Congratulations to sophomores Hector Moreno-Enrique and Peter Etherington and junior Joshua Taylor for their participation in the OKC All City Orchestra! They performed under the baton of Dr. Clifton Evans from Oklahoma City University along with students from OKC area high schools. 🎻 🦅 🎶

Congratulations to our 2026 Aquila Yearbook staff for their historic win at the Oklahoma Scholastic Media conference and contest! 

• Estefania De Luera, 1st place, Student Life Story

• Evan Castellanos-Bui, 1st place, Academic Story

• Evan Castellanos-Bui, 2nd place, Academic Story

• Samuel Carr, Hon. Mention, Academic Story

• Natasha Nguyen, 1st place, Organization Story

• Sophia Doonkeen, Hon. Mention, Organization Story

• Evan Castellanos-Bui, 2nd place, Sports Story

• Evan Castellanos-Bui, 3rd place, Sports Story

• Natasha Nguyen, 1st place, Personality Profile Story

• Hector Pocol-Rangel, 3rd place, Personality Profile Story

• Aquila Staff, 1st place, Theme Development: Copy

• Natasha Nguyen, 1st place, Alternative Copy

• Amaya Hunt and Madeline Scott, 1st place, Academic Spread

• Sophia Doonkeen and Evan Castellanos-Bui, 3rd place, Academic Spread

• Lucia Markey and Kaydence Mclemore, 2nd place, Student Life Spread

• Sophia Doonkeen and Kaydence Mclemore, 3rd place, Organization Spread

• Aquila Staff, 1st place, Folios

• Aquila Staff, 1st place, Theme Development: Design

• Aquila Staff, 1st place, Index

• Aquila Staff, 1st place, Packaging/Structure

• Evan Castellanos-Bui, 2nd place, Sports Action Photo

• Daniel Galindo, 1st place, Academic Photo

• Hector Pocol-Rangel, 1st place, Student Life Photo

• Hector Pocol-Rangel, 3rd place, Organization Photo

• Hector Pocol-Rangel, 1st place, Photo Illustration

• Tristan Evans, 2nd place, Photo Illustration

• Score: Highest Honors  940/1000 possible points

• Ranking: All Oklahoma (top 4)

• Charles E. “Colonel” Savedge Sweepstakes Division III Winner

Fine arts opportunities begin early and inspire a lifetime of creativity. Recently, members of the HCPHS Band visited our 4th grade students to perform, share their musical talents, and answer questions about their experiences in band. 💚🤍

By connecting younger Eagles with student leaders, we're showcasing the many pathways available through the fine arts across our district and inspiring the next generation of performers, creators, and musicians. From elementary school to graduation, HCP students have opportunities to discover their passions, develop their talents, and shine. 🎺🎼🦅

#HCPEagles #CollegePrep #FineArtsAtHCP #FutureMusicians #EaglePride #StudentSuccess

Our students have been hard at work preparing scenery dioramas, Shakespeare modern‑language adaptations, homemade props, theatre history projects, and other imaginative pieces. Their creativity and dedication shine through every detail. 💚🤍

Harding Charter Preparatory High School's fine arts programs are recognized at both the state and national levels, and our intermediate drama students continue to uphold that tradition of excellence. Through hands‑on projects and performance‑based learning, they showcase the talent, discipline, and artistic expression that enrich the HCP experience as we remain committed to preparing all students for post‑secondary success. 🦅🎭

From nationally recognized fine arts to a college‑prep academic model, HCP offers students a well‑rounded experience that prepares them for what comes next. We invite you to join our community. Apply beginning November 11 at enrollokc.org.

On October 21st, students and staff wore orange to show their support for Unity Day and our commitment to standing against bullying. Throughout October, our Eagles are participated in activities that promote kindness, inclusion, respect, and belonging, including an Anti‑Bullying Door Decorating Contest, UPstander Superhero Contest, Unity Day celebration, and our Anti‑Bullying Pledge Campaign.

Together, we’re building a school where every student feels valued, supported, and empowered to choose kindness and be an UPstander. 🦅🧡

This month‑long event is just one element of our robust character education program, which supports students’ social‑emotional growth alongside the rigorous academic environment at HCP.

At HCP, students learn in an environment built on high expectations, strong relationships, and opportunities that help them grow academically and personally. We invite you to join our community. Apply beginning November 11 at enrollokc.org.

HCP has talent and they shined at Singeasy! 💚🤍

Some of our incredibly talented Eagles took the stage at the Annual Singeasy, a special night where community members and supporters come together to enjoy student performances while contributing to fundraising efforts for our Band, Orchestra, and Choir programs.

Our students showcased not only their musical gifts, but also the confidence, discipline, and creativity that reflect the high expectations at Harding Charter Preparatory High School. Opportunities like Singeasy showcase the strength of our fine arts programs and the incredible talent of our Eagles.

We’re proud of every Eagle who performed and grateful for a community that celebrates the enrichment the arts bring alongside our strong academic programs.

Please join us in celebrating our Speech & Debate team for their massive success at their first tournament of the season at Southern Nazarene University, an incredible accomplishment, especially for a team where every competitor was attending their very first tournament.

* Indicates a regional competition qualifier

Finalist:
Nathaly Torres‑Meza - Original Oratory

Medalists:
Audrey Barton - 3rd Place Original Oratory *
RJ Caraway - 2nd Place Original Oratory *
Diego Moreno - 1st Place Original Oratory *

Gus Davidson - 2nd Place Lincoln Douglas Debate *

Victor Bates & Diego Moreno - 2nd Place Public Forum Debate *

Additional Awards:
Victor Bates - 3rd Place Speaker Points, Public Forum Debate

Additional Events Competed:
Myles Wilson - Poetry
Victor Bates & Gus Davidson - Domestic Extemporaneous Speaking

With 15 members and growing, our Speech & Debate team is building a strong foundation of critical thinking, communication, and academic excellence. Their dedication, courage, and willingness to step into rigorous competition reflect the leadership and resilience we strive to cultivate in every Eagle.

We are incredibly proud of this team and excited to see how they continue to soar this season.

#HCPHS #SpeechAndDebate #EaglesSoar #AcademicExcellence #CollegePrep

Last week, our Latinx Student Association brought culture, creativity, and community to life by decorating the hallways and hosting a vibrant assembly in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month. Their work showcased the pride, traditions, and voices that enrich our school community and help every Eagle feel seen and celebrated.

At Harding Charter Preparatory High School, we are proud to offer a wide range of clubs and organizations that empower students to explore their interests, express their identities, and build leadership skills throughout the year. Whether through cultural groups, academic clubs, arts programs, or student‑led initiatives, our Eagles gain experiences that strengthen their confidence and prepare them for success at the post‑secondary level.

Here’s to our Latinx Student Association for leading with purpose and helping our community learn, connect, and grow. 💚🤍

#HCPHS #CollegePrep #HardingCharterPrep #LSA #HispanicHeritageMonth #Eagles

This month, we proudly recognize our Eagles who exemplified Cooperation, students who demonstrated teamwork, leadership, and a commitment to supporting their peers. These students reflect the HCP mission by showing responsibility, respect, and the collaborative skills that prepare them for post‑secondary success.

5th Grade: Chrislyn Robinson, Jasper Pool, James Pool, Noah Unson, Elle Dent
6th Grade: Jaxsen Tullis, Aaron Nunez, E'la Winfrey, Brittance West, Carter Moore
7th Grade: Yari Larkin, Adriyana Money, Lillie Shaw, Kairon Lamey, Chanel McKinney
8th Grade: Mari Wammack, Cormac Buxton, Aubrey Oates, Zerrin Turner, Ella Wiley

The celebration continued during our first House System assembly, where students put cooperation into action through friendly competition. From cheering on their house to working together in each challenge, our Eagles showed what it means to lead with character and community.

At HCPMS, cooperation isn’t just a value, it’s a foundation for learning, leadership, and lifelong success. We strive every day to instill the skills, habits, and character traits that will empower our students to thrive at a post‑secondary institution and beyond. 💚🤍

Today, our Eagles at Harding Charter Prep Elementary at Kelley, brought learning to life during the annual Rock Your School event, transforming the campus into a vibrant world of arcade and video‑game adventures. Students and staff dressed as their favorite characters while the PTO turned every corner of the building into an immersive experience, from Candy Land in Early Education to Tetris, Pac‑Man, and Minecraft in the main building, and a full Mario Kart obstacle course in the gym.

Events like Rock Your School strengthen our mission by creating joyful, engaging spaces where students feel inspired, supported, and ready to learn. Through creativity, collaboration, and a little friendly competition, our Eagles practiced the teamwork, confidence, and problem‑solving skills that build leaders prepared for post‑secondary success.

Game on, Eagles and keep leveling up! 💚🤍

#Eagles #HCPES #CollegePrep #GameOn #RockYourSchool #FutureScholars

This week, HCP Middle School teacher Cassidy Scarbrough, was invited to the Champions of the Classroom Gala, connecting with educators and community leaders who share a passion for supporting Oklahoma schools.

Cassidy’s conversations with Chet Holmgren and others centered on ensuring students have access to the resources they need to feel comfortable, supported, and ready to learn, a reflection of HCP’s mission to cultivate a rigorous, nurturing environment that prepares every student for post‑secondary success.

"I had the opportunity to attend the Champions of the Classroom Gala, where I met Chet Holmgren and had the chance to talk with him about the different ways he has supported and given back to Oklahoma schools. We talked about some of the needs I see in my own classroom and different ways we can help make sure students have access to the basic resources they need to feel comfortable, supported, and ready to learn," said Scarbrough.

Her participation highlights the heart of our district: educators who lead with compassion, collaboration, and commitment to empowering students both inside and beyond the classroom.

"The evening included dinner, conversations with educators and community members, raffles, and prizes. It was a really special opportunity to connect with others who are passionate about supporting students and schools across Oklahoma," said Scarbrough.

Harding Charter Preparatory School District is proud to spotlight two members of our Teacher Apprenticeship Program (TAP), a groundbreaking initiative that creates meaningful pathways for aspiring educators.

Through partnerships with Edwell, our program sponsor, and Western Governors University (WGU), our accredited university partner, TAP combines hands‐on classroom experience with self‐paced coursework and mentorship. This innovative approach allows participants to gain real‐world teaching experience while completing their degree, ensuring they’re ready to step into the classroom with confidence and purpose.

Meet our inaugural class members: Ayana Smith and Heaven Kelly, who are leading the way in this exciting journey.

As the inaugural class, these educators are paving the way for future cohorts and embodying HCP’s commitment to excellence, growth, and community impact. We’re proud to celebrate their journey and the bright future they represent for public education. 💚

Learn more about TAP on our LinkedIn page: linkedin.com/company/hcpokc/

We are proud to honor students selected by their teachers as our Rising Eagles. Each month HCP Middle School at Independence highlights a character trait that strengthens our school community, and for August the focus was on friendliness - showing kindness, including others, and helping everyone feel welcome.

These students consistently demonstrated what it means to uplift those around them, and their positive impact doesn’t go unnoticed.

5th Graders: Kylan Richardson, Henley Matson, Jamiah Cox, Logan Bates, Jermiah McFadden

6th Graders: Jaciel Hernandez, Marcia Gutierrez, Luis Rodarte, Anya Brown

7th Graders: Alice Conover, David Arnett, Majesty Brooks, Shaniya Frazier-Clemmins, Da'naja Brown, Edwin Hubbard

8th Graders: Bella McMindes, Heavenly Carter, Andrew Zandoval, Huailen Haunung

Congrats, Eagles!

School spirit fuels academic excellence. Whether it’s celebrating together at assemblies or attending sporting events, every moment of engagement strengthens the environment where rigorous learning can thrive. When our Eagles feel supported, they rise to every challenge. 💚🤍

Did you know? Attending or volunteering at any HCP school site counts toward your family engagement hours, even if your student attends a different campus. Every event, every visit, and every moment of support helps build a stronger community in our district.

Explore upcoming events and make progress toward your family engagement hours with TrackitForward: https://www.trackitforward.com/site/harding-charter-preparatory-school-district

Harding Charter Preparatory High School continues to shine! This week, HCP High School was recognized with two major accolades, named Best of 2026 Business Rate Momentum Award Winner and earning Gold Status on the 2025 Advanced Placement School Honor Roll by the Oklahoma State Department of Education. These honors reflect our commitment to rigorous academics, dedicated educators, and families who support excellence every day.

Harding Charter Preparatory High School Earns National Recognition for 2026–2027

Harding Charter Preparatory High School is proud to celebrate another year of national recognition for academic excellence. Our commitment to rigorous college‑preparatory education, dedicated teachers, and supportive families continues to position HCP High School as one of the top-performing schools in the nation.

These rankings highlight the strength of our academic program and the hard work of our students. HCP continues to maintain a 98% graduation rate, demonstrating our commitment to ensuring students are prepared for post‑secondary success. Additionally, 85% of HCP High School students took at least one AP exam, reflecting our strong participation in advanced coursework and our mission to prepare every student for college-level learning.

Harding Charter Preparatory School District remains dedicated to building a community where students thrive, families feel supported, and academic success is the standard.

To explore our full U.S. News & World Report profile and rankings, visit: https://www.usnews.com/education/best-high-schools/oklahoma/districts/harding/harding-charter-preparatory-high-school-155850

At Harding Charter Preparatory School District, our mission is clear—prepare every student to thrive in a post‑secondary education and beyond. Last Friday we proudly celebrated the Eagles who exemplify that mission through their hard work and academic excellence. Each student was awarded a certificate of achievement at the HCP High School Assembly.

AP Scholars:
Luis Manuel Alba, Tegan Ashley, James Featherstone, Diego Ibanez, Santiago Ibarra, Jesus Mares Najera, Harper Ruhl, and Jameson Samson

AP Scholars with Distinction:
Jude Prilliman and Eliana Hicks

Your dedication, resilience, and commitment to learning reflect the very best of HCP. Congratulations, Eagles—your future is bright.

Harding Charter Preparatory Parent(s)/Guardian(s),

The Free and Reduced-Price Meal Application for the 2026–2027 school year is now open—and we strongly encourage all families to apply. Only one application is required per household, and it can be conveniently submitted online here.

Students that qualify for FREE or REDUCED will be provided a free breakfast and lunch meal each day.

To ensure uninterrupted meal benefits, please complete the application before the first day of school. Without an approved application on file, students will be charged full price for meals until eligibility is confirmed.

Please note: a new application must be submitted each school year, even if you qualified last year.

In addition to access to healthy meals, qualifying for the Free and Reduced-Price Program provides several valuable benefits, including:

·       ACT/SAT exam fee waivers

·       College application fee waivers

·       Reduced fees for Advanced Placement (AP) exams

·       Discounted internet services from select providers

Even if you're unsure whether you qualify, we encourage you to apply. Eligibility guidelines change each year, and every application supports both your household and our broader school community.

We look forward to welcoming your students back soon and appreciate your continued partnership in ensuring every child has the resources they need to succeed.

Warm regards,

Steven Stefanick
Superintendent