The downtown charter school is named in honor of John W. Rex, a longtime civic leader known for his advocacy for children. Rex was president of American Fidelity Assurance Co. He was a key player in such initiatives as Success by Six and Smart Start of Central Oklahoma. He was involved with the Foundation for Oklahoma City Public Schools and the Governor’s Task Force for Child Development, among many others. Rex died in 2006 at the age of 72.
About John Rex
John Rex Charter School is a free, public charter school that opened in August 2014. It utilizes the best elements of a public-private educational partnership to provide an exemplary learning environment for students. It offers a one-of-a-kind, quality education to an economically and racially diverse group of students. This unique charter school places students in the heart of the city for daily exposure to the culturally rich amenities that are only available in downtown Oklahoma City.
What is the school’s mission?
Provide a unique educational experience in downtown OKC that prepares all students for success in high school, college, career and life.
What is the school’s vision?
John Rex will be a top choice school known for innovative experiences that produces top-quality students who are equipped to pursue their life’s passions.
John Rex Motto
A Launchpad for Learning and Life!
What makes John Rex Charter School unique?
Expanded opportunities abound within walking distance of the school. Downtown neighbors include performing and visual arts organizations, civic and business groups, plus numerous cultural and sports-related resources. Access to these amenities provides a unique, hands-on experience for students.
The elementary school was constructed with funds available from the MAPS for Kids program, other TIF funds, and private donations. The new JRECS school cost approximately $12 million.
Public funding for the operations and programs of the school is the same as other public charter schools in the district. The school may participate in the district’s bond program for capital improvements as circumstances warrant. Additionally, Oklahoma City Quality Schools will help supplement public funds with private donations of at least $3 million over the first five years of the school’s existence.
A $1 million grant from the Inasmuch Foundation helped fund the addition of a new middle school, which opened in the summer of 2018 at Myriad Botanical Gardens. Inasmuch Foundation also committed a capital improvement grant up to $700,000 for enhancements to the garden’s educational spaces.
As the diverse student body expanded, so did the need for additional classrooms and instructional space. Through a federal grant, continued support from the Inasmuch Foundation, the family of Mr. John Rex and other generous donors the John Rex Middle School moved from the Myriad Gardens to the historic McAlpine building in August 2020 and now serves 5th-8th grade.
Who is John W. Rex?
What does ROCKETS represent?
