Enid Public Schools Elevates Classroom Learning Through Expanding Technology Initiatives

Enid Public Schools (EPS) has placed a strong focus on strengthening its investment in educational technology, giving students the tools they need to thrive in a digital world. Over the past several years, the district’s 1-to-1 device initiative, EPS-Connect 3.0, has developed into a fully integrated system that supports personalized learning, modern instruction, and long-term digital readiness.

Future-Ready Learning

EPS-Connect 3.0 has transformed the classroom. Students have access to the digital tools necessary to thrive in a world where technology is essential. The district’s emphasis on technology has reshaped the learning experience from the ground up.

“The 1-to-1 initiative enhances the learning experience for students, making instruction personalized, interactive, and engaging,” said Jeffery Herbel, director of Information and Instructional Technology.

With tools like Chromebooks and iPads in every classroom, teachers now have access to data-driven resources that enable them to customize lessons, track progress, and deliver instruction in ways previously impossible. The district’s approach equips students for a future where digital literacy is vital.

Solutions Behind the Innovations

Ensuring the district’s infrastructure could support a device for every student required significant planning and investment. In 2024, voters approved a bond issue allocating $6.3 million over nine years to maintain and expand the 1-to-1 program.

EPS also emphasizes student safety online, participates in the Oklahoma Student Data Privacy Alliance and collaborates closely with vendors to ensure that all systems meet state and federal privacy standards.

“EPS uses the consortium between OKATE and Access 4 Learning to verify that vendors meet state and federal student data privacy,” Herbel said, affirming the district’s commitment to secure and responsible technology use.

Adapting to Digital Shift

With over 75% of the district’s textbooks now online, teachers have had to reinvent how they design their curriculum, utilizing various online platforms to support the transition. They are also training teachers using the SAMR (substitution, augmentation, modification, and redefinition) model, a guide for educators to integrate technology smoothly into their lesson plans. This helps them maximize the benefits of technology. These initiatives have opened doors for students in the realm of technology that were previously impossible to open.

EPS now offers a video broadcast class that livestreams events, expanding e-sports across campuses and enhancing performing arts productions with a large video wall designed by students. Concurrent enrollment with Northern Oklahoma College has also grown, with live-streamed classes that enable students to learn from NOC professors in real time.

Reliable Internet Matters

Reliable internet has become the backbone of daily operations. With numerous systems operating online, from instruction to security, EPS depends on a quality internet connection. With more than 75% of the district’s systems operating online, a strong connection isn’t just helpful, but essential.

Herbel emphasizes the importance of a reliable connection. “The internet is now the second most important utility used in school, only behind electricity,” he said.

The long-standing partnership between EPS and OneNet has been a critical part of that reliability. Since 2009, OneNet has supported the district with fast, dependable internet service and advanced DDoS (distributed denial-of-service) protection, enabling the district to identify and mitigate attacks promptly.

“OneNet has enabled EPS to grow our technology usage in the classroom and administrative applications,” Herbel said.

Continued Growth

Larger bandwidth and continued technological growth will be essential in the future. The district plans to expand its wide-area network by adding two new sites and to incorporate AI into classrooms to keep up with these changes. EPS is confident that they are ready for the growth of technology.

“OneNet is proud to support Enid Public Schools in every step of their technological journey,” said Brian Burkhart, OneNet’s chief technology officer. “We are committed to providing the reliable connectivity, security, and partnership that the school needs to empower students and strengthen digital learning across the district.”

With OneNet’s support and the district’s commitment to innovation, Enid Public Schools is positioning itself for a future where every student has access to modern, engaging learning opportunities.