With a statewide strategy centered on Data-Driven Instruction, Quality Curriculum, and Real Relationships, the State Department of Education can effectively give educators the tools, support, and resources they need while maintaining strong accountability for student outcomes.

Dr. Marshall’s goals are simple: strong instruction, great teachers, engaged families, and higher student achievement in every part of Oklahoma.

Together, these priorities create an education system that is Student Focused.‍ ‍Teacher Supported.‍ ‍Oklahoma Strong.

Restore Leadership & Accountability at OSDE

A top-to-bottom review of the OSDE can ensure it operates with maximum efficiency and transparency, focused entirely on supporting Oklahoma's students and teachers.
Re-evaluating spending and staffing at the OSDE can ensure taxpayer dollars are used wisely and reach classrooms where they are needed most, rather than being diverted to political operatives or unnecessary bureaucratic functions.
Streamlining processes within the OSDE can reduce administrative burdens on local school districts and educators, allowing them to focus more on instruction.
Prioritizing a culture of accountability and service within the OSDE can ensure that the department is a resource and partner for districts.

Shift Focus Back to Educating Students

Focusing schools on core academic subjects like reading, writing, and math is essential, as Oklahoma students are falling behind in these areas.
Reviewing current curriculum standards can ensure they are academically rigorous, free from political influence, and truly prepare students for college and careers.
Addressing the rising issue of chronic absenteeism in schools is needed, as it directly impacts student learning and academic achievement. Collaboration with communities can re-engage students and families.
Ensuring that every student has access to a well-rounded education, including arts, sciences, and vocational training, can help them discover their talents and prepare for a successful future.

Recruit, Respect & Retain Great Teachers

To address Oklahoma's critical teacher shortage, we must prioritize raising teacher salaries to be competitive with neighboring states and the national average.
Dr. Marshall plans to improve working conditions for educators by reducing excessive administrative burdens, providing adequate classroom resources, and creating a supportive professional environment.
Championing initiatives to support and mentor new teachers can reduce turnover and foster long-term careers in Oklahoma classrooms, rather than solely focusing on signing bonuses that don't address underlying issues.
Restoring pride and respect to the teaching profession in Oklahoma, valuing educators for the vital role they play in children's future, is a must.

Address Deficiencies in Special Education

Ensuring that state funding allocated for Special Education reaches the students who need it, transparently and effectively, supporting appropriate staffing and resources in every district.
Advocating for policies that reduce the caseload burden on Special Education teachers, allowing them to provide the individualized attention and services students deserve.
Guaranteeing that every student with an Individualized Education Program (IEP) receives the services outlined in their plan and that districts are held accountable for fulfilling these legal requirements.
Enhancing training and professional development for all educators on inclusive practices and identifying the needs of students with disabilities.

Accountability That Leads to Improvement

An accountability system must provide clear, understandable information to parents and the public about how schools are performing academically and fiscally.
Focusing accountability measures on indicators that truly reflect student learning and growth is essential, ensuring that all schools are supported to improve.
Ensuring that districts are transparent about how taxpayer dollars are spent, particularly regarding the proportion of funding that directly benefits classroom instruction.
The accountability system needs to encourage continuous improvement and provide targeted support for struggling schools, rather than simply labeling them.

Strengthening the Partnership Between Parents and Education

Parents are a child's first and most important teacher. Actively promoting and supporting meaningful parental involvement in schools and in their child's education is vital.
Ensuring that parents have easy access to information about their child's curriculum, learning materials, and academic progress.
Championing policies that facilitate open and respectful communication between parents, teachers, and school administrators, building strong home-school partnerships.
Encouraging meaningful parental engagement by ensuring parents have a strong voice in their child’s education, clear access to information about learning and academic progress, and opportunities to work alongside teachers and school leaders to support student success.