Bixby Public Schools Superintendent Rob Miller officially announced his candidacy for State Superintendent at the Oklahoma Capitol on Tuesday. Miller, a Marine Corps veteran, former teacher, and principal, has served as Bixby’s superintendent for the past seven years. He is running as a Republican but emphasized on his campaign website that he aims to eliminate politics from education.
“Oklahoma’s kids deserve better, and I’m running for State Superintendent to make sure they get it,” Miller said. “I won’t let partisan politics ruin our schools. I’ll fight for results, for families, and most importantly, for our kids.”
In an exclusive interview with the Tulsa World, Miller confirmed that he will retire from his role as Bixby’s superintendent on June 30.
Miller’s campaign priorities include focusing on students, improving teacher pay and retention, protecting local control, ensuring school safety, promoting innovation, supporting families, and standing up against extreme policies.
Currently, Miller is involved in a defamation lawsuit against the incumbent State Superintendent, Ryan Walters. Walters, during a July 2024 press conference, called Miller a “liar” and a “clown,” and questioned the financial stability of Bixby Public Schools. The lawsuit is still in progress.
Walters, who has been speculated to consider running for governor, has not yet announced his plans for the upcoming election for State Superintendent.
When asked for comment, Walters’ spokesperson, Grace Kim, said that the state superintendent’s political decisions would be made at a later date.
“Superintendent Walters remains focused on keeping woke administrators out of the classroom, implementing President Trump’s education reforms, and empowering parents to have a greater voice in their children’s education,” Kim added.
