Representatives Applaud New Career Tech Director

House Speaker Pro Tempore Kyle Hilbert, R-Bristow, and Rep. Ty Burns, R-Pawnee, today issued statements congratulating Brent Haken being named the new director of the Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education.

The Oklahoma State Board of Career and Technology Education publicly announced the selection of Haken as the ninth director of the department earlier today. Haken currently is superintendent of Morrison Public Schools, a position he’s held since 2019. He starts his official duties with CareerTech in January.

“I applaud the board’s decision,” Hilbert said. “I have had the pleasure of knowing Brent for nearly 15 years. He is a man of integrity who has always been a champion for children. He has the skill set  needed to improve our workforce to help meet the needs of our growing economy and to meet the educational needs for CareerTech’s traditional and non-traditional students.”

Hilbert also thanked former House Speaker Pro Tempore. Lee Denney who has served as interim director of the department since February.

“I appreciate Lee for stepping up to fill this role, which gave the Board plenty of time to find an exceptional permanent director. The state is better because of her service.”

Burns, who has four children in the Morrison school district and whose House District 35 includes the town, said Haken’s move is a great loss to the community and the school but an incredible win for the state.

“I’m extremely proud of this decision,” Burns said. “Brent is a hard worker who knows how to make the most of his resources and do what is best for the students and staff under his able care. He has been a close friend and a great resource for me. I could reach out to him at any time to talk about the effects of legislation on our school districts or just to get his opinion on a myriad of other factors. I know he’ll do a terrific job in his new role at CareerTech. Students will be more prepared than ever for life and jobs in the future, which will greatly benefit our entire state.”

A full press release detailing Haken’s background can be found on the Oklahoma CareerTech website.

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