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Clyde Thomas Named Superintendent of Stillwater Schools

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  Published in Business and Finance on Saturday, February 7th 2026 at 2:13 GMT by Stillwater NewsPress, Okla.
      Locales: Oklahoma, UNITED STATES

Stillwater, Oklahoma - February 7, 2026 - The Stillwater Board of Education today announced the appointment of Clyde Thomas as the new Superintendent of Schools, effective March 1, 2026. The decision culminates a comprehensive nationwide search, and signals a commitment to continued progress and innovation within the district.

Thomas, a seasoned educational leader, currently holds a prominent position within the Oklahoma City Public Schools district, serving as Chief of Schools. This role has provided him with broad oversight of curriculum development, school administration, and student achievement across a diverse range of schools. While details of his specific accomplishments in Oklahoma City will be detailed in the formal announcement, sources indicate he's been instrumental in initiatives focused on closing achievement gaps and bolstering vocational training programs.

"We are thrilled to welcome Clyde Thomas to Stillwater," said Board President, Sarah Miller, in a brief statement released following the vote. "His experience, leadership qualities, and unwavering dedication to student success perfectly align with the values of our district and the needs of our community."

The nationwide search, spearheaded by the educational consulting firm McPherson & Jacobson, attracted a pool of highly qualified candidates. The Board meticulously reviewed applications, conducted preliminary interviews, and ultimately invited a select group of finalists to Stillwater for in-depth interviews and community forums. These forums allowed stakeholders - including parents, teachers, administrators, and students - to directly engage with the candidates and provide valuable feedback.

According to sources close to the selection process, Thomas stood out for his articulate vision for 21st-century education, emphasizing personalized learning pathways, increased access to technology, and a strengthened focus on social-emotional learning. He also demonstrated a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities facing rural school districts like Stillwater.

One key aspect of Thomas's vision appears to be fostering stronger ties between the school district and the local community. He reportedly stressed the importance of collaborative partnerships with businesses, civic organizations, and higher education institutions to provide students with real-world learning experiences and prepare them for future careers. This emphasis on "community engagement" was frequently cited by Board members as a deciding factor.

The Stillwater Public Schools district serves approximately 7,500 students across nine schools, including elementary, middle, and high school facilities. The district has a long-standing reputation for academic excellence and a strong commitment to extracurricular activities. However, like many school districts across the nation, Stillwater faces challenges related to funding, teacher recruitment and retention, and addressing the diverse needs of its student population.

"We believe Mr. Thomas has the skills and experience to navigate these challenges and build upon our existing strengths," added Miller. "He is a proven leader with a track record of success, and we are confident that he will provide the vision and direction needed to ensure that all of our students have the opportunity to thrive."

The Board has indicated that contract details, including salary and benefits, will be released in a formal announcement next week. This announcement will also include a more comprehensive overview of Thomas's background, experience, and vision for the future of Stillwater Public Schools. Many are eager to learn more about the specific strategies he intends to implement to further enhance the district's performance and ensure a bright future for its students.

Beyond the immediate focus on leadership transition, the appointment of Thomas comes at a pivotal moment for Oklahoma education. State funding models are under review, and discussions surrounding standardized testing and curriculum standards are ongoing. Thomas will be expected to advocate for the needs of the Stillwater district within the broader state educational landscape and to ensure that the district remains at the forefront of innovation.

Local parent-teacher organizations have already expressed enthusiasm about the new superintendent, anticipating a collaborative and responsive leadership style. They are hopeful that Thomas will prioritize open communication and actively seek input from parents and educators in shaping the future of the district. The coming months will undoubtedly be filled with activity as Thomas prepares to take the helm and embark on a new chapter for Stillwater Public Schools.