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Two new leadership team members join the Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services

Thursday, January 09, 2025

“I am happy to announce Brent Pearce as the new Superintendent of the Oklahoma School for the Blind,” said DRS Executive Director Melinda Fruendt. “Brent brings more than two decades of experience in education and administration to this role, including his recent tenure as Interim Superintendent and High School Principal at OSB. His leadership journey has also included roles as assistant superintendent, junior high and high school principal and Athletic Director at Porum Public Schools.

“Throughout his career, Brent has ensured compliance with state regulations and created environments where students and staff thrive,” Fruendt continued. “His expertise in student discipline, teacher evaluation, and managing day-to-day operations has been instrumental in his success.”

Also joining the DRS Executive Team is Mark Beutler, leading the Office of Communications.

“Mark has over 35 years of progressive experience in public relations, television, journalism, print and radio,” Fruendt said. “Most recently he was the Director of Marketing and Public Relations for the Oklahoma City Philharmonic. He was a radio announcer and television reporter, covering events including the 1995 bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building.

“At 405 Magazine and the Oklahoma Gazette, among others, Mark showcased his talent for writing and storytelling,” Fruendt added. “He has a proven track record of success in social media, and I look forward to Mark sharing our many stories focusing on the work we do here at DRS. I feel confident he will lead our communications into the next journey of our future work.”

The DRS expands opportunities for employment, independent life and economic self-sufficiency by helping Oklahomans with disabilities bridge barriers to success in the workplace, school and at home.  Connect to a DRS office in your area by phoning 800-487-4042 or visit our website at www.okdrs.gov.

The Oklahoma School for the Blind is the statewide resource for the education of students who are blind and visually impaired. Residential and commuter students meet all state-approved education requirements and receive specialized instruction in Braille, orientation and mobility, optimum use of low vision, adaptive equipment technology and tactile graphic skills not readily available at other public schools in the state. OSB provides hundreds of free outreach services each year, including free evaluations and consultations, for students attending local public schools, their families and local school staff.

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For more information

Mark K. Beutler,
DRS Communications Director

Cell: 405-830-8756