The transformation hasn’t been limited to numbers. The Bishop Kelley Robotics team now makes monthly visits, leading hands-on STEM activities, like the rocket workshop in the photo to the left. Student-athletes and fine arts participants bring enrichment programs to life, while faculty and staff from Bishop Kelley volunteer their time and talents, strengthening bonds across the community.
Building Bridges Through Learning: How the North Tulsa Learning Center Is Transforming Lives
July 8, 2025
By Ms. Christine Tyler, Social Studies Faculty, NTLC Volunteer Adviser
In the heart of North Tulsa, where vibrant community spirit meets a passion for equity, a quiet revolution in education is underway. The North Tulsa Learning Center (NTLC) is not just a place for academic tutoring—it’s a thriving hub of mentorship, empowerment, and opportunity.
Founded in the 2021–2022 school year, NTLC was born from a vision shared by the sister parishes of St. Monica and St. Augustine, along with members of the Bishop Kelley High School community. These leaders came together in the spring of 2021 to confront educational disparities and respond directly to the needs of the Tulsa community. What started as a grassroots initiative has blossomed into a dynamic, student-powered program that bridges more than just achievement gaps—it bridges communities.
At its core, NTLC offers free, student-led tutoring in reading and math for K–8 students, serving as a lifeline for young learners in underrepresented neighborhoods. But it’s more than tutoring; it’s a movement toward academic growth and socio-demographic equity.
Humble Beginnings, Transformational Growth
NTLC’s first year was modest: just four students and a small group of Bishop Kelley volunteers. But its impact was immediate—and so was its potential. Fast forward to the 2023–2024 school year, and NTLC had expanded exponentially. Nearly 100 Bishop Kelley students contributed over 550 hours of service, supporting an average of 15 elementary and middle school students per session.
A Space Reimagined
Housed in the St. Augustine Parish Hall, NTLC has also undergone a physical transformation, thanks to generous supporters. The once-simple learning space now includes a library of over 600 books, instructional materials, and educational games—all aimed at sparking curiosity and deepening engagement.
In 2024, a grant enabled the purchase of student-focused furniture, enhanced classroom security, and improved resource storage—creating an environment where students can truly thrive. Ergonomic chairs, collaborative seating, bean bags, and vibrant rugs have turned the center into a space that feels as welcoming as it is functional.
“When we began the 2024–2025 tutoring year in September, we celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony,” said an NTLC representative. “Each classroom ribbon was cut with joy and anticipation. From day one, our volunteers noticed the difference—the kids were more focused, more engaged, more excited to learn.”
More Than a Program—A Partnership
What truly sets NTLC apart is the relationships it fosters. The center has become a bridge between the North Tulsa and Bishop Kelley communities, creating space for authentic mentorship and meaningful connections. High school students grow as leaders and role models, while younger learners gain confidence, skills, and a sense of belonging.
The gratitude is profound. “Your investment in our center goes beyond furniture—it directly enhances the educational experience of every student who walks through our doors,” the NTLC team shared in a message to a private donor. “We would love for you to visit and see firsthand the difference your contribution has made.”
A Vision for the Future
NTLC’s success is rooted in ongoing collaboration. Bi-annual meetings with school and parish leaders ensure the program continues to evolve, always guided by the needs of the community it serves. What began as a shared dream has grown into a powerful force for change—one that continues to write a story of resilience, unity, and hope.
In a world where educational inequality remains a daunting challenge, the North Tulsa Learning Center offers a model of what’s possible when compassion meets commitment. And in the laughter, focus, and discovery echoing through its halls, the future of Tulsa shines just a little brighter.
Ryan Klerekoper is in his fourth year as a teacher at Bishop Kelley. In his short tenure at the school, Ryan has quickly distinguished himself as an adept, informed, reflective and engaging teacher of English. Ryan has taught freshmen through seniors at Bishop Kelley, though his mainstay is freshman English. When Ryan arrived at Bishop Kelley, he moved into the English Department seamlessly; he has become an integral part of the department. His students meet his high expectations, and judging from the flock of students who gather around him between classes, he is beloved of current and former students alike. One peer teacher describes him as, “One of Bishop Kelley's best teachers. He creates engaging lessons for his students who thrive in his classroom and who enjoy his teaching immensely as well; Ryan prioritizes keeping rigor high while also keeping learning fun.” Ryan displays a genuine concern for the intellectual, emotional, and spiritual development of his students. He holds his students to high standards but supports them in their efforts and struggles. He makes strong personal connections with each of his students. If you walk by his room before and after school, you find a room filled with animated students seeking his advice and affirmation. To help foster his own as well as his students’ spiritual growth, Ryan joined a faculty PLC to explore ways to integrate faith into his curriculum; he is genuinely focused on helping to develop the whole child. A fellow teacher describes him, “Ryan inspires his fellow English teachers to maintain the highest academic standards. He maintains humility by sharing and critiquing ideas as a team, incorporating new works of literature, and offering usable feedback with encouragement. It is a blessing to work with him; he is an outstanding teacher. “ Ryan holds both a bachelor's and master's degree in English from Northeastern State University. At Northeastern he won the Academic Achievement Award as the Most Outstanding Student in 2019. Prior to Bishop Kelley, Ryan taught both middle and high school English in the Union school district after a ten-year career with Mazzio's Pizza. The admiration and respect he inspires in both students and colleagues stand as a testament to the transformative impact he has on the lives of Bishop Kelley students. The 2025 Saint Francis of Assisi Teacher of the Year from Bishop Kelley is Ryan Klerekoper. Bishop Konderla will celebrate the SFOA Annual Mass and Teacher Awards: 👉 Friday, October 3, 2025 ⛪ 6 pm at Holy Family Cathedral
With over 350 in attendance on April 26, 2025 at Jarboe Hall, the BK community raised just over $312,500 (net) towards purchasing school bus transportation.
