'Shelter Oklahoma Schools' Donates Check To Western Heights District

Another school shelter is now in the works thanks in large part to Shelter Oklahoma Schools. With several safe rooms already funded, the organization handed over another check on Monday.

Monday, January 6th 2014, 7:43 pm

By: News 9


Another school shelter is now in the works thanks in large part to Shelter Oklahoma Schools. With several safe rooms already funded, the organization handed over another check on Monday.

If you're keeping count, that's now six Oklahoma school shelters funded since May 21.

With over $2 million raised through private donations, Shelter Oklahoma Schools now has three shelters under construction. Two are in progress, and the sixth is starting on Monday at the Western Heights School District.

"That's our job is to keep children safe," Principal Diane Klein said.

Principal Diane Klein has been in the school system for 23 years.

"You and I both know as that number goes up with tornado ratings, it's not the same being on inside walls as it is being in the safe room," Klein said.

And for the first time in her career, she has a different mindset on safety.

"It gives us a real peace of mind that our children are truly safe," said Klein.

Starting with a $500,000 grant...

"We're just thankful we have the opportunity to make our students safe," said Superintendent Joe Kitchens.

And finished off with a $100,000 donation from Shelter Oklahoma Schools...

"It's amazing the out pouring from the business community," said Rep. Mark McBride.

Western Height superintendent Joe Kitchens and the district can now complete a 3,300 square foot safe room at Greenvale Elementary.

"We really do know we can take care of our students," Kitchens said.

"Now it's possible. If they didn't take on this project we would still be at square one," said Klein.

Once completed, every school in the Western Heights School District will have a safe room, closing the door on those concerns.

"It feels real satisfying," Kitchens said.

As for the shelter the architects are still in the design stage and they are set to break ground within four months.

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