Oklahoma Education: New Leadership, Initiatives & School Choices
The Oklahoma education landscape is experiencing a dynamic period, marked by significant leadership changes, innovative grant programs, and evolving school options. From a new communications chief at the State Department of Education to major investments in student readiness and new charter school proposals, stakeholders across Oklahoma have much to keep an eye on.
Oklahoma Education Department Welcomes New Communications Chief
The Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE) has ushered in a new era of public relations with the appointment of former KFOR news anchor Joleen Chaney as its Chief Communications Officer. Beginning her role on November 10, Chaney brings 18 years of broadcast journalism experience to help stabilize the agency’s public image after a period of high turnover in its communications department. Her focus will be on leading media relations and ensuring clear, meaningful, and positive public and internal messaging, according to new Superintendent Lindel Fields.
Chaney’s arrival follows the turbulent tenure of former State Schools Superintendent Ryan Walters, who saw six primary spokespeople during his nearly three years in office, four of whom departed in 2025 alone. Chaney, citing health concerns and work-life balance, transitioned from KFOR after her final newscast, expressing excitement to partner with school leaders, educators, families, and media to elevate the work being done for Oklahoma students.
Former Superintendent Ryan Walters Remains in the Public Eye
Even after his resignation on September 24, former state schools Superintendent Ryan Walters continues to be a prominent voice in conservative media. As the chief executive officer of the Teacher Freedom Alliance, Walters has maintained a regular presence on Fox News opinion shows, including appearances on Trace Gallagher’s late-night program on November 6 and 12. During these segments, he frequently critiques political figures like California Gov. Gavin Newsom and teachers’ unions, issues he often addressed during his time in office. Walters even announced his pending resignation during an interview with Gallagher.
Additionally, Walters authored an op-ed piece published on the Fox News website on October 31, where he continued to express criticism towards teachers’ unions, specifically targeting Randi Weingarten, the leader of the National Education Association.
Charter School Expansion on the Horizon for Moore and Tulsa
The Statewide Charter School Board is currently reviewing two significant sponsorship applications for proposed charter schools in Moore and Tulsa, aiming to provide additional educational choices for local families. Representatives from both schools presented their plans at the board’s November 10 meeting, with final decisions expected in early 2026.
Southwest Academy Charter School (Moore)
Southwest Academy Charter School intends to open its doors in August 2027, initially serving pre-kindergarten through second grade with a projected enrollment of 160 students. The school, led by board president Angie Ritter, plans to add one grade level per year up to sixth grade. Ritter emphasized that the academy would offer a vital educational alternative for Moore parents who cannot afford private schooling or homeschool their children. The school’s board is currently negotiating a lease with Regency Park Baptist Church in north Moore. This application was previously rejected by the Moore Public Schools board.
Tempo Montessori Charter School (Tulsa)
Also slated for an August 2027 opening, Tempo Montessori Charter School is seeking sponsorship after its application was turned down by the Union Public Schools board in Tulsa. This school proposes to operate out of Destiny Church in Broken Arrow, serving up to 50 students each in pre-K, kindergarten, and sixth grade. Executive Director Diane Beckham highlighted Tempo’s plan for a year-round school calendar, featuring shorter breaks that do not exceed four weeks. These applications represent a critical step in expanding charter school options within the state, offering diverse learning environments for Oklahoma students.
OU’s K20 Center Secures Major GEAR UP Grant for OKC Schools
A substantial $40 million, seven-year GEAR UP federal grant has been awarded to the University of Oklahoma Jeannine Rainbolt College of Education’s K20 Center for Educational and Community Renewal. With a dollar-for-dollar match, this investment doubles to approximately $80 million, directly benefiting Oklahoma City Public Schools (OKCPS), Putnam City Schools, and ASTEC Charter School.
The grant will fuel the GEAR UP METRO initiative, a dual-cohort project designed to impact an estimated 7,123 students starting in sixth and seventh grades. GEAR UP, which stands for Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs, aims to enhance educational opportunities and postsecondary readiness for students in under-resourced communities. While the national model often focuses on college enrollment, the K20 Center’s approach is broader, encompassing all forms of continued learning that foster opportunity and long-term stability.
A unique feature of the program is the QUEST microlearning platform, specifically tailored for parents and guardians. This platform delivers digestible, two-to-three-minute “TikTok-style” content on crucial topics like FAFSA forms, Oklahoma’s Promise tuition scholarships, and college enrollment, making trustworthy, ad-free information from the University of Oklahoma accessible to busy families.
Scholarship Available for Aspiring Oklahoma Educators
The Oklahoma State School Boards Association (OSSBA) Foundation is encouraging high school seniors across the state to apply for the Dr. Bob Mooneyham Memorial Scholarship. This one-time $5,000 scholarship will be awarded this spring to an Oklahoma public high school senior who plans to pursue a teaching degree at an accredited Oklahoma college, university, or career technology center starting in the fall of 2026. The application deadline is January 9, and candidates can apply online at ossba.org/scholarship.
Named in honor of Dr. Bob Mooneyham, who dedicated 25 years as OSSBA’s executive director after a career as a teacher, coach, guidance counselor, school superintendent, and college professor, the scholarship celebrates his legacy. Eligible students must have a minimum 3.0 unweighted high school GPA and a preferred minimum 20 ACT or 1040 SAT score. Financial need will also be a consideration, ensuring support for future educators committed to making a difference in Oklahoma classrooms.
FAQs About Oklahoma Education News
- Who is leading communications for the OK State Department of Education now?
Joleen Chaney, formerly a KFOR anchor, was appointed Chief Communications Officer on November 10, aiming to bring stability and clear messaging to the agency. - Is former Superintendent Ryan Walters still active in education discussions?
Yes, Ryan Walters continues to appear on Fox News and publishes op-eds as the CEO of the Teacher Freedom Alliance, advocating his views on education policy. - What is the purpose of the new GEAR UP METRO grant?
The $80 million GEAR UP METRO grant will increase educational opportunities and postsecondary readiness for over 7,000 students in Oklahoma City, Putnam City, and ASTEC Charter schools, with a focus on comprehensive learning pathways. - How can high school seniors apply for the Dr. Bob Mooneyham Memorial Scholarship?
Applications for the $5,000 scholarship, for students planning to become Oklahoma teachers, are due January 9 and can be completed online at ossba.org/scholarship. - When will decisions be made on the proposed Moore and Tulsa charter schools?
The Statewide Charter School Board is expected to vote on the applications for Southwest Academy Charter School (Moore) and Tempo Montessori Charter School (Tulsa) in early 2026.
These developments signify a period of active change and opportunity within Oklahoma’s education system, emphasizing transparency, student support, and expanded options for learners and families across the state.
Oklahoma Education New Leadership Initiatives School Choices
