Moore Norman Technology Center - like many other school systems across the U.S. - made history earlier this week by not only having its first virtual board meeting but also by remotely swearing-in a new board member.

Jared Deck was sworn in remotely (video below) to serve as a new board member for Zone 3, Office 3 by Superintendent Brian Ruttman and MNTC’s Board of Education. He will serve a five-year term for the district and replaces Todd Kahoe. Additionally, Director of Facilities & Operations Jerry McConnell was approved as MNTC’s new director for safety and security.

Ruttman thanked the board and all MNTC employees for their commitment to learning and continued education during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Seventy percent of our students have chosen to participate in distance learning curriculum for the remainder of the school year. One hundred percent of our faculty are working hard to provide our students with whatever resources they need to be successful and complete the year,” Ruttman said.

He noted how instructors, along with the Instructional Design & Development division, have worked with students over the past month to make sure their students have the technology they need, curriculum, internet access and even nourishment to continue in the learning process. He shared another example of the Pre-Engineering instructors changing their annual robotics competition from hands-on to a simulated environment.

Ruttman said MNTC counselors and advisors made well-check calls to all full-time students during the time since campus closed on March 13. Grades were frozen on March 13 and students may choose to enhance their grades by turning in make-up work.

He told the board that 100% of employees who can telework are engaged in remote working at this time and he said it is in large part due to the tireless efforts of MNTC’s IT division.  

“Everyone has done a great job planning, meeting through Zoom and executing their daily tasks to maintain business as usual,” Ruttman said.

All long term career programs are canceled through the end of the semester. Graduation and other spring and summer events are, as well. Short term classes have moved to an online option until Aug. 1.

MNTC’s Franklin Road Campus in Norman and South Penn Campus in south Oklahoma City are closed until April 30 but this date could be extended if health officials deem it necessary.