MID-AMERICA TECHNOLOGY CENTER / From the desk of Mike Eubank
MATC Student Store
Mid-America Technology Center is proud to announce the creation of a new Student Store, made possible through a generous $84,000 donation from CVR Energy. This initiative reflects the power of community partnership and MATC’s commitment to student success. The Student Store will serve as a one-stop resource, offering free or low-cost meals, school supplies, clothing, and MATC-branded merchandise. Its goal is to remove barriers such as food insecurity and lack of materials, allowing students to focus on their training and career goals.
A key feature is the meal and snack program, providing nutritious food at no or minimal cost to ensure students stay energized and ready to learn. The store will also include a supplies corner with notebooks, safety gear, and program-specific tools available affordably or through assistance programs. The clothes closet will provide free professional and casual attire for students in need, along with MATC-branded apparel for purchase, promoting confidence and school pride.
More than just a store, this space will be a hub of connection and care, where students feel supported and valued. Through CVR Energy’s partnership, MATC continues its mission to help students discover their competitive advantage.
Business Partner Spotlight – Purcell Municipal Hospital The partnership between Mid-America Technology Center and Purcell Municipal Hospital is rooted in a shared commitment to high-quality healthcare and workforce development. The hospital has been instrumental in providing clinical rotation opportunities for students enrolled in Mid-America’s full-time and short-term adult health programs.
Through this partnership, students gain invaluable hands-on experience that extends beyond the classroom, while the hospital benefits from early exposure to future healthcare professionals. Over the past five years, more than 200 Mid-America Technology Center students have completed clinical rotations at Purcell Municipal Hospital, preparing them for successful careers in the medical field.
As demonstrated by their continued support of Leadership Mid-America, Purcell Municipal Hospital is also committed to the development of its professional staff and exposing them to opportunities to support their local communities.
Teacher Spotlight — David Graham
For the past 18 years, David Graham has been the driving force behind the Criminal Justice Program at Mid-America Technology Center, shaping future public servants with integrity, discipline, and a sense of purpose. A U.S. Army Infantry Veteran, Mr. Graham brought his leadership and field experience from the McClain County Sheriff’s Office where he served as SWAT Team Commander and now holds the rank of Captain over reserve deputies into the classroom, building a program that continues to set the standard across the state.
Mr. Graham’s leadership and instruction have been honored with multiple awards for excellence in teaching and community service. He has been awarded Oklahoma ACTE’s T&I New Professional Award and the T&I Division Carl Perkins Community Service Award. He has been recognized as MATC’s Teacher of the Year for three consecutive years. His influence also extends beyond instruction of students, as he mentors fellow educators and presents at both local, state and national conferences.
As a longtime SkillsUSA advisor, Mr. Graham has guided students to consistent success with numerous first-place finishes at the state level. His students gain real-world experience through community patrols, evidence searches, and security support at local and state events. They also participate in Operation Christmas, partnering with the McClain County Sheriff’s Office to provide gifts for children in need, and attend the Cadet Lawman Academy to further develop their leadership and field skills.
Mr. Graham’s unwavering commitment to education and community service has left a lasting mark on MATC and the students who attend his program. His work continues to inspire the next generation of law enforcement professionals and reflects the heart of MATC’s mission: to provide students with a competitive advantage and prepare them for meaningful, impactful careers.
Program Spotlight – Horticulture
The Horticulture Technician program provides hands-on training in greenhouse management, landscape design, and floral production. Students learn plant propagation, pest management, and the science behind sustainable growing practices in our 90-foot greenhouse and modern floral design lab.
From cultivating vibrant plants for our seasonal sales to creating professional floral arrangements, students gain real-world experience that prepares them for careers in nursery management, landscaping, greenhouse operations, or floral design.
Over the course of this two-year program, students develop essential plant identification skills and deepen their understanding of plant anatomy, growth, and environmental needs. They learn to recognize and care for a wide variety of landscape, greenhouse, and floral species, building a strong foundation in both science and artistry.
Board Update
During our recent board meeting, I.T. Director Kenneth Stull presented his annual Cyber Security Report where he shared data on attempted attacks and security protocols. He also shared best practices to protect personal information from cyber threats. Equine Production teacher Heather Robinson gave a report about our annual yearling sale which took place November 21-23.
The board approved an increase in tuition to $2.50 an hour for the FY2027. The district Emergency Response Plan was approved with changes added to consider the new safe room. Board member Doyle Greteman from Lindsay was recognized for his Organization of Rural Oklahoma Schools – Pioneer Award for 2025.
