The annual Pioneer Technology Center Foundation Dinner is set for April 10th, and this year’s event promises plenty of laughs as Bret Smith takes the stage to roast his longtime friend and former boss, Shelley Arrott.
Smith, a dedicated education staff member with 37 years of experience, spent 34 of those years serving Ponca City Public Schools (PCPS) before retiring in 2021. A 1978 graduate of Pawhuska High School, he earned his undergraduate degree from Western Illinois University in 1984 and later a master’s degree from the University of Texas at Arlington in 2013.
During his time at PCPS, Smith played a key role in district operations, serving as the Executive Director of Operations, Operations Director for Maintenance & Risk Management, and Maintenance Foreman. He also worked as a driver’s education teacher and a baseball and basketball coach in Colchester, Illinois.
After retirement, Smith stayed busy working in architectural planning with Winterrowd Talley Architects and is currently with Tarkett Sports-FieldTurf. He and his wife, Kay, enjoy life in Ponca City, spending time with their children—Ronnie, Greg, Rachel, and Jeremy.
When asked about roasting Arrott, Smith jokingly responded, “Shelley always told me she ran a tight ship, but let’s be honest—she was the captain of a cruise ship, and I was the guy running around fixing the leaks!”
The Pioneer Tech Foundation Dinner is an annual fundraiser supporting student scholarships and programs. This year’s event will be held at Pioneer Tech on April 10th. Doors open at 5:30 pm with dinner at 6:15 pm and the roast beginning at 7:00 pm. Tickets are limited, so secure your spot for an evening of unforgettable stories and plenty of good-natured fun.
The Pioneer Tech Foundation provides financial support to students through scholarships, grants, and program funding, helping them achieve their educational and career goals. The Foundation Dinner is a fun-filled evening that supports scholarships and program enhancements for students. To purchase tickets or learn more about Pioneer Tech and its programs, CLICK HERE or call 580-762-8336.