From his early days at Sand Springs Home to a distinguished career in education, Bill White’s journey is a remarkable story of dedication and leadership. Bill’s contributions to education and community service have left a lasting impact across Oklahoma.
Bill White, a 1965 graduate of Charles Page High School, has a story deeply rooted in Sand Springs. Arriving in 1948 with his mother Gladys and three siblings, Bill’s early years were spent in the Sand Springs Home’s Widows Colony. He completed all his schooling in Sand Springs, starting as a student trainer in junior high, which eventually earned him a scholarship to Oklahoma State University.
After graduating from CPHS, Bill’s college education was briefly interrupted by active duty in the Army Reserves. Following his service, he and his wife Pat Griffin embarked on teaching careers. Bill began as a teacher at Surrey Hills Elementary in Yukon, where he quickly advanced to principal. During this time, he earned his Doctor of Education degree.
Bill’s career spanned several school districts, including Muskogee Public Schools, Miami Public Schools, Deer Creek Public Schools, and Ponca City Public Schools. In Ponca City, he was honored as the 2000 Superintendent of the Year for Oklahoma. His accolades also include induction into the Oklahoma Educators Hall of Fame and a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2010 from the Council of Chief State School Officers (CCOS).
Now retired, Bill is active with the Oklahoma Baptist Disaster Relief, enjoys traveling with his family, pursues wood turning as a hobby, and remains engaged with Quail Springs Baptist Church. He and Pat reside in Edmond, OK, where they cherish time with their daughters, Kristen and Kerri.