Original documentary ‘Educating Oklahoma’ to premiere Aug. 29 at Oklahoma State University

Tuesday, August 27, 2024

Media Contact: Christy Lang | Director, Marketing and Communications | 405-744-9740 | christy.lang@okstate.edu

During a special screening premiere, the Oklahoma State University College of Education and Human Sciences will debut “Educating Oklahoma: Keeping the Promise of Public Education” at 7 p.m., Aug. 29, at the OSU Student Union Theater on the Stillwater campus. 

The event is free and open to the public, and RSVPs are encouraged. The film will be available to stream at InsideOSU.com beginning on Sept. 5. 

The full-length documentary explores public education in Oklahoma while highlighting the value of teachers and the work they do. The 59-minute documentary was produced by CEHS and filmed and directed by Kelly Kerr, the college’s award-winning multimedia producer. 

“This documentary is a truly inspiring journey about educators in Oklahoma,” said Dr. Jon Pedersen, CEHS dean. “It captures the resilience and dedication of teachers amidst challenging circumstances, with a compelling narrative that sheds light on the profound impact of education in shaping lives and celebrates the unsung heroes impacting the future of Oklahoma's youth.”

Kerr visited rural, suburban and urban schools in all regions of the state and interviewed more than 50 individuals, including teachers, administrators, retirees and legislators. The film provides an inside look at what teaching is like and how schools serve students and communities. The film touches on the history of public education in Oklahoma, mental health, school safety and nutrition and more. 

Praises for Educating Oklahoma

"Educating Oklahoma is a powerful and personal introspective into what being an educator is all about. You will be inspired by the depth of devotion and the passion of the people tasked with teaching our youth today. This film will make you want to reach out and thank a teacher!"

Bill Peeper
Educator, Cushing High School 

"This documentary begins with an emotional, life-changing gift to a future teacher and goes on to capture the hopes and dreams of educators across our great state. The cross-section of different generations of educators demonstrates a common desire to place students first regardless of the challenges."

Mike Simpson
Superintendent Guthrie Public Schools / 2024 Superintendent of the Year