Norman Public Schools (NPS) has been recognized by the Oklahoma Quality Foundation (OQF) with the Commitment to Excellence Award (Level 3), marking a significant step forward in the district’s ongoing journey toward performance excellence.
The Oklahoma Quality Foundation’s awards are based on the nationally recognized Baldrige Excellence Framework, which guides organizations through a five-level progression from early improvement efforts to role-model performance. The Commitment to Excellence designation recognizes organizations that have implemented systematic, data-driven approaches and are advancing toward full organizational alignment and long-term sustainability.
This honor represents meaningful progress for NPS, which was previously recognized at the Pursuit of Excellence level (Level 2). Advancing multiple levels within the OQF framework highlights the district’s strong focus on continuous improvement and its commitment to delivering high-quality outcomes for students, staff, and the community.
“Advancing to the Commitment to Excellence level reflects the intentional work happening across our district,” said Justin Milner, Associate Superintendent and Chief Operating Officer. “Our teams are focused on strengthening systems, aligning our work, and using data to continuously improve how we serve our students and families.”
Each year, the Oklahoma Quality Foundation recognizes organizations across the state that demonstrate leadership, innovation, and measurable results. The framework evaluates key areas such as leadership, strategic planning, workforce engagement, and process management, helping organizations improve performance and achieve sustainable success.
Norman Public Schools continues to build on this momentum by strengthening strategic alignment, expanding opportunities for students, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement across all schools and departments.
Members of the Baldrige Committee include:
Justin Milner, Associate Superintendent and Chief Operating Officer
Holly Nevels, Associate Superintendent and Chief Human Resources Officer
Dr. Holly McKinney, Executive Director of Teaching and Learning
Dr. Stephanie Williams, Executive Director of Student Services
Gayla Mears, Executive Director of Special Services
*Courtney Scott, Chief Communications Officer
Christy Fisher, Chief Technology Officer
Tiffany Dixon, Director of Elementary Student Services
Jennifer Beer, Director of Secondary Student Services
*Sarah Seymore, Director of Professional Learning and Student Achievement
*Beth Whittle, Project Director, School-Based Mental Health
*Dr. Kristi Gray, Director of Gifted, Advanced Programs & College Career Readiness
Dr. Kim Garrett, Norman North High School Principal
Rachelle Roberts, Irving Middle School Principal
Sara Adams, Truman Elementary Principal
*indicates members of the application writing team
View past winners here: https://oklahomaquality.com/award-recipients
Learn more about the framework here: https://oklahomaquality.com/baldrige-framwork