Gov. Mary Fallin has selected state Rep. Michael Rogers to serve on the Education Commission of the States.
Founded in 1965, the nonpartisan organization was created by states to track state policy trends, translate academic research and provide unbiased advice and information.
By law, the commission chair alternates between Democratic and Republican governors every two years. Members of the Education Commission of the States include governors, state legislators and education leaders.
Rogers, who served this year as vice chair of the Oklahoma House Common Education Committee, said he will benefit from a wider perspective on education policy.
“I am excited to take part in this nationwide discussion of education policy,” said Rogers, R-Broken Arrow. “I think it is important to get education policy right. Looking around at what other states are doing will give me a wider perspective on what works and what doesn’t work.”
Oklahoma struggles when it comes to ensuring all students get a proper education, Rogers said.
“I know that our educators work very hard, but I think some of them face unique challenges and our role at the Oklahoma Legislature is look for ways to make the system better serve our children,” Rogers said. “In doing so, we must be careful to help rather than harm. Getting the education policy right is critical.”