Oklahoma School of Science and Mathematics

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The Oklahoma School of Science and Mathematics (OSSM) was created through legislative action in 1983 and graduated its first 44 seniors from across the state in 1992. It is designed as a two-year residential, public high school for academically gifted students in mathematics and science. Our students are immersed in a culture of excellence and innovation and catalyze advancing public school STEM education in Oklahoma.

To educate students who show promise of exceptional academic development through a program of instruction and discovery that challenges them beyond the traditional high school model, imparting a superior foundation for careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields.

Admission is a competitive process initiated by written application. Semifinalists are interviewed by a committee comprised of community leaders and faculty before final selection is determined. Because all academic courses are advanced and accelerated honors-level courses, OSSM does not calculate grade point averages or class ranking.

OSSM offers opportunities for students to pursue academic interests to the highest levels. These courses regularly include topics in Theoretical Physics, Advanced Genetics, Chemistry, Literature, History, and Modern Politics. Directed studies are not counted towards graduation requirements and are not graded.

OSSM students must complete a minimum of sixteen (16) units: one unit of biology, one unit of chemistry, one and one-half units of physics, one unit of science electives, two units of mathematics (inclusive of calculus), two units of English, two units of history two units of the same foreign language one- a half unit of computer science one unit of fine arts two units of physical education.

More than 60% of OSSM students participate in independent research, receiving hands-on experience in their field of interest outside of the classroom. Mentorships have been a part of the academic program at the Oklahoma School of Science and Mathematics since the first graduating class.

The proximity of OSSM to the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center and the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, and other organizations in Oklahoma City allows students to have the opportunity to work alongside nationally acclaimed researchers, physicians, engineers, and business people.

The mission of the Oklahoma School of Science and Mathematics is:

• To educate students who show promise of exceptional academic development through a program of instruction and discovery that challenges them far beyond the traditional high school model, imparting a superior foundation for careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields.
• To catalyze advancing public school STEM education in Oklahoma by providing residential, regional, summer, and virtual learning programs that extend advanced science and math education to a diverse student demographic.
• To inspire students to make a difference in the State of Oklahoma and the world by leveraging their knowledge and curiosity to better humanity. To be Oklahoma’s premier residential STEM school creating a world of possibilities and life-changing opportunities.
• We cultivate caring and are, by nature, invested in the personal success and well-being of others.
• We listen deeply and with open minds to fully appreciate other perspectives.
• We embody integrity and innovation, blending mastery with forwarding thinking.
• We practice intellectual humility and continuously engage in learning.
• We bridge the worlds of seen and unseen, of knowledge and action, past and future.
• We foster physical, spiritual, and emotional health in ourselves and others.
• We bring generosity of spirit to our work and take joy in what we do together.
• We are united in purpose, earning one another’s trust and respectful of our differences.

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