Oklahoma voters have spoken. Republican Robert Franklin secured over 66 percent of the vote in the statewide race for State Superintendent, according to Associated Press results with 98 percent of ballots counted. His decisive victory over former Tulsa Public Schools board member Democrat Jennettie Marshall reflects a strong desire for new leadership in a state whose public schools rank near the bottom of national surveys.
Campaign promises centered on families and faith
At his victory celebration, Franklin thanked voters and emphasized a message of hope and service. “I’m grateful, relieved, and hopeful and a bunch of other emotions all put together,” he said. He pledged to keep partisan battles off the sidelines and focus on the basics of education, noting that Oklahoma families deserve a system that serves children, teachers and communities without “wild fanfare” or “unhinged” tactics.
Franklin highlighted three core goals: restoring confidence in public education, attracting and retaining teachers, and ensuring that school policies reflect the values of Oklahoma families. He urged those who may have given up on public schools to re‑engage, promising to “roll up his sleeves” and put in the “sweat equity” needed to turn schools around.
Teacher pay and regional competitiveness
Addressing a long‑standing concern among educators, Franklin said teachers are asking for “reasonable and competitive” salaries that match neighboring states such as Arkansas and Kansas. He described the request as a “fair ask economically” and indicated his administration will work to develop a regional pay structure that keeps Oklahoma teachers from seeking jobs elsewhere.
Family, faith and community at the heart of his vision
Franklin’s remarks were deeply personal. He spoke of his late mother’s influence, saying, “Kindness, my mom exuded that; my mom Mary. And God rest her soul, she’s right here.” He framed his public‑service mission as standing on the shoulders of family, grandparents, aunts, uncles and the broader Oklahoma community.
He also pledged to reach out to voters who did not support him, emphasizing a collaborative approach: “If we can target our work, we can do things more effectively. We all know that strategy makes a difference.” Franklin’s call for unity underscores his intent to serve all Oklahomans, regardless of party affiliation.
What comes next?
With the election now settled, Franklin will assume office in early 2027. He has indicated that his first actions will include a comprehensive review of school funding, a statewide teacher‑pay study, and a series of listening tours across Oklahoma’s districts to hear directly from parents, educators and community leaders.
State education officials and local school boards are expected to work closely with the new superintendent to develop policies that align with his promise of methodical, family‑focused reform. As Oklahoma continues to seek higher rankings in national education assessments, Franklin’s administration will be under close watch from both supporters and critics.
For now, Oklahoma’s families can look forward to a superintendent who frames education as a partnership among teachers, parents and the community, guided by faith, tradition and a commitment to individual liberty.
Original reporting: KTUL 8 (Sinclair) – local — read the source article.
