Tulsa Public Schools celebrates first graduates from North Star Academy

The Tulsa African American Affairs Commission convened on February 11, 2025, to discuss various initiatives aimed at supporting the local community, particularly focusing on education and engagement with youth. The meeting began with a presentation by Blake Humphrey, a family engagement specialist from Tulsa Public Schools, who highlighted the success of the North Star Academy's first graduation ceremony. Notably, 144 students graduated, with the majority having received assistance from the academy to complete their high school diplomas.

Humphrey emphasized the importance of engaging students who are also heads of households, noting that many of them are under 21 and require additional support as they transition into adulthood. A survey is being developed to assess the needs of these post-graduates, with a particular focus on services beyond traditional pathways like college or career tech. One significant area of interest among students is driver's education, with many expressing a desire to obtain Commercial Driver's Licenses (CDLs) or start their own businesses.

The meeting also featured public comments, including remarks from Jamie Collum, a community engagement team leader from the municipal court. Collum expressed her goal of fostering trust between the judicial system and the community, addressing concerns about missed court dates and the need for better communication. She plans to attend future meetings to explore ways to strengthen these connections.

As the meeting concluded, members were encouraged to collaborate on upcoming initiatives and to continue engaging with the community. The session ended with a motion to adjourn, marking a productive gathering focused on enhancing support for Tulsa's African American youth and fostering community trust.