Claremore, OK – July 25, 2024 – Claremore Public Schools (CPS) is proud to announce the hiring of Dr. Michelle Butler as the new Director of the Claremore Learning Center (CLC), the school’s alternative learning program. Dr. Butler brings a wealth of experience and a deep-seated passion for alternative education, making her an invaluable addition to the Zebra family.
Dr. Butler's extensive background in public education spans 29 years, during which she has dedicated her career to fostering educational opportunities for students in alternative settings. Dr. Butler, an alumnus of both the University of Texas and the University of Oklahoma, has worked in Oklahoma and Missouri, most recently serving as an Alternative Education Specialist for the Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE).
"I am thrilled to join Claremore High School and lead the alternative learning program," said Dr. Butler. "I have always believed in the power of alternative education to transform lives by providing students with opportunities to learn outside the traditional classroom setting. My goal is to help grow the program for Claremore students and ensure they have the support and resources they need to succeed."
Dr. Butler’s approach is centered on empowering students to take ownership of their educational journeys. She emphasizes the importance of connecting students with mentors from the Claremore community to help them discover and harness their talents. “All students have potential,” she asserts. “Sometimes they need mentors to help them discover their talents and how to use them best.”
Under her leadership, CLC will focus on life skills, career skills, and academics, preparing students for success both in the classroom and beyond. Dr. Butler is committed to ensuring that students receive the same level of academic rigor and support as their peers in traditional settings while catering to their individual learning styles and needs.
Dr. Butler’s vision for the alternative learning program includes creating an environment where students are passionate about their work, acquire essential skills for college and careers, and develop the mindset necessary for lifelong success. “Enrollment at CLC is a choice,” she explains. “Students must want to be here, and once they are, we will work together to overcome challenges and achieve great things.”
Her dedication to fostering a sense of community and belonging among students is at the heart of her educational philosophy. “The sense of community that develops at an alternative program is one of my favorite reasons to be involved in alternative education,” says Dr. Butler. “Students need to feel valued and emotionally connected to their education to succeed, and that is what we strive to provide at CLC.”
Claremore High School is excited to welcome Dr. Butler and looks forward to her positive impact on the students and the community. Her leadership and passion for alternative education will undoubtedly drive the Claremore Learning Center to new heights.
Dr. Butler’s hiring follows the retirement of Chrissy Province, who served in CPS for 26 years.