'Educating Oklahoma' documentary will air on OETA

Monday, March 10, 2025

Media Contact: Kirsi McDowell | Communications Coordinator | 405-744-8320 | kirsi@okstate.edu

“Educating Oklahoma: Keeping the Promise of Public Education” — a full-length feature with a runtime just under an hour — will broadcast on Oklahoma Educational Television Authority on Thursday, March 20, at 7 p.m.

Produced by the Oklahoma State University College of Education and Human Sciences, the original documentary addresses public education and the profession of teaching in the state.

The documentary, filmed and directed by Kelly Kerr of CEHS, first premiered on the OSU campus in August 2024.

Kerr said that what began as a project to showcase the value of teachers despite barriers they may face within public education has proven to remain a topic of priority.

The film spans from the early days of education in Oklahoma territory to the present day, exploring the profession in earnest through a collection of interviews with more than 50 teachers, administrators, legislators and retirees.

“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.”

From mental health to changes in child nutrition guidelines and more, the film touches on various aspects of the educational journey. It provides insight on what it means to be a teacher in rural, urban and suburban districts.

"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," said Mike Simpson, superintendent of Guthrie Public Schools.

While it’s nearly impossible to capture the essence of teaching without discussing the challenges, the resounding message throughout the interviews is that it’s all about the kids — meeting them where they are, helping them reach their potential, and building lasting, cross-generational relationships among students, teachers and parents.

After all, teaching is the profession that shapes all other professions.