Sand Springs Public Schools proudly recognized several outstanding students and staff members during the January 2026 Board of Education meeting. These Sandite Pacesetter and Sandite Spirit Award recipients exemplify excellence, leadership, and the commitment to representing SSPS with pride.
Sandite Spirit Award Recipients
2025 Sandite Football Team:
Players, Trainers, Managers, and Film Crew
The Sandite Spirit Award was also presented to the Sandite Football team, including players, trainers, managers, and film crew members. These students were recognized for their dedication during their recent historic championship season, where they brought home the first state title since 1966.
In addition to their Sandite Spirit awards, these students also received recognition from District 2 Tulsa County Commissioner Lonnie Sims. Thank you to Mr. Sims for taking the time to honor our team!
Reagin Sanders and Cole Higgins
Sandite Spirit Awards were presented to Raegin Sanders and Cole Higgins for their leadership and achievement in cross country. Both student-athletes qualified individually for the state meet for the second consecutive year, which is an impressive accomplishment, especially as underclassmen.
Beyond their athletic success, Raegin and Cole were recognized for the way they lead through their actions and words, proudly representing SSPS on and off the course.
Girls Cross Country Team
The Girls Cross Country Team received a Sandite Spirit Award for outstanding academic excellence. The team finished in the top three of all 6A schools based on GPA and earned the OSSAA Distinguished Academic Achievement Award—the second such honor in the program’s history.
Team members include Lexie Boone, Brooklynn Bozone, Autumn Darrow, Sierra Fitzjarrell, Josie Grona, Ellie Morrow, Paisley Sanders, Raegin Sanders, Stella Stane, and Mya Wagers,. Their success reflects a powerful balance of academic dedication and athletic commitment.
Sandite Pacesetter Award Recipients
2025 Sandite Football Coaching Staff
The Sandite Pacesetter Award was presented to the 2025 Sandite Football coaching staff in recognition of their leadership, long-term vision, and championship-level success. The Sandites finished the season with an 11–2 record and captured the Oklahoma Class 6A-II State Championship. This achievement reflects a five-year commitment to a sustainable process led by Head Coach Bobby Klinck and his staff—one that begins with Sand Springs Youth Football and continues through middle school and high school development.
Jenna Houck
Jenna Houck was honored with a Sandite Pacesetter Award for the incredible impact she has made on students and families across the district. Her dedication and compassion have not gone unnoticed. Her work was highlighted by parents across the district, with a post recognizing her efforts going viral and later drawing the attention of local media. Jenna’s passion for students and her tireless service exemplify what it means to be a Sandite Pacesetter.
School Board Recognition Month
January is School Board Recognition Month. Sand Springs Public Schools proudly recognized the dedicated individuals who serve our students, staff, and community. In addition to certificates of recognition, board members received coloring pages and hand-drawn cards from students across the district.
Our Board of Education members give countless hours to thoughtful decision-making, long-range planning, and advocacy to ensure every Sandite has access to a high-quality education. Their leadership and service help move our district forward every day.
Please join us in thanking:
Whitney Wagers, President
Mike Mullins, Vice President
Tracy Hanlon, Deputy Clerk
Bo Naugle, Board Member
Alesha Spoon, Board Member
Sand Springs Public Schools is proud to celebrate these individuals and teams whose hard work, leadership, and dedication truly embody Sandite pride. Congratulations to all of our January 2026 award recipients for setting the standard and representing SSPS with excellence every day.