Barresi, Miller, Pruitt get our endorsements

Janet Barresi is our choice to replace Sandy Garrett as superintendent. Barresi, a Republican, has an established reputation as an education reformer and isn't afraid to challenge the status quo — just what Oklahoma needs. Her opponent is Democratic state Sen. Susan Paddack of Ada, a former teacher and college instructor who has been an education advocate during her time in the Legislature.

While Garrett led an education department that has made noteworthy accomplishments during her 20 years in office, reform has unprecedented national momentum and Oklahoma must be part of it. The state needs someone who will stand up to the unions and work to cut away bureaucratic red tape that blocks reform. As the founder of the state's first charter school, Barresi understands that all schools and all children desperately need strong principals and high-quality teachers.

She acknowledges the state will have to be creative with reform because of budget troubles and she opposes State Question 744 as bad policy. Paddack has refused to take a stand on the measure. That's unacceptable not only for a state superintendent but for a state senator who will retain her seat if she isn't elected to the top education job.