STATE OF THE SCHOOLS HIGHLIGHTS INNOVATION, COLLABORATION AS BACK-TO- SCHOOL SEASON BEGINS As Oklahoma City students prepare to return to the classroom, education and business leaders gathered for a forward-focused conversation at the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber’s 2025 State of the Schools event, held Aug. 6 at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum. The annual event offered more than policy updates— it delivered a call to action. With a theme centered on innovation, workforce readiness and community alignment, the conversation reflected a shared commitment to shaping a stronger educational future for the OKC metro. “The Chamber is committed to strengthening our partnerships with education and workforce leaders to align outcomes that accelerate continued regional growth and prosperity,” said Chamber Chair Teresa Rose. “We will be convening with leaders from the education, workforce, business, government and the nonprofit sector to drive a unified, regional push to raise student achievement and deliver measurable positive impacts on the future workforce needs of the greater Oklahoma City area.” Keynote speaker Dr. Jim Hess, Dean of the College of Education and Human Sciences at Oklahoma State University, delivered a message rooted in bold leadership and student-centered innovation. From classroom
flexibility and educator development to integrating real-world skills into academics, Dr. Hess emphasized rethinking traditional education models to meet evolving needs. A panel discussion brought together top voices from across the metro, including: • Nellie Tayloe Sanders, Deputy Secretary of Workforce Development, State of Oklahoma • Dr. Jamie Polk, Deputy Superintendent, Oklahoma City Public Schools • Dr. Josh Delich, Superintendent, Edmond Public Schools • Dr. Robert Romines, Superintendent, Moore Public Schools Panelists discussed curriculum modernization, career pathways and building stronger connections between schools and local industries. Topics like dual enrollment, teacher recruitment and mental health support for students also featured prominently. As students sharpen pencils and return to school buildings this fall, the message from State of the Schools is clear: community support and cross-sector collaboration are key to student success and long-term economic growth.
OKCONNECT OFFERS EXCLUSIVE LOOK AT OKC’S GROWTH AND OPPORTUNITIES
The program consists of four sessions held from noon to 5 p.m. Each session will feature expert speakers who will discuss OKC's history, economic development, education and opportunities for community involvement. The program costs $500 for Chamber members and $600 for nonmembers, with 60 spots available. Each session comes with lunch and a networking happy hour after the event. Apply for the 2024 class at okcchamber. com/okconnect. For more information, contact Marcus Elwell at melwell@okcchamber.com.
OKConnect, a premier orientation program from the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber and Leadership OKC, will return August 17 and run through November 18. Designed for newcomers and business leaders in new or expanded roles, the program focuses on community engagement and awareness, offering insights into the city’s history, growth and successes.
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