Oklahoma – Gov. Kevin Stitt announced that State Superintendent of Public Instruction Lindel Fields will also serve as Oklahoma secretary of Education while continuing in his current role.
Stitt said Fields has demonstrated strong leadership since taking on his position as state superintendent and expressed confidence that he will continue supporting students and families in the expanded role.
“Lindel has already shown strong, steady leadership, and I am confident he will continue serving Oklahoma students and families with focus and integrity in this expanded role,” Stitt said. “We are making real progress in education, and I look forward to continuing that momentum alongside our educators, parents, and school leaders.”
Fields said he was honored by Stitt’s decision and would continue focusing on students and teachers while serving in both positions.
“I am humbled and honored by Governor Stitt’s confidence in asking me to serve as Oklahoma’s Secretary of Education while continuing to serve as State Superintendent of Public Instruction,” Fields said.
Fields said he plans to approach both roles with the same focus and collaboration that have guided his work during the past year.
“My goal is simple: finish strong, build momentum, and leave Oklahoma’s education system stronger than I found it,” Fields said.
Stitt said Oklahoma has continued making progress in education through investments in teachers, students and classrooms. Educators are also set to receive a third teacher pay raise under his administration this year.
The governor also said he is encouraged by Fields taking on the additional responsibility as Oklahoma prepares for the state’s childhood reading law to take effect during the 2027-2028 school year.
The law is expected to bring additional attention to early literacy and how schools identify and support students who may be struggling with reading.
Stitt said having Fields serve in both positions would help provide continuity as the state moves toward implementation of the reading requirements.
The governor also thanked Dan Hamlin for his service as secretary of Education and credited him with helping expand access to parent choice programs and assisting families in finding educational options that best fit their children’s needs.
Fields will now oversee both roles as Stitt’s administration continues its education agenda, with the state focusing on teacher compensation, student achievement, school choice and the implementation of new education policies.
Oklahoma Gov. Stitt makes major leadership move, announces expanded role as state prepares for major changes coming to schools and new reading requirements
