Returning to Learning
Message from the Superintendent
Having been at Harding Fine Arts Academy for more than a decade, I am constantly reminded of the resiliency and energy of our students. Every facet of this school year has been challenging and unfair, to say the least, but despite the hardships and struggles throughout this pandemic, our students have worked hard, stayed positive, and continued to create. This same determination applies to our teachers who have consistently strived to go above and beyond for every single student to ensure they have the best possible education experience.
 
Last Tuesday, students returned to campus! These halls have been so quiet since our students when to an all-virtual learning format in November, but last week the energy and enthusiasm within the building was palpable. And to top it off, after a bitterly cold winter storm the sun was shining, spring was in the air, and most of our students took advantage of a chance to enjoy their lunch outside in the sun.
 
Spring is a time of rebirth and renewal; with it comes new opportunities and new beginnings. As we hopefully round the corner on what has been a trying experience, I am more optimistic than ever for the future of Harding. We have many projects underway with the help of the Foundation, and I cannot wait to share them all with you. I am incredibly thankful and honored to be a part of a mission and vision for the future of education in the heart of OKC.
 
Sincerely,
Barry Schmelzenbach
Superintendent
Accepting Applications
Do you know someone who would be interested in attending an award-winning arts-integrated public school?
 
Forward them this email and invite them to apply! Harding Fine Arts Academy has a non-selective admissions policy – you don’t even have to audition in order to attend.
Applications are due March 5 by 4 pm.
Project Gateway
Every year, seniors participate in many celebratory activities. These activities as well as graduation items are paid for in the form of Senior Dues. Thanks to a generous $10,000 gift from an Anonymous Family Foundation, graduating seniors will have most their dues covered!

These graduates will be provided graduation regalia (cap, gown, tassel, and stoles), diploma with diploma cover, and professional commemorative photographs in order to celebrate this momentous occasion.
 
Auditorium Renovations Underway
The Foundation Board has worked diligently to raise money in order to renovate the auditorium by installing new lights, a state-of-the-art sound system, and A/V technology. After raising more than $52,000 for the project, renovations are almost complete with the final A/V technology being installed this month. 
Going to Extra Mile
Mr. Rhodes, Social Studies and Government teacher, is an avid runner and often encourages his students to get outside and stay active. Starting Friday, March 5th at 4:00 p.m. he will do the virtual 4x4x48 Challenge created by David Goggins, a former Navy SEAL and ultramarathon runner.

Mr. Rhodes will run 4 miles every 4 hours for 48 hours as a personal fundraiser for Harding Fine Arts Academy Foundation.

Mr. Rhodes hopes you will support him during this challenge by making a donation to the Foundation.

Howard Burnett '65
After living in Columbus, Ohio Howard has moved to Houston, Texas and continued working for Morgan Stanley.
Harding graduates have joined the pickleball craze at the new Chicken N Pickle Restaurant in Oklahoma City.

From left to right are Kenyon Morgan'64, Linda Whitlow Dunn '64, Jan Reeves Hill '64, and Porter Morgan '63.

The Foundation is accepting Alumni memorabilia to go in our updated Alumni Library. Please contact Shannon Mckenrick at (405) 702-6939 or smckenrick@hfaafoundation.org to make drop-off arrangements.