Superintendent, Moore Public Schools, Moore, Oklahoma, M.Ed. in Special Education, University of Central Oklahoma
Nominee: Douglas Reeves
Mrs. Arato has been employed with the Moore School District since 1978. Prior to being named as Superintendent in July of 2004, she served seven years as Assistant Superintendent (Curriculum/Instruction). In that capacity, her duties included supervision of curriculum for K-12 education, instructional technology, media services, child nutrition, Title Programs I-V, professional development, and student services. Ms. Arato has 31 years of experience in the profession and has served as a teacher, coordinator, building principal, and assistant to the Deputy Superintendent.
Mrs. Arato is currently a board member for the Oklahoma Technology Association. She has twice been recognized as the Moore PTA Administrator of the Year and is the recipient of a lifetime membership award for service. She has also been recognized as the CCOSA (Cooperative Council of Oklahoma School Administrators) Area 7D (metro area) Administrator of the Year, two times as one of the top ten State Reading Principals, Central Oklahoma Reading Council Principal of the Year, and a Highland East Teacher of the Year.
Mrs. Arato graduated from Oklahoma City University in 1971 with a Bachelor of Science degree in music. She earned her Master of Education in Special Education from the University of Central Oklahoma in 1982. She later received her principal and superintendent certificate from the University of Oklahoma after completing extensive post masters work.
Mrs. Arato believes that a learning organization must exemplify continuous growth and improvement. Her favorite quote is, “If you were wondering if your mission here on earth is finished – if you are alive, it isn’t.”
