Oklahoma Parents Are Losing Trust in Schools – Here’s How We Restore It Before It’s Too Late
With primary elections approaching, education leadership is on the ballot and trust is the issue voters can’t ignore.
Oklahoma families are asking a simple question: Can we trust our schools again?
Right now, many aren’t sure.
Across our state, parents are increasingly frustrated – not because they don’t support public education, but because they feel shut out of it. They don’t know what their children are being taught. They don’t see test results in time to help. And too often, they feel like decisions are being made without them.
That lack of trust has real consequences.
According to the Oklahoma State Department of Education School Report Cards many districts report ongoing issues with transparency, communication, and school climate.
At the same time, Oklahoma continues to rank near the bottom nationally in education outcomes. The 2025 KIDS COUNT® Data Book shows:
- 77% of 4th graders are below reading proficiency
- 83% of 8th graders are below math proficiency
These numbers don’t just reflect academics – they reflect a system families don’t fully believe in anymore.
And when trust breaks down, everything else follows.
Trust Isn’t Political – It’s Foundational
After 40 years in Oklahoma classrooms, I’ve learned this: Schools succeed when parents are partners, not outsiders.
In my district, parents know what’s happening in the classroom. They can see the curriculum. They can ask questions. And most importantly – they’re heard.
That’s not happening everywhere in Oklahoma.
Transparency shouldn’t depend on your zip code. It should be standard.
What Must Change – Now
If we want to rebuild trust before it’s too late, we need clear, immediate action:
1. Full Transparency for Parents
Every parent should be able to easily access:
- Curriculum and reading lists
- School policies
- Program changes before they happen
2. Real-Time Academic Feedback
Right now, Oklahoma spends millions on testing – yet results often come months later, too late to help students.
We need growth-based benchmarks that allow teachers to adjust instruction immediately.
3. Local Control That Means Something
Oklahoma communities – not bureaucrats – should guide their schools.
4. Teacher Voice in Decision-Making
The best ideas come from the classroom – not the Capitol. Teachers must be part of shaping policy.
Why This Matters Right Now
With the June 16 Republican primary approaching, voters are paying attention.
But history tells us something important: Primary turnout in Oklahoma is often around 23%.
That means a small number of voters will decide the future of education for 700,000 students statewide.
This election isn’t just about politics. It’s about whether we restore:
- Confidence
- Stability
- Partnership
The Bottom Line
Parents don’t want control of the system. They want a seat at the table.
Teachers don’t want politics. They want the ability to teach.
Students don’t need more noise.They need a system that works.
We can restore trust in Oklahoma education, but only with leadership that listens, includes, and delivers.
Because when trust returns, learning follows.
By Dr. John Cox, Candidate for State Superintendent
Dr. John Cox is a lifelong Oklahoma educator with more than 40 years of experience in public schools, including over three decades as a superintendent.