Burke Steps Into Roosa Leadership Role with Purpose and Positivity
Claremore, OK — Claremore Public Schools (CPS) is proud to announce the appointment of David Burke as the new Assistant Principal at Roosa Elementary. A familiar face to many in the school community, Burke has spent the past six years teaching at Roosa, building strong relationships with students, staff, and families. Known for his servant heart, steady leadership, and passion for uplifting others, Burke now transitions into a new role where his impact will continue to grow.
Burke’s journey into education is rooted in personal resilience and a sense of purpose. As a kindergartner, he was once told that he would likely have to settle for a manual job in his adult life due to some developmental concerns. But his parents believed otherwise and instilled in him daily affirmations that helped reshape his future. “Those affirmations taught me to speak hope into my life,” Burke shared. “Today, I want to inspire students to do the same; to know that they are the authors of their own story, regardless of what anyone else has told them.”
Since joining CPS, Burke has served as a Collaborative Lab special education teacher, working with students with a wide range of needs. He credits his Roosa colleagues with mentoring and guiding him through his early years as an educator. His time at Roosa has shaped his leadership philosophy, which emphasizes teamwork, encouragement, and authentic presence.
“One of the things that excites me most about this role is the opportunity to support and empower the incredible educators at Roosa,” said Burke. “My goal is to serve them in whatever way I can, so they are in the best position to serve our students.”
Burke’s leadership style blends servant leadership with visionary thinking. He describes himself as a steady and reliable presence, someone who will show up each day ready to lift others up. “I’m driven by the potential others saw in me,” he said. “Now it’s my turn to help others discover and develop their own potential.”
His goals for the upcoming year include building trust with students and staff, fostering a safe and supportive environment, and serving as a visible source of positivity throughout the building. Drawing inspiration from one of his mentors, Ed Crum, Burke plans to make daily visits to classrooms, meet teachers where they are, and celebrate the good he sees in others. “I believe we inspire others through consistency, vulnerability, and relentless encouragement,” he said. “When people know you care, they’re more likely to take risks, grow, and reach their full potential.”
A graduate of the CPS Aspiring Administrators program, Burke credits the experience with preparing him to see the bigger picture of school leadership. “It helped me understand the layers of support needed to keep a school thriving, from safety and operations to staff morale and student engagement.”
Originally drawn to Claremore by his family’s deep roots in the community, Burke’s connection runs deep. His father grew up in Claremore and is a CPS alum, later returned to serve as a local pastor, a calling that continues to influence David’s own passion for service and people.
Outside of school, Burke is a dedicated family man who enjoys working out at 4 a.m. (yes, really), reading leadership books, and spending time with his wife Kyla and their three daughters: Avery, Harper Jo, and Blakely. Whether it’s ice cream runs, park adventures, or Star Wars movie nights, he finds joy in creating meaningful moments with his family.
Please join us in welcoming David Burke to his new role at Roosa Elementary. His heart for students, commitment to service, and belief in the power of growth will make a lasting impact on the Roosa community.