Welcome to a detailed look into Broken Arrow Public Schools (BAPS), a cornerstone of the community in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma. This district is more than just a collection of buildings; it is a thriving educational ecosystem dedicated to fostering student success and preparing the next generation for bright futures. From its historical roots to its modern, expansive facilities, BAPS represents a commitment to excellence in public education. Whether you are a parent considering enrollment, a community member interested in local education, or a prospective employee looking for fulfilling careers, this guide will provide a thorough overview of everything the district has to offer.
The Broken Arrow Public Schools district serves a diverse and growing urban-suburban community. It extends across both Tulsa County and Wagoner County, making it one of the largest and most influential school systems in the state. With a focus on providing a wide range of academic and extracurricular opportunities, the district is dedicated to meeting the needs of every learner.
The Foundation and Growth of an Educational Leader
A Rich History Serving the Community
Broken Arrow Public Schools was established in 1904, growing from a small territorial school into a sprawling district that now serves over 20,000 students. This long history reflects the growth of the city of Broken Arrow itself, from its early days to its current status as a vibrant suburb of Tulsa. The district has consistently adapted to meet the changing needs of its families, expanding its facilities and programs to maintain a high standard of education. This legacy of progress and commitment is a point of pride for the entire community.
Broken Arrow Public Schools by the Numbers
Understanding the scale of BAPS helps to appreciate its impact. The district is a massive operation dedicated to providing quality education and services.
- Students: Over 20,000+ students are currently enrolled across the district.
- Employees: More than 2,600+ employees, including teachers, administrators, and support staff, work to keep the schools running smoothly.
- School Sites: The district comprises 31 school sites, each tailored to different age groups and educational needs.
- Diversity: A remarkable 44 languages & dialects are spoken by students and their families, highlighting the district’s diverse and inclusive environment.
This snapshot reveals a large, dynamic district capable of offering extensive resources and a wide variety of educational pathways.
Exploring the Schools within the District
Broken Arrow Public Schools is structured to provide a seamless educational journey from the earliest years through high school graduation. The district is organized into early childhood centers, elementary schools, middle schools, and high school campuses, each designed to provide age-appropriate learning and development.
Nurturing the Youngest Learners: Early Childhood Centers
The journey begins at one of the district’s four early childhood centers, which serve Pre-K students. These centers are designed to create a warm, welcoming, and stimulating environment where young children can develop foundational social and academic skills.
Key Early Childhood Centers
- Aspen Creek ECC
- Creekwood ECC
- Park Lane ECC
These centers focus on play-based learning and early literacy, setting the stage for a successful transition into elementary school.
Building Strong Foundations: Elementary and Intermediate Schools
With 16 elementary schools (grades K-5), Broken Arrow Public Schools places a strong emphasis on core subjects like reading, math, and science. The curriculum is designed to be engaging and challenging, fostering a love for learning from a young age. Some schools, like Country Lane, are split into Primary (K-2nd) and Intermediate (3rd-5th) sites to better target instruction.
A Glimpse at the Elementary Schools
- Arrowhead Elementary
- Aspen Creek Elementary
- Country Lane Primary & Intermediate
- Creekwood Elementary
- Highland Park Elementary
- Leisure Park Elementary
- Liberty Elementary
- Lynn Wood Elementary
- Oak Crest Elementary
- Rhoades Elementary
- Rosewood Elementary
- Spring Creek Elementary
- Timber Ridge Elementary
- Vandever Elementary
- Wolf Creek Elementary
These schools are hubs of family engagement, with events and programs that encourage parents to partner with educators for student success.
Navigating the Teen Years: Middle Schools
The five middle schools in the district serve students in grades 6-8. This is a critical transitional period, and the schools are structured to provide both academic rigor and social-emotional support. Students are introduced to a wider range of subjects and extracurricular activities, helping them discover their interests and passions.
The Middle School Campuses
- Ernest Childers Middle School
- Centennial Middle School
- Oliver Middle School
- Oneta Ridge Middle School
- Sequoyah Middle School
Sequoyah also includes an 8th Grade Academy, providing a focused environment as students prepare for high school.
The High School Experience and Beyond
The high school experience at Broken Arrow Public Schools is multifaceted, designed to prepare students for college, careers, and life.
- Broken Arrow Freshman Academy: This campus is exclusively for ninth-grade students, providing a supportive transition into the larger high school environment.
- Broken Arrow High School: Serving grades 10-12, this is the main high school campus, offering a vast array of courses, Advanced Placement (AP) classes, and vocational programs.
- Options Academies: For students seeking alternative educational paths, the district offers several specialized academies:
- Broken Arrow Options Academy
- Early College High School
- Vanguard Academy
- Virtual Academy
These options ensure that every student can find a learning environment that fits their unique needs and goals. Both the High School and Freshman Academy are fully accredited, a testament to their high academic standards.
Enrollment, Resources, and Community Engagement
Navigating a large school district like Broken Arrow Public Schools is made easier by the wealth of information and services available to families.
The Enrollment Process
For families new to the area or those with children starting school, the enrollment process is streamlined. The district provides a comprehensive ENROLLMENT & DISTRICT MAP on its website, allowing parents to determine which school their child will attend. Enrollment can often be completed online to help families avoid long lines and simplify the process.
Essential Resources for Families
Broken Arrow Public Schools is committed to supporting the whole student, which includes providing essential services for families.
| Resource | Description |
| Instructional Calendars | Provides key dates for the school year, including holidays and breaks. |
| Bus Routes | The transportation department manages extensive bus routes to ensure students get to and from school safely. |
| MENUS | The Child Nutrition department provides information on school breakfast and lunch menus. |
| Free and Reduced Meals | The district encourages all eligible families to complete the free and reduced meal application. |
| Complaint Resolution | A formal complaint process is in place to ensure concerns are heard and addressed properly. |
| Financial Audit | The district maintains transparency with its finances, making the annual comprehensive financial reports publicly available. |
The Power of Community: Family Engagement and Partnerships
BAPS strongly believes that family engagement is crucial for student success. The district regularly hosts events that bring families, students, and staff together, creating a strong sense of community. This collaborative spirit is a hallmark of the Broken Arrow Public Schools experience.
The district also encourages local businesses and organizations to partner with them. These partnerships provide valuable resources, mentorship opportunities, and real-world connections for students. From the 2024 Bond Project, which saw students signing a beam for their new school, to daily classroom support, community involvement is woven into the fabric of the district.
Beyond the Classroom: Athletics and Fine Arts
A well-rounded education extends beyond academics. Broken Arrow Public Schools boasts exceptional athletics and fine arts programs that allow students to explore their talents and passions.
A Tradition of Excellence in Athletics
The Broken Arrow Tigers compete in the 6A athletic conference, the state’s highest level. The BAPS’ Athletics programs are known for their competitiveness and sportsmanship. Students can participate in a wide variety of sports, developing skills in teamwork, discipline, and perseverance. The community’s support for the Tigers is a unifying force, with packed stadiums and arenas for games.
Cultivating Creativity through Fine Arts
The BAPS’ Fine Arts department is one of the most celebrated in the state. The Pride of Broken Arrow marching band is a nationally recognized, award-winning ensemble. In addition to band, students can participate in orchestra, vocal music, drama, and visual arts. These programs provide a creative outlet and help students develop confidence and self-expression.
Join the Team: Careers at Broken Arrow Public Schools
With over 2,600 employees, Broken Arrow Public Schools is a major employer in the region. The district is always looking for passionate and dedicated individuals to JOIN OUR TEAM. CAREERS AT BROKEN ARROW offer the chance to make a real difference in the lives of students. The Human Resources department provides information on current openings for teachers, administrators, support staff, and more. Working for BAPS means becoming part of a supportive and dynamic professional community.
The commitment of Broken Arrow Public Schools to providing a top-tier education in a supportive, community-focused environment makes it a premier district in Oklahoma. Its comprehensive approach, from Pre-K to graduation, ensures every student has the opportunity to thrive.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- How many schools are in the Broken Arrow Public Schools district?
Broken Arrow Public Schools has 31 school sites, which include four early childhood centers (Pre-K), 16 elementary schools (K-5), five middle schools (6-8), a freshman academy (9), a high school (10-12), and several alternative and virtual academies. - How do I enroll my child in Broken Arrow Public Schools?
You can start the enrollment process on the official district website, baschools.org. The site has an ENROLLMENT & DISTRICT MAP to help you find your designated school and provides online registration forms to streamline the process. - What extracurricular activities are available at Broken Arrow Public Schools?
The district offers a wide range of activities. The BAPS’ Athletics program is highly competitive, competing at the 6A level. The BAPS’ Fine Arts department is nationally recognized, with award-winning band, orchestra, vocal, and drama programs available to students. - Does the district offer any alternative education programs?
Yes, Broken Arrow Public Schools provides several alternative options to meet diverse student needs, including the Broken Arrow Options Academy, Vanguard Academy, Early College High School for earning college credits, and a fully Virtual Academy for online learning.
5. How can I find information about jobs and careers at Broken Arrow Public Schools?
You can find all current job openings and career information by visiting the “Human Resources” or “JOIN OUR TEAM” section on the official Broken Arrow Public Schools website. The district regularly hires for teaching, administrative, and support staff positions.
