Learn More About ORES-Oklahoma Rural Elementary Schools
History
ORES was founded in 1984. Originally the Oklahoma Organization of Dependent Schools, ORES is Oklahoma's oldest rural school organization. The organization has maintained as its primary goal the promotion, protection, and preservation of rural elementary schools. Former presidents have been Harlan Parsons, Dale Smith, Mike Lackey, Randall Erwin, Bill Horton, and Pat Howell. Presently, Dr. John Cox, Superintendent of Peggs Elementary School, is the organization's president.
ORES represents all rural elementary schools statewide. Leaders of the organization are active participants in various other state organizations and committees giving ORES constant, up-to-date information about subjects of a critical nature in rural Oklahoma elementary school districts.
In this chaotic era of school crisis including crime, student safety, and the need for general basic common sense child development, rural elementary schools continue to be the lighthouse providing what we all agree is the often missing ingredient for all children, a safe, comfortable, personal learning environment.
Rural elementary schools are at the heart of Oklahoma education with their roots dating back to before statehood. These schools have provided the basic education for governors, State Senators, U.S. Senators, State Representatives, U.S. Representatives, judges, astronauts, doctors, lawyers, teachers, factory workers, and a multitude of other quality individuals. Rural elementary schools must continue to be the fiber-binding communities together. ORES pledges to continue striving toward the preservation of rural elementary schools and communities.
Interesting Facts
Statewide, rural elementary schools receive twice as many incoming transfers as they send out. Over the past ten years, rural elementary schools have experienced a 24% increase in enrollment. During the same period, the total number of students statewide has only grown by only four percent (4%). This is an indication rural elementary schools are the people's choice. Incidents of violence in rural elementary schools as well as tremendously low dropout rates are noted in rural schools.
Student Performance
Students from rural elementary schools are continuously top performers in academic competitions statewide. Rural elementary school graduates are often top students at their receiving high schools, frequently becoming valedictorians and salutatorians of their senior classes. Many of our athletes go on to be leading performers on high school teams and likewise have gone on to compete at the post-secondary level successfully.