As we move forward together, I want to share my deep appreciation for the work you do each day and give you a clear sense of what to expect from the Oklahoma State Department of Education in the weeks and months ahead.
Our goal is simple but ambitious: to restore the Oklahoma State Department of Education to a place of service, support, and excellence. Every decision we make will center on helping create success in the classroom and ensuring that every student in our state receives the education they deserve.
While it will take some time to improve efficiency, communication, and clarity from our agency, below is a brief overview of several immediate projects that will be our focus in the next two weeks:
- Review financials, create a budget, and present that budget to the State Board of Education at the Oct. 23 board meeting.
- Issue an update on the status of statewide testing and provide guidance to districts on how to proceed.
- Provide clarity to districts on the status of the social studies curriculum adoption and next steps.
- Refine Open Records Request process, quickly fulfill outstanding requests, and automating data retrieval for the public.
- Review existing lawsuits to seek swift resolution where possible.
As this work unfolds, know that these efforts are part of a broader commitment to three guiding priorities that will shape everything we do over the next 15 months:
- Literacy: The foundation for lifelong learning and the key that unlocks every child’s future.
- Career Pathways: Preparing every student to graduate ready for the next step—college, career, military, or any path that leads to purpose and fulfillment.
- Teacher Recruitment and Retention: Supporting, respecting, and empowering the professionals who make learning possible.
Oklahoma’s turnaround will not happen from a single office or meeting—it will happen because of unity around these common goals. Your dedication, creativity, and resilience are what drive progress for our students. Together, we will restore pride and purpose to our schools and build a system that truly serves those who serve our children. Keep up the good work, and know that we are working hard for you.
Thank you for your partnership, your patience, and your steadfast belief in the power of education. The work ahead is important, and I could not be more hopeful about what we will accomplish—together.
