(OKLAHOMA CITY, OK) Oklahoma City Public Schools (OKCPS), Rand Elliott Architects and the Spencer community came together on Thursday, Sept. 25, to celebrate a major milestone at Star Spencer High School with the official ribbon cutting for the school’s newly remodeled main entrance and expanded administration suite. 

This 7,320 square foot project was made possible through the district’s 2022 $955 million school bond, the largest in the district’s history. The remodeled administration area not only enhances functionality and security, but also reflects the pride and commitment of the Star Spencer community.

"Star Spencer has always been a place of pride, history, and community. This ribbon cutting is a reminder that when our community invests in its schools, the return is immeasurable,” OKCPS Superintendent Dr. Jamie Polk said. "Through the 2022 bond, we are creating safe, welcoming environments where students and staff can thrive for generations to come."  

The event highlighted the strong partnership between OKCPS and the Spencer community and celebrated the historic 2022 bond package, which made the project possible. 

Star Spencer High School has a rich history. The school’s roots date back to 1901 with the founding of the town of Spencer. Its current form was established in 1956 after World War II, when the communities of Star and Spencer combined their growing school populations into one high school. In 1958 the school was officially named Star Spencer High School, adopting navy blue and white as school colors and the Bobcat as its mascot. 

Along with comments from district and city officials, as well as OKCPS board members, event attendees heard from the project’s award-winning architect, Rand Elliott. 

“As an OKCPS alum, it has been my honor to design these projects for the Star Spencer community. I wanted the architecture to encourage learning and give students and faculty a sense of pride when they enter the building - today and for years to come every day,” said Oklahoma architect Rand Elliott. "My favorite feature is the glowing glass lobby. To us, it symbolizes a new energy for Star Spencer High School. It says, ‘welcome to the new Star Spencer High School.’ It says, ‘Be proud.’” 

Star Spencer High School is receiving more than $22 million in bond-funded updates. Work is also underway on a 19,164-square-foot flex learning space that will double as a campus storm shelter and include a greenhouse area. The largest project will be a new two-story competition gym totaling 46,086 square feet and featuring a press box, snack bar, and restrooms.

These improvements will unify the campus, modernize facilities, and enhance resources for students, staff, and the entire Spencer community.