El Reno High School faculty and staff geared to meet student needs
Principal Column
Tim Pounds
Principal - El Reno High School
It is with great pride and excitement that I write this letter of introduction to you as the newly appointed lead principal of El Reno High School.
I am honored to have the opportunity to lead a school with rich traditions and a strong emphasis on educating the leaders of our future.
After 10 years in the business industry, I am now starting my 15th year in education, with this being my fourth year in El Reno.
I have been a teacher and coach and assistant principal, and now I am excited to be the lead principal for an amazing group of teachers and students.
As your principal, it is important to me that everyone who steps through our doors is excited to be here! This attitude will enable us to meet challenges in a positive, fun and safe environment.
I know we are in uncertain times in our world, but I want to assure you that all EHS faculty and staff are working hard to meet the needs of our students and families.
This year we have adopted the theme “The Power of YET.” When we look at today’s unique circumstances, we can say, “I don’t know how to do this - YET, I don’t understand this - YET, I can’t do this - YET.” El Reno High School is committed to educating students until they reach their YET.
We have added a few new names to the list of our outstanding educators at EHS:
▶ Sarah Brower - Math Teacher, Golf Coach
▶ Regina Emmons - Special Education Teacher
▶ Roscoe Gunther - Science Teacher, Softball/Baseball Coach
▶ Jaden Howe - Science Teacher
▶ Bill Reeves - Lifetime Sports Teacher
▶ Stacie Riddle - Special Education Teacher
▶ Taylor Wedman - Science Teacher, Tennis Coach
▶ J.P. Wright - ELL/Senior Seminar Teacher, Football Coach
I look forward to welcoming everyone back on Aug. 20.
In the meantime, please make sure your enrollment packet is complete.
The ERPS enrollment packets must be completed in the Power School portal. A complete step-by-step list of instructions can be found on the El Reno Public Schools home page. Student schedules can also be viewed in the Power School portal.
See you soon!
COVID-19 Safety Measures for El Reno High School
Grades 9-12
STUDENT ARRIVAL
▶ Students arriving early will be allowed to enter the commons with required social distancing. The auditorium will also be open to allow for social distancing before students go to class.
BREAKFAST
▶ Students choosing to receive breakfast at school will have a grab-and-go option available in the STEM Center.
▶ Students may eat in the commons with adequate space around them, take their breakfast outside (weather permitting) or go to the auditorium.
CLASSROOMS
▶ Students will be socially distanced in class facing the same direction as much as allowed by the size of the classroom.
▶ Hand sanitizer will be available in each classroom for students to sanitize their hands before, during and after class.
▶ Sanitizing wipes will be available to sanitize Chromebooks and desks as allowable.
▶ Continued emphasis on hygiene, hand-washing and keeping hands out of the facial area will be in place throughout all rooms.
CLASS TRANSITIONS
▶ Hallways will be designated for directional flow as much as possible.
▶ Entries and exits to buildings will be designated where needed to reduce large groups and prevent bottlenecks and lines at doors.
▶ Teachers will monitor halls to keep traffic flowing and reduce student gatherings.
▶ Restrooms will not be available during transitions. Students will be allowed to use the restroom during class time to limit large groups.
LUNCH
▶ Students who are eligible will have an open campus lunch and be encouraged to avoid large gatherings.
▶ Additional lunch periods may be added if additional social distancing is needed.
SCHOOL DISMISSAL
▶ Students will be dismissed at the end of the day in staggered groups to avoid clusters as they leave.