Enid Schools Receive Largest Donation in History

Enid has announced the largest public education donation in Oklahoma's history.

Friday, March 12th 2010, 1:48 pm

By: News 9


By Jacqueline Sit, NEWS 9

ENID, Oklahoma -- Enid has announced the largest public education donation in Oklahoma's history.

Nine businesses and individuals contributed $3.4 million to Enid Public Schools to fund capital improvement needs.

The contributions will help be added to a will be added to a $99 million school bond coffer that will help fund a three-year facility plan, update all district schools and build two new elementary schools.

Enid Public Schools Superintendent Shawn Hime said this will alleviate the problems for much needed improvements.

"Several buildings were built pre-1930. We're using window air conditioning, antiquated light and heating systems, this contribution will make it more efficient," Hime said.

Hime said Enid Public Schools are growing and because the money follows the students, it helps cushion the blow of the economy and the budget shortfall.

The school district has an increase of 300 students this year, and currently they're staying in 21 portable buildings. Overcrowding has been a problem for years and teacher rooms have been converted into classrooms to alleviate the problem.

"There is a tough economy around the country and we feel it would set a bigger urgency of the private sectors stepping up for public schools," said Brian Hayden, Vice President for Advanced Food Company, one of the companies that stepped in to help Enid schools.

The private donations have also kept taxes as low as possible for Enid residents

"As a large company in a smaller town we can have a direct tangible benefit in the community," said John Hart, Continental Resources Chief Financial Officer, another company that donated funds.

Construction will begin when the school year ends in May.

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