November is the official beginning of the winter holiday season. Bryan County Retired Educators learned of Christmas festivities at their November meeting.
Calera Public School Superintendent Jon Shepard shared the progress Calera Independent Schools is making. Shepard is a former Calera student and has taught social studies and coached before taking the assignment of school superintendent four years ago.
Last year’s enrollment increased by approximately 100 students. This year 80 more students have enrolled in Calera schools. Preparation has begun in anticipation of population growth fueled by the Choctaw Nation jobs and the new Texas Instruments plant in Sherman, Texas. New classrooms and remodeling existing facilities will provide room for growth.
In keeping with the theme of community growth, members heard from Durant Main Street director Stephanie Swicker. With her heritage of small business development and entrepreneurship, Swicker is enthusiastically embracing “Downtown Durant.” She reported holiday events for the heart of Durant businesses through a “Small Town Christmas.”
December 6-7, the lighting of the city’s Christmas was moved to Market Square with holiday music and lights. The Mistletoe Market offered opportunities to “pop-up” vendors. Carriage rides whisked passengers to the festive displays at Southeastern Oklahoma State University. Future activities include a Valentine Wine and Art evening in February and a “Met Gala” in May.
Bryan County Retired Educators will meet on Friday, December 20, 11:00 AM-1:00 PM, at Integration Station for a Christmas luncheon and a time of fellowship, games, prizes, and fun.
