Jenks Teacher Experiences Progress
POSITIVE CHANGES: Eric Fox, a teacher at Jenks High School for 15 years, has experienced positive changes in the school along with current seniors.
As graduation nears, seniors have been looking back on their experience at Jenks High School while they finalizing plans to move forward into college and professions. From their first day of class to their last, the students have had the opportunity to watch the school grow and change.
Eric Fox has been a social studies teacher at Jenks High School for 15 years and has enjoyed every minute of it so far. “I love working with the students here because they are not afraid to open up their minds, see a broader picture and ask tough questions.”
One of the most exciting changes that have occurred over the last couple of years was the formation of AVID, or Advancement through Individual Determination. “This program was formed to help students who are taking rigorous classes such as advanced placement.” Current seniors will be the first to graduate from the program this year.
A variety of new classes have been offered to students at Jenks High School. “Biotechnology is a popular new science elective that was recently added to Jenks High School’s curriculum. A lot of seniors have enjoyed taking the class, which will greatly help them with advanced science courses in college.”
Another change that seniors have experienced involved testing. “The state has added more requirements for students in terms of passing their state mandate tests. That is probably something that the seniors will remember, even though they are not the most excited about it,” laughs Fox. The new requirements will affect not only Jenks High School, but every school in the state of Oklahoma.
Along with academic changes, seniors have also noticed a variety of structural changes to Jenks High School. “This month, the old administration building will be demolished, which will make room for a new math and science building. The building of a new Trojan aquatic center is also underway. Seniors will have graduated before its completion, but many want to return to see the finished facility.”
The Sharp Center was also built since current seniors began attending the school. “The new center features much needed classrooms for sports medicine. A weight room was also implemented into the Sharp Center along with sports meeting rooms.”
The cafeteria has also undergone some changes that seniors have appreciated. “Significant renovations include a new modern design and layout along with new tables. I think that students have enjoyed the new appearance and their lunches there.”
With a number of student organizations available at Jenks High School, one of the most popular was formed by a group of current seniors this year. “The International Club celebrates the diversity of students at Jenks High School. It has really brought everyone together and made a great impact on the student body. Throughout the year, members held fun events that students and teachers enjoyed.”
Students have also become very active in the Young Republicans and Young Democrats organizations over the past couple of years. With the presidential election, students had the opportunity to follow and discuss politics with one another.
Updated 05-18-2010
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