GLE October Staff Spotlight: Sarah Heird
Building Strong Readers, Supporting Teachers, and Making a Difference
For Sarah Heird, teaching has always been about more than lessons in a classroom. It is about building relationships, helping children succeed, and making a lasting difference in their lives. As the Grove Lower Elementary (GLE) October Staff Member of the Month, Sarah brings 27 years of experience in education and a passion for helping students develop the foundational skills they need to succeed.
Sarah has called Grove home for the past 16 years, but her teaching career began in Fort Gibson, where she spent 12 years teaching Pre-K, kindergarten, and first grade. For the past 14 years, she has served Grove Public Schools as a Reading Specialist and Instructional Coach, developing reading plans for kindergarten through third grade and supporting teachers through Professional Learning Communities (PLCs).
Sarah says teaching has always been her calling. Her love for children is the driving force behind everything she does. Even as a young lifeguard teaching swimming lessons, she knew she enjoyed helping children learn and grow. In her current role, Sarah finds great satisfaction in supporting teachers and strengthening reading instruction throughout the elementary grades.
"When teachers seek me out for help, I feel happy that I can help and provide the support for K-3. To be able to help them with the foundational reading skills for every student means a lot to me. I am so blessed to be part of that," Sarah shared.
GLE Principal Dottie Smith recognizes the value Sarah brings to both students and staff. "Mrs. Heird is the kind of educator that everyone dreams of having in their building. Her expertise as a reading specialist is invaluable. She is always ready to offer her time and knowledge to help our students and staff."
Although much of Sarah's work happens behind the scenes, she loves seeing students and knowing she plays a small part in their lives. She also hopes others recognize how important the support provided by educators can be and the difference it makes in students' futures.
Sarah says one of the things she appreciates most about Grove Public Schools is the supportive atmosphere among colleagues. "My colleagues are so supportive, and we are here for each other and have unconditional love and support for one another."
Throughout her career, Sarah has also been inspired by others. She credits Gayle, a former Reading Specialist, with being an important mentor who shared valuable knowledge and advice. One lesson Sarah continues to live by is: "Wherever I go, find the smartest person in the room and listen to them and follow their advice."
Outside of school, Sarah enjoys reading, needlepoint, and spending time with her family. Her husband is a pharmacist in Miami, and their daughter is completing a master's internship at OU Children's Medical Hospital. The family also enjoys traveling in their travel trailer and attending OU football games, where tailgating and spending time together are favorite traditions.
A visit to Sarah's classroom quickly reveals another passion: Dolly Parton! Her classroom has a warm, inviting atmosphere filled with Dolly-inspired touches. So, it comes as no surprise that her choice for the soundtrack of her life is "I Will Always Love You" by Dolly Parton.
Sarah's commitment to literacy, dedication to supporting fellow educators, and love for children make her an invaluable part of the GLE family. Through her work, she helps build strong readers, confident teachers, and a foundation for lifelong learning.
Congratulations to Sarah Heird, our GLE October Staff Member of the Month!
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
Building Strong Readers, Supporting Teachers, and Making a Difference
For Sarah Heird, teaching has always been about more than lessons in a classroom. It is about building relationships, helping children succeed, and making a lasting difference in their lives. As the Grove Lower Elementary (GLE) October Staff Member of the Month, Sarah brings 27 years of experience in education and a passion for helping students develop the foundational skills they need to succeed.
Sarah has called Grove home for the past 16 years, but her teaching career began in Fort Gibson, where she spent 12 years teaching Pre-K, kindergarten, and first grade. For the past 14 years, she has served Grove Public Schools as a Reading Specialist and Instructional Coach, developing reading plans for kindergarten through third grade and supporting teachers through Professional Learning Communities (PLCs).
Sarah says teaching has always been her calling. Her love for children is the driving force behind everything she does. Even as a young lifeguard teaching swimming lessons, she knew she enjoyed helping children learn and grow. In her current role, Sarah finds great satisfaction in supporting teachers and strengthening reading instruction throughout the elementary grades.
"When teachers seek me out for help, I feel happy that I can help and provide the support for K-3. To be able to help them with the foundational reading skills for every student means a lot to me. I am so blessed to be part of that," Sarah shared.
GLE Principal Dottie Smith recognizes the value Sarah brings to both students and staff. "Mrs. Heird is the kind of educator that everyone dreams of having in their building. Her expertise as a reading specialist is invaluable. She is always ready to offer her time and knowledge to help our students and staff."
Although much of Sarah's work happens behind the scenes, she loves seeing students and knowing she plays a small part in their lives. She also hopes others recognize how important the support provided by educators can be and the difference it makes in students' futures.
Sarah says one of the things she appreciates most about Grove Public Schools is the supportive atmosphere among colleagues. "My colleagues are so supportive, and we are here for each other and have unconditional love and support for one another."
Throughout her career, Sarah has also been inspired by others. She credits Gayle, a former Reading Specialist, with being an important mentor who shared valuable knowledge and advice. One lesson Sarah continues to live by is: "Wherever I go, find the smartest person in the room and listen to them and follow their advice."
Outside of school, Sarah enjoys reading, needlepoint, and spending time with her family. Her husband is a pharmacist in Miami, and their daughter is completing a master's internship at OU Children's Medical Hospital. The family also enjoys traveling in their travel trailer and attending OU football games, where tailgating and spending time together are favorite traditions.
A visit to Sarah's classroom quickly reveals another passion: Dolly Parton! Her classroom has a warm, inviting atmosphere filled with Dolly-inspired touches. So, it comes as no surprise that her choice for the soundtrack of her life is "I Will Always Love You" by Dolly Parton.
Sarah's commitment to literacy, dedication to supporting fellow educators, and love for children make her an invaluable part of the GLE family. Through her work, she helps build strong readers, confident teachers, and a foundation for lifelong learning.
Congratulations to Sarah Heird, our GLE October Staff Member of the Month!
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
Great news for Alli Case—accepted to OU!
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
Attention Grove Community!
Ridgerunner Families, your voice matters! We are developing a five-year strategic plan to help shape the future of our schools and better serve our students. Please take a few minutes to complete our survey and share your thoughts, ideas, and feedback.
Survey closes December 4, 2026.
Take the survey here: https://tejoin.com/scroll/160744709
Thank you for helping us make Grove Public Schools even better!
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
GHS October Staff Spotlight: Jeanne Smith
26 Years of Inspiring Students to Dream Big
For Jeanne Smith, teaching has always been about more than math, technology, or robotics. It is about helping students discover their potential, explore new possibilities, and find their own path to success. As the Grove High School October Staff Member of the Month, Jeanne brings 26 years of experience with Grove Public Schools and a passion for preparing students for the future. A proud Grove High School graduate from the Class of 1986, Jeanne's journey has taken her from her hometown to the corporate world and eventually back to the community she loves. Growing up in Grove, Jeanne dreamed of living in a big city and working for a major company. Through an internship with the University of Oklahoma, she made that dream a reality, landing a job in Fort Worth, Texas, where she worked for IBM and BNSF for approximately 10 years. Eventually, her love of math and technology brought her back home. Jeanne began her GPS career teaching math, but as technology evolved, so did her classroom. Over the years, she expanded into computer science, STEM education, robotics, and instructional technology coaching. Today, she enjoys introducing students to the many opportunities available in STEM careers while helping them understand how classroom lessons apply to the real world.
"I hope they are aware of all the careers available to them in the STEM field. I hope to teach math well and show them the application of it," Jeanne shared. "As computers have evolved in my teaching career, I have transitioned some teaching into hands-on activities with the Robotics class, and kids are loving it."Jeanne's impact extends beyond her classroom. High School Principal Bobby Kreutz recognizes her leadership, innovation, and willingness to help others grow.
"Mrs. Jeanne Smith is truly the definition of leading by example at the High School. Mrs. Smith does this by leading our STEM program and is always looking for new and innovative ways to have our students learn. Mrs. Smith is a strong believer in life-long learners and is always willing to share with our faculty tips and tricks with her computer wizardry skills. We appreciate Mrs. Smith for her drive and compassion to make those around her more efficient in the classroom and in the real world," Kreutz said.
One of the things Jeanne enjoys most about her job is that no two days are alike. Most importantly, she loves knowing she can make a lasting difference in students' lives. "I enjoy being involved in students' futures. I have kids come up to me all the time that I used to have in class and tell me how much I have impacted their lives. I love making a difference in their lives." Jeanne believes that difference begins by showing students she cares. She strives to help them set goals, find direction, and discover career possibilities they may have never considered.
One experience that stands out involved a former robotics student who initially disliked the subject. Jeanne encouraged her to take programming anyway. Later, while studying civil engineering in college, the student encountered a project requiring calculations and data for specialized concrete. She asked her professor if they could write a computer program to handle the process. His response was, "We have people that can do that." The experience helped the student recognize how programming could be used to solve real-world problems, applying what she had learned in Jeanne's classroom. Stories like this are exactly why Jeanne loves teaching and exposing students to new possibilities.
"Go do big things! Dream big!" is the message she wants every student to remember.
Looking back, Jeanne says she didn't know what she wanted to be when she grew up. She simply knew she loved math. She continued taking math and computer programming courses in college, eventually discovering her talent after a professor recognized her abilities. "I have been blessed to be able to live my dream but also come back to my hometown of Grove. I enjoy living and working here. I love this community," Jeanne said. She also appreciates the flexibility of her job and the opportunity to work alongside her son, who is also a teacher and coach at GHS.
Outside of school, Jeanne enjoys playing piano at her church and spending time with her grandchildren. When asked what song would serve as the soundtrack to her life, she didn't hesitate: "It's Alright to be Little Bitty" by Alan Jackson. Jeanne's passion for education, commitment to lifelong learning, and dedication to helping students discover their futures make her a valued member of the Grove High School family.
Congratulations to Jeanne Smith, our GHS October Staff Member of the Month!
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
26 Years of Inspiring Students to Dream Big
For Jeanne Smith, teaching has always been about more than math, technology, or robotics. It is about helping students discover their potential, explore new possibilities, and find their own path to success. As the Grove High School October Staff Member of the Month, Jeanne brings 26 years of experience with Grove Public Schools and a passion for preparing students for the future. A proud Grove High School graduate from the Class of 1986, Jeanne's journey has taken her from her hometown to the corporate world and eventually back to the community she loves. Growing up in Grove, Jeanne dreamed of living in a big city and working for a major company. Through an internship with the University of Oklahoma, she made that dream a reality, landing a job in Fort Worth, Texas, where she worked for IBM and BNSF for approximately 10 years. Eventually, her love of math and technology brought her back home. Jeanne began her GPS career teaching math, but as technology evolved, so did her classroom. Over the years, she expanded into computer science, STEM education, robotics, and instructional technology coaching. Today, she enjoys introducing students to the many opportunities available in STEM careers while helping them understand how classroom lessons apply to the real world.
"I hope they are aware of all the careers available to them in the STEM field. I hope to teach math well and show them the application of it," Jeanne shared. "As computers have evolved in my teaching career, I have transitioned some teaching into hands-on activities with the Robotics class, and kids are loving it."Jeanne's impact extends beyond her classroom. High School Principal Bobby Kreutz recognizes her leadership, innovation, and willingness to help others grow.
"Mrs. Jeanne Smith is truly the definition of leading by example at the High School. Mrs. Smith does this by leading our STEM program and is always looking for new and innovative ways to have our students learn. Mrs. Smith is a strong believer in life-long learners and is always willing to share with our faculty tips and tricks with her computer wizardry skills. We appreciate Mrs. Smith for her drive and compassion to make those around her more efficient in the classroom and in the real world," Kreutz said.
One of the things Jeanne enjoys most about her job is that no two days are alike. Most importantly, she loves knowing she can make a lasting difference in students' lives. "I enjoy being involved in students' futures. I have kids come up to me all the time that I used to have in class and tell me how much I have impacted their lives. I love making a difference in their lives." Jeanne believes that difference begins by showing students she cares. She strives to help them set goals, find direction, and discover career possibilities they may have never considered.
One experience that stands out involved a former robotics student who initially disliked the subject. Jeanne encouraged her to take programming anyway. Later, while studying civil engineering in college, the student encountered a project requiring calculations and data for specialized concrete. She asked her professor if they could write a computer program to handle the process. His response was, "We have people that can do that." The experience helped the student recognize how programming could be used to solve real-world problems, applying what she had learned in Jeanne's classroom. Stories like this are exactly why Jeanne loves teaching and exposing students to new possibilities.
"Go do big things! Dream big!" is the message she wants every student to remember.
Looking back, Jeanne says she didn't know what she wanted to be when she grew up. She simply knew she loved math. She continued taking math and computer programming courses in college, eventually discovering her talent after a professor recognized her abilities. "I have been blessed to be able to live my dream but also come back to my hometown of Grove. I enjoy living and working here. I love this community," Jeanne said. She also appreciates the flexibility of her job and the opportunity to work alongside her son, who is also a teacher and coach at GHS.
Outside of school, Jeanne enjoys playing piano at her church and spending time with her grandchildren. When asked what song would serve as the soundtrack to her life, she didn't hesitate: "It's Alright to be Little Bitty" by Alan Jackson. Jeanne's passion for education, commitment to lifelong learning, and dedication to helping students discover their futures make her a valued member of the Grove High School family.
Congratulations to Jeanne Smith, our GHS October Staff Member of the Month!
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
Congratulations to Myranda Jones on being accepted to OU and Pitt State!
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
Thursday night at the GHS Performing Arts Center, 28 new members were inducted into the National Honor Society adding to the current membership of 42. The guest speaker was Grove graduate Ben Hampton, President of Bank of Grand Lake.
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
Ridgerunner 3rd-6th grades came together for a POWWOW Demonstration! Thank you Blalock family, Ellick family, Sharp family, Cashton and Adalynn! 🪶❤️🦅
We Are Grove, The District of Champions‼️
Congratulations to the GHS October Ridgy Students of the Month!
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
GHS students in Mrs. Crawford's FCS Basics classes have officially completed their sewing projects!
This year, students made their own aprons, which will be put to good use during the Food and Nutrition units in the spring semester. Not only did students gain valuable sewing skills, but they also created something they will be able to use in the classroom throughout the year.
FCS Basics students! We’re excited to see you put your new aprons to work!
This year, students made their own aprons, which will be put to good use during the Food and Nutrition units in the spring semester. Not only did students gain valuable sewing skills, but they also created something they will be able to use in the classroom throughout the year.
FCS Basics students! We’re excited to see you put your new aprons to work!
Help us celebrate our October Ridgy Students of the Month! We are proud of these students for their hard work, positive attitudes, and the pride they bring to Grove High School.
❤️ Sean Beard • Jerry Malone • Ethan Lopez • Elijah Arneecher • Allyson Vaughn • Crispin Stanphill • Xavion Bates • Lillian Myers • Amber Rushing • Baylee Robins • Alexa Ballou • Alexa Ramey • Nash Duckworth • Hailey Benton • Addison Allred • Cruz Guterriez • Mason Altebaumer • Abigail Byers • Holland Lewis • Aniston Cross • Dawson Chism • Gabriel Baggett • Byron Roberts • Isabella Gesell • Brayden Barajas • Maddie Montgomery • Angelynn Cole • London Gentry • Zain Merrill • Elliot Hutchison • Caedance Menard • Adrian Moody
Keep shining and making us proud! Way to go, Ridgies!
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
#WeAreGrove #RidgyPride #GHS #StudentsOfTheMonth
❤️ Sean Beard • Jerry Malone • Ethan Lopez • Elijah Arneecher • Allyson Vaughn • Crispin Stanphill • Xavion Bates • Lillian Myers • Amber Rushing • Baylee Robins • Alexa Ballou • Alexa Ramey • Nash Duckworth • Hailey Benton • Addison Allred • Cruz Guterriez • Mason Altebaumer • Abigail Byers • Holland Lewis • Aniston Cross • Dawson Chism • Gabriel Baggett • Byron Roberts • Isabella Gesell • Brayden Barajas • Maddie Montgomery • Angelynn Cole • London Gentry • Zain Merrill • Elliot Hutchison • Caedance Menard • Adrian Moody
Keep shining and making us proud! Way to go, Ridgies!
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
#WeAreGrove #RidgyPride #GHS #StudentsOfTheMonth
Another proud moment for GHS. Congratulations to Tiahnna Dotson on your acceptance to OSU!
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
It's Football Friday!
Can't make it to the game tonight? Watch live here: https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/4283250
Can't make it to the game tonight? Watch live here: https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/4283250
It's that time again!
Ridgerunner Family! Click on the link to watch the Grove High School National Honor Society induction ceremony 11/5/2026 6pm live.
Live coverage provided by GHS Broadcasting Class led by Mike Huggins
https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/4748096
Live coverage provided by GHS Broadcasting Class led by Mike Huggins
https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/4748096
GLE would like to thank the AEIOU Foundation for sponsoring our Mad Science assembly! Our Junior Scientists love it!
Grove Public Schools is grateful to the American Heart Association CERP (Certified Emergency Response Program) Grant for providing valuable life-saving equipment and training resources!
The grant provided 5 new AEDs, wall cabinets and signs, CPR/AED training kits, 8 training AEDs, 16 bags filled with CPR manikins and training materials, and CPR certification for 45 GPS employees!
These resources help strengthen emergency preparedness and ensure our staff are better equipped to respond when every second counts.
Pictured: ECC Nurse Lani Littlejohn
We Are Grove, The District of Champions! ❤️
THE FUTURE OF GROVE STARTS WITH YOU!
Grove Public Schools is committed to providing championship-level experiences, environments, and expectations for every student. We appreciate our community's questions, feedback, and continued involvement as we look ahead at our long-range facilities plan.
We hear your concerns and want to keep the conversation open. Our goal is to address important facility and safety needs while exploring responsible funding options that protect our taxpayers.
We invite you to read the full message, learn more about the planning process, and see what lies ahead for Grove Public Schools.
Click the link below to read the full message on our district website!
https://www.ridgerunners.net/article/3236263
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
Grove Public Schools is committed to providing championship-level experiences, environments, and expectations for every student. We appreciate our community's questions, feedback, and continued involvement as we look ahead at our long-range facilities plan.
We hear your concerns and want to keep the conversation open. Our goal is to address important facility and safety needs while exploring responsible funding options that protect our taxpayers.
We invite you to read the full message, learn more about the planning process, and see what lies ahead for Grove Public Schools.
Click the link below to read the full message on our district website!
https://www.ridgerunners.net/article/3236263
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
Join us tonight at 6:00 PM at the GHS Performing Arts Center as we celebrate the 2026 Grove High School National Honor Society Induction Ceremony for new members, featuring guest speaker and Grove graduate Ben Hampton!
The NHS induction ceremony will be live streamed for family and friends who cannot attend. Use this link: https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/4748096
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
Rain couldn’t dampen the spirit of Grove High School’s Interact Club! Alongside sponsor Mrs. Guthridge, these dedicated students volunteered their Saturday night to bring Halloween fun to the Grove community with a Trunk or Treat at the tennis courts.
Congratulations to Abigail Byers on being accepted to University of Arkansas AND the Honors College! A great accomplishment!