BAPS athletic director leaves for superintendency at Lincoln Christian

Broken Arrow Public School’s executive director of athletics, Darren Melton, has been named as the new superintendent of Lincoln Christian School in Tulsa.

“We appreciate all that Darren has meant to our school community over the past four years and the integrity by which he has led our athletic department,” said assistant superintendent Steve Dunn. “He has committed his entire professional career to pouring into the lives of young people, coaches, and families through athletics, and we wish him the very best as he transitions into this new leadership role.”

Melton came to Broken Arrow in 2019 as associate director of athletics before becoming the executive director of athletics in 2021. He had previously served Lincoln Christian School as its head football coach and athletic director for 17 years.

“The people are what have made the experience so special. It takes only a short time to realize that the administration and staff care deeply about the students of Broken Arrow,” Melton said. “I am so grateful to our board, Mr. Perry, Steve Dunn and so many others that have made this a one of kind experience. They have given me so many takeaways as a school leader. But none more important than to take care of the person over the job.  They don’t just say it, they do it.”

A certified athletic administrator, Melton has served on the board of directors for the Oklahoma Secondary School Activities Association and the Oklahoma Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association. After serving as a teacher, coach, and athletic administrator for 34 years, Melton felt tugged at the opportunity to serve as a school superintendent.

“The thought of a new challenge is exciting,” Melton said. “As difficult as it is to leave BA, we feel called to go back and make a difference at Lincoln. What I look forward to the most is working alongside the leadership there to find the best ways to serve the staff and families. The place has given our family more than we can ever repay so I look forward to this next season of life with much gratitude and anticipation.”