October 23, 2026
Since Altus-Denning School District merged with Ozark School District in 2004, Ozark Middle School (OMS) has been a vital part of educating 6th and 7th grade Hillbillies on their way to high school graduation. Much like the early 2000s when this merger happened, times have changed, and Ozark School District (OSD), once again, needs to adapt to meet the needs of current and future Hillbillies.
With deep acknowledgement of the rich history of the Altus-Denning School District and OMS—including the students and staff that have walked the halls and grounds at this beautiful, historic campus—we announce the relocation of OSD middle school students beginning next school year, 2027-2028.
With much consideration for decreasing enrollment and increasing expenditures, the Ozark Board of Directors met on October 20, 2026, for the monthly school board meeting and approved a proposal to relocate from the OMS campus. Maintaining a high-quality education for Hillbillies is at the center of the relocation. This will result in improved security, increased instructional time, and reduced expenses so that we can continue robust educational services to Hillbillies for years to come.
Practically, what this means for students is:
4th graders will relocate to the Ozark Primary School
6th graders will relocate to Ozark Upper Elementary School
7th graders will relocate to Ozark Junior High School
9th graders will relocate to Ozark High School
No relocation will happen for grades not mentioned
Concerning the OMS campus as we transition, we recognize the memories and traditions at the campus and will partner with the community to honor the campus and memories held within its halls and walkways.
Some facilities at the OMS campus will remain in use. The storm shelter will remain available to local residents during tornado warnings—with extended service during school hours since children will not be present. The partnership with Ozark Area Youth Organization will still allow for youth basketball to be held in the OMS gym for next year. Portions of the campus may be used for staff training locations and other purposes.
The district will plan parent meetings in the spring to share more about transition plans as the school year and our daily presence at the OMS campus wraps up.
At the heart of this transition is a strong desire to continue to provide educational opportunities that promote lifelong learning and prepare students for the ever-changing, diverse world in which we live, and to continue to build a place where Hillbilly Pride Runs Deep. Go Hillbillies!
Zane Vanderpool
Superintendent
Ozark School District