during the school day. With that, we are implementing a new District Policy designed to reduce distractions and encourage deeper engagement in learning. We want students to be fully present academically, socially, and emotionally, and we appreciate your support in helping them develop healthy technology habits. For more information about the new policy and how Putnam City Schools is working to “Pause the Screen, Chase the Dream,” visit our website.

We are also proud to offer free breakfast and lunch for all students this year, districtwide! This is due to our eligibility with the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) program within the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs. This ensures every student has access to nutritious meals that fuel their minds and bodies throughout the day.

Keeping our students and staff safe remains our highest priority. Thanks to your support of the most recent Bond issue, every elementary school in the District is now equipped with advanced weapon detection systems, completing our goal of having state-of-the-art technology in place at all Putnam City Schools. In addition, we have introduced an AI-driven gun detection technology that works in real time with our existing extensive security camera systems as an extra layer of security. This non-obtrusive 24/7/365 live-monitored verification system works to detect guns anywhere on campus, reducing response times for Campus Police and local law enforcement, tracking subjects, and stopping the threat. These proactive safety measures reflect our deep and ongoing commitment to maintaining secure and welcoming environments for every learner.

We’re also introducing the “I Love U Guys” Foundation’s Standard Response Protocol (SRP) across the District. This nationally recognized safety framework uses clear, consistent language to help students, staff, and families know how to respond in any type of emergency. For now, more information about the “I Love U Guys” Foundation can be found on their website.

Finally, as we prepare for the new school year, that means new school supplies! School supply lists for elementary and middle school students are available on our website. High school students will learn what supplies are needed from their individual teachers.

We are grateful for the trust you place in us each year. Thank you for being an essential part of our story. Let’s begin this year with open minds, high hopes, and a shared belief that every day in Putnam City Schools is a good day to “Go Boldly.”

-Putnam City Schools

After 50 years in public education, Dr. Rhodes, Superintendent, announces his retirement.  

At the August 4th School Board Meeting, Dr. Fred Rhodes announced his retirement from the Putnam City Superintendency. He plans to retire after this coming 2025-2026 school year and complete his contract through July 1, 2026. 

In his “Letter of Appreciation” to the School Board, he stated that he will be eternally grateful for the opportunity to serve the students and the entire Putnam City Community.  

Dr. Rhodes stated that he was “professionally born” in Putnam City when he started as a student teacher at Wiley Post Elementary in January 1976.  His career spans 50 years, beginning as a Grade 5-6 teacher at Wiley Post; Assistant Principal at Wiley Post and Dennis Elementary; and Inaugural Principal of Will Rogers Elementary, where he stayed 22 years.  After 29 years with Putnam City, he became an Assistant Superintendent with Yukon Schools and, after 8 years, “came home” to serve as Putnam City’s 24th Superintendent.  When he retires in July of 2026, his 13 years will be one of the longest tenures of superintendents in the District’s 112-year history.  

 The School Board plans to contract with the Oklahoma State School Board Association to assist with their search for the next superintendent to follow Rhodes.

PCW is turning up the heat at band camp as they prep for an unforgettable season. From early mornings to powerful performances, PCW is marching toward greatness!

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Putnam City Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, identity, national origin, age, marital or veteran status, or disability. Translations are completed by Google Translate.