Sooner State News

In the Center for Education Reform's 2024 Parent Power Index, Oklahoma secured the seventh position, with an Overall Parent Power Index Score of 82.1%.

The index, designed to assess the degree of parental power in each state, highlights key indicators such as Choice Programs, Charter Schools and Innovation. 

Oklahoma scored an 82% in Choice Programs, which represents families' ability to access and choose programs that best fit their needs. 

The state's Charter Schools system, which is based on the availability of alternative educational options for students and families, scored an 82%.

In the final category of Innovation, scored on the state's dedication to fostering creative and personalized learning environments, Oklahoma earned an 82%.

While Florida claims the top spot with a 93% overall score, states like Arizona, Indiana, Ohio, and North Carolina follow closely behind in the top rankings, emphasizing a national trend towards prioritizing parental involvement in education.

Kansas, South Dakota, and North Dakota round out the bottom of the list along with six other states that received a grade of ‘F’.

The Parent Power Index serves as a valuable resource for families across the country, offering insights into state-level educational policies and opportunities. 

Through the index's interactive map, parents can explore the status of parental empowerment in their state and discover avenues to advocate for greater involvement and choice in education.

"The parent power wind is sweeping down the plain and it is spreading throughout Oklahoma communities that have never had an opportunity to help their children accomplish their dreams. In just under two years, a state that had little movement for education change accomplished enacting an ambitious scholarship program, expanded opportunity for new charter schools and transformational efforts to help struggling students receive the help they need to conquer their unique challenges. Oklahoma, OK," the Parent Power Index notes.

"Governor Stitt has been one of the boldest education freedom champions in the country, with efforts that brought a universal tax credit to low income families and a new statewide charter board that should allow for more schools to be created, including virtual charters. He is also spearheading the recruitment of education providers to his state that will bring more innovations and opportunities to Oklahomans," Parent Power Index said in its assessment of the state’s “Policy Environment.”