Fairfax and Ralston Approve Annexation to Pioneer Technology Center by 62%

On Tuesday, March 1, voters from Fairfax and Ralston overwhelmingly approved a decision to expand the educational opportunities available for citizens living in the Woodland School District by annexing to the Pioneer Technology Center School District.

Supporters turned out in large numbers with 294 votes or, 62% supporting the measure and 178, or 37% opposing.

According to Dr. Doug Major, PTC Superintendent/CEO, membership in the district begins immediately for high school, adult students and business clients wanting to take advantage of the training programs and services that are available.

"We truly welcome the people of Fairfax and Ralston to the district," stated Major. "We appreciate the faith they have expressed in our ability to be a partner of their communities and we look forward to a long and lasting relationship."

Phyllis Murphy, Woodland School District Superintendent, stated that she is excited about what this means for high school students. "Having access to the different training programs will benefit a lot of our students who have expressed an interest in attending Pioneer Technology Center's full-time career training programs."

In addition to training opportunities for high school students, other benefits include greater access to the education and training services provided by PTC's business and industry services area and the adult training and development (short-term) training programs. These programs offer customized training and flexible delivery options that can be delivered on-site to the Fairfax area.

Dr. Phil Berkenbile, CareerTech State Director, stated that the annexation between Woodland and Pioneer Technology Center clearly indicates the need and value our programs have in making students and clients more successful in education, business and in life.

"While this partnership benefits many, workforce training and development through the CareerTech system contributes greatly to the economy of the entire state." Berkenbile added that this annexation opens up an entire new era and hopes many more will follow as a result of the successful partnership between the Woodland School District and Pioneer Technology Center.

Pioneer Technology Center is one of Oklahoma's 29 technology center districts operating on 54 campuses throughout the state. The last technology center annexation was between the Bridgecreek School District and the Mid-America Technology Center District in 1996.

For more information, please call or visit Pioneer Technology Center at 2101 N. Ash, 580-762-8336.

posted 3/3/05