Chamber education initiative underway with Director of Education Rhonda Baker

The Greater Oklahoma City Chamber has prioritized education as a focus in its 2024 Strategic Plan, with Rhonda Baker stepping in as the new Director of Education. This initiative aims to tackle the complexities of the education initiative.

At the July Chamber Forum, focusing on the chamber’s strategic plan, Chamber president & CEO Christy Gillenwater expressed the eagerness for this the education initiative, stating,

“There is so much energy and excitement on the education side, and there's a real belief and desire to collaborate, work together and tackle this to the best of Oklahoma City's ability.”

While there is much excitement, Gillenwater also acknowledged the challenges set forth when approaching education. At the recent forum, panelist Bob Funk, Jr. emphasized Gillenwater’s comment, stating, "We know there's no silver bullet to solving educational challenges, but we are committed to making a difference."

Making a difference in education is exactly what Baker is committed to doing in her new role at the Chamber. With 20 years' experience as a teacher for middle school, high school and college, and experience in the Oklahoma House of Representatives, Baker is the perfect candidate to lead the education initiative.

As Director of Education, Baker aims to increase outcomes and opportunities for students, including graduation rates, career and college preparation, engagement in apprenticeships and more. She knew the position would allow her to continue to be highly engaged in education, ensuring promotion, good policy and positive influence for the schools of Oklahoma City.

“I’ve enjoyed learning the ropes and educating myself on the issues at-hand and how I can best support in Oklahoma City and the region,” said Baker.

Currently, Baker is assessing the unique needs and challenges of Oklahoma City’s schools, such as the importance of literacy rates, STEM statistics and COVID-19 education recovery within the region’s schools. Funk Jr. believes another critical role in education is workforce development, with a long-term investment integrating K-12, career technical education and higher education to meet the demands of the workforce market. With each goal presenting a new challenge, the light at the end of the tunnel is not always in clear view. However, the Chamber and its partners are confident the education initiative will achieve many successes toward the overall enhancement of Oklahoma City.

Baker explained her end goal is to configure a plan to increase educational outcomes to attract more families and businesses to the city. “Ultimately, we want to bring favor to Oklahoma City, and when we’re trying to promote economic development and promote our state, the education component is very important,” Baker said. Baker indicated it is time for education to be more proactive by focusing on successes, so the community hears more positive aspects. “Oklahoma City must become more aware of the incredible things educators do for the students and schools,” said Baker.

“I am excited and inspired to wrap our arms around Oklahoma City Public Schools and schools in the area to help and support them in a meaningful way,” Baker said.