Tahlequah Public Schools Outreach Center proudly embraces this year’s theme, “Bonded by Purpose,” a reflection of our shared commitment to support every student through collaboration among schools, families, and the community. When we come together with a common goal, we create a foundation where students can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. This spirit of unity is at the heart of the work done through the Tahlequah Public Schools Outreach Center.
The Outreach Center has recently moved to its new location at 351 Academy Street, Building C, Office C02. Families are encouraged to reach out by calling 918-458-4198 for assistance with basic needs, food support, and community referrals. Amy Spears, office manager and grants clerk, connects families to needed services and oversees the district’s Backpack Program, which provides more than 300 students each week with shelf-stable “snack packs.” Extra food is distributed during school breaks and summer months to ensure students have consistent access to nourishment. The program is funded entirely through community donations; contributions may be made to Tahlequah Public Schools – Backpack Program.
During the current SNAP benefits hold, the Outreach Center remains open and ready to assist families. In addition, Tahlequah Table will be serving hot meals daily at 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, at Tahlequah United Methodist Church, and the Care Food Pantry, located at the First Presbyterian Church, continues to offer food support for families and district employees.
Partnerships with the Oklahoma Food Bank and the Department of Human Services allow the district to meet the evolving needs of students and families. The Tahlequah Public School Food Pantry, coordinated by Kaitlyn Johnson THS School-Based Specialist, is open to the public and available to students through self-referral or by appointment. Johnson also assists families with transportation barriers and SoonerCare enrollment, ensuring that vital resources are accessible to all. Please contact Kaitlyn at (918)458-4150 ext. 16748 for assistance.
We are proud to have a team of School-Based Family Services Specialists dedicated to connecting students and families with the right support. Arden Sampson serves at Tahlequah Middle School, Donnie Phillips supports Sequoyah Pre-K and Heritage Elementary, and Abby Keys, our newest specialist, serves Greenwood Elementary and Cherokee Elementary. These specialists work closely with families to remove barriers that impact student success, recognizing that a child’s basic well-being is directly tied to their ability to learn.
Family engagement is another vital part of our shared purpose. Parents are encouraged to use the WenGage Parent Portal to stay informed about grades and lunch accounts, attend parent-teacher conferences, and participate in school family nights. These events often feature academic activities, health and safety discussions, and college and career readiness sessions. When families and schools communicate openly and work together, students benefit in every area of development.
The success of these programs would not be possible without the generosity of our community partners and donors. Contributions of clothing, shoes, hygiene products, food, and volunteer time continue to make a lasting difference for Tahlequah students and families. Together, we remain Bonded by Purpose—united in our mission to ensure every child has the opportunity to succeed.
For more information or to stay connected with upcoming events, follow Tahlequah Public Schools – Outreach Center on Facebook.
Nikki Molloy, Family and Community Engagement Director