Education

Altus has a high school (9th-12th), a junior high (7th-8th), and an intermediate school (5th-6th).

Elementary schools are broken up into grade-level centers: Early childhood Center (pre-k & k), Primary (1st-2nd), Elementary (3rd-4th) and Rivers Elementary (pre-k-4th), which is the only school on the installation.

All schools are on the nine-week schedule.

For more information 580-481-6761.

Following completion of a $12.7 million new construction and renovation project, Altus High School students began 2012-2013 school year in a state-of-the-art, modern building that sits on a 33 acre college-like campus and offers a varied curriculum designed to fit the educational needs of all students. Twenty-four credits are required for high school graduation. Students must successfully complete four units of English and three each of mathematics, science and social studies.

Applied core courses prepare students for technical fields while advanced placement core classes enable students to gain college credit. Electives include courses in foreign language, aviation, robotics, television production and broadcasting, journalism, photography, vocal and instrumental music, agricultural and family consumer science vocations classes, leadership, archery, and athletics.

In addition to the high school (9th-12th), Altus Schools includes a junior high (7th-8th), an intermediate school (5th-6th) and four elementary schools (Pre K- K, 1st & 2nd, 3rd & 4th), one of which is located on the installation. All schools are on the nine week schedule.

Title I, special education, migrant education, enriched studies, art instruction for the visually talented, English as a second language, Altus Public Virtual School, and Bulldog Academy (an alternative school) help meet needs that are not met in the regular classroom setting.

Altus Public Schools partners with Southwest Technology Center and Western Oklahoma State College to offer concurrent tuition-free classes to high school juniors and seniors.

The average Altus teacher has been in the classroom for over 14 years and has earned at least 20 hours of graduate-level training. Over 28 percent of the Altus teachers hold advanced degrees. The teacher-student ratio in grades K-12 grade is 1 to 13.5. Altus boasts one of the finest public school systems in the state.

With the help of two DODEA grants, all students in grades pre-k through 6th spend time regularly in STEAM education classes taught by highly qualified teachers. Altus Intermediate School (5th-6th grade) hosts after-school STEAM clubs. Full implementation of STEAM programs in grades 7th-12th will be complete by 2026.

The focal point for all military off-duty educational opportunities at Altus AFB is the Billman Education Center. The center provides a controlled, monitored testing site for military members during career development upgrade training (CDCs) and staff are expert sources of information regarding most standardized educational tests and interest inventories (e.g.,for CLEP, DANTES, SAT/ACT, Excelsior). Education Technicians are available to assist you with individual educational planning and stand ready to help you explore and discover your next opportunity for personal or professional development.

Advisement on “Associate, bachelor and masters programs are available through the Education and Training Center. Locally Western Oklahoma State College offers a variety of 2 year associated degrees. Contact a representative from the college for more information about the programs that they offer. A representative from the college is available at the Education and Training Center Tue – Thur 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Information on financial assistance is available upon request. Altus boasts one of the finest public school systems in the state.

Southwest Tech is a premier institution dedicated to providing top-notch education in Southwest Oklahoma to adults and high school students in the districts of Altus, Bliar, Duke, Granite, Hollis, Mangum, Navajo, and Olustee/Eldorado. Located at 711 West Tamarack Rd in Altus, Oklahoma, Southwest Tech serves a diverse community by offering a range of full-time programs designed to equip students with practical skills and knowledge for high-demand careers. Our comprehensive programs include Automotive, Aviation Maintenance, Biomedical Science, Business and Computer Technology, Construction Trades, Cosmetology, Entrepreneurship, Graphic Design, Health Science Technology, Metal Fabrication, Practical Nursing, and Teacher Preparation. In addition to these robust full-time courses, Southwest Tech offers a multitude of short-term courses such as CNA, CMA, Phlebotomy, CLEET, Basic Welding, and various business classes to meet the immediate workforce needs of our community.

At Southwest Tech, our primary focus is on workforce certifications and economic development, striving to build a world-class workforce right here in Southwest Oklahoma. Our Business Development department is dedicated to helping individuals launch and expand their business ventures, offering critical resources and support. We provide numerous safety training courses to ensure that local companies remain compliant with industry regulations. Additionally, our bid assistance center, featuring an APEX Coordinator, is geared to help local businesses and contractors stay informed about state, local, and federal contracts. Through these efforts, Southwest Tech not only prepares students for successful careers but also contributes significantly to the economic vitality of our region. For more information, you can reach us at 580-477-2250.

“The focal point for all grade, junior high, and high school information is the School Liaison Officer School Liaison Program Manager for Altus AFB. Information on entrance requirements, grading, pupil teacher ratio, before and after school programs, private and alternative options is available through the liaison officer Program Manager. The School Liaison Program Manager is located in bldg. 52 on the ground floor and can be reached at 580-481-5439. 

SLPM also runs a Facebook page at www.Facebook.com/AltusSLO