The Oklahoma legislative session has officially adjourned Sine Die—but not before lawmakers overrode a wave of the Governor’s vetoes and finalized key decisions about education funding. In this episode of Fried Okra, we break down the final week at the Capitol, highlight the bills that made it across the finish line, and unpack what they mean for students and educators across the state.
May 30, 2025•24 min
We’re breaking down the Supreme Court’s decision to block the nation's first religious charter school in Oklahoma—and what it means for public education in our state. We’re also taking a look at the latest State Board of Education meeting and the education bills still on the move as the legislative session enters its final sprint.
May 23, 2025•38 min
We’re breaking down the state budget deal and what it really means for public schools. Plus, a full roundup of education legislation—what was signed (or not), what didn’t, and what you need to know moving forward. If you’re an educator or care about Oklahoma’s public schools, this one’s for you. Listen on: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5M9IBGM3WQar71SmFQAaCv Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/oea/id1501888562 #oklaed
May 16, 2025•33 min
We're diving into the lawsuit filed this week against Ryan Walters and the State Board of Education—brought by parents, grandparents, and educators, and led by former Republican Attorney General Mike Hunter. We’re also breaking down key education bills that survived deadline week at the Capitol—what made it through, what didn’t, and what it all means for Oklahoma public schools.
May 09, 2025•37 min
We're catching you up on everything you've missed in the past few weeks at the #okleg—including a disappointing move by lawmakers not to send the new education standards back to the State Board, despite strong concerns from educators and the public. If you're feeling frustrated, you're not alone—and this episode helps you make sense of what’s happening at the Capitol and what comes next.
May 02, 2025•31 min
OU’s Raegan Beers shines on the court—but she’s also preparing to lead the next generation as an education major. Hear why teaching is part of her game plan on this week’s Fried Okra. 🎧 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/oea/id1501888562 🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5M9IBGM3WQar71SmFQAaCv #oklaed
Apr 25, 2025•31 min
The State Supt.’s tenuous grasp on the truth continues—this time, the social studies standards presented to the board weren’t the same as those posted online. We also cover bills on student phone bans, virtual day limits, retiree pay opportunities, and school board election changes. #oklaed
Apr 18, 2025•37 min
New Fried Okra episode! We cover bills that could: 📌 Give teachers’ kids Oklahoma Promise tuition 📌 Extend the salary schedule 📌 Set new cell phone rules in schools
Apr 11, 2025•32 min
Oklahomans just voted overwhelmingly to invest in their public schools—because when given the chance, they always do. We break down the bond election results and the latest #oklaed news.
Apr 03, 2025•30 min
The Oklahoma State Department of Education is in disarray—again. This time, they failed to post an agenda on time in a week where they also handed out $600,000 in bonuses to staff. Meanwhile, critical school board elections are happening across the state, shaping the future of public education. Tune in for the latest on these pressing issues and why your voice matters. Listen now and stay informed! #oklaed
Mar 28, 2025•40 min
This week in #oklaed, we break down the biggest stories impacting public education in Oklahoma, including a huge victory against an attack on educators’ collective voice, encouraging progress on maternity leave and Oklahoma Promise, and, of course, the unfortunate updates that can’t be ignored. Stay informed and engaged—tune in now!
Mar 07, 2025•37 min
Meet Zach Grimm, OEA’s new VP and a Spanish teacher from Moore! We get to know him and dive into the shifting tone at the State Board of Ed with Ivy Riggs at 14:05. What’s changing, what’s not, and what it all means for public schools. Don’t miss this one.
Feb 28, 2025•37 min
Oklahoma’s deep freeze didn’t stop the flurry of education bills at the Capitol. We’re breaking down the most important proposals, what they mean for schools, and what’s coming next. Stay informed, stay engaged!
Feb 21, 2025•39 min
Big changes at the State Board of Education, state leaders at odds, and plenty of drama unfolding in #oklaed. This week on Fried Okra, we’re breaking it all down—what’s happening, why it matters, and what it means for our schools. Don’t miss this one.
Feb 14, 2025•42 min
Oklahoma’s legislative session has begun, and Gov. Stitt’s State of the State outlines his priorities: keeping education spending flat while expanding vouchers—a move that’s led to budget chaos in Arizona. What could this mean for Oklahoma? We analyze it all in the latest Fried Okra episode.
Feb 07, 2025•34 min
If you're passionate about public education in Oklahoma, the Fried Okra podcast is a must-listen. This week we’re breaking down the latest from OSDE, including new rules, the State Board of Ed meeting, and the freeze in federal funding. Plus, we’re looking ahead to the start of the legislative session next week.
Jan 31, 2025•55 min
Meet our new co-host, Cari Elledge, OEA President, as we chat with Ivy about the 3,000+ bills filed ahead of the OK legislative session and what’s next for #oklaed. Tune in!
Jan 24, 2025•38 min
Rep. Cyndi Munson shares her inspiring journey as the first Asian-American woman elected to the state legislature and how political attacks on inclusive programs erode opportunities for underrepresented Oklahomans.
Dec 19, 2024•1 hr 6 min
Join us on a new episode of Fried Okra: The Public Education Podcast for Oklahomans as we dive into legislative leadership heading into the 2025 session! What’s changed? What’s stayed the same? What does this mean for public education advocates in Oklahoma? We’ll break down the threats, opportunities, and key dynamics shaping the future of education in our state.
Dec 12, 2024•41 min
On this week’s Fried Okra, we’re sitting down with Rep. Michelle McCane—Tulsa Library media specialist, OEA member, and newly elected member of the Oklahoma State House of Representatives! Join us as we explore Michelle's incredible 13-year journey as an educator and her courageous decision to step into the political arena to fight for Oklahoma’s future. What inspired her leap from the classroom to the Capitol?
Dec 05, 2024•58 min
On this episode of Fried Okra, we dig in to what it would mean to lose the US Department of Education, who in our schools would be impacted, how would it even happen, and most importantly — who would be excluded?
Nov 15, 2024•32 min
In our latest episode of Fried Okra, we’re breaking down the election results and examining the state superintendent’s shocking statement on preparing Oklahoma for a future without the U.S. Department of Education. What would this mean for our schools, students, and communities? Tune in as we dive deep into what’s at stake for public education in Oklahoma.
Nov 08, 2024•48 min
Tune in for Ellen’s potential farewell episode as we approach Election Day! With five years of insights, she’s breaking down the stakes for #oklaed, plus how unity and policy can change the future. Vote, Oklahoma! 🗳️
Nov 01, 2024•25 min
We’re diving into the Attorney General's lawyer changing the tone of this month's OSDE board meeting—plus, it’s the final stretch to Election Day! Learn about the candidates, issues, dark money in our elections, and ways you can get involved. You can also now find Fried Okra available on Spotify!
Oct 25, 2024•30 min
🎙️ On this episode of Fried Okra we're joined by the experts from @OKPolicy to break down the two upcoming state questions that could reshape the Oklahoma Constitution. 🗳️ Tune in to stay informed and be ready for the vote! Get all the details at okpolicy.org/sq833 or okpolicy.org/sq834
Oct 18, 2024•29 min
🎙️ New episode of Fried Okra is live! We’re joined by Rep. Daniel Pae (R-Lawton) to talk about his education-related interim studies—from AI in schools to student health care, bullying, and more. Plus, hear what voters (across all parties) are saying about holding a certain Superintendent accountable.
Oct 11, 2024•28 min
On this episode of Fried Okra, we dive into the power of educators at the polls! 📊 OEA members vote at a much higher rate than the general public—proving that educators are not just advocates in the classroom but at the ballot box too! But here's the thing: We need EVERYONE to get involved. Educators are some of the most trusted voices in our communities, and when they show up, they make a difference. Let’s activate, engage, and encourage others to vote! 🗣️ PLUS: We discuss Ryan Walters and th...
Oct 04, 2024•45 min
🎙️ New Episode Alert! 🎙️ In this week's Fried Okra: The Public Education Podcast for Oklahomans, we're breaking down the latest chaos at the State Board of Education meeting. - A deep dive into the proposed budget 🧾 - $3 MILLION for Bibles in classrooms 📚✝️ - The legal battles shaking up public education ⚖️ Tune in to get the facts, the context, and our take on what it all means for Oklahoma schools.
Sep 27, 2024•25 min
🎙️ New Episode Alert from Fried Okra — the public education podcast for Oklahomans! 🎙️ This week, we’re diving into the results of this summer’s primary elections and runoffs and gearing up for the general elections this fall. As educators, it’s easy to assume that everyone knows what we do, but we need to engage our families, friends, and neighbors about what’s at stake for public education in Oklahoma. Our state ranks lowest in voter turnout — let’s change that by advocating for pro-public e...
Sep 20, 2024•30 min
🎙️ Fried Okra is BACK! After a wild "Summer of Chaos" in Oklahoma education, we're breaking down everything you need to know about the scandals from the State Supt. and the State Dept. of Ed. ➡️ Mismanagement of funds meant for schools? ✅ ➡️ Defiance of the Attorney General & Open Meetings Act? ✅ ➡️ Bible mandates in classrooms? ✅ ➡️ Out-of-state podcasters shaping OUR education standards? ✅ This avalanche of chaos is taking the focus away from our students, instead serving the political am...
Sep 13, 2024•43 min