A Message from the Superintendent
Greetings WCPS family,
I wanted to take this time and introduce myself to you in order to share my story. I hail from Oklahoma where generations of his family still reside. I started my 20 years of educational service as a teacher, coach, and bus driver. I have also served as a principal, assistant superintendent, and superintendent throughout my career in Oklahoma and Virginia.
I attended Oklahoma State University where I earned both my bachelor’s and master’s degrees. I then attended Southwestern College to earn my doctorate in educational leadership.
I have always focused my efforts on improving the educational experience for students and on creating a community-centered environment. Some of my career highlights include creating a regional reading and math intervention program which was accomplished by partnering with AmeriCorps to offer 36 interventionists to 15 school districts in northeastern Oklahoma. I also partnered with Oklahoma State University on two projects that focused on reading intervention, at the elementary level, and professional development for staff. While in Virginia, I again partnered with AmeriCorps to create a reading and math tutoring program at the middle school level. I also brought Virginia’s first textbook caravan to Region VII in 2018. My focus on individual learning experiences have led to increased technology use by students and staff throughout my career.
Making connections and building relationships are a priority in my life. I have coached many school, community, and competitive athletic teams over the years. I’ve directed the resurgence of a summer league program for youth, implemented a community youth football league, and started a school club softball team. Coaching is a definite passion and I utilize this passion to lead within my role as an administrator.
I have always been willing to serve. I served 12 years as a volunteer fireman helping to protect a rural Oklahoma community. I also served as a regional vice-president for Oklahoma Rural Elementary Schools and I was elected by my peers to serve as vice-president or president of many school and community organizations. I am excited to be a part of a growing community. Warren County Public Schools offers great educational opportunities to all children, dedication to a first-class education, and commitment to ensuring students are productive members of an ever-changing global society. I will work collaboratively with the school community, with an emphasis on teamwork, to continue moving the division in a positive direction and to improve educational outcomes. My plan is to ensure that Warren County Schools is the district of choice for teachers, parents, and most of all students.
Since being here, I have learned the tradition of excellence that exists is due to the wonderful people of our community and the hard work of our students and staff. I plan to be accessible to all stakeholders and maintain an open door communication policy. I am looking forward to the year ahead!
“The more that you read, the more things you will know, the more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.” Dr. Seuss
Respectfully,
Chris Ballenger, Ed.D.
