John Rex Polytechnic High School to open in downtown OKC in 2027

John Rex Charter Schools is expanding its downtown Oklahoma City presence with plans to open John Rex Polytechnic High School in fall 2027, creating a complete Pre-K–12 educational pipeline for students. 

The new high school will be located at 615 N. Hudson Ave. in an approximately 30,000-square-foot building that will be renovated to support collaborative, interdisciplinary and hands-on learning. 

The school will welcome its first ninth-grade class for the 2027–28 academic year, adding one grade each year until it serves students through 12th grade. 

“From the beginning, John Rex was built around the idea that an exceptional education can be deeply connected to the community around it,” said Patrick Duffy, superintendent of John Rex Charter Schools. “Opening a high school allows us to take that vision even further. We’re not simply adding four more grade levels. We’re building a high school model uniquely designed around downtown Oklahoma City and the students who will graduate into our city’s future.” 

The school will combine traditional academics with applied learning opportunities, connecting students with downtown businesses, healthcare systems, universities, nonprofits and civic institutions. 

Students will choose from six academic concentrations: engineering, cybersecurity and computer science, biomedical sciences, entrepreneurship, interdisciplinary studies and advanced academics. The programs are designed to prepare students for college and careers while developing critical-thinking, communication and problem-solving skills. 

“Oklahoma City gives us an extraordinary environment in which to build this kind of school,” said Dr. Rhonda Hart, founding principal of John Rex Polytechnic High School. “We want to connect students with the people and organizations solving real problems every day so they understand not only what they’re learning, but how they can use it.” 

The high school builds on John Rex Elementary School's origins as a MAPS for Kids project intended to strengthen public education and encourage residential growth downtown. 

Inasmuch Foundation has provided early financial support through its Bedrock fund, which will help support the school's capital campaign and development. John Rex also credited Downtown Oklahoma City, Inc. and the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber for their early engagement in the school's growth. 

The lottery for the inaugural ninth-grade class opened Nov. 11. 

For more information, visit johnrexschool.org/page/polytechnic.