Bruins on the Run is a Bartlesville Public Schools program funded by the Bartlesville Public Schools Foundation.
Bruins on the Run is a voluntary after-school mentorship program for fifth-grade students at all six Bartlesville Public Schools elementary schools. Through weekly activities, goal-setting, encouragement, and physical activity, students build meaningful connections with caring adult mentors while developing confidence, resilience, and healthy habits. As students prepare to transition to middle school, the program helps create friendships and a sense of belonging that extends beyond their own school community.
Program Benefits
- Positive adult mentorship
- Increased confidence and self-esteem
- Healthy physical activity
- Goal setting and perseverance
- Friendships across elementary schools
- Stronger transition to middle school
- Fun, encouragement, and celebration
What to Expect
Bruins on the Run begins each fall with an eight-week after-school season for fifth-grade students across all six Bartlesville Public Schools elementary schools. Participants meet regularly with teacher and community mentors, build friendships, set personal goals, and stay active through walking, running, and other team-building activities.
The fall season culminates with participation in the annual Bruin 5K, where students celebrate their accomplishments alongside classmates, mentors, family members, and community supporters.
Many students also have the opportunity to participate in a spring mini-season. This additional session provides continued mentorship, encouragement, and physical activity while giving participants the chance to take part in one or more community race experiences, depending on availability and scheduling each year.
Removing Barriers to Participation
The Bartlesville Public Schools Foundation is committed to ensuring every student can participate regardless of financial circumstances. The Foundation provides all program essentials, including:
- Quality running shoes
- Program t-shirt
- Race registrations
- Healthy snacks
- Recognition and awards
Because of generous community support, there is no cost for students to participate!
Building Connections That Last
“Bruins on the Run is a great opportunity to bring our schools together while utilizing resources already established in our community. This program is having a very positive impact on our fifth graders and their mentors.”
— Chuck McCauley, Former Superintendent, Bartlesville Public Schools
Program History
Bruins on the Run was launched in 2018 through a generous Community Collaboration Grant from the Bartlesville Community Foundation. Inspired by the successful Run the Streets model, the program uses mentorship and physical activity to help students build confidence, develop healthy habits, and strengthen relationships before transitioning to middle school.
Since its inception, Bruins on the Run has continued to grow thanks to the support of local donors, grant partners, and community volunteers who believe in investing in the success of Bartlesville students.
Save the date for the 2026 Bruin 5K and Fun Run! We will host this race on Saturday, October 10th.
Help Keep Bruins on the Run Moving Forward
Because of supporters like you, Bruins on the Run remains free for participating students and families. Your generosity helps provide shoes, race registrations, program t-shirts, snacks, awards, and other essentials that allow students to fully participate in the program.
Make a Financial Contribution
Give Online
Make a secure online gift through the Bartlesville Public Schools Foundation website.
Mail a Check
Checks may be made payable to Bartlesville Public Schools Foundation and mailed to:
Bartlesville Public Schools Foundation
1100 S. Jennings Avenue
Bartlesville, OK 74003
The Impact of Your Gift
- $50 provides a pair of running shoes for one student.
- $250 helps cover the full cost of participation for one student.
Every gift, regardless of size, helps ensure that students can participate at no cost to their families.
In-Kind Donations
We also welcome donations of program supplies during the season, including:
- Youth running shorts, shirts, and socks (sizes 8–12)
- Bottled water
- Healthy, nut-free snacks such as granola bars, raisins, applesauce, and fresh fruit
Get Involved
To learn more about supporting Bruins on the Run through donations, sponsorships, or volunteer opportunities, please contact the Bartlesville Public Schools Foundation office.
Thank you for helping students build confidence, friendships, and healthy habits that can last a lifetime.