Celebrating Oklahoma turning “outrage into action” for K-12’s future
Among many things I’ve learned from liberals, fellow moderates, and conservatives out in the State-Board Hall over the last year is the freedom that comes from the power of conviction and intention. People who only want what is best for children have the freedom to do what’s right - just because they can. We don’t all agree on the best path forward every time but when we don’t try to build consensus for a plan, we get stuck on high center. That’s where Oklahoma public schools were for 996 days but not now.
The power of the people was clear on the north lawn of the State Capitol as #oklaed celebrated its “healing era” Sunday afternoon. Hosts Oklahoma Rural Schools Coalition and Oklahomans for Public Education exceeded my expectations - I mean, come on, people will come to a positive event with hot gusts sweeping down the plain? … But they did and it was like “old home week” to me. Well, except that I only knew a few of these folks, IRL.
Now, some may know that I’ve been working on the “Valentine for Oklahoma” campaign for many years. … 😊 Here’s some of the why (as captured here by Fox 25) from my superhero Sandra Valentine:
“Remember when we used to say, ‘Surely it can't get any worse.’ And then Ryan Walters said, ‘Hold my protein shake.’?… We survived all those years of chaos, clownery, and camera-ready culture wars. And we didn't just survive. We organized. We spoke up and we won. … Tell your neighbor thank you for what they did - parents, teachers, students, librarians, bus drivers, custodians, even the cafeteria ladies who make those life-changing mashed potatoes. …
“We all came together because it turns out that Oklahoma kids aren't political pawns. They're the future of this state. We showed up. We wrote letters, made phone calls, and turned outrage into action. Together, we pulled off something people said could not be done. We helped send Ryan Walters packing.”
While I agree 100%, on Sunday, I was just happy to be anywhere with educators, parents and other voters and reconnecting with old friends. Those included two of my favorite National Board Certified Teachers: Claudia Swisher (below left) and Heather Doherty Sparks. Yelled across the yard at the always-fun and yet substantive Sean Cummings. … Also met Aaron Michael Baker (the teacher Ryan Walters warned you about!) as well as Dr. Chris Culver and Kody Job of Oklahoma Citizens for Education (below middle) – finally. Shouting out thanks to my son, Arlo Pratt (below right), for going with me!
Also THANK YOU to Rep. Mark McBride who was one of few who spoke truth to power during the chaos and since. … As important, I met two more of the candidates for State Superintendent, retired administrators Rob Miller (R) and Craig McVay (D), who I’ve only known virtually but have respected for many years. As aside: Mr. Miller asked where we all were on June 24, 2014. Well, I was on the corner of NW 63rd and May in OKC with a Joy Hofmeister sign in one hand and a Freda Deskin sign in the other. … May as well admit it since there’s the interwebs and all. 😊
A highlight of Sunday afternoon for me was getting the unexpected opportunity to represent the best choice for State Superintendent in 2026, Dr. Jennettie Marshall (D) – who was stuck in Detroit after the AFT conference and unable to get to OKC in time. … So, kind reader, if you made it this far, I APPRECIATE YOU most of all! <3
Please let me know any questions. Thanks - WSP
