January is designated as National School Board Recognition Month, and it recognizes the efforts of thousands of men and women who help shape the direction of Oklahoma public education and their collective focus on student achievement.

The Meridian district is divided into five geographic areas. Meridian’s board members live in and represent their district for a five-year term. Members are tasked with ensuring Meridian continues to fulfill its mission to educate, enrich lives and secure economic futures for district residents.  

The current board includes Stillwater residents Dr. Joe Williams, President; Gary Johnson, Clerk; and Lorrie Janzen, Member; Guthrie resident Randy Kellogg, Vice President; and Perry resident Sherri Huneycutt, Deputy Clerk. 

“Members of the board of education help shape the direction of the school,” said
Dr. Douglas Major, Meridian Technology Center Superintendent/CEO. “These individuals play an instrumental role in the development of school policies and are the final decision makers on educational issues that impact each of the school’s partner communities.” 

Meridian relies on the input and knowledge the board members provide to prepare a trained workforce for not only the Meridian district but also the state. The board members have contributed to the growth and development of Meridian throughout its history.

To put board members’ tasks in perspective, they are responsible for decisions that influence nearly 800 high school and adult students in Meridian’s full-time career training programs, individuals who enroll in personal and professional development short courses, business-related training, and more than 100 staff members and 30 adjunct instructors.  

The board also oversees Meridian’s Workforce and Economic Development team that includes training in computers, health care, industrial systems, leadership and staff development, safety training and adult training and development. This division also consists of the school’s Business and Entrepreneurial Services efforts. This division supports entrepreneurs and new businesses through consulting and coaching, business incubation and training.  

“We are grateful these individuals are dedicated to their community and making Meridian a better place,” said Major. “School Board Recognition month allows us to thank them for the service they provide us as a school and to the district they represent.” 

Meridian Technology Center has been a driver of economic development since 1975. With a mission to educate, enrich lives and secure economic futures, Meridian offers full-time career training programs, short courses, Workforce and Economic Development services and entrepreneurial support to residents from the Agra, Carney, Glencoe, Guthrie, Morrison, Mulhall-Orlando, Pawnee, Perkins-Tryon, Perry and Stillwater school districts. Meridian is one of 29 schools within Oklahoma’s CareerTech system.  

For more information or to enroll visit www.meridiantech.edu or contact a career counselor by phone at (405) 377-3333 or toll-free at (888) 607-2509.