By Derrick Smith

A student’s involvement in extracurricular activities can help their development as a person and as a student. Jennifer Dye says that she is glad that her children are part of  later in life. 

“Activities give kids a sense of belonging to something bigger than themselves,” she said. “Kids can learn so many life-long lessons through their activities. Work ethic, responsibility, and teamwork are just a few important traits that can be learned and will be beneficial throughout their lives.”

Jennifer and her husband, Brian, have two kids that attend Ponca City High School. Grant is a senior at PCHS and he is a member of the basketball team. Their daughter, Emma, is an eighth grader at East Middle School. She is in the orchestra and plays the piano. 

No matter the time, date, or location of one of their children’s activities, Jennifer and Brian are always there, supporting their kids.

“We are always in attendance,” she said. “Grant has played travel basketball since he was in the third grade. He also played baseball. The same is true for our daughter’s interest in music. We attend concerts, recitals, and contests. It is a joy to watch them do what they love.”

Being involved in various activities is probably an interest that Jennifer passed down to her kids. As an alumnus of Stroud Public Schools, Dye was heavily involved when she was in high school. She played slowpitch softball, fastpitch softball, and basketball for the Tigers.

Jennifer is the Executive Director of Human Resources at Ponca City Public Schools. This is her twenty-third year to hold that job. Dye says that she and her family are blessed to be a part of the Ponca City community.

“I love many things about our school system and community,” she stated. “One thing that stands out are the many outstanding teachers that have helped mold my kids into the people they are today. We are very blessed to live in a community that supports our school system and makes decisions that are best for our children.”

Jennifer helps out in the athletic department whenever she can. She is a member of the tip-off basketball booster club. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, watching sports, playing games, and reading.