Governor Stitt and OEQA Rush Cut Score Release, Undermining Process Integrity
OKLAHOMA CITY, OK – Under the direction of Governor Stitt, the Office of Educational Quality and Accountability (OEQA) prematurely released the Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE) cut scores, bypassing standard procedures and raising serious concerns about political interference in public education.
“The release of cut scores is a blatant disregard for the integrity of Oklahoma’s education system,” said Walters. “Parents, teachers, and students deserve accurate, carefully reviewed results, not a political stunt. The Governor and OEQA have undermined public trust, and our kids are the ones who will pay the price. OEQA should immediately recalibrate the scores to demonstrate a commitment to high standards in Oklahoma education.”
ELA and Math standards were revised in 2021 and 2022, necessitating new assessments and a rigorous standards-setting process. This process, led by Cognia with input from Oklahoma educators and supported by the OEQA alongside the OSDE, defines performance levels and establishes the minimum scores for classifications like Below Basic, Basic, Proficient, and Advanced. However, CEQA, the final approving authority for cut scores, failed to conduct an ongoing review to compare statewide assessment content and performance descriptors with those of other states, as outlined in state statute.
