Jeff Stapleton appointed head wrestling coach for Jay Oklahoma school district

The Gravette School Board convened on July 15, 2025, to discuss key updates and personnel changes as the new school year approaches. A highlight of the meeting was the introduction of Jeff Stapleton as the new head wrestling coach, who brings 35 years of coaching experience from Oklahoma. His appointment is seen as a positive step for the district's athletic programs.

The board also reviewed the upcoming calendar, noting significant dates such as the August 7 meeting, which coincides with an open house night. This meeting will be crucial for parents and students as they prepare for the school year. The board confirmed that they are currently fully staffed, with no immediate need for a reading specialist, which is often a challenging position to fill.

In addition to staffing updates, the superintendent provided a monthly progress summary, highlighting summer activities and improvements across the district. Notably, the summer feeding program continues to serve students, ensuring they have access to meals during the break. The board discussed the importance of maintaining student engagement, particularly among freshmen, who historically face challenges transitioning from middle school. The district reported a significant improvement in retention rates, with the percentage of freshmen failing dropping to zero last year.

The meeting also touched on the importance of tracking student attendance and retention rates, particularly as the school year begins. The board expressed a commitment to monitoring these metrics closely, especially in light of potential housing developments that could impact enrollment numbers.

Overall, the meeting underscored the district's proactive approach to staffing, student engagement, and community involvement as they prepare for the upcoming school year. The board's focus on these areas reflects a commitment to fostering a supportive educational environment for all students.