Public invited to share their views on education as part of Legislative Democrats’ Capitol Conversations

OKLAHOMA CITY – Senate and House Democrats are kicking off their fall series of Capitol Conversations beginning Thursday, September 4, with teachers, administrators, parents, and citizens sharing their views and concerns about public education in Oklahoma.

“We know Oklahomans from all political backgrounds, from every part of the state, want excellence in education, but they’re frustrated with policies and stunts that put politics over our children,” said Sen. Carri Hicks, D-Oklahoma City, who serves on the Senate Education Committee and is an educator. “For our first fall Capitol Conversation, we’re bringing together a panel of education experts, but we’re also giving Oklahomans time to share their perspectives. We’re excited to hear your thoughts and ideas about building a better future for our children and our state through education.”

The September 4 Capitol Conversation will be held in room 535, beginning at 5:30 p.m., and will include a panel with Misty Bradley of the Oklahoma Parent Legislative Advocacy Coalition (OKPLAC); Dr. Mike Simpson, District Superintendent Guthrie Public Schools; Heather Davis, Bartlesville educator and member of the Oklahoma Education Association; and Oklahoma City Public Schools Board Member Mike Shelton.

Members of the public will have up to two minutes on mic to share their thoughts with legislators on education issues. Joining Senator Hicks will be Rep. Melissa Provenzano, D-Tulsa, an educator and school administrator who serves on the House Education Oversight Committee.

“I’m excited to help open up the conversation between Oklahomans and lawmakers on the future of education in Oklahoma as we head into the 2026 Legislative Session,” Provenzano said. “It is vital that we bring the voices of Oklahomans to the Capitol so we can work toward real solutions that benefit teachers, students, and parents in our state. I am looking forward to hearing from everyone and continuing to work alongside the Oklahoma Senate Democrats to support Oklahoma public education.” 

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For more information, contact: 
Sen. Carri Hicks at 405-521-5543 or Carri.Hicks@oksenate.gov
Rep. Melissa Provenzano at 405-557-7330 or Melissa.Provenzano@okhouse.gov