Rally Supports Broken Arrow Schools

By Ashli Sims, The News On 6

BROKEN ARROW, OK -- Hundreds of Broken Arrow parents, students and teachers rally around their school district.  Folks say they wanted to show they're proud of their schools, despite the turmoil surrounding the district.

Bursting with pride doesn't even begin to describe how this crowd feels about their school.

"I'm out here because I support Broken Arrow and I'm proud to be a Tiger," said Broken Arrow senior Sydney Sutton.

"I'm out here to show support for Broken Arrow, because I think it's a great school and a great community," said Broken Arrow senior Elizabeth Hall.

The group was varied from some of the district's newest students, sporting banners and signs to the high school seniors, who've been in Broken Arrow schools their whole life.

Many mentioned the negative headlines and their desire to shine a positive light on their district.

"We're trying to say that even though we may be getting bad press we all still do care and we're out here giving our own time to show that we really do care about the school and we want people to see us in a better light," said Broken Arrow student Shanley Taber.

Broken Arrow Public Schools has had a rocky school year.  First, the school board fired the superintendent.  Then, he fired back with a lawsuit.  Despite an internal audit, some taxpayers claim the district misspent their money.

Now state investigators are looking into accusations the district broke the law by giving preferential treatment to a heating and cooling company.

"Don't believe everything you hear in the media, because it's not true. If you want to find out what's going on, then go dig for yourself," said Broken Arrow teacher Melissa Armstrong.

Those at the rally want to put the allegations aside, and put the focus back on the kids.

"We had such negative press in the past month, Broken Arrow School District. It was time that we brought attention to the fact that hey this is an excellent school district. It always has been and it will continue to be," said Broken Arrow teacher Greer Nichols.