Dr. Kirt Hartzler became Superintendent of Union Public Schools July 1, 2013, bringing to the position a rich institutional knowledge and a strong sense of pride for “The Union Way,” rooted in his extensive teaching and administrative experience in the district.
He started at Union in 1986 as a high school social science instructor. Through the years, he has coached, served as a high school assistant principal, Eighth Grade Center principal, and the director of Secondary Education. Dr. Hartzler was the assistant superintendent for Teaching and Learning from 2003 to 2010, and prior to becoming Superintendent, he was Union’s Deputy Superintendent.
Dr. Hartzler is a passionate champion for all students and is firmly committed to ensuring that Union provides a high-quality, safe, engaging, and supportive learning environment. He believes strongly in investing in early childhood education, community schools, early-college high school, virtual learning, and co-curricular activities that serve to foster greater relevance and school engagement. Central to this investment is building partnerships within our community in order to support and enhance the lives of our students, staff, and community. Our continued success is incumbent upon the belief that, “Together We Make a Difference.”
A self-professed lifelong learner, Dr. Hartzler holds a bachelor’s degree from Evangel University and a master’s degree from Northeastern State University. His doctorate in educational administration is from Oklahoma State University. He has served as an adjunct instructor for the College of Education at both Oklahoma State University and the University of Oklahoma – Tulsa. He serves as a member of Northeastern State University President’s Advisory Council and holds board seats with Community Action Project, Oklahoma Center for Community and Justice, Tulsa and State Board of Directors for Junior Achievement, and the and the United Suburban Schools Association. Dr. Hartzler was a member of Leadership Tulsa Class 36.
Dr. Hartzler and his wife, Susan, have three children. When not working or teaching, he enjoys spending time with his family, reading, playing golf, and cycling.
Past AASA Oklahoma Superintendent of the Year Winners:
2023 Oklahoma Superintendent of the Year: Kevin Hime
2022 Oklahoma Superintendent of the Year: Dr. April Grace
2021 Oklahoma Superintendent of the Year: Robert Romines
About the Award:
The Superintendent of the Year program, sponsored by First Student and AASA, pays tribute to the talent and vision of the men and women who lead the nation’s public schools.
State-level winners are selected on the following criteria:
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- Leadership for Learning
- Communication
- Professionalism
- Community Involvement