Central Technology Center proudly announces the recognition of four outstanding individuals at this year’s annual Oklahoma Association of Career and Technology Education (OkACTE) Summit held in Tulsa, OK. The awards highlight their exceptional contributions to career and technical education (CTE) and their unwavering commitment to student success and community service.
Kent Burris, Superintendent
Bob Funk Advocate of Excellence Award
Kent Burris, Superintendent and CFO of Central Technology Center, has been honored with the Bob Funk Advocate of Excellence Award. This award celebrates those who advocate for, promote, and support educators, administrators, and staff within the career and technology education system. Burris was selected this year because of his steadfast dedication to Central Tech and the entire Oklahoma CareerTech system that began with an internship in 1990. His leadership has been instrumental in the growth and success of Central Tech and its programs.
Monica Frick, Cosmetology Instructor
Teacher of the Year for Trade and Industrial Education Division
Monica Frick has been named Teacher of the Year for the Trade and Industrial Education Division. This prestigious award honors middle and secondary school level CTE teachers who have demonstrated innovation in the classroom, a strong commitment to their students, and a dedication to the improvement of CTE in their institutions and communities. Frick’s dynamic teaching methods and passion for her students’ success have made her a standout educator in the field.
Tammy Silkwood, Retired Medical Assisting Instructor
Carl Perkins Community Service Award – Health Careers Education Division
Tammy Silkwood has been awarded the Carl Perkins Community Service Award in the Health Careers Education Division. This accolade recognizes individuals who have used CTE to significantly impact their communities and shown leadership in programs promoting student involvement in community service. Throughout her career, Silkwood has demonstrated a deep commitment to serving her community and fostering a spirit of volunteerism and compassion in her students.
Athena Frank, Retired Business Information Technology Instructor
Lifetime Achievement Award – Business, Marketing, & Information Technology Education Division
Athena Frank has received the Lifetime Achievement Award for the Business, Marketing, & Information Technology Education Division. This award acknowledges CTE professionals for their long-term leadership, innovations, and contributions to the field. Frank’s extensive career in education has been marked by her dedication to advancing CTE and her impactful contributions to the development and success of countless students.
Central Tech Receives Gold Star Award for the 34th Year
In addition to individual recognition, Central Technology Center has once again been honored with the Gold Star Award, marking the 34th consecutive year of this achievement. This award celebrates the school’s ongoing excellence in providing high-quality career and technology education and its commitment to student success and community development.
Central Technology Center congratulates Kent Burris, Monica Frick, Tammy Silkwood, Athena Frank, and the entire staff on their well-deserved awards and thanks them for their continued dedication to excellence in career and technical education.
For more information about Central Technology Center and its programs, please visit Central Tech’s website.
