Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt has recently shuffled the composition of the State Board of Education, with the departure of two members followed by the appointment of their successors. Announced via a release on the Governor's official website, Zach Archer and Sarah Lepak are departing their roles and are being replaced by Brian Bobek and Wes Nofire. Stitt expressed his gratitude towards Archer and Lepak for their dedication as board members, stating, "Zach and Sarah have been tireless advocates for the students of Oklahoma," and acknowledged the political challenges they faced.
Bringing a wealth of experience in the educational sector, Brian Bobek, who has already graced multiple boards including the Statewide Virtual Charter School Board for Oklahoma, steps into one of the vacancies. According to the Governor's office, Bobek currently holds a position as the director of the Governor's Office of Faith Based and Community Initiatives. Returning to the board is Wes Nofire, a former professional boxer and Cherokee Nation Tribal Council member, who also served as the Governor’s Native American liaison.
With the schools positioned for a potential uplift, these appointments signal Governor Stitt's intentions for the State Department of Education. "The State Department of Education is primed for a turnaround, and this board is ready to ensure students are receiving the highest caliber education from teachers who want to make Oklahoma top ten in everything we do," he was quoted. The Governor's statement emphasized a focal trio of principles for the new board: transparency, accountability, and excellence.
As Bobek and Nofire assume their roles and take on the responsibilities bequeathed by their predecessors, the state observes a shift that caters to Gov. Stitt's vision for educational reform. The Governor expressed his confidence, outlined in his statement, anticipating a period of rolling changes that align with his administration's educational objectives.
