Oklahoma City Parents Are Choosing Quality

Brent Bushey, CEO of Fuel OKC, makes a compelling case for something that sounds simple but is often overlooked: if we want to improve education, we should start by listening to families. As a parent, a former teacher, and a longtime education leader, Brent brings a perspective that is both personal and grounded in real data from Oklahoma City families.

Fuel OKC is a nonprofit committed to expanding quality school options and improving outcomes for students across Oklahoma City.

"This conversation isn't about school type. It's about improving outcomes for students."

What Brent describes in his op-ed reflects something City Fund sees across the cities we work in: when parents have the freedom to choose what's right for their child, and when local leaders have the tools to meet that demand, things change. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to education — and families know that better than anyone.

"Oklahoma City parents are sending a clear message. They want quality schools, they want to expand what works, and they want more — and better — options for their children."

Oklahoma City is showing what's possible when parents are heard, and local leaders are empowered to act.