From Classrooms to Careers: The Chamber’s Education and Workforce Priorities

Education and workforce development sit at the center of the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber’s legislative agenda. The focus is simple: strengthen the talent pipeline at every stage so Oklahoma can grow, compete, and attract employers.

Here’s how the Chamber is approaching that work.

Start early to support working families

The Chamber views early childhood care and education as an economic issue as much as an education one. Reliable, high-quality childcare allows parents to stay in the workforce while giving children a stronger start.

Priorities include full funding for pre-K and kindergarten, continued support for childcare workforce programs like Oklahoma Strong Start, and early literacy initiatives that help kids enter school ready to learn.

Invest in schools for long-term results

Rather than short-term fixes, the Chamber supports a long-term funding strategy that improves classroom outcomes and student achievement.

That includes more instructional time, smaller and more effective classroom settings, extended learning opportunities beyond the traditional school day, and an updated school funding formula that better reflects student needs.

Fix the teacher pipeline

Teacher shortages remain one of the biggest threats to education quality and workforce readiness. The Chamber supports policies that help recruit, train, and retain educators, especially in high-need schools and subject areas.

This includes competitive pay, mentorship and induction programs, alternative certification pathways, and expanded “grow-your-own” programs that help students and paraprofessionals become teachers.

Prepare students for in-demand careers

From STEM education to CareerTech, the Chamber supports education models that align directly with workforce needs.

Priorities include expanded concurrent enrollment, work-based learning opportunities, industry-aligned certifications, and stronger connections between K-12, higher education and employers.

Use data to guide decisions

Oklahoma is the only state without a statewide longitudinal data system. The Chamber sees this as a major barrier to effective education and workforce planning.

A modern data system would help track student outcomes, connect education to workforce results, and give educators, employers and policymakers better tools to make informed decisions.

Support learning recovery and student well-being

The Chamber supports evidence-based strategies to address learning loss, improve literacy and numeracy, and expand tutoring and extended learning opportunities. Mental health support for students and educators is also a key part of building a healthy, resilient workforce.

Strengthen higher education and adult learning

Meeting workforce demand means helping more Oklahomans complete degrees, certifications and training programs.

The Chamber supports reforms that align higher education funding with critical occupations, expand access for part-time and adult learners, encourage innovation and strengthen partnerships between universities, CareerTechs and employers.