Bokoshe

The small town of Bokoshe, Oklahoma is home to two schools - Bokoshe Elementary School and Bokoshe High School. Both schools serve a student population that faces significant economic challenges, with over 90% of students qualifying for free or reduced-price lunch. Unfortunately, the academic performance of these schools has been consistently low, with both the elementary and high school ranked in the bottom third of all schools in the state.

At the elementary school, enrollment stands at just 88 students, and the school has a 1 out of 5 star rating from the state. Its statewide ranking has fluctuated between the 454th and 744th position over the past decade. The high school fares slightly better, with 47 students enrolled and a 1 out of 5 star rating, but its statewide ranking has declined from 62nd out of 449 schools in 2014-2015 to 327th out of 431 schools in the most recent year. Proficiency rates in core subjects like English, math, and science are alarmingly low, with fewer than 30% of students scoring at or above grade level.

Despite relatively high per-student spending at both schools, the Bokoshe school district has struggled to provide a high-quality education to its students. Addressing the underlying issues, whether they be related to funding, staffing, curriculum, or community engagement, will be crucial for improving the educational outcomes in this district and giving the children of Bokoshe the opportunities they deserve.