“We knew we would need it, particularly for HVAC,” Superintendent Dr. Lisa Muller explained during the October 5 regular Board of Education meeting, referring to funding for facility maintenance included in the spring 2026 bond election.
That need helped shape the district’s long-term planning for safe, secure, and welcoming learning environments. Pryor voters acknowledged this as a necessary expense and approved it in the previous bond election, setting aside $5,745,240 for ongoing facility maintenance.
Director of Maintenance David Stanley and Director of Bond and Special Projects Jim Trout shared details of that work during their presentation, updating board members on maintenance projects and construction progress across the district.
Maintaining Spaces for Learning
Stanley described the labor required to maintain district grounds, noting that a team of five adults and two students worked to mow campuses throughout July.
He also outlined projects completed by maintenance crews, including cleaning 370 coils on rooftop air conditioning systems, performing electrical upgrades, and improving security through entry door upgrades.
Maintenance crews completed the remodel of the aviation hangar east of Pryor Middle School and installed a sink for the special education department.
At Jefferson Elementary, maintenance removed the large sign near the front entrance to improve visibility. Muller explained that the sign had obstructed the front office staff’s view of people arriving and departing.
“Honestly, it was a safety issue that called for the removal,” Muller said.
Moving Construction Forward
Trout reported that the roof at Pryor Middle School is complete, with improvements that eliminated areas where water had been collecting. He added that bathroom remodels are moving forward again after crews addressed structural issues around the mezzanine.
At Pryor High School, the new athletic wing is nearing completion. Crossland Construction is expected to arrive later this month to begin preparations for groundwork for the new middle school.
Trout also reinforced the importance of ongoing facility maintenance. Some district roofs still considered “new” are approximately eight years old and require maintenance and repairs.
Weather has affected construction schedules as well. Trout reported 16 days of rain in June, explaining that the impact often extends beyond the rainy day itself as crews wait for conditions to improve before resuming work.
Recognizing Work Behind the Scenes
Following the presentation, Assistant Superintendent John Potter recognized Stanley and Trout for their availability and dedication. He noted that both directors are on call around the clock and handle many issues that students, families, and staff may never see.
Board President Fred Sordahl also expressed appreciation for their work.
“We function because of you all,” Sordahl said.
He observed that when maintenance teams do their jobs well, their efforts can go unnoticed because daily operations run smoothly. Recognizing that work, he emphasized, is important.
Supporting Employees and Students
In other business, the board approved the district budget and a one-time incentive payment of $2,000 for each certified and noncertified employee for the 2026–27 school year. Payments are scheduled for November.
The board also discussed an additional speech pathology service to support students in the English language learner program and an optional employee benefit designed to help offset health insurance deductibles.
During the budget discussion, board member Jeanette Anderson asked how providing free lunches to all Pryor students had affected district finances. Muller explained that increased lunch participation has resulted in greater federal reimbursement, producing a positive financial outcome and lowering the district’s nutrition expenses.
Board members also expressed appreciation for the opportunity to watch district athletic events through YouTube livestreams, giving fans another way to support students when they cannot attend in person.
Celebrating School Spirit and Student Achievement
Student board members shared highlights from Homecoming Week, reporting a positive response to the activities. Their presentation included a video overview of the district pep assembly, which brought together students in grades 4–12.
Principals or school representatives competed in an obstacle course, with Pryor Middle School Principal Shawn Matheson recording the fastest time. Students also recognized the high school Leadership and Hometown Spirit Action Team for organizing Homecoming Week events.
In her superintendent’s report, Muller congratulated the softball team on its district championship and recognized the Pride of Pryor marching band for its results at the Oologah contest. The band earned first place in band, percussion, and drum major, along with second place in color guard.
From maintaining district facilities to supporting employees and celebrating students, the October meeting highlighted the shared work that strengthens learning opportunities for all Tigers.