OETA’s Youth & Teen Programs are designed to support the educational and creative growth of Oklahoma’s students while providing unique opportunities for career exploration and skill-building. One key initiative, American Graduate, is a national public media effort addressing high school dropout rates and workforce readiness. A major component of this initiative is Jobs Explained, a national digital content program managed by The WNET Group and supported by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. This nationwide effort introduces young people to diverse career pathways by developing engaging social media content created for, with, and by youth.

Building on this national model, OETA launched Oklahoma Jobs Explained, an evolution of its earlier Aerospace Jobs Explained program, which initially focused on careers in Oklahoma’s booming aerospace and aviation industries. As one of 10 public media stations selected for Jobs Explained, OETA has produced over 250 career-focused videos and hosted industry events to directly connect students with educational, training, and job opportunities. Oklahoma Jobs Explained now expands beyond aerospace, showcasing in-demand careers across various industries while continuing to engage youth through digital media and community partnerships. This initiative ensures Oklahoma students have access to the knowledge and resources needed to explore career options and enter the workforce with confidence.

In addition to career-focused initiatives, OETA offers Art Club, an afterschool and summer program that fosters creativity in students affected by the educational disparities of the COVID-19 pandemic. Partnering with Millwood Arts Academy and supported by the ESSER Fund, Art Club brings students together to explore various art forms, including visual arts, dance, music, and theater. Inspired by Gallery America, the program encourages students to express their personal experiences through collaborative art projects. With over 70 student participants, the program has proven transformative, offering students a safe and supportive space to express themselves while developing essential creative and problem-solving skills. Teachers and administrators have highlighted the positive cultural impact of the program, underscoring its role in providing students with meaningful, life-changing opportunities.