(SPS) — Sapulpa Public Schools marked a major milestone with its first-ever Sapulpa Pathways: Routes to Success Signing Day, as 32 students officially committed to participating in the district’s innovative college and career readiness program.
The event brought together students, families, educators, and community members to celebrate the largest cohort to date, and the opportunities ahead. Designed to help students explore interests and gain real-world skills, the Sapulpa Pathways: Routes to Success program prepares participants for life after high school, whether that includes college, career training, or a combination of both.
“Today is a special day filled with pride, purpose, and excitement,” said Kiley Barnett, the district's Director of Educational Pathways. “This program empowers students to take ownership of their future and equips them with the confidence and skills to make informed decisions beyond high school.”
During the ceremony, students were recognized for their commitment and formally signed participation agreements, symbolizing their dedication to academic success, personal growth, and active engagement in their chosen pathway. Much like athletic signing days, the event highlighted each student’s decision to invest in their future.
The program features multiple specialized pathways, supported by dedicated Route Coordinators who provide mentorship, instruction, and industry connections. Coordinators recognized at the event included Cindy Swift for Business and Entrepreneurship, Janet Johnson for Engineering and Aviation, and Whitney Yokum for Performing Arts. Visual Arts Coordinator Megan Cagle was also acknowledged for her role in the program.
Students who signed on to a Route to Success committed to maintaining strong academic standing, demonstrating positive conduct, and fully participating in program activities designed to prepare them for future success.
District leaders emphasized the importance of family support in helping students reach their goals, noting that the partnership between schools and families plays a vital role in student achievement.
As the ceremony concluded with photos and celebrations, the excitement in the room reflected the significance of the moment—not just for the 32 students who signed, but for the future of career-focused education in Sapulpa Public Schools.
“This is just the beginning,” Barnett said. “We are excited to see the leaders, innovators, and professionals these students will become.”
The students, mostly 8th graders, will continue their pathway through to graduation, but they can opt to change their pathway during their educational journey.
Congratulations to the following Class of 2030 students who signed on to a pathway in the Routes to Success program:
Vincent Bowers, Business Innovations
Austin Dear, Business Innovations
Trenton Gordon, Entrepreneurship
Shade Hood, Business Innovations
Brady Hurt, Business Innovations
Averie Smith, Business Innovations
Joshua Stephens, Entrepreneurship
Benjamin Benton, Aviation
Jacob Blay, Engineering (Class of '29)
William Bond, Aviation (Class of '29)
Cody Carrasco, Engineering
David Cuellar, Aviation
Ryan Draper, Aviation
Trevor Herbert, Aviation
Easton Horn, Engineering
Ian Kirk, Engineering
Zane Manley, Engineering
Alexia Morse, Aviation
Elijah Neal, Engineering
Obariomomo Amanda Olu, Engineering
Jazmine Rainwater, Aviation
Elijah Silver, Engineering
Keaton Thomas, Aviation
Oliver Widener, Engineering
Brentlee Crow, Performing Arts
Dylann Hartsfield, Performing Arts
Siaosi Maafala, Performing Arts
Jayden Sexton, Performing Arts
Triniti Sutton, Performing Arts
Claire Filion, Visual Arts
Lacey Luster, Visual Arts
Navaeh Preston, Visual Arts