Lawton - Ft. Sill is the fourth largest metropolitan area in Oklahoma with a total population nearing 100,000. The main industry is the military base followed by Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company. The median income, as noted in the 2000 census, is $28,736.
The community exhibits a positive, progressive attitude toward learning and views it as a life-long process. Validity of this statement is shown by:
1. The educational attainment of its adult citizenry
2. The presence of a strong career-tech system and Cameron University
3. The availability of non-school programs and facilities that enhance continued learning
4. The direct support of schools by businesses and organizational entities
CMS is a diverse community with nearly 60% minority. The largest minority is African American followed in order by Hispanic, Native American and Asian. It is also on the lower end of the socioeconomic scale. Approximately 70% of the students receive free and reduced lunches.
Slightly over 35% of CMS students are from military families. This factor leads to an annual turnover rate of 30-35%.
Approximately 18% of the enrollment meets the criteria for special needs programs, and they are provided services in a variety of venues.
Another 15% are identified as gifted and talented.
CMS provides services for students who reside in Ft. Sill family housing or in the community areas bordered on the north by Rogers Lane, the east by Highway 281, the south by Bishop Road and the west by a meandering line extending from 11th Street and 15th Street to Sheridan Road.
Bus services are provided for 60% of the total enrollment. This number has a definite impact on the potentiality of developing extensive extracurricular programs. Coaches and club sponsors not only plan activities, practice sessions and game strategies, but also give consideration to arranging ways home for students who families often do not have access to personal transportation. City support is given through the offering of reduced student rates for youngsters who choose to ride the LATS buses.
