A new episode of Fried Okra features OREA President Paula Squires and OEA Education Support Professional of the Year Kathy Hale. Paula shares how retired educators continue to protect the future for those still in the classroom, while Kathy discusses her role in Putnam City and the fight for fair pay and respect through the ESP Bill of Rights. #oklaed

In this episode of Fried Okra, we talk with Mid-Del teacher, City Councilor, and OEA member Kim Blodgett about why educators should get involved in their communities and how chaos and uncertainty often hit our most vulnerable students hardest. #oklaed

In this episode of Fried Okra, we sit down with Dalaney Santos, President of the Oklahoma Aspiring Educators Association, and OEA Organizer Josh Frazier to discuss the future of the teaching profession, the importance of supporting aspiring educators, and how OAEA is helping shape the path forward for Oklahoma public education. #oklaed

Ryan Walters is out. In this episode of Fried Okra, we break down his resignation, the timeline leading to it, his chaotic legacy, and what it means for Oklahoma education. We also look to the future with hope, while remembering the lessons of the past. #oklaed

We talk with AFL-CIO Oklahoma President Jimmy Curry and OEA Executive Director Dr. Rhonda Harlow about Oklahoma’s deep labor roots, the victories and struggles of the past, the current state of organizing, and how lessons from history can guide us toward a stronger future.

We sit down with Heather Davis, Bartlesville teacher and Award for Teaching Excellence winner, whose “Magic in Oklahoma Classrooms” message is inspiring educators statewide. In this episode, Heather shares why she chose teaching, what makes her classroom unique, and why it’s vital for educators to tell their own stories. She also reflects on the role of OEA in uniting teachers, the importance of strong advocacy for public schools, and how every classroom moment can shape a brighter future for Oklahoma.

Fried Okra is back from summer break! We recap the scandals and chaos at the State Dept. and Board of Ed, explore how new laws like the cell phone ban are hitting schools, and look ahead to a big year with the state superintendent race on the horizon. Listen now. #oklaed

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.

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.

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