State Board Of Education Weighing Possible Revocation Of Teaching Certificates For Multiple Oklahoma Educators

The Oklahoma State Board of Education is meeting on Thursday to discuss the possibility of revoking the teaching certificates of several Oklahoma educators.

Thursday, October 24th 2024, 9:35 am

By: Addie Crawford, News 9


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The Oklahoma State Board of Education is meeting on Thursday to discuss the teaching certificates of several Oklahoma educators.

One of the main points on Thursday's agenda is that of Shawnee Schools Superintendent Aaron Espolt, who has been under investigation for what the Oklahoma State Department of Education calls a "pattern of inappropriate interactions with students" in several districts in Oklahoma.

The allegations first came to light in August, when Shawnee Public Schools said they received word that Espolt was under OSDE investigation.

RELATED: Shawnee Public Schools Superintendent On Administrative Leave

According to court records, the accusations against Espolt date back to his early days as a teacher in Little Axe and Boone-Apache school districts.

Court records indicate he engaged in sexual relationships with students between 2000 to 2005, however, Espolt has denied all allegations, calling them vague and salacious, and says he hasn't been charged with a crime.

Espolt has since filed a lawsuit asking the court to stop the board from suspending his license, and in response, the board delayed the discussion and sent his case to a revocation hearing.

RELATED: State Board Of Education Tables Emergency Suspension Of Shawnee Superintendent

Thursday's agenda does not show if Esplot has had a hearing, but it suggests members will once again discuss revoking his license.

Also, the board is set to discuss taking emergency action on the certification for former Bixby High School principal Mickey Replogle, who is accused of being intoxicated at a school dance in September.

RELATED: Bixby High School Principal Arrested, Accused Of Public Intoxication; Suspended By District

Thursday's meeting begins at 9:30 a.m.

Addie Crawford

Addie Crawford joined the News 9 team as a morning Multimedia Journalist in January of 2023.  She is from a small-but-growing town: Midlothian, Texas. However, she considers herself an “adopted Okie” now. 

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