I’m Ashley Allen-White and I teach 9th grade Algebra I. I live with my wife and many cats, dogs, and reptiles. We enjoy attending community events, supporting local youth, playing board games, doing puzzles, and going to surrounding states to camp, hike, fish, ski, and enjoy the outdoors.
As an educator, I take pride in serving my community by helping students re-examine their relationship with mathematics, unlocking potential in themselves they may not have seen before. I use my passion for teaching math to inspire students of all ages to work towards goals they have for themselves with confidence in their math skills along the way. I encourage students to develop tangible structures and models of reasoning that help them relate their mathematical understanding to various situations, both personally and globally.
Email: awhite@tsas.org
Room: 207 A
Educational Background:
- Master of Mathematics Education from the University of Oklahoma
- Bachelor of Science in Education from the University of Oklahoma
I have always lived in and around the Tulsa area, and currently live with my wife and two cats. I spend most of my time hanging out with my family or playing games. I also enjoy scary movies, anime, and good food.
I work with our kids because I love seeing students grow and discover their self worth. They can accomplish so much if they set their mind to it, and being at TSAS I get to continue to watch their process into high school!
Email: nalterici@tsas.org
Room: 306
Educational Background:
- Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Northeastern State University
- Master of Science in School Counseling from Northeastern State University
I’m happiest when hiking in mountains, exploring deserts or watching sunsets from beaches with my wife, Mary Ellen and daughter, Maisy Lou. Experiencing live music is another passion, and we go to as many shows as possible. I’m also an avid trail runner, disc golfer and ultimate frisbee player.
The world needs more individuals, institutions and systems that are focused on human liberation, and schools like TSAS hold the greatest promise of laying the foundation of a just and humane planet. I love working with young people because their energy, curiosity and creativity give me hope for a better future.
Email: barcher@tsas.org
Room: 315
Educational Background:
- Master of Arts in Ethics, Peace and Global Affairs from American University, Washington DC
- Bachelor of Arts in Social Studies Education from Northeastern State University
I moved to Tulsa to teach in 2018. Along the way I’ve taught two grade levels, two subject areas, at two schools. I’m proud to call Tulsa home now with my two cats Frog and Noodle that I love as if they were human children. We enjoy watching lots of reality TV and reading all kinds of books together. I love seltzer water, trivia, and running.
I picked up a bumper sticker at a journalism convention I attended in high school of a quote from William Butler Yeats: “Education is not the filling of a bucket, but the lighting of a fire.” I stuck it to the back of my bedroom door and saw it every day as I left for school. This is the philosophy that I bring into my classroom every day. I believe that education is the key to liberation in this world. I do this work because I think it’s the most important and most difficult job a person can have. It’s a honor to have the opportunity to teach kids who are not only our future, but our present.
Email: sbarry@tsas.org
Room: 305 A
Educational Background:
- I studied secondary education and English at Drury University for two years before moving to Chicago to concentrate my studies in fiction writing at Columbia College Chicago where I earned my Bachelor’s degree.
I’m a Tulsan born and raised. After graduating from TSAS in 2016 I was hard at work improving my craft by playing in jazz bands, wedding bands, and fusion bands in northeastern Oklahoma. In 2024, I came back to TSAS to help rebuild the jazz program from scratch. I’m thrilled to be part of a new era of music at TSAS!
I do this because I believe instilling a love for the arts is vital to the growth of a thriving community. I do this work to help people understand why they like the music that they do, and how that music is tied to its roots.
Email: cbeeler@tsas.org
Room: 123
Educational Background:
- Bachelor of Arts in Music Education from Northeastern State University
This is my 7th year teaching and my 4th year teaching 7th grade Science at TSAS. I love getting to lead students in experiments and investigations! I was born and raised in Tulsa and I’m passionate about the importance of public schools to the well-being of society.
Some of my favorite things are books, art, gardening, camping, baking, languages, this Earth we live on, and all the living things we share it with. My family and I have a goal to visit as many national parks this year as we can. I spend a fair amount of my time playing board games, video games, and volleyball.
Email: fblesch@tsas.org
Room: 316 A
Educational Background:
- Bachelor of Fine Arts from University of Oklahoma
I spent Kindergarten and 5th grade in German public schools because my mother was participating in a teaching exchange. My absolute favorite place to be is in nature. I enjoy hiking, camping, fishing, and kayaking the most. I collect rocks, bones, and whatever else strikes me as “cool” from my hikes. As a child, my dream was to be a professional ballroom dancer or anything in the equine profession.
I work with our kids because my life and career goal has always been to do whatever I can to be an ally and help support those who are faced with greater life and educational challenges. I truly believe all people are capable of learning and flourishing in their lives, provided they are given the opportunity, no matter their individual circumstances. Being able to help provide those opportunities is why I do what I do.
Email: ebrinton@tsas.org
Room: 310
Educational Background:
- Bachelor of Science in Education from Northeastern State University
My husband and daughter are my world. My dogs are pretty cool too! I enjoy cooking but I never use recipes. Measurements come from the soul. It’s so important to know your community. It always takes a village.
Email: bbrown@tsas.org
Office: 112 F
Educational Background:
- Bachelor of Science in Psychology, concentration in Biology from Oral Roberts University
I enjoy traveling, specifically road trips. I’ve been to 34 of the 50 states but I haven’t traveled abroad, yet! I live in a skoolie with my partner Blake, our cat Frank, our pup Mammoth and our hens.
I teach because Photography allows people to have a voice and express their thoughts, feelings and perspectives in a visual way that fuses Art and Science. It documents time, stories, and opens the door to witness other voices. I teach because I want our students to see that potential and their voices to be heard.
Email: cbutcher@tsas.org
Website: TSAS Photography Department
Room: 109
Educational Background:
- Bachelor of Arts in Photography from the Art Institute of Colorado
Hi! I began teaching in the US Peace Corps in Estonia in 2000, and I’m delighted to teach at TSAS – here in Tulsa, where I was born and raised. My husband Matt and I have three children and a German Shepherd – “Bonnie the wonder dog”, and we love living just north of TSAS. I enjoy dancing, reading, practicing and teaching Pilates and learning about native Oklahoman plants and grasses. I do this work because of the students – middle schoolers are my fave. They are my best teachers.
Email: cbyrne@tsas.org
Room: 303
Educational Background:
- Bachelor of Arts in English Literature (minor in Women’s Studies) – University of Oklahoma
I’m a Brooklyn transplant via the Tulsa Artist Fellowship. Growing up in Florida, I spent most of my days skateboarding, making art, and shooting hoops. The most important advice I can give: if you can, grow a beard. Favorite childhood movies: The NeverEnding Story, Labyrinth, and White Men Can’t Jump. Greatest TV show: Gumby.
I teach to connect with a collective consciousness and share my passion for creativity. I hope that others can experience the same fulfillment that art has brought to my life.
Email: acarnes@tsas.org
Room: 106
Educational Background:
- Master of Fine Arts, New York Academy of Art
- Bachelor of Fine Arts, Ringling College of Art and Design
I try to find joy in the small things in life. I’m a mom of 4 awesome kids and 5 fur babies. I absolutely love all things Disney I am also a big fan of Star Wars, Dr. Who, and Harry Potter (basically I’m just a big kid at heart).
I teach to help build a brighter future, and to encourage students and people to explore mathematics and hopefully alleviate some of their fears toward math.
Email: dchapman@tsas.org
Class Website: CLICK HERE
Room: 316 B
Educational Background:
- Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Northeastern State University
- Master’s of Mathematics Education from Northeastern State University
My name is Rogelio Contreras, but I go by Profe. at TSAS. My wife Diane and I have two beautiful children, Isabela and Joaquín. I have been teaching Spanish and American Sign Language at TSAS for 5 years. I love watching college football, dancing salsa, playing golf (recent hobby), reading, politics, traveling, trying new recipes, learning about different cultures, and spending time with family and friends.
I teach because being part of a profession that helps young people become critical thinkers, productive members in the world, improve their quality of life, and help open up opportunities for them is a job that I am proud to do and be a part of. I teach, but also learn how to become a better teacher and person everyday from my students and colleagues.
Email: rcontreras@tsas.org
Room: 205
Educational Background:
- Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from The University of Texas at Brownsville
- Masters of Science Deaf Education from Lamar University
- Postrado Readaptación Deportiva from La Universidad de Barcelona
Hello! My name is Cathy Denton. I was a mom of TSAS before working here and was fortunate to have all three of my children attend TSAS. My best trait is that I tend to laugh easily. Life can be dark and having a sense of humor helps. I’m very curious, so I read a lot. I enjoy working on creative projects like coloring, drawing and writing. I think creativity is a superpower. I’m also slightly obsessed with personality quizzes.
I’ve played lots of roles at TSAS but now I enjoy working in operations. I manage the amazing operations team, organize substitutes, track accreditation reports, and run the child nutrition program. I love the TSAS students, they are quirky, authentic and capture my heart each year. My work feels meaningful because of them.
Email: cdenton@tsas.org
Room: Main Office
Educational Background:
- Bachelor of Arts in English from Southwest Baptist University
My teaching career began in China in 1987. Three years later, at the American Academy in Istanbul, Turkey, I adopted my life’s motto: “I want to dance with the whole world!” Include everyone, exclude no one. I have been devoted to my partner in life for over 30 years, the last 20 of those in our little home on the river bend near downtown Tulsa.
My passion for teaching is deeply connected to helping students become better global citizens, equipped with the essential critical thinking tools needed to imagine and pursue their future with greater confidence.
Email: jdonaldson@tsas.org
Room: 112 B
Educational Background:
- Bachelor of Arts in English Literature from Oral Roberts University
My favorite quote is, “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel” by Maya Angelou. These are my words to live by, because I know how true they are, and I try to be mindful of them from day to day. I love my family, and I particularly adore my mother. My nephew Quincey has stolen my heart, and I love animals (especially dogs and elephants, the only exception would be snakes). I also love to watch movies; new movies or old movies, I just love movies.
I teach because it is the BEST job in the world. There is a never a boring or dull day or moment, and I have a passion for middle school students who I get to engage with on a daily basis! We are living and learning! TSAS + middle schoolers = a magical carpet ride, and I am highly committed to the ride.
Email: edorsey@tsas.org
Room: 314
Educational Background:
- Bachelor of Arts in English Education from Northeastern State University
- Master of Science in Teaching, Learning, and Leadership – Reading and Literacy Emphasis from Oklahoma State University
I love the community here at TSAS and I am looking forward to learning more about this organization. I am a parent of two amazing teenagers and one fur baby. I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, traveling, listening to music, watching tv, and arts and crafts.
Email: adumas@tsas.org
Room: Main Office
Educational Background
- Associate’s Degree in Liberal Arts
I’m a proud Texan that calls Tulsa home. I enjoy flea markets, Flamin’ Hot Cheetos, 90s hip-hop, stand-up comedy, and mathematics.
I teach because I get to help youth actualize their power and position in dismantling an oppressive and dusty education system.
Email: rortiz@tsas.org
Room: 204
Educational Background:
- Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Oklahoma State University
My name is Clayton Flores. I live with my wife, Hailey, and our two boys, Calvin and Redford. Outside of school, I enjoy running and playing music. Running was a huge passion of mine when I was younger, and I have recently rediscovered it. I completed my first marathon this summer and am looking forward to future events! Per music, I have played in several bands over the years and absolutely enjoy jamming with my best buds.
I teach because I have had teachers who inspired me and instilled academic confidence, allowing me to surpass what I thought possible. I want my students to feel empowered to think critically and to share their opinions; some of my best moments from my first year of teaching stemmed from watching students take chances and thrive in those uncharted waters. I am excited to build a space at TSAS where we can have many more moments of discovery.
Email: cflores@tsas.org
Room: 301 A
Educational Background:
- Bachelor of Arts in History from the University of Tulsa
- Associate of Arts in Visual Communications from Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology
I’m a lifelong Tulsan and proud alum of Booker T. Washington HS who’s taught art and art history at TSAS since 2006. Before then, I worked at the Philbrook Museum of Art in the education and curatorial departments, and taught in multiple other local arts organizations as well. I speak 4 languages and was part of the inaugural Spanish Immersion class that began the dual language programs in Tulsa in 1981. I firmly and wholeheartedly believe that public education is the most important investment we can make in our kids and I hope to use my public education foundations to give back to my community, because they invested in me. I’m married and have an 8 year old son who is my favorite person and a 17 lb cat who sleeps on me. My favorite thing to do is reading, more reading, buying books and talking about books, but also all pop culture and history. I unabashedly love good animated shows with excellent storytelling.
I teach because I like kids– they all have an amazing energy and perspective on the world that is invaluable and constantly reminds me that we need to keep a little piece of that alive in ourselves as adults. I teach because I want students to be able to work with their hands in a way that doesn’t involve a keyboard or phone. I do it because art is an ancient and timeless subject, yet is also one of the most accessible languages that connects us universally. I teach because I want my students to have practical real-world skills, like creative problem-solving and perseverance. But I also teach art because I firmly believe that students need to exercise all parts of their brain in order to grow into fully actualized adults. Through art, a student can discover something about themselves or the world that changes them forever, and for the better, and it’s my privilege to be there when it happens. It’s just an added bonus that we get to make messes and that’s awesome.
Email: kfoshee@tsas.org
Room: 103
Educational Background:
- Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Tulsa
- Certificate in Museum Studies
- Master of Fine Arts from the University of Tulsa
- Certificate in Italian Language Studies from Tulsa Community College
I am an artistical (that’s magic, whimsy, and artistic rolled into one!) scientist and am excited to join the TSAS family! I love painting, creating, and exploring Tulsa with my three kids! You might see us cruising around downtown on our bikes sometime- it’s a crew for sure! I am stuck in the 90s with a love for Dr. Martens and indie rock, and my absolute favorite thing to do in the whole world is be a goofball and laugh!
I teach because, well, kids are insanely amazing and out of this world! It is a privilege to work with kids, and I appreciate that they still hold the magic of imagination and limitless possibilities. I learn just as much from my students as they learn from me.
Email: afraley@tsas.org
Room: 305 B
Educational Background:
- Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Northeastern State University
- Associate of Arts in Health Sciences from Northeastern State University
I’m an avid fan of mysteries, most bodies of water, writing and almost any animal, especially my dog, Tank.
Teaching and learning with our youth is the most rewarding journey I can imagine. It enables me to feel like I’m contributing to our future in a positive way by teaching and encouraging students in all of their individual endeavors. Exploring the art of acting is a never ending process and the tools necessary are equally infinite. Humanity must be studied and this art makes all dreams possible. Sharing this craft with our students gives me the opportunity to keep these possibilities alive and participate in any imaginable circumstance.
Email: mgates@tsas.org
Room: 128
Educational Background:
- Bachelor of Arts from Bedford University
- American Theatre Conservatory
I have been in public schools in Tulsa my entire professional life. I first started teaching at East Central HS in 2008, then Clinton MS, and I joined TSAS in 2011 as an English teacher. In 2016, I started as the first middle school principal. This job brings a great amount of joy and resolution to my life.
I do the work I do because I draw strength and clarity from our students. I see all the answers for all of our problems in them and am filled with hope at their brilliance, senses of humor, and innate strength. I will be at TSAS for as long as they let me and I look forward to every twist and turn in the road as we wind our way toward self-actualization together.
I love my wife and two kids more than anything, and I like listening to music, going to concerts and movies, watching TV, reading books, riding my bike, moving furniture, loaning people my truck, and looking for my keys.
Email: dhahn@tsas.org
Phone: 918-207-8997
Room: 302
Book an appointment with Dr. Dan
Educational Background:
- Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies from the University of Oklahoma
- Master of Education in Educational Administration, Curriculum, and Supervision from the University of Oklahoma
- Bachelor of Arts in English Education from Northeastern State University
Jay has been part of TSAS for many years at two different buildings. In that time, he has become a vital, cherished member of the TSAS staff and is one of the most popular figures in the TSAS halls among students and teachers. His constant hard work and care to ensure TSAS is safe and ready for students to learn has been a constant support and crucial part of TSAS culture for so long. We could not imagine our school without Jay!
Hailing originally from the DC Metropolitan area, I moved to Oklahoma in 2011 to attend graduate school and never left. So I guess this is home now? I’m an enthusiast of vinyl (listening to and collecting), hockey (watching and playing), books (“Obnoxiously well read,” per a source), movies, baking, chess, and playing the guitar and harmonica, just to name a few. (Some people say I collect hobbies.) I am also a big fan of dogs, especially my two dummies: Scout and Mabel.
I am a teacher of English because I believe in the mission of the humanities. The humanities, as I understand them, seeks to explore human experience and to appreciate and interrogate human accomplishments and failures so we may better understand our contemporary moment. More importantly, the humanities are forward-looking: it looks to where we are going, not just where we have been and where we are. In my English classes, I hope to foster dialogue and the necessary communicative skills through an engagement with literature and writing of all kinds so that my students can ultimately learn from the past and experiences of others to create a better and more equitable future for themselves and others.
Email: dhawkins@tsas.org
Room: 113 A
Educational Background:
-
- PhD in English, Oklahoma State University
- M.A. in English, Oklahoma State University May 2014
- B.S. in Mass Communication, Shepherd University
I am from OKC and love the Thunder and watching NBA games. My wife Lindsay and I enjoy drinking coffee at home and the local shops in town, as well as, working on our fixer upper.
I teach because I want the world to be a better for everyone and while our society loves to teach people what to think, it rarely teaches them how to think. At TSAS we are passionate about releasing thoughtful humans, into the world, capable of critical thinking and thus able to create a world that is a better place for all people.
Email: whill@tsas.org
Room: 114
Educational Background:
- Bachelor of Science in Government from Oral Roberts University
- Master of Arts in Education from Oral Roberts University
Mr. Grateful started at TSAS in the summer of 2024 and hit the ground running as our amazing site manager and lead custodian. He is from Kansas originally and is a big Jayhawks fan. He is also an avid music fan, churchgoer, and Dallas Cowboys enthusiast.
He has worked in Tulsa schools for many years and lives in Broken Arrow with his lovely wife, Mrs. T. In his spare time he loves to be grateful, relax, and help others.
My name is Brittney James. I teach Special Education. Teaching gives me joy. I love being around my family, we have Sunday dinners each month. Last summer, I was introduced to the world of baking! I travel with my husband and we try to experience different cultures and traditions wherever we go. We are expecting our first bundle of joy in September, Titus James.
I do the work that I do because I have realized that everyone is capable of learning. Some student’s learn different than others. It encourages me when a student masters a goal or no longer needs extensive services through IEP services. The reason I teach, is because as a teacher I am able to be apart of a village that helps mold a child into a successful adult.
Email: bjames@tsas.org
Room: 104F
Educational Background:
- Bachelor’s in Human Development and Family Sciences Oklahoma State University (Go POKES!)
In my free time, I am always looking for the next, new destination. Some might say I plan the next trip while on a trip. Being an Army brat and having moved every few years may play a part in my quest for constant change. I have hung up my chauffeur hat, no longer needing to cart my kids around town, and find myself filling the time with new ventures like tennis, puzzles, happy hours, and terrible reality television. I am mom to two daughters, wife to a professor of law, and keeper of two, delinquent dogs. While we are not from Oklahoma, we have loved calling Tulsa home!
Email: jlamkin@tsas.org
Room: 114
Educational Background:
- Masters in Curriculum and Leadership, Oklahoma State University
- Doctorate in Law, Indiana University School of Law
- Bachelor of Science in Education, Indiana University
I grew up in 6 states and 7 school districts, but the classroom has always felt like home. I earned my BA from Berkeley, studying the intersection of modern art and computer science- which is a concept I love exploring in the geometry classroom! Before coming to TSAS, I taught math and graphic design in other TPS high schools, and worked in the STEM space for tribal governments and local nonprofits.
I have previously served as a teacher fellow with the National Science Foundation and the National Endowment for the Humanities.
Outside of school, I love to crochet, weave, play trivia, and go on road trips with my husband and our dog.
I attended public schools from kindergarten through earning my masters, and I believe there is no greater institution for building knowledge, community, and life skills.
Email: mlance@tsas.org
Room: 203
Educational Background:
- Bachelor of Arts in Art History, UC Berkeley
- Master of Public Administration – Policy and Statistics Emphasis, University of Oklahoma
- PhD in Curriculum Studies (In progress) – Oklahoma State University
I was born and raised in California, but have been in Tulsa for almost 18 years. I’m the mother of 2 beautiful girls, 16 years apart in age 🙂 My favorite place to be is anywhere with a beach and a sunset. This is my 14th year at TSAS, and I love it!
The best part of my job is seeing young children evolve into young adults ❤️
Email: alopez@tsas.org
Room: 104 A
Educational Background:
- Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice with a minor in Legal Studies from Northeastern State University
My name is Katie McCall, and I am a mother, wife, artist, teacher, and animal lover. I am known for being a kind, helpful, and detailed person with a fun personality! A perfect evening for me would include The Lawrence Welk Show on Television as I cooked dinner with food from my garden while dancing with my kids and husband from room to room. I do the work I do because I can, I should, and I will always help, guide, create, and grow towards the light. I teach so that I can learn. So much can be gained through teaching the fine arts and advocating for youth.
Email: kmccall@tsas.org
Room: Commons
Educational Background:
- Bachelor of Arts in Arts Management from the University of Tulsa
- Bachelor of Arts in Modern Dance from Texas Christian University
- Study Abroad in Theatre, Getty Museum Studies, and Creative Writing from University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
Artist, gamer, technology buff, lover of animation, fantasy & science fiction, and all things heavy metal! With these powers combined, I am a huge nerd!
Animation is art in motion. It is a visual medium of endless possibility that the human imagination can conceive. If you can dream it, you can animate it. Animation is an illusion of movement; it truly is magic. As my friend often says, “magic is real!’, and it exists here at TSAS. That magic is inspiring the students to learn, create and achieve their goals! It’s really all about them, they are the future.
Teaching is absolutely one of, if not, the most soul-filling things a person can do. Passing knowledge to others is essential to the human experience and it is an honorable privilege to have the opportunity to do so at such a wonderful place as TSAS.
Email: emiller@tsas.org
Room: 219 A
Educational background:
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Animation from Full Sail University
Mr. Minton was raised in Tennessee and taught last year in middle school and is excited to move to teach HS math this year. He has had a successful time as a professional tutor, studied abroad in France.
Email: kminton@tsas.org
Room: 206
Educational Background:
- Bachelor of Arts in Economics with a minor in Mathematics from East Tennessee State University
I am married with 6 children, 5 of which have graduated High School from TSAS. I enjoy cooking, gardening, knitting, journaling, reading and learning new things. I am grateful to be apart of the amazing community that is TSAS.
I do the work I do because I love it. I enjoy being in the role of facilitating help to/for others.
Email: dmohn@tsas.org
Room: Main Office
As well as a teacher, I am a Board Certified Music Therapist and have experience working with long-term/chronic pediatric patients at a children’s hospital. Working at TSAS has inspired me to go back to school to pursue a master’s in special education. TSAS has also gifted me with a new passion: learning, and helping others to do the same. I’m obsessed with my cats, and I like to get outside as much as possible.
I teach to ensure ALL students have equitable education and can reach their ambitious life goals. We are all still learning.
Email: kmorgan@tsas.org
Room: 310
Educational Background:
- Bachelor of Music in Music Therapy from University of Louisville
- Master of Education in Special Education from the University of Oklahoma
I am a lover of science, avid reader, gardener, and swimmer. I have taught every age group in some capacity from preschool to college level courses in multiple different cities. I adore animals, and live here in Tulsa with my husband, 2 dogs and 3 cats.
I teach science because I believe that my students have the ability to positively impact the future of this country, but for that to be true they must have a foundational knowledge of how the world around them works and to be critical thinkers who can make their own decisions.
Email: mnicholson@tsas.org
Room: 215
Educational Background:
- Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences from Loyola University New Orleans
- Master of Science in Biology from the University of New Orleans
I love DnD, dancing, youtube rabbit holes and keeping it real.
I believe the most important thing we can do to help make the world a better place is to develop critical thinking skills of independent learners. As a teacher with my personal background, I am uniquely situated to reach out to students who never believed they could have a future in science.
Email: sokapal@tsas.org
Room: 214
Educational Background:
- Bachelor of Science in Physics from The Ohio State University
- Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy from The Ohio State University
I am McKenzie Park and I am the School Based Specialist here at TSAS! I graduated with my Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Oklahoma State University. I am a lover of animals and have three fur babies of my own, two dogs and one cat that are my pride and joy! I enjoy all things nature, whether that is collecting house plants or going on long hikes with my dogs. In my pass time I love doing anything creative around my house like sketching, creating decorations, and working in my flower beds. I look forward to working hand and hand with the TSAS faculty to create the best and most supportive environment for each student in this community.
I have always had a passion for working with children and have worked with all ages in many different settings. I believe that children are the future of this world and with the right tools in their toolbelt there is no limit to what they can do. I love watching children step into their potential and I am so excited to be part a team that supports each student in exploring their passions and developing their own unique identity.
Email: McKenzie.Park@okdhs.org
Office: 104 E
Educational Background:
- Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Oklahoma State University
Hi everyone I am so excited to be here. I come from a background of education and criminal justice. I have a beautiful daughter named Colby. I enjoy traveling to different places with my family and studying different cultures. In 2020 I was nominated as an Oklahoma’s Top 20 under 2 teacher. One fun fact about me is that in college I studied abroad in Greece for two weeks for a history class.
I do the work I do because I want to have an impact on the youth that are our next leaders. These students will be living and operating in a world that my children will be in. If I can assist with making students achieve success I want to do that. No matter what success looks like to them. I want to meet them where they are and help get them to the finish line.
Email: srandle@tsas.org
Office: 126
Educational Background:
- Bachelor’s in Psychology; University of Central Oklahoma
- Master’s in Criminal Justice; Northeastern State University
In the blink of an eye, the little girl with snails in her pockets and dirt in her hair went from exploring the creeks behind her childhood home to earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources from Oklahoma State University.
Lauren’s adventure began when she moved across the country to gain conservation experience near Glacier National Park as a Big Sky Watershed Corps Member through AmeriCorps. In this role, she combined her lifelong passion for service with environmental conservation, conducting research for organizations such as the USDA, NRCS, Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes, and NASA. Her work focused on wildflower biodiversity, pollinator habitat rehabilitation, Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) tracking, and agricultural resource improvements.
A defining moment in her career was developing the Lake County Conservation District’s outreach program, which delivered STEAM curriculum to 3,641 students and adults in 2.5 years. After returning home during the pandemic, Lauren pursued STEAM education, starting at Discovery Lab where she created curriculum and trained educators. Now in her second year at Tulsa School of Arts and Sciences (TSAS), she teaches Modern Science and Chemistry and serves as the Key Club sponsor, deeply committed to inspiring her students in the natural sciences and in service.
Outside of work, Lauren enjoys hiking, camping, photographing every flower and fungi she sees, collecting rocks and crystals, and practicing yoga. When indoors, she loves watching competition shows with her husband, Tyler, and making bets on the winners (loser cleans up dinner!) Their pup, Daisy, is always nearby to “help” with cleanup.
Email: lranthe@tsas.org
Room: 218
Educational Background:
- Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Science and Natural Resources with a major in Environmental Sciences from Oklahoma State University
I love learning and hope I never stop. I enjoy learning alongside my students. And I especially enjoy seeing students grow both as writers and in their appreciation of the power of writing for their lives.
I’m raising three kids with my best friend in Broken Arrow and I love living here. I’ve recently started doing yoga. One of my favorite hobbies is competitive kettlebell lifting. Kurt Vonnegut changed my life.
Email: srustin@tsas.org
Room: 115
Educational Background:
- Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies, Evangel University
- Master of Arts in Biblical Exegesis, Wheaton College
I have lived in Tulsa most of my life but love to travel as much as I can. I also enjoy reading, writing about television and film, doing crossword puzzles, playing basketball, and walking my dogs in our neighborhood. My wife, son, and I live near downtown Tulsa so you can frequently find us dining or wandering around there.
I’ve been involved in youth development and education for over twenty years now, but I love my work most with TSAS. Our community is a weird and wonderful place to work and I think we’re doing something remarkable in education: It is humane, it is innovative, and it is providing a space for personal growth for all the stakeholders involved. My position allows me to see all aspects of our school’s past, present, and future, and what I witness on a daily basis makes me excited about what is ahead.
Email: dsharples@tsas.org
Room: 104 D
Educational Background:
- Master’s in Organizational Dynamics from the University of Oklahoma (in progress)
- Graduate coursework in Secondary Education from the University of Missouri-St. Louis
- Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies from the University of Oklahoma
I teach because I enjoy it. I enjoy fostering and guiding someone to that point of discovery because I find it beautiful and expansive for them and myself. I believe that we are all in a kind of student/teacher cycle throughout our entire lives and I wish to embrace that interdependence.
It is curious to me how I can look to the night sky in wonder, and marvel at how well physics has described that celestial dance and our inseparable place in it, yet I feel that often when many of us look upon ourselves, that wonder is no longer present. I want to live a life that encourages that sense of wonder in the individual as well as the whole.
Email: sslater@tsas.org
Room: 304
Educational Background
- Bachelor’s of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Oklahoma State University
Though I was born far away in California, I am proud to be an Oklahoman who has lived for 4 decades in Tulsa. I have invested more than 20 years as a career educator and am grateful for the ways I have been transformed by my years at TSAS, and that my four children had the privilege of graduating from TSAS as well. I love learning and spend as much time as I can reading books, writing, practicing artistic pursuits, cooking, and enjoying nature. I think that good conversations, time with family and friends, coffee, and dogs bring beauty to the mess of life.
I am honored to be a school leader at TSAS because it is a learning community focused on the human experience of teaching and learning. It is a school concerned about the whole person and committed to nurturing the potential and growth of each individual student. The teachers at TSAS care about each student’s academic achievement as well as their human journey. On an almost daily basis I am awed by our relational environment and the ways it supports and encourages both students and the faculty. Our school community is made up of people who care deeply about intellectual pursuits, creativity, innovation and humanity.There’s no place like TSAS and I am honored to contribute to this special school.
Email: lsmith@tsas.org
Room: 201
Educational Background:
- Ph.D. in Curriculum Studies from Oklahoma State University
- Masters of Education in School Administration from Northeastern State university
- Bachelor of Arts in English, Fine Art & Education from the University of Tulsa
- Associate of Arts in Fine Art from Tulsa Junior College
I love politics, philosophy, poetry, and my cats (Dionysus and Descartes). I have had the privilege of mentoring young debaters and actors for 10 years. I’ve been professionally associated with the Harvard National Invitational Forensics Tournament and OSSAA Speech and Debate. I’m a theatre nerd who has worked in stage production and costuming since 2017. I’m a writer with a special interest in journalism and research; I’ve been published by three newspapers, showcased in two symposia, and awarded for my radio and social media work.
I yearn to be where I’m most needed and to make positive impacts. Communication is our greatest asset. Speech and Debate empowers young people with tools of self expression so that they can advocate for themselves and each other. It empowers them by exposing them to real world issues in political, economic, and philosophical terms and requiring them to see such issues in shades of gray rather than black and white. And it empowers them through the transformative power of performance, which inspires self confidence, mindfulness, and empathy.
Email: rspindle@tsas.org
Room: 207 B
Educational Background:
- BA in Professional Media with specialization in Philosophy from the University of Central Oklahoma
I started at TSAS in 2006 as a substitute barely three years older than my students. I was hired full-time the next year, teaching World Lit, Brit Lit, The Graphic Novel, YA Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Contemporary Nonfiction, Mythology, AP Lang, and Computers I and II over the next ten years. Seeing a need to better serve our graduates, I created the College & Career Counselor position; then, seeing a further need, I began building our library. When I’m not at TSAS I’m working on my house, building drawing machines, knitting/crocheting, reading, or designing CNC projects.
I do this work because I believe that access to information is an essential right, and that nurturing the wisdom to use that information can bring about self-emancipation. Getting the right books into the hands of a curious student—or the right tools into the hands of a student with an idea—is all I want to do in this world.
Email: jstallings@tsas.org
Room: Collegiate Commons
Educational Background:
- Master of Library and Information Studies from the University of Oklahoma
- Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts from Rogers State University
My wife and I currently have one rescue critter, a mischievous long-hair dachshund named Harvey. I’ve had a lifelong affinity for songwriting, mostly alternative/indie and americana. I most enjoy organic gardening/landscaping, mountain biking, and fishing as well as learning new trades and tinkering around the house. I’m not particularly good at light conversation.
I believe that education should be liberating and it’s with that notion I embarked on this journey. There is no field more in need of challenging exclusive and often dehumanizing practices than in special education. At TSAS, it is my dream to continue to build upon an inclusive education program that embraces the unique needs of all our students and prioritizes togetherness in the classroom and greater community.
Email: ctucker@tsas.org
Room: 104 C
Educational Background:
- Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy from Oklahoma State University
- Master of Education in Educational Administration, Curriculum, and Supervision from the University of Oklahoma
I am an avid movie watcher, traveler, and reader.I am constantly traveling and exploring new places. I love the possibilities of meeting new people and seeing new cultures! I have a passion for education and making sure that students are enlightened about the world around them.
Ask me about my Corgi! Her name is Molly and she is the sweetest.
Email: jturner@tsas.org
Class Website: CLICK HERE
Room: 113 B
Educational Background:
- Master’s in American Studies from Northeastern State University
- Bachelor of Arts in History from the University of Tulsa
- Certificate in Classical Studies from the University of Tulsa
I love being a part of the TSAS family! When I’m not at school, I’m hanging out with my husband, teenage son, and two giant pit/boxer babies named Sprite and Coca-Cola. I also have five adult children/step-children (and one grandchild!) who are scattered throughout the Midwest. Some of my interests are St. Louis Cardinal baseball, reading, napping, eating cereal, watching TV and movies with my family, listening to all kinds of music, and attending live music concerts, drag shows, and local art markets.
I strive to live life to the fullest in the present and help others whenever possible. I am passionate about good mental health, human rights and equality in all areas of life. A few of my heroes are Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Thich Nhat Hanh, RuPaul, and Michelle Obama. TSAS kids give me joy in the present and hope for the future. I’m honored to be even a small part of their journeys.
Email: lwoods@tsas.org
Room: Main Office
Educational Background:
- Vanderbilt University (Nashville, TN) and University of Michigan, Ann Arbor