While 195 votes separated the two OKCPS chairperson candidates in February’s general election, the District 1 and 2 races were even closer, with only 43 and 74 votes separating the two frontrunners, respectively.
If current District 4 member Paula Lewis wins her bid for chairperson, the board will appoint someone to fill that seat until the next school board election in February 2018.
The election is set for Tuesday. Check your voter registration to find your local polling place.
Profession: Founder and occupational therapist at Oklahoma Therapy Institute; co-founder at Quest Pediatric Therapy Education experience: Elected board member for District 4 in 2016; chairperson, OKCPS Wellness Committee; member, OKCPS Operations Committee Platform: Progressive change; transparency and accountability Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter
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3District 1: Charles Henry
Profession: Attorney; special judge with OKCÂ municipal court Education experience: Graduated Northwest Classen High School Platform:Â Increase school funding to attract and retain teachers; supports charters if they can “help kids improve their lives” Links: Website |Â Facebook
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4District 1: Cheryl Poole
Profession: Retired Education experience: Former teacher; master’s degree in elementary education; 2001-2002 Teacher of the Year Platform: Improving education quality; smart budgeting; attracting and retaining teachers Links: Website
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5District 2: Rebecca Budd
Profession: Retired consultant Education experience: OKCPS volunteer since 2014 Platform: Strategic school planning; budget management; supports “inclusive and accessible” charters; opposes vouchers/ESAs Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter
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6District 2: Nick Singer
Profession: Legislative organizer for Oklahoma Education Association Education experience: (see above) Platform: Broadening educational opportunities; pro-public schools; opposes vouchers; wary of charters; favors more school bonds Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter