In Oklahoma, two Democratic candidates, Jeannettie Marshall from Tulsa and Craig McVay from El Reno, are campaigning for the state superintendent position with a shared goal of transforming the state’s education system. Both candidates emphasize the need for significant changes to address current challenges.

Craig McVay’s Vision

Craig McVay, a retired superintendent and consultant, is one of the candidates. He acknowledges Oklahoma’s low ranking in education and stresses the importance of a long-term vision and substantial investment in the education sector. McVay’s passion for education began in his youth, and he has served in various educational roles, including as a superintendent in Freedom, Oklahoma, and later in El Reno.

McVay highlights the necessity of foundational education, stating, “It’s very difficult to read a Bible when you can’t read a primer. And so, let’s get back to the basics.” He also aims to remove politics from the classroom, focusing on academic outcomes for Oklahoma’s 700,000 students.

Jeannettie Marshall’s Approach

Jeannettie Marshall, a former criminal justice teacher and Tulsa school board member, seeks to be a “change agent” in Oklahoma’s education system. She criticizes former state superintendent Ryan Walters for pursuing a politically motivated agenda rather than focusing on educational improvements.

Marshall believes in valuing educators and support staff, advocating for better pay and evaluation methods. She emphasizes the importance of collaboration, stating, “I’m willing to work hard. I have people that I am talking with already that have pledged to lock arms with me and work toward the common goal of educating our children.”

Legacy and Future Goals

Both candidates invoke the legacy of former state superintendent Sandy Garrett, a Democrat who held the office for over two decades. They note that during Garrett’s tenure, Oklahoma’s education system ranked higher nationally. McVay references an Education Week ranking from around 2011, when Oklahoma placed 17th in one overall education-system measure.

As the election approaches, Marshall and McVay continue to engage with communities across Oklahoma, advocating for their vision of an improved education system that prioritizes academic success and removes political influences from the classroom.

Original reporting: Oklahoma City News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.