State Superintendent Presents Education Budget Priorities Ahead of Legislative Session
Additional information from the budget presentation can be found at the links below:
Oklahoma City, OK — Monday, State Superintendent of Public Instruction Lindel Fields presented an overview of Oklahoma’s public education budget and key priorities to members of the Oklahoma Legislature. During the hour-long meeting, Fields engaged in discussion and answered questions from senators and representatives as lawmakers prepare for the upcoming legislative session.
The budget hearing began with the Superintendent outlining current statistics and trends in Oklahoma public education and sharing data that highlights student needs, teacher workforce challenges and long-term outcomes across the state. The discussion emphasized the importance of responsible investment in public education and remained grounded in transparency, accountability and focus on student success.
The Superintendent’s budget priorities were developed in response to feedback from recent statewide surveys of educators and parents. The surveys provided valuable insight into the concerns of both groups, and priorities are aligned across audiences.
“Oklahoma’s educators and families were clear about what they are experiencing in schools and what they believe students need to succeed,” said Superintendent Fields. “Early literacy, support systems to improve behavior and mental health resources and teacher recruitment and retention are among the top three concerns for all groups surveyed. These voices played a critical role in shaping the priorities presented to lawmakers.”
Lawmakers asked questions related to funding trends, instructional needs, workforce stability and student performance indicators. The Superintendent emphasized collaboration with the Legislature as a key component of advancing meaningful improvements in Oklahoma’s education system.
“As the legislative session approaches, the Oklahoma State Department of Education remains committed to working with state leaders, educators, and families to ensure that education funding decisions are informed by data, stakeholder input, and a shared goal of preparing students for success beyond the classroom,” Fields said.
