Moore Public Schools superintendent breaks down OK's low rank in education

OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) — For years, Oklahoma has lingered at the bottom of state rankings for education. Moore Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Robert Romines breaks down the reasons why.

According to a new survey completed by Wallet Hub, Oklahoma ranks 50th in the nation for education, with New Mexico coming in at 51st.

Dr. Romines says Oklahoma's systemic issues are possibly a factor in why the state has fallen short in education year after year.

"We are ranked at number one in substance abuse and mental illness, we have the fourth highest rate in incarcerations. We have the sixth highest rate as far as poverty is concerned, and just right at 25% of all Oklahoma children face some type of food insecurities," Dr. Romines said.

Until those issues are addressed, Dr. Romines said he doesn't see our low rank jumping any higher.

State Superintendent Ryan Walters was asked about the ranking in a board meeting on July 24.

State Supt. Walters said, "When you look at education rankings, a lot of these are kind of ridiculous. So they still have to take into account how much money we put into education. That's never been an evaluation of mine. What makes a good education system is its outcomes."

In order to move the needle, Dr. Romines said changes have to be made at both local and state levels.

For years, Moore Public Schools has implemented programs aimed at bridging the gap and improving student outcomes.

Dr. Romines says that their district has worked diligently to address the teacher shortage and has almost filled all of their vacant positions for this upcoming school year.

"When students leave or graduate from Moore Public Schools, our goal is that they have somewhat at a plan in moving forward," Dr. Romines said.

Dr. Romines said to also keep in mind, Oklahoma tests all juniors. A neighboring state might only use the ACT for its college-bound students, so their scores might be higher.