Dr. John Cox Outlines Ambitious Education Reform Plan
Oklahoma education leader and political candidate Dr. John Cox has unveiled an ambitious plan to elevate the state’s public education performance from near the bottom of national rankings to the top 25. Speaking as Peggs Public Schools Superintendent and a candidate for State Superintendent of Public Instruction, Dr. Cox said the state must “get back to basics” to restore confidence in its education system and improve outcomes for students.
In a statement titled “Oklahoma’s Academic Comeback: From 50th to Top 25,” Dr. Cox said he is determined to change how Oklahoma’s education system is perceived.
“As a lifelong Oklahoma educator, I’m tired of seeing our students and teachers summed up by a ‘50th place’ ranking. We are better than that – and with strong leadership and the right plan, we can Make Education Great Again,” he said.
Recent data from the 2024 National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) places Oklahoma among the lowest-performing states in key academic areas. The state ranked 47th in fourth-grade reading, 48th in eighth-grade reading, 44th in fourth-grade maths, and 45th in eighth-grade maths. Only about one in five eighth graders reads proficiently. Dr. Cox described these figures as “futures delayed and opportunities lost.”
Focus on Foundational Skills and Teacher Support
Dr. Cox’s proposal focuses on returning to fundamental teaching methods and modernising assessment systems.
“To move from 50th to the Top 25, we must get back to basics,” he said. “That means strengthening early reading through phonics and structured literacy, building solid math foundations, and replacing outdated end-of-year testing with growth-based benchmarks that give teachers real-time feedback.”
He argues that a stronger focus on early literacy and maths proficiency will provide students with the foundation needed for long-term academic and career success. At the same time, he is calling for a reduction in bureaucratic obstacles that prevent teachers from concentrating on classroom instruction.
“Teachers need the freedom and respect to teach again – not to be buried in paperwork,” he added.
Dr. Cox also emphasised the importance of improving support for special education students. He called for “less bureaucracy and more focus on growth,” suggesting that the current system prioritises compliance over outcomes. In his view, reforms must direct resources and attention toward measurable progress rather than administrative processes.
Funding Priorities and Accountability
Another element of his plan focuses on financial accountability within Oklahoma’s school districts. Dr. Cox wants to ensure that a greater proportion of funding reaches classrooms, where it can have the most direct effect on learning.
“Every district must ensure more of its dollars reach classrooms, where they make the greatest impact,” he said.
His approach suggests tighter oversight of district spending combined with flexibility for schools to make targeted investments in teaching and materials.
In addition to rethinking spending priorities, Dr. Cox’s campaign is built around the concept of leadership focused on measurable results. He said Oklahoma must adopt “clear priorities, responsible spending, and leadership focused on results” to deliver meaningful change across the state’s education system.
Vision for Long-Term Growth
Dr. Cox presents his plan as both a moral and practical commitment to Oklahoma’s children.
“I believe Oklahoma’s children can climb,” he said. “With clear priorities, responsible spending, and leadership focused on results, we can build schools where 4th graders read confidently, 8th graders tackle algebra without fear, and every graduate is ready for college, trades, or career.”
He closed his statement with an appeal to move beyond low expectations and redefine what the state’s education system can achieve.
“We are not defined by ‘50th place.’ We are called to close that gap – and give every Oklahoma child the future they deserve,” Dr. Cox said.
The superintendent invited the public to learn more about his education plan at CoxForOK.com, where further details of his campaign proposals are outlined.
