Putnam City Schools was named “Business of the Year” at the Northwest Chamber Awards Banquet on Jan. 21 at the Oklahoma History Center.

The Northwest Chamber annually presents a business of the year award to a company of more than 25 employees with an established history in the area that has achieved substantial business goals and made significant contributions to community-oriented projects through voluntary efforts.

In the awards presentation, Jane Haskin, outgoing chair of the Northwest Chamber’s executive committee, noted that Putnam City is consistently recognized as a leader and innovator in education and ranks well above state – and often national – averages in academics, volunteer hours per student, parent involvement and other important categories. By educating tens of thousands of students since the district began in 1914 and being a leading employer in the northwest area of the metro area, the district “makes a huge difference in shaping the future of our world,” Haskin said.

Paul Hurst, superintendent of Putnam City Schools, says the district is pleased with the recognition.

“We’re thrilled to receive this honor from our community and business leaders. This is an honor for all our families who value education and support their schools, and it’s an honor for all our caring, dedicated and skilled educators and support staff who work hard every day,” Hurst says.