Student Development Monthly Updates

Student Development Spotlight:

Danyele Minton, Maud Public Schools

At Maud Public Schools, Danyele Minton is known as an unwavering source of inspiration and guidance for students and educators alike. Her colleagues describe her as someone who goes above and beyond every single day, tackling student challenges with class, enthusiasm, and sensitivity. She instills confidence and pride in her students while serving as a role model for both them and her fellow educators.

Danyele’s journey into counseling was shaped by her early experiences as a band director. "I often had discussions with students about their futures and which paths they would like to take in life. This made me realize that I wanted to grow as an educator by becoming a school counselor." Her desire to help students navigate their futures led her to a career that allows her to make a profound impact on young lives every day.

For Danyele, the most rewarding part of her role is helping students see opportunities they never thought possible. "My favorite part of counseling is showing my students paths they did not think were possible for students from a small, rural community and watching them grow into futures which were once daunting to them." Seeing her students make positive changes and serve as examples of what can be achieved, even with humble beginnings, fuels her passion for the work she does.

Danyele finds inspiration in the words of Erol Ozan: "Some beautiful paths can't be discovered without getting lost." She explains, "I often see students who think they need to have everything figured out right now. It takes time for them to realize that plans and goals change, and that usually, those unexpected changes make life interesting and beautiful."

On days when she needs an extra dose of inspiration, Danyele turns to reading, observation, and reflection. "I read and pay attention to everything around me. I try to be open to new information and to where my faith leads me. I feel that my career is a calling, and this reminds me that my purpose in life is to serve those around me. I may just need to change my perspective to find inspiration in the moment."

To maintain her energy and enthusiasm, Danyele finds joy in singing, walking, and reading. These activities help her decompress and prepare for another day of making a difference in the lives of her students.

Danyele Minton’s dedication and belief in the potential of every student make her an invaluable asset to Maud Public Schools. Through her guidance and encouragement, she is shaping a brighter future not only for her students but for the entire community. Thank you, Danyele, for all you do! 

Become a Purple Star Designated School

The Purple Star program is designed to help schools respond to the educational and personal challenges military-connected children face during their transition to a new school and keep them on track to be college, workforce, and life-ready.

To learn more about the ongoing impact of the Purple Star program, click here.

Updated Application Timeline

•  March 1 - April 10, 2025

Learn More or Request an Application Here

Questions? Contact Christi.Sturgeon@sde.ok.gov

Oklahoma School Counselor of the Year Visits DC

Oklahoma School Counselor of the Year Beth Mills was recently honored at the National School Counselor of the Year Banquet in Washington, DC.

Thank you, Beth, for being an incredible representative of our state and for being a strong advocate for students and the school counseling profession! 

PREPaRE Crisis Response Training

OSDE continues to offer PREPaRE Crisis Response training to Oklahoma School Districts upon request. School districts will need to provide the funding for the curriculum to NASP. $45/person for Workshop 1 and $55/person for Workshop 2.

SDE provides certified PREPaRE trainers to facilitate the curriculum for free.

Download Workshop Descriptions

Questions? Contact Amanda Faircloth