In this episode of Swimming Upstream, former Idaho State Superintendent and host Tom Luna sits down with Dr. April Grace, Executive Director and CEO of the Oklahoma Public School Resource Center (OPSRC) and one of Oklahoma’s most respected education leaders. With more than 35 years in public education—including recognition as Oklahoma’s 2021 Superintendent of the Year. Dr. Grace brings deep experience in district leadership, HR, instructional design, policy development, and statewide system building.

Tom and Dr. Grace dive into the critical challenges facing Oklahoma schools today, beginning with OPSRC’s mission to expand access, innovation, and academic achievement across all public schools—particularly in rural communities and small districts that often lack back-office capacity, legal support, or high-quality professional development. Dr. Grace explains how OPSRC delivers free training, leadership development, technical assistance, and grant-supported resources to ensure every student—no matter their ZIP code, has access to strong instruction and meaningful opportunities.

A key focus of their conversation is the teacher pipeline crisis. Dr. Grace highlights Oklahoma's registered teacher apprenticeship program, a “grow-your-own” strategy helping paraprofessionals and community members earn degrees while working in schools. She also discusses OPSRC’s mentorship program for early-career teachers and the need to expand multi-year support to strengthen retention.

The episode also explores literacy, AI, career pathways, and how Oklahoma schools are reimagining learning through aviation academies, VR science programs, and innovative technology tools built with safety and personalization in mind.

Key Moments

04:29 Teacher Apprenticeship Policy Updates

09:24 "Expanding School Choice Opportunities"

12:23 "AI and Evolving Education"

16:27 "Prioritizing K-2 Foundational Skills"

20:19 Oklahoma Schools Embrace Aviation Programs

21:49 Kids Inspire Hope

Connect with Dr. April Grace

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/april-grace-ed-d-21705b2a/

Website: https://www.ou.edu/