The Norman Public Schools Board of Education heard updates on renovations to four NPS elementary schools and appointed a Norman High School assistant principal intern during its Monday evening meeting.
Commitment to student’s education, safety and privacy resolution
The news: Office 4 Board member Dawn Brockman presented a resolution stating the board intended to alleviate concerns for public education following implementation and enforcement of immigration laws.
The resolution states the district is required by law to provide equal education opportunities to all students and denying enrollment based on immigration status would violate the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment.
The resolution also notes students can seek support related to any immigration events within the district, which does not collect information related to students’ immigration statuses.
The resolution comes after State Superintendent Ryan Walters said in January he would support immigration enforcement raids in schools. In May, the House sent altered rules to Gov. Kevin Stitt that eliminated Walters’ proposed rule requiring public schools to collect proof of U.S. citizenship from students.
What they’re saying: NPS Superintendent Nick Migliorino told OU Daily the board met with school leadership last year to discuss the values stated in the resolution, but said it is important for the community to hear it from the board.
“To formally say it from the board just makes it more impactful,” Migliorino said.
Brockman told OU Daily the resolution shows the board supports NPS students and families.
“We’re going to take care of our students and we’re going to take care of our families,” Brockman said.
Elementary schools renovations
The news: Justin Milner, NPS associate superintendent and chief operating officer, along with Kenna Daniel of CWA Group, a Norman-based architecture, planning and design firm, presented an update on renovations and additions to take place at four elementary schools in the district as part of the 2023 Bond Issue.
The addition to Kennedy Elementary will include five classrooms, with one focusing on STEAM projects, and additional restrooms. The renovation will include flooring updates and site improvements such as additional bus parking.
Eisenhower Elementary will receive new millwork, which Daniel said will add storage to the site’s classrooms, many of which she said have no permanent cabinets. Eisenhower will also receive updates to its STEAM room, added parking and a renovated main entrance.
The renovation at Jackson Elementary includes classroom and exterior facade upgrades, a STEAM room renovation and an addition that will shield students from weather conditions while in the courtyard corridor to access the classrooms.
Truman Elementary will receive ceiling upgrades and renovations to its STEAM room.
All sites will receive ADA upgrades to comply with standards, including accessible restrooms, stage and parking entrances. Daniel said all sites are expected to begin construction in May 2026.
What they’re saying: Migliorino said the upgrades will help make schools more equitable, allowing all students to attend updated sites.
Migliorino said the board is “bringing (schools) up to speed and code and making them bright and cheery.”
Norman High School assistant principal intern appointment
The news: The board appointed Tara Trear as Norman High School assistant principal intern following its executive session. Trear has over 20 years of experience in secondary education, according to a Monday press release.
The vote: The board unanimously approved the appointment.
This story was edited by Ana Barboza and Natalie Armour.