Union Public Schools Launched S.O.A.R. Seminar Series

The new district program educates student athletes on NIL contracts, financial literacy, and mental health.

Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Secondary Education

Gouache-painted illustration of a graduation cap sitting on a leather portfolio, representing athletic and academic guidance. — Union Public Schools has launched the S.O.A.R. seminar series to provide student athletes with legal guidance on NIL agreements and mental health support. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Union Public Schools has introduced the S.O.A.R. seminar series to support the district's 1,500 student athletes in grades 7 through 12. The program focuses on safety, opportunity, awareness, and responsibility regarding name, image, and likeness (NIL) agreements.

Why it matters

School administrators launched the initiative to ensure students understand contract risks and maintain athletic eligibility. By providing free legal review, the district aims to protect athletes before they commit to professional agreements.

The S.O.A.R. series serves 1,500 athletes across grades 7 to 12. Participation included 60 students at the inaugural session and more than 20 at the follow-up meeting.

The players

Union Public Schools

This public school district operates in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and manages athletics for students in grades 7 through 12.

KMM Sports

This organization provides legal expertise to assist student athletes with the review of name, image, and likeness agreements.

The details

The district partnered with an attorney from KMM Sports to offer free legal contract reviews for student athletes. Seminar topics include social media usage, college eligibility, and mental health implications of NIL deals.

Union Public Schools launched the S.O.A.R. seminar series in September 2026.
The second session of the series took place in October 2026.

Culture Shift

This program reflects a broader movement to address the complexities of student athlete compensation in the high school sector. By proactively engaging with the reality of NIL, the district is helping families navigate a new landscape of amateur eligibility.

Families of student athletes can now access free legal contract reviews to avoid potential penalties. Participation in the remaining four sessions will help students manage their brand and financial future.

The takeaway

Families should prioritize legal literacy early to ensure that amateur status remains secure while exploring NIL opportunities. Consistent attendance at educational sessions provides the best protection against long-term contract risks.