Congratulations to Inaugural Class of Fuel Fellows

Fuel OKC is proud to celebrate the graduation of its first class of Fuel Fellow. On April 23, 40 school leaders from across Oklahoma City will complete the year-long fellowship, marking an important investment in the future of public education in our community.

This inaugural cohort includes participants from Santa Fe South Schools, Dove Schools, Harding Charter Preparatory Schools and Western Gateway Elementary School. These educators have demonstrated a strong commitment to strengthening their schools and improving outcomes for students.

The graduation ceremony will be held at the Colcord Hotel and will feature keynote speaker Mark Beffort, CEO and managing partner of Robinson Park. A longtime Oklahoma City business leader, Beffort will speak to the critical role these educators play in shaping the city’s future and why strong schools are essential to a thriving community.

“A skilled school leader directly impacts teachers and student outcomes,” Brent Bushey, Fuel OKC CEO said. “Through the Fuel Fellowship, these graduates are gaining practical tools and real-world experience they can take back to their schools, strengthening instruction, supporting teachers and ultimately improving outcomes for students across Oklahoma City.”

Designed for leaders who work closely with teachers, including principals, assistant principals, chief academic officers and instructional coaches, the fellowship provides a comprehensive, hands-on learning experience rooted in real-world application.

Participants engaged in a year-long program that began with an intensive five-day summer institute, followed by five dynamic one-and-a-half-day workshops throughout the year. Each session was intentionally designed to deepen leadership capacity and translate directly into stronger school practices, equipping school leaders with the tools, mindsets and skills needed to lead high-achieving schools.