Union Schools Named A 'Breakthrough School' by OPSRC

Union Public Schools was one of 24 school districts that was honored June 4 as a “Breakthrough School” by the Oklahoma Public School Resource Center (OPSRC).

Union was awarded in the “Platinum 70+ Extra-Large” category for “top-performing schools and districts serving high-need communities above 70% economically disadvantaged, recognizing academic excellence achieved against greater economic headwinds.” 

Dr. April Grace, executive director of OPSRC, said, “Union Public Schools is one of the largest districts in the state, with an academic achievement of nearly 65% of their students experiencing success, being on-target and proficient.”

A total of 24 awards were presented during the inaugural ceremony at the Oklahoma School Innovation Summit on June 3-4, 2026, at Embassy Suites in Norman. The awards are determined based on multiple measures that include academic growth, strong instructional leadership and measurable progress. 
Oklahoma Secretary of Education Dr. Dan Hamlin and Dr. Romel Muex-Pullen, Deputy Superintendent of Instruction at the Oklahoma State Department of Education, were on hand to recognize the winning districts. 

“We appreciate the work you do,” said Hamlin. “Schools are knocking it out of the park for kids, advancing prosperity and helping our state realize its full potential.”  

Union received a cash prize of $1,000 in recognition of the district’s work. Representing Union were Dr. Todd Nelson, Sr. Exec. Director of Research, Design & Assessment, and Chief Communications Officer Chris Payne.