Central Public Schools is moving forward with efforts to strengthen its agriculture education program, according to a March 24 newsletter from Superintendent David Eads.

Eads said district leaders have been working closely with a regional CareerTech coordinator to shape the future of the program, receiving support for their proposed direction.

As part of that effort, the district has begun actively recruiting a new agriculture (Ag) teacher, with the position posted through CareerTech and the Oklahoma State School Board.

While the applicant pool has been smaller than anticipated, Eads expressed optimism that the district will find a qualified candidate who aligns with its long-term vision. Interviews are expected to begin soon.

To ensure transparency and community involvement, a representative from the local Ag Board will be invited to participate in the interview process alongside the superintendent and school principals.

Application materials will also be made available to the board, with all federal and state privacy regulations followed.

Once the candidate list is narrowed to three finalists, those individuals will be brought before the Central Board of Education prior to a final hiring decision.

In addition to staffing, the district is revisiting plans for an agriculture facility. The proposed project includes completion of an Ag classroom and shop area, which had originally been designed alongside the district’s gym project.

However, no bids were received for the Ag portion at that time.

Eads said the district now plans to pursue the project using a different construction method.

Rather than the previous construction management approach, the district intends to rebid the project using a general contractor format, which he believes will increase the likelihood of receiving competitive bids.

Meanwhile, progress continues on the school’s track project, which Eads said is advancing at a steady pace. The district anticipates hosting its first track meet once construction is complete.

Eads encouraged parents and community members with questions to reach out to him at 918-775-5525.