September Staff Spotlight: Stephanie Hignite PreK Teacher, ECC
Grove Public Schools is proud to recognize Mrs. Stephanie Hignite, PreK teacher at the Grove Early Childhood Center (ECC), as the September Staff Member of the Month! With a warm heart, a passion for teaching, and a commitment to helping every child succeed, Hignite creates a classroom where young learners feel safe, loved, and excited to discover the world around them.
A proud Grove High School graduate from the Class of 2001, Hignite is in her fifth year teaching PreK at ECC. However, her dream of becoming a teacher began long before she ever stepped into her own classroom. As a first grader at Grove Public Schools, she had a wonderful teacher, Mrs. Pritchard, who inspired her to follow the same path.
Hignite spent six years working as a paraprofessional, gaining valuable experience with students who had a variety of learning needs. After spending time at home raising her children until they were school-aged, she felt the door open for her to finally pursue the teaching career she had dreamed of since childhood.
Her principal describes Hignite as a teacher who continually goes above and beyond for her students.
“Stephanie creates a warm, loving environment for her students. She is constantly finding innovative ways to engage them and values their individual needs. You can tell she deeply cares about her students and their learning. She goes above and beyond in all aspects of teaching. We are so fortunate to have her!”
Creating a sense of belonging is one of Hignite's biggest priorities. She wants every child to know that her classroom is a safe place to take risks, try new things, and even make mistakes while learning. Her students have opportunities to express themselves through singing, dancing, and hands-on activities that make learning fun and engaging.
When asked how she helps students who are struggling or having a difficult day, Hignite explained that she starts each day with positive affirmations and takes time to work through challenges with students individually. She also uses social-emotional books to teach problem-solving skills and help children develop tools they can carry with them throughout life.
For Hignite, some of the most rewarding moments come when she sees shy students begin to trust her, step outside their comfort zones, and blossom. She understands that transitioning from home to school can be a big adjustment for young children, making it especially meaningful to watch them grow in confidence, independence, and excitement for learning.
Being part of the Ridgerunner family holds a special place in Hignite's heart. Having grown up in Grove, she takes pride in working in the same district that helped shape her own childhood.
“I love being part of the Ridgerunner family because it gives me a sense of pride and holds a special place in my heart because this is where I am from. I love seeing the teachers I had growing up in town, and I love how we celebrate every milestone. Working here makes me feel valued, supported, and filled with Ridgerunner pride. This carries over into the classroom and spills over into the community, because We Are Grove.”
Outside the classroom, Hignite enjoys spending time outdoors, reading, spending time in the lake community, and reading her Bible. One of her favorite pastimes is fishing on Grand Lake with her dad. She has fond childhood memories of fishing with him using her Snoopy fishing rod, and today she enjoys making similar memories fishing with her own boys. Having grown up on a ranch surrounded by cows and the outdoors, she continues to appreciate the simple joys of family time and life outside.
Hignite's dedication to her students reflects the lasting impact a caring teacher can have during a child's earliest years of education. By creating a classroom filled with encouragement, trust, and opportunities to grow, she helps her students build a strong foundation for the years ahead.
Congratulations to Mrs. Stephanie Hignite, our September Staff Member of the Month at ECC!
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
Grove Public Schools is proud to recognize Mrs. Stephanie Hignite, PreK teacher at the Grove Early Childhood Center (ECC), as the September Staff Member of the Month! With a warm heart, a passion for teaching, and a commitment to helping every child succeed, Hignite creates a classroom where young learners feel safe, loved, and excited to discover the world around them.
A proud Grove High School graduate from the Class of 2001, Hignite is in her fifth year teaching PreK at ECC. However, her dream of becoming a teacher began long before she ever stepped into her own classroom. As a first grader at Grove Public Schools, she had a wonderful teacher, Mrs. Pritchard, who inspired her to follow the same path.
Hignite spent six years working as a paraprofessional, gaining valuable experience with students who had a variety of learning needs. After spending time at home raising her children until they were school-aged, she felt the door open for her to finally pursue the teaching career she had dreamed of since childhood.
Her principal describes Hignite as a teacher who continually goes above and beyond for her students.
“Stephanie creates a warm, loving environment for her students. She is constantly finding innovative ways to engage them and values their individual needs. You can tell she deeply cares about her students and their learning. She goes above and beyond in all aspects of teaching. We are so fortunate to have her!”
Creating a sense of belonging is one of Hignite's biggest priorities. She wants every child to know that her classroom is a safe place to take risks, try new things, and even make mistakes while learning. Her students have opportunities to express themselves through singing, dancing, and hands-on activities that make learning fun and engaging.
When asked how she helps students who are struggling or having a difficult day, Hignite explained that she starts each day with positive affirmations and takes time to work through challenges with students individually. She also uses social-emotional books to teach problem-solving skills and help children develop tools they can carry with them throughout life.
For Hignite, some of the most rewarding moments come when she sees shy students begin to trust her, step outside their comfort zones, and blossom. She understands that transitioning from home to school can be a big adjustment for young children, making it especially meaningful to watch them grow in confidence, independence, and excitement for learning.
Being part of the Ridgerunner family holds a special place in Hignite's heart. Having grown up in Grove, she takes pride in working in the same district that helped shape her own childhood.
“I love being part of the Ridgerunner family because it gives me a sense of pride and holds a special place in my heart because this is where I am from. I love seeing the teachers I had growing up in town, and I love how we celebrate every milestone. Working here makes me feel valued, supported, and filled with Ridgerunner pride. This carries over into the classroom and spills over into the community, because We Are Grove.”
Outside the classroom, Hignite enjoys spending time outdoors, reading, spending time in the lake community, and reading her Bible. One of her favorite pastimes is fishing on Grand Lake with her dad. She has fond childhood memories of fishing with him using her Snoopy fishing rod, and today she enjoys making similar memories fishing with her own boys. Having grown up on a ranch surrounded by cows and the outdoors, she continues to appreciate the simple joys of family time and life outside.
Hignite's dedication to her students reflects the lasting impact a caring teacher can have during a child's earliest years of education. By creating a classroom filled with encouragement, trust, and opportunities to grow, she helps her students build a strong foundation for the years ahead.
Congratulations to Mrs. Stephanie Hignite, our September Staff Member of the Month at ECC!
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
Nothing better than Football Fridays at GLE!
Check out the newest video on our new Grove Ridgerunners Youtube Channel !
The GMS Ridgy Press video is created by the middle school Journalism students guided by teacher Lisa Thomas.
Be sure to click the Like and Subscribe buttons, and share with your friends and family!
https://youtu.be/JpjNq4xM0nA
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
The GMS Ridgy Press video is created by the middle school Journalism students guided by teacher Lisa Thomas.
Be sure to click the Like and Subscribe buttons, and share with your friends and family!
https://youtu.be/JpjNq4xM0nA
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
It's game day, Ridgerunners!
Can't make it to the game? Catch all the action live using the link below!
Watch here: https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/4282465
Can't make it to the game? Catch all the action live using the link below!
Watch here: https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/4282465
September Staff Spotlight: Lisa Thomas, Grove Middle School
Grove Public Schools is proud to recognize Mrs. Lisa Thomas, Journalism and Yearbook teacher at Grove Middle School, as the September Staff Member of the Month! Through her creativity, dedication, and passion for storytelling, Thomas helps students discover their talents while bringing the stories of GMS to life.
Thomas has worked for Grove Public Schools for 14 years and is in her fourth year teaching Journalism and Yearbook. Teaching and working in advertising and marketing have always been dreams of hers, and her current role allows her to combine both passions.
GMS Principal Mindy Collins praises Thomas for bringing creativity and real-world learning into her Journalism 1, Journalism 2, and Yearbook classes. Students develop photography, writing, and interviewing skills while producing the school's monthly newspaper, The Ridgy Press. Thomas also organizes school pictures, writes grants to provide additional resources for her programs, and regularly attends school events to capture memories and cheer on students.
Her commitment to learning extends beyond the classroom. Thomas pursues professional development in broadcast journalism and artificial intelligence to bring fresh ideas to her lessons. She also provides students with unique opportunities to experience journalism firsthand, including visits to the KSN news station in Joplin, Missouri, and local courthouse hearings where students observe courtroom proceedings.
When asked what she hopes students take away from her classes, Thomas explained that she wants them to discover talents they may not know they have.
“I hope they find skills they didn't know they had. A lot of kids think that all they will do in journalism is write, but it's so much more than that. I want them to find out all that journalism has to offer other than the writing part, even though that is important also. I want them to branch out and try new things and learn the process of telling stories.”
One of Thomas's most rewarding experiences involved a student who initially struggled to connect with the class. When the lessons turned to photography, the student discovered a new interest, became more engaged, and began showing creativity and confidence. Watching that student find something they enjoyed and excelled at reinforced the importance of giving students opportunities to explore new skills.
Thomas also values the support and encouragement she receives from her colleagues. When asked what being part of the Ridgerunner family means to her, she shared:
“It's nice knowing I have a great group of people that will help when I need it. I have lots of support here, tips, encouragement. It's a big family, and I love working here at GMS. There are many teachers here I aspire to be like. They have high expectations and challenge you to reach them.”
That same encouragement carries into her advice for students having a difficult day. Thomas encourages them to seek help from a trusted teacher and focus on the positive things in their lives.
Outside of school, Thomas enjoys spending time with family, especially playing games that can get a little rowdy! She also loves kayaking at the lake, watching movies, and staying involved in her church. She is currently helping organize a mystery dinner event for the congregation.
Through her creativity and dedication, Thomas teaches students more than journalism skills. She helps them build confidence, explore new interests, and discover their ability to tell meaningful stories.
As Principal Collins shared, “Thank you, Mrs. Thomas, for helping students find their voices and tell the stories of GMS!”
Congratulations to Mrs. Lisa Thomas, our September Staff Member of the Month at Grove Middle School!
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
Grove Public Schools is proud to recognize Mrs. Lisa Thomas, Journalism and Yearbook teacher at Grove Middle School, as the September Staff Member of the Month! Through her creativity, dedication, and passion for storytelling, Thomas helps students discover their talents while bringing the stories of GMS to life.
Thomas has worked for Grove Public Schools for 14 years and is in her fourth year teaching Journalism and Yearbook. Teaching and working in advertising and marketing have always been dreams of hers, and her current role allows her to combine both passions.
GMS Principal Mindy Collins praises Thomas for bringing creativity and real-world learning into her Journalism 1, Journalism 2, and Yearbook classes. Students develop photography, writing, and interviewing skills while producing the school's monthly newspaper, The Ridgy Press. Thomas also organizes school pictures, writes grants to provide additional resources for her programs, and regularly attends school events to capture memories and cheer on students.
Her commitment to learning extends beyond the classroom. Thomas pursues professional development in broadcast journalism and artificial intelligence to bring fresh ideas to her lessons. She also provides students with unique opportunities to experience journalism firsthand, including visits to the KSN news station in Joplin, Missouri, and local courthouse hearings where students observe courtroom proceedings.
When asked what she hopes students take away from her classes, Thomas explained that she wants them to discover talents they may not know they have.
“I hope they find skills they didn't know they had. A lot of kids think that all they will do in journalism is write, but it's so much more than that. I want them to find out all that journalism has to offer other than the writing part, even though that is important also. I want them to branch out and try new things and learn the process of telling stories.”
One of Thomas's most rewarding experiences involved a student who initially struggled to connect with the class. When the lessons turned to photography, the student discovered a new interest, became more engaged, and began showing creativity and confidence. Watching that student find something they enjoyed and excelled at reinforced the importance of giving students opportunities to explore new skills.
Thomas also values the support and encouragement she receives from her colleagues. When asked what being part of the Ridgerunner family means to her, she shared:
“It's nice knowing I have a great group of people that will help when I need it. I have lots of support here, tips, encouragement. It's a big family, and I love working here at GMS. There are many teachers here I aspire to be like. They have high expectations and challenge you to reach them.”
That same encouragement carries into her advice for students having a difficult day. Thomas encourages them to seek help from a trusted teacher and focus on the positive things in their lives.
Outside of school, Thomas enjoys spending time with family, especially playing games that can get a little rowdy! She also loves kayaking at the lake, watching movies, and staying involved in her church. She is currently helping organize a mystery dinner event for the congregation.
Through her creativity and dedication, Thomas teaches students more than journalism skills. She helps them build confidence, explore new interests, and discover their ability to tell meaningful stories.
As Principal Collins shared, “Thank you, Mrs. Thomas, for helping students find their voices and tell the stories of GMS!”
Congratulations to Mrs. Lisa Thomas, our September Staff Member of the Month at Grove Middle School!
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
GUE Families! Please click on the link below to order yearbooks.
https://www.jostens.com/apps/store/productBrowse/1047503/Grove-Upper-Elementary-School/2027-Yearbook/20260811043425007109/CATALOG_SHOP/
For questions contact Kylie Hornback at Upper Elementary, khornback@ridgerunners.net.
#WeAreGrove #TheDistrictOfChampions
https://www.jostens.com/apps/store/productBrowse/1047503/Grove-Upper-Elementary-School/2027-Yearbook/20260811043425007109/CATALOG_SHOP/
For questions contact Kylie Hornback at Upper Elementary, khornback@ridgerunners.net.
#WeAreGrove #TheDistrictOfChampions
Red Ribbon Week at GUE! ❤️
Grove Upper Elementary will celebrate Red Ribbon Week October 26–30! ❤️🤍
Each day, students are encouraged to dress up according to the daily themes listed on the attached flyer.
Let’s show our school spirit while standing together for a healthy, drug-free future!
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
#RedRibbonWeek
Grove Upper Elementary will celebrate Red Ribbon Week October 26–30! ❤️🤍
Each day, students are encouraged to dress up according to the daily themes listed on the attached flyer.
Let’s show our school spirit while standing together for a healthy, drug-free future!
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
#RedRibbonWeek
WE’RE HIRING AT GROVE PUBLIC SCHOOLS! ❤️🤍
Looking for an opportunity to make a difference? Join the Ridgerunner family!
Grove Public Schools has job opportunities available for those who want to be part of a team that makes a difference in the lives of students every day.
👉 Interested in joining our team? Visit our website to view current job openings and apply today!
Visit the GPS website and click on the employment opportunities link to get started.
We Are Grove, The District of Champions! ❤️🤍
Looking for an opportunity to make a difference? Join the Ridgerunner family!
Grove Public Schools has job opportunities available for those who want to be part of a team that makes a difference in the lives of students every day.
👉 Interested in joining our team? Visit our website to view current job openings and apply today!
Visit the GPS website and click on the employment opportunities link to get started.
We Are Grove, The District of Champions! ❤️🤍
Ridgerunner Families: This morning an unexpected discharge from the building’s sprinkler system resulted in damage to flooring and furniture and temporarily disrupted school operations. Students transitioned to virtual learning while the district assessed the damage and coordinated next steps. The cause and full extent of the damage remain under investigation.
GHS will resume normal operations tomorrow, Friday, October 23.
We appreciate your patience and understanding as we work through this situation.
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
GHS will resume normal operations tomorrow, Friday, October 23.
We appreciate your patience and understanding as we work through this situation.
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
Grove High School Character Counts is hosting their annual BLOOD DRIVE on Tuesday, October 27th from 8:30 am - 2:30 pm. at the GHS PAC. Make your appointment today!!!
Go to the following link: https://www.redcross.org/give-blood.html
Enter sponsor code: grovehigh
Sixteen year old donors must have signed consent forms to donate.
Eat well and drink plenty of water before your donation!
Go to the following link: https://www.redcross.org/give-blood.html
Enter sponsor code: grovehigh
Sixteen year old donors must have signed consent forms to donate.
Eat well and drink plenty of water before your donation!
Check out our NEW YouTube Channel!! Grove Ridgerunners
@GPS Youtube-Ridgerunners
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WZ-nkDMCJY0&list=PLOGy3ncBEVn8
@GPS Youtube-Ridgerunners
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WZ-nkDMCJY0&list=PLOGy3ncBEVn8
Red Ribbon Dress Up Week at GLE! October 26th-30th.
🏈 SENIOR NIGHT at RIDGERUNNER STADIUM!
Join us Friday, October 23, at 6:30 PM as we honor our seniors in Band, Cheer, Cross Country, Football, and Trainers before the Grove Ridgerunners take on Cushing!
Let’s pack the stands and celebrate our seniors! ❤️🤍
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
Join us Friday, October 23, at 6:30 PM as we honor our seniors in Band, Cheer, Cross Country, Football, and Trainers before the Grove Ridgerunners take on Cushing!
Let’s pack the stands and celebrate our seniors! ❤️🤍
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
Grove High School students who are looking for a chance to serve their community and gain some volunteer hours: The Food Pantry of Grove needs your help! On Tuesdays from 4-6 PM, the Food Pantry needs high school students to help stock shelves, move boxes, and organize things for their clients. Show up ready to work and wear close-toed shoes for safety purposes. Email Joan Johnson (jjohnson@ridgerunners.net) if you have questions. This is open to all high school students.
Upper Teachers working on curriculum vertical alignment.
Go Ridgerunners!
#WeAreGrove #TheDistrictOfChampions
Go Ridgerunners!
#WeAreGrove #TheDistrictOfChampions
GHS Alternative Education and WINGS Academies had their annual Stream Walk field trip to Horse Creek to learn about water quality and freshwater species conservation from Oklahoma Conservation Commission Blue Thumb Program. What a great opportunity to take learning beyond the classroom!
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
Grove Middle School and the Fraternal Order of Police are teaming up to make a difference! From October 12–November 6, students can bring these food donations to their homerooms:
🧡 Boxed stuffing
🧡 Milnot evaporated milk
🧡 French fried onions
Let’s show our Ridgerunner spirit and help fight hunger—one donation at a time! ❤️🖤
We are Grove, The District of Champions!
🧡 Boxed stuffing
🧡 Milnot evaporated milk
🧡 French fried onions
Let’s show our Ridgerunner spirit and help fight hunger—one donation at a time! ❤️🖤
We are Grove, The District of Champions!
GHS - September Staff Spotlight: Melaine Crowder, Assistant Principal
Grove Public Schools is proud to recognize Mrs. Melaine Crowder, Grove High School’s assistant principal, as the September Staff Member of the Month! As a new addition to the GHS administrative team, Crowder has already made a positive impact by bringing fresh ideas, a new perspective, and a genuine commitment to helping students and staff succeed. Known for always having a smile on her face and a willingness to go the extra mile, she is helping lead Grove High School toward continued excellence.
A proud Grove graduate, Crowder is now in her 16th year in education. Although she earned a business degree, she ultimately discovered that education was where she belonged. Her love of working with students became an “aha moment” that set her on a new career path. After spending 10 years teaching math, she transitioned into administration, where she continues to make a difference in the lives of students and the school community.
One of the things Crowder appreciates most about Grove Public Schools is the dedication of its staff. Having worked in nearly every building across the district, she has seen firsthand the commitment educators bring to their work.
“The teachers here are phenomenal! I have worked in every building at GPS except for one, and I have only found outstanding things happening in every building! The staff goes above and beyond for the students,” Crowder said.
When asked what one word she hopes her coworkers would use to describe her, Crowder chose integrity. She strives to lead with fairness and make decisions grounded in that value. Her approach reflects her desire to serve students, support her colleagues, and make decisions that are in the best interest of the school community.
Outside of school, Crowder enjoys all things related to fitness and health. “I am a health nut!” she said. “I love to learn about eating well and how to make the body more healthy, and I am a certified trainer.” Her passion for health and wellness reflects her enthusiasm for learning and finding ways to improve, both personally and professionally.
One of her favorite Grove traditions is the Ridgerunner Band Light Show at the final home football game of the season. A community favorite for the past 30 years, the event brings students, staff, and families together for an exciting and celebratory end to the football season. For Crowder, it is a special reminder of the pride and traditions that make Grove such a unique place to call home.
While traditions and school spirit are important, Crowder says one of the most rewarding parts of being an educator is seeing former students out in the community or at football games and hearing about their journeys. Whether it is receiving a heartfelt letter, a thoughtful card, or a kind comment from a former student, those moments serve as meaningful reminders of the lasting impact educators can have.
As a proud Ridgerunner returning to serve the district that helped shape her, Crowder brings experience, integrity, and a fresh perspective to her new role at Grove High School. Grove Public Schools is excited to have her on the team and looks forward to the positive difference she will continue to make for students, staff, and the community.
Congratulations to Mrs. Melaine Crowder, our September Staff Member of the Month!
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
Grove Public Schools is proud to recognize Mrs. Melaine Crowder, Grove High School’s assistant principal, as the September Staff Member of the Month! As a new addition to the GHS administrative team, Crowder has already made a positive impact by bringing fresh ideas, a new perspective, and a genuine commitment to helping students and staff succeed. Known for always having a smile on her face and a willingness to go the extra mile, she is helping lead Grove High School toward continued excellence.
A proud Grove graduate, Crowder is now in her 16th year in education. Although she earned a business degree, she ultimately discovered that education was where she belonged. Her love of working with students became an “aha moment” that set her on a new career path. After spending 10 years teaching math, she transitioned into administration, where she continues to make a difference in the lives of students and the school community.
One of the things Crowder appreciates most about Grove Public Schools is the dedication of its staff. Having worked in nearly every building across the district, she has seen firsthand the commitment educators bring to their work.
“The teachers here are phenomenal! I have worked in every building at GPS except for one, and I have only found outstanding things happening in every building! The staff goes above and beyond for the students,” Crowder said.
When asked what one word she hopes her coworkers would use to describe her, Crowder chose integrity. She strives to lead with fairness and make decisions grounded in that value. Her approach reflects her desire to serve students, support her colleagues, and make decisions that are in the best interest of the school community.
Outside of school, Crowder enjoys all things related to fitness and health. “I am a health nut!” she said. “I love to learn about eating well and how to make the body more healthy, and I am a certified trainer.” Her passion for health and wellness reflects her enthusiasm for learning and finding ways to improve, both personally and professionally.
One of her favorite Grove traditions is the Ridgerunner Band Light Show at the final home football game of the season. A community favorite for the past 30 years, the event brings students, staff, and families together for an exciting and celebratory end to the football season. For Crowder, it is a special reminder of the pride and traditions that make Grove such a unique place to call home.
While traditions and school spirit are important, Crowder says one of the most rewarding parts of being an educator is seeing former students out in the community or at football games and hearing about their journeys. Whether it is receiving a heartfelt letter, a thoughtful card, or a kind comment from a former student, those moments serve as meaningful reminders of the lasting impact educators can have.
As a proud Ridgerunner returning to serve the district that helped shape her, Crowder brings experience, integrity, and a fresh perspective to her new role at Grove High School. Grove Public Schools is excited to have her on the team and looks forward to the positive difference she will continue to make for students, staff, and the community.
Congratulations to Mrs. Melaine Crowder, our September Staff Member of the Month!
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
We are proud to celebrate Annaliese Cunningham and her acceptance to USAO and UNO!
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
It's game day Thursday! Join us as the Ridgerunners take the field!
Can't make it to the game? Watch live using the link below.
https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/4282424
Can't make it to the game? Watch live using the link below.
https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/4282424
