Ozarks Public Television (OPT) is the region’s PBS affiliate, and includes full-power stations in Springfield (KOZK) and Joplin (KOZJ). OPT was created by the community – born out of a grassroots effort to provide a home in the Ozarks for television programming that informs, entertains, and inspires.
Decades later, OPT continues to deliver on that promise through three 24/7 programming services – OPT HD, our signature service comprised of national and local public television programming; OPT PBS KIDS, a children’s programming service that provides a safe place for kids and families throughout the entire day; and OPT CREATE, a lifestyle channel that offers programming focused on cooking, crafting, travel, and more.
One of the core elements of OPT’s mission is to document, present, and preserve the history and local culture of the Ozarks. We do this through a commitment to local production. OzarksWatch Video Magazineis an ongoing series that profiles the people, places, and traditions that make the region unique. Additionally, OPT produces documentary features each year that seek to capture stories of our shared culture. And, through OPT’s ongoing Sense of Communityseries, we provide an in-depth look at current issues, community projects, and local resources.
Ozarks Public Television is jointly-licensed with KSMU Radio, the region’s NPR affiliate. Brought together in 2001, the stations formed Ozarks Public Broadcasting, licensed to and operated by Missouri State University. The work of Ozarks Public Broadcasting is deeply rooted in public service. Every effort we undertake is in service to – and made possible by – our community.
Governing Body
The Missouri State University Board of Governors is the governing body of Ozarks Public Broadcasting.
For more information about the current members of the board, click here: Missouri State University Board of Governors Members.
For a schedule of upcoming board meetings, click here: Missouri State University Board of Governors Meeting Schedule.
To view meeting agenda items, including rational for closed sessions, click here: Missouri State University Board of Governors Meeting Agendas.
Mission:
Ozarks Public Television encourages the exploration of ideas and their application to citizenship.
Contact Us
Ozarks Public Television
901 S. National Ave
Springfield, MO 65897
Phone: 417-836-3500
Toll Free: 1-866-684-5695
e-mail: mail@optv.org
Office Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Monday - Friday
Equal Employment Opportunity
EEO Public File Report (PDF File)
Staff Composition Report (PDF File)
Local Content and Service
Local Content & Service Report (PDF File)
Public Files
KOZK Public File
KOZJ Public File