We don’t fix schools by arguing about rankings. We fix them by changing how we teach, test, and support students.
You’ve heard it for years: “Oklahoma is near the bottom in education.” And every time new rankings come out, the debate starts again.
But here’s the truth: Rankings aren’t the problem.They’re the symptom.
The Data Is Clear
According to the National Assessment of Educational Progress:
- Only about 1 in 5 Oklahoma 8th graders reads at a proficient level
- Fewer than 1 in 3 4th graders are proficient in math
These aren’t just statistics. They represent students falling behind and a system that isn’t responding fast enough.
What’s Really Broken
After four decades in Oklahoma education, I can tell you exactly where the system is failing:
1. We Test Too Late to Make a Difference
Oklahoma students take end-of-year tests and teachers often don’t see results for months.
That means:
- No real-time intervention
- No ability to adjust instruction
- No meaningful benefit for students
We are measuring failure instead of preventing it.
2. We’ve Drifted from the Basics
Reading and math are the foundation of everything.
Yet too many students:
- Struggle with phonics
- Lack basic math fluency
- Fall behind early – and never catch up
The science is clear: Students who aren’t reading by third grade are far less likely to succeed long-term.
3. We’re Not Measuring Growth
Right now, schools are judged mostly on proficiency. But here’s the problem:
A student who improves dramatically, but doesn’t hit a cut score, is still labeled a failure. That’s not just wrong. It’s discouraging.
We should be measuring progress, not just outcomes.
A Better Path Forward
If Oklahoma is serious about moving into the Top 25, the solution is straightforward:
✔ Growth-Based Benchmark Testing
Teachers need real-time data – not delayed reports – to adjust instruction immediately.
✔ Strong Phonics and Early Literacy
Reading must be the top priority in early grades. This is the gateway to every subject.
✔ Math Foundations That Build Confidence
Students need mastery of basics before advancing – not gaps that compound over time.
✔ Empower Teachers to Teach Again
Less bureaucracy.
More classroom focus.
Better outcomes.
Why This Matters Beyond the Classroom
Education doesn’t just impact schools – it impacts the entire state.
When students succeed:
- Graduation rates increase
- Crime rates decrease
- Workforce readiness improves
- Economic growth follows
This isn’t a theory. It’s reality.
The Moment We’re In
With the June 16 primary approaching, Oklahoma voters have a choice:
More of the same system or leadership that actually fixes it.
The Bottom Line
Our kids are not 50th.
Our teachers are not 50th.
But our system isn’t giving them what they need to succeed.
We don’t need more political noise.
We need:
- Focus
- Experience
- A plan that works
And when we fix the system – the rankings will fix themselves.
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.