Damon Gardenhire, communictions director at the Oklahoma Department of Education, contacted CapitolBeatOK Friday evening (December 2) to respond to reports that Joel Robison, a top leader at the Oklahoma Education Association, will become chief of staff for Superintendent of Public Instruction Janet Barresi.

 

Gardenhire told CapitolBeatOK: “Superintendent Barresi has worked with Joel and has been impressed with his educational insights and expertise. He is committed to support reform and wants to be part of her reform efforts.”

 

Gardenhire also disclosed that he will be taking on additional duties as a policy advisor to the superintendent.

 

Jennifer Carter, Barresi’s first chief of staff, decided not to return from her recent maternity leave.

 

CapitolBeatOK first reported the possible hiring of Robison in August.