Wapanucka Public School

My Story

A Legacy of Leadership and Hard Work

My family's legacy in Oklahoma is deeply rooted in service and education. My great-grandfather founded Christ’s Forty Acres Mission in Honobia, Oklahoma, where he provided spiritual and educational support to the Choctaw community. My grandfather, an agriculture teacher, married a Choctaw Native American, and together, they instilled in our family a passion for learning and perseverance. Growing up on our family’s ranch in the Kiamichi Mountains, my parents raised me with good morals and values, a strong work ethic, and an appreciation for the value of education and self-reliance.

Entrepreneurial Spirit and Career Evolution

From an early age, I developed skills as a horse trainer and farrier, earning my way through college without accruing student loan debt. My experiences in team roping and training horses taught me discipline, strategy, and resilience—qualities that have remained with me throughout my professional career.

After earning a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Southeastern Oklahoma State University and a Master’s in Educational Leadership from Southern Nazarene University, I embarked on a career in education. Initially, my focus was on mathematics instruction, driven by a desire to help students overcome academic struggles. However, an unexpected leadership opportunity early in my career inspired me to pursue educational administration. When my superintendent faced a medical emergency, I was called upon to step into an interim administrative role. This pivotal moment solidified my passion for leadership and encouraged me to continue advancing in the field of education.

Leadership in Education and Industry

My first principalship was in Beaver, Oklahoma, where I faced the challenge of leading a school during a period of significant enrollment decline. Navigating budget constraints and staff reductions, I learned the importance of strategic decision-making and fiscal responsibility. While I was dedicated to education, I had always been intrigued by the oil industry. This curiosity led me to Midland, Texas, where I joined Trifecta Oilfield Services. The experience exposed me to high-stakes operational management and the necessity of adaptability in a dynamic industry.

During seasonal slowdowns in the oilfield, my passion for education remained strong. I took the opportunity to substitute teach in the Midland Independent School District, where I quickly realized my calling as an administrator. Despite initial challenges, I embraced the opportunity to support students and staff, ultimately securing a full-time assistant principal position at Legacy Freshman High School and Midland Freshman High School.

Leadership in Education and Administration

In my most recent role as the Superintendent of Wapanucka School District, my team has led efforts to revitalize the district through strategic planning and improved academic programs. We implemented Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) to support staff development and ensure continuous improvement. Additionally, we monitored the district’s budget, met bond obligations, and designed professional development programs for staff. This experience further refined my skills in operational management, fiscal accountability, and stakeholder engagement.

Commitment to Excellence

Throughout my career, I have consistently sought opportunities to lead, inspire, and make a meaningful impact. Whether in education, business, or industry, I bring a results-oriented mindset, strategic leadership, and a deep commitment to student and community success.

I welcome the opportunity to discuss how to make our school better. My door is always open. I may not be in my office because I would rather be involved with the many academic activities that are going on during the day. Come see me and lets work together to make a plan for improvement!

Sincerely,

Albert Badger McReynolds IV