We're proud to celebrate the 2026 OASA District Superintendents of the Year - leaders who set the standard for excellence in education.
These outstanding superintendents lead with vision, inspire their teams, and remain deeply committed to the success of every student and community they serve. Their work reflects the very best of public education in Oklahoma.
Join us in congratulating these exceptional leaders on this well-deserved recognition. 👏
These outstanding superintendents lead with vision, inspire their teams, and remain deeply committed to the success of every student and community they serve. Their work reflects the very best of public education in Oklahoma.
Join us in congratulating these exceptional leaders on this well-deserved recognition. 👏
What does it mean to take the high road in leadership?
Join us at the 2026 CCOSA Summer Leadership Conference as keynote speaker John Maxwell shares insights from his book High Road Leadership.
Expect inspiration, practical leadership tools, and a renewed vision for leading others well!
📍 Oklahoma City Convention Center
📅 May 27–29, 2026
Register today at ccosa.org!
Oklahoma City (April 9, 2026) – Lisa Moore, Director of Special Services for Ardmore City Schools, has been named the 2026 Director of the Year by the Oklahoma Directors of Special Services (ODSS).
Under Mrs. Moore’s leadership as Director of Special Services, special education services in Ardmore City Schools have become more structured, accessible and data driven. She has played a pivotal role in streamlining Individualized Education Program (IEP) processes, ensuring compliance with legal requirements while prioritizing student success. Her efforts have led to improved collaboration between general education and special education teams, fostering an inclusive school culture where all students can thrive.
Beyond administrative excellence, Mrs. Moore’s unwavering advocacy for students with disabilities has directly impacted their educational experiences. She has expanded specialized programs, introduced innovative support strategies, and worked closely with families to ensure their voices are heard in the decision-making process. Her leadership has resulted in higher student engagement, better academic outcomes, and a stronger network of support for students, especially those with exceptionalities.
Twenty-three members of the Special Education Team at Ardmore City Schools submitted a joint letter in support of Mrs. Moore’s nomination, stating, “Another strength that sets Lisa apart is the support she provides to building principals. She works collaboratively with administrators to navigate complex academic and behavioral challenges, helping teams develop thoughtful, practical solutions for students who require additional support. Her deep understanding of special education law, best practices, and student-centered problem-solving makes her an invaluable resource to our district’s leadership.”
The Ardmore Special Education Team also noted Mrs. Moore’s assistance to teachers and other staff members, stating, “Perhaps most remarkable is Lisa’s willingness to work side-by-side with staff. When teachers request assistance, she does not hesitate to step into classrooms – often spending entire days working alongside teachers to model strategies, support students, and help educators feel confident and successful.
The Ardmore Special Education Team added that “A particularly meaningful part of Lisa’s work is her commitment to supporting families beyond the school walls. She takes the time to connect families with community resources that can assist them with services, supports, and opportunities that improve the well-being of their children. Whether helping families locate outside therapy providers, connecting them with community organizations, or guiding them toward services that can better support their child’s development, Lisa works tirelessly to ensure families are not navigating challenges alone.”
Mark H. Colbert, Supreme Court Justice of The Chickasaw Nation, also commended Mrs. Moore, stating, “I have had the privilege of assisting her with issues regarding Native American children with special needs, and particularly those within the Chickasaw Nation. . . . Beyond academics, Mrs. Moore fosters a culture of respect, empathy, and resilience. She has led initiatives for all children in the Special Education Program, which have had a lasting positive impact on both students and the wider school community.”
“It is my privilege to recognize excellence across our state, and Lisa Moore exemplifies the very best of educational leadership in Oklahoma,” said Dr. Pam Deering, Executive Director of CCOSA. “Her recognition is not only a celebration of her work, but a reflection of what Is possible when leadership is grounded in purpose, expertise, and an unwavering belief in every child’s potential. Being named the 2026 ODSS Director of the Year reflects both her impact in Ardmore City Schools and her influence across the profession.”
Andrea Kunkel, Executive Director of the Oklahoma Directors of Special Services, applauded Mrs. Moore’s special education leadership. “Lisa hosts monthly meetings for area special education directors to assist and support one another in improving services for students with disabilities. In recognition of her outstanding leadership, knowledge, and advocacy, the ODSS group elected Lisa to serve as the group’s President-Elect for the 2026-27 school year.”
Mrs. Moore will be honored as the 2026 Director of the Year at the CCOSA Summer Leadership Conference in May. For more information about the Director of the Year award or to learn more about CCOSA and ODSS, visit www.ccosa.org.
Under Mrs. Moore’s leadership as Director of Special Services, special education services in Ardmore City Schools have become more structured, accessible and data driven. She has played a pivotal role in streamlining Individualized Education Program (IEP) processes, ensuring compliance with legal requirements while prioritizing student success. Her efforts have led to improved collaboration between general education and special education teams, fostering an inclusive school culture where all students can thrive.
Beyond administrative excellence, Mrs. Moore’s unwavering advocacy for students with disabilities has directly impacted their educational experiences. She has expanded specialized programs, introduced innovative support strategies, and worked closely with families to ensure their voices are heard in the decision-making process. Her leadership has resulted in higher student engagement, better academic outcomes, and a stronger network of support for students, especially those with exceptionalities.
Twenty-three members of the Special Education Team at Ardmore City Schools submitted a joint letter in support of Mrs. Moore’s nomination, stating, “Another strength that sets Lisa apart is the support she provides to building principals. She works collaboratively with administrators to navigate complex academic and behavioral challenges, helping teams develop thoughtful, practical solutions for students who require additional support. Her deep understanding of special education law, best practices, and student-centered problem-solving makes her an invaluable resource to our district’s leadership.”
The Ardmore Special Education Team also noted Mrs. Moore’s assistance to teachers and other staff members, stating, “Perhaps most remarkable is Lisa’s willingness to work side-by-side with staff. When teachers request assistance, she does not hesitate to step into classrooms – often spending entire days working alongside teachers to model strategies, support students, and help educators feel confident and successful.
The Ardmore Special Education Team added that “A particularly meaningful part of Lisa’s work is her commitment to supporting families beyond the school walls. She takes the time to connect families with community resources that can assist them with services, supports, and opportunities that improve the well-being of their children. Whether helping families locate outside therapy providers, connecting them with community organizations, or guiding them toward services that can better support their child’s development, Lisa works tirelessly to ensure families are not navigating challenges alone.”
Mark H. Colbert, Supreme Court Justice of The Chickasaw Nation, also commended Mrs. Moore, stating, “I have had the privilege of assisting her with issues regarding Native American children with special needs, and particularly those within the Chickasaw Nation. . . . Beyond academics, Mrs. Moore fosters a culture of respect, empathy, and resilience. She has led initiatives for all children in the Special Education Program, which have had a lasting positive impact on both students and the wider school community.”
“It is my privilege to recognize excellence across our state, and Lisa Moore exemplifies the very best of educational leadership in Oklahoma,” said Dr. Pam Deering, Executive Director of CCOSA. “Her recognition is not only a celebration of her work, but a reflection of what Is possible when leadership is grounded in purpose, expertise, and an unwavering belief in every child’s potential. Being named the 2026 ODSS Director of the Year reflects both her impact in Ardmore City Schools and her influence across the profession.”
Andrea Kunkel, Executive Director of the Oklahoma Directors of Special Services, applauded Mrs. Moore’s special education leadership. “Lisa hosts monthly meetings for area special education directors to assist and support one another in improving services for students with disabilities. In recognition of her outstanding leadership, knowledge, and advocacy, the ODSS group elected Lisa to serve as the group’s President-Elect for the 2026-27 school year.”
Mrs. Moore will be honored as the 2026 Director of the Year at the CCOSA Summer Leadership Conference in May. For more information about the Director of the Year award or to learn more about CCOSA and ODSS, visit www.ccosa.org.
This week, CCOSA is proud to celebrate the incredible assistant principals across Oklahoma who lead with heart, serve with purpose, and support students and educators every single day.
Your leadership makes a lasting difference in the lives of so many! Thanks for all you do to strengthen our schools.
Congratulations to the following districts for passing bond proposals!
Ready to level up your leadership and impact Oklahoma schools?
OU-Tulsa + CCOSA are teaming up to offer a collaborative Ed.D. in Educational Leadership for Oklahoma PK–12 leaders! This 36-month, cohort-based program blends research + practical leadership to help you drive meaningful change in your school or district.
Summer 2026 cohort now enrolling — only 10–15 spots left!
Learn more + apply today at: https://www.ou.edu/tulsa/education/Eded1
OU-Tulsa + CCOSA are teaming up to offer a collaborative Ed.D. in Educational Leadership for Oklahoma PK–12 leaders! This 36-month, cohort-based program blends research + practical leadership to help you drive meaningful change in your school or district.
Summer 2026 cohort now enrolling — only 10–15 spots left!
Learn more + apply today at: https://www.ou.edu/tulsa/education/Eded1
🚨 Registration is OPEN!
Don’t miss out on the 2026 CCOSA Summer Leadership Conference! Join school leaders from across the state for learning, networking, and inspiration.
📅 May 27–29, 2026
📍 Oklahoma City Convention Center
Register today and secure your spot at ccosa.org!
🌸 Women in School Leadership Conference 🌸
Hosted by CCOSA
📅 April 7–8, 2026
📍 OKANA Resort | OKC
✅ Registration is OPEN!
This year’s theme is Wisdom • Wealth • Wellness—designed to support your leadership growth, professional strength, and personal well-being.
🔗 Register with a colleague today!
Link: https://www.ccosa.org/.../women-in-school-leadership-forum
Hosted by CCOSA
📅 April 7–8, 2026
📍 OKANA Resort | OKC
✅ Registration is OPEN!
This year’s theme is Wisdom • Wealth • Wellness—designed to support your leadership growth, professional strength, and personal well-being.
🔗 Register with a colleague today!
Link: https://www.ccosa.org/.../women-in-school-leadership-forum
Do you have an inspirational and innovative leadership idea that is shaping Oklahoma education? Apply to present your idea at the 2026 CCOSA Summer Leadership Conference, May 27-29 in Oklahoma City! Submit your idea by March 6, 2026 --> bit.ly/CCOSA2026breakout
#CCOSA #CCOSAConference2026 #HighRoadLeadership
#CCOSA #CCOSAConference2026 #HighRoadLeadership
Exciting news! The CCOSA App is here!
Stay connected, access resources, and get the latest updates—all in one place. Download now and take CCOSA with you wherever you go! 📱
#CCOSA
Happy National Teacher Day!
Thank you to Oklahoma’s teachers for your dedication and impact, today and every day.
We appreciate you!
#NationalTeacherDay #CCOSA
Happy National Principals Day! ✏️
Thank you to Oklahoma’s school leaders for your dedication, vision, and the impact you make every day!
#CCOSA #ThankAPrincipal
We're thrilled to announce the new app for CCOSA! It's everything CCOSA, in your pocket.
Download for Android https://aptg.co/bnl7xR
Download for iPhone https://aptg.co/2pVsgT
Now accepting applications for 2025-2026 partners!
Bring Youth Action for Health Leadership to your school, and earn up to $2,000!
Apply now: https://bit.ly/YAHLpartner
It’s Public Schools Week! We’re celebrating the educators, leaders, and staff who make public schools the foundation of our communities. Thank you for your dedication to shaping the future! #PublicSchoolProud
