The Greater Oklahoma City Chamber will host its annual State of the Schools event on Wednesday, August 6, bringing together top education leaders to discuss how schools are adapting to meet the needs of Oklahoma students and the future workforce.
This year’s program will explore how K–12 and higher education systems are approaching innovation, equity, and student engagement, both inside and outside the classroom. Attendees will hear directly from state and district leaders about the policies, partnerships, and technologies shaping the next generation of learners.
Speakers include Oklahoma State University President Jim Hess, Oklahoma Secretary of Education Nellie Tayloe Sanders, and superintendents from Oklahoma City, Edmond, and Moore Public Schools.
WHEN & WHERE:
Wednesday, August 6, 2025
11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
1700 NE 63rd Street, Oklahoma City, OK 73111
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS:
- Keynote Speaker:
Jim Hess, President, Oklahoma State University - Fireside Chat:
Nellie Tayloe Sanders, Oklahoma Secretary of Education
Moderated by Rhonda Baker, Director of Education, Greater Oklahoma City Chamber
(Topics to include personalized learning, workforce readiness, and Oklahoma’s new Human Potential for Future Industries Task Force.) - Superintendent Panel:
Dr. Jamie Polk, Oklahoma City Public Schools – Flex spaces and student engagement
Dr. Josh Delich, Edmond Public Schools – Vision and innovation for district growth
Dr. Robert Romines, Moore Public Schools – Partnerships for housing and student stability
WHY IT MATTERS:
This event offers media a rare opportunity to engage with state and local education leaders on timely topics like emerging classroom technologies, career readiness and cross-sector collaboration. The conversations will offer context, story angles and updates on high-impact initiatives happening across the metro.
MEDIA ACCESS:
Media are encouraged to attend and will have access to:
- B-roll and photo opportunities throughout the program
- Post-event interview availability with select speakers
- A media contact on-site to assist with requests
