After nearly five decades of shaping young minds and bright futures, Hollye Theobald is taking on a new role—headlining the annual Pioneer Technology Center Foundation Dinner on April 10 with a roast that promises to keep the audience in stitches.
Theobald, whose 49-year career with the Ponca City Schools is the longest of any current teacher in the district is trading her school counselor hat for a microphone as she honors her longtime friend and former boss, Ponca City Superintendent Shelley Arrott, in a night of laughter, legacy, and lighthearted jabs.
“After all these years, I finally get to say everything I’ve been holding back—well, almost everything,” Theobald joked. “Shelley has always been a good sport, so I figured it’s my turn to test just how tough she really is.”
A Bartlesville native, Theobald graduated from Sooner High School in 1972 before earning her degree from Oklahoma State University in 1976. Her passion for working with children led her to a 25-year career in special education, teaching students with multiple disabilities at the Opportunity Center and Union Elementary before transitioning into school counseling for another 24 years.
“Ponca City schools wouldn’t be the same without Hollye,” Arrott said. “She’s been here longer than some of our buildings! I’m honored—and slightly nervous—to be on the receiving end of her humor.”
Outside of education, Theobald enjoys life with her husband, Joe Theobald, their three children—Hallie, Whit, and Patton—and six grandchildren. When she’s not catching up with friends, she can be found soaking up the sun at Grand Lake, cruising Monkey Island in her beloved OSU golf cart.
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 10. 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.
For ticket information or sponsorship opportunities, CLICK HERE. The Pioneer Tech Foundation provides financial support to students through scholarships, grants, and program funding, helping them achieve their educational and career goals.