Dr. Keith Ballard Transitions From TPS To Faculty At OU-Tulsa

The University of Oklahoma announced Monday, former Tulsa Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Keith Ballard will join the faculty at its Tulsa campus on July 1. 

Dr. Ballard, who retired this month after seven years with the school district, will serve as director of the Professional Development and Leadership Academy and professor of Educational Leadership and Policy Studies in the university's Jeannine Rainbolt College of Education.

“I look forward to making the transition to OU-Tulsa, so I can continue to make an impact on public education in Oklahoma,” said Dr. Keith Ballard. 

“Having served at Tulsa Public Schools during a period of intense change, there is much I can do to assist in the development of educational leadership in K-12, particularly in cultivating new school superintendents. It's a joy being able to leave a job that I love and moving to a place where I can be a difference-maker. I'm looking forward to my time at the University of Oklahoma.”

Dean of the college, Dr. Gregg Garn says students will benefit greatly from Dr. Ballard's experience.

“We're excited that Dr. Ballard will be joining our faculty. Students will benefit tremendously from his vast and varied experience. He offers the unique compliment of not only his academic prowess, but his firsthand, practical knowledge of the field,” said Dr. Gregg Garn.

Dr. Ballard has been gradually transitioning from his role at TPS. On the last day of school, he made some final visits to campuses. He went to each of the graduation exercises for the high schools and said a few words at each one.

He will be attending his final school board meeting Monday  night where he will be recognized for his service. Then he's officially retired from TPS.