Broken Arrow Public Schools hosted a reception to honor and thank Stephanie Updike for her more than ten years of service on the Broken Arrow Board of Education.

Updike represented Zone 5 on the Board from September, 1999 through Feb. 8, 2010.  She chose not to seek re-election to a third five-year term of office.

Former Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Clarence Oliver, Jr., former Board member Max Smith, and Broken Arrow Area Chamber of Commerce President Mickey Thompson were among those who joined BAPS principals, teachers, support staff, and several school district patrons in attending the reception at Central on Main to express their appreciation to Updike for her efforts on behalf of the Board, School District, and community over the past decade.

She was also joined at the event by several family members including her husband, mother, daughter, grandson, a niece and her niece’s daughter making the event extra special for Updike.

“It has been a wonderful experience to get to know you over these ten plus years and see your dedication to children,” she told the big turnout of attendees after accepting a plaque of appreciation from the School District (presented by Chief Communications Officer, Keith Isbell).  “I appreciate your commitment to the District and to the children of Broken Arrow.”

Updike said she looks forward to having more time to spend with her grandchildren as she gives up the demanding task of being a school board member.  She also looks forward to an exciting future for Broken Arrow Public Schools.

“Between the incoming superintendent and the passage of the bond issue (2009 BA School Bond Election) I know that Broken Arrow’s future is bright,” she said.

As she looked back at her years of service, she said it is easy to know what most stands out for her.

“Really the high point of my service has been getting to know and work with so many great people in our school community and in the community of Broken Arrow at-large.”