Dr. Romines Named to the Oklahoma Educators Hall of Fame

 

 

 

OKLAHOMA CITY — Three esteemed Oklahoma educators — Dr. Robert Romines, Dr. Sara Ann (Sally) Beach, and Dr. Jim McCharen — have been selected for induction into the Oklahoma Educators Hall of Fame, recognizing their exceptional leadership and lasting impact on students, schools and communities across the state.

 

“Our 38th class of Hall of Fame honorees reflects the extraordinary dedication and influence of educators who have shaped opportunities for students and strengthened communities across Oklahoma,” said Sharon Lease, executive director of the Oklahoma Educators Hall of Fame.

 

“From the classroom to district leadership to higher education, their work continues to open doors, elevate the profession and inspire the next generation of learners and educators. It is a privilege to recognize their remarkable contributions.”

 

Oklahoma Educators Hall of Fame President Deena Fisher also praised this year’s inductees.

 

“This year’s honorees represent the very best of Oklahoma education,” Fisher said. “Their careers demonstrate the many ways educators can lead, innovate and serve — each leaving a unique mark on students and communities. We are proud to celebrate their achievements and welcome them into the Oklahoma Educators Hall of Fame.”

 

Dr. Robert Romines, superintendent of Moore Public Schools, is recognized for his steady, student-centered leadership and more than 30 years of service in education. Since becoming superintendent in 2013, Dr. Romines has guided one of Oklahoma’s largest school districts through significant challenges and growth, including leading the district’s recovery following devastating tornadoes and navigating complex crises with transparency and resilience.

 

Under Romines’ leadership, Moore Public Schools has expanded college and career readiness opportunities, including the development of College and Career Centers and innovative programs that provide students with industry certifications and real-world work experiences. He has also championed initiatives to support at-risk students, strengthen mental health services, and enhance school safety, while fostering a culture of collaboration among educators, families and the community.

 

Romines began his education career as a fifth-grade teacher and has spent his entire professional career in Moore.

 

“Dr. Romines is an extraordinary leader whose model exemplifies the highest standards of professional excellence in education,” said Anna Aguilar, communications and community relations director for Moore Public Schools. “His unwavering commitment to students, employees and families — paired with his ability to lead through even the most challenging circumstances — has strengthened our district academically and operationally.”

 

Dr. Sara Ann (Sally) Beach, Professor Emeritus at the University of Oklahoma, is a nationally recognized literacy scholar whose career spans nearly five decades and has influenced literacy education across Oklahoma and beyond. She began her career as an elementary school teacher in Texas and taught at Department of Defense schools serving military families overseas. At OU,

 

Dr. Beach helped prepare and mentor hundreds of teachers, reading specialists and education leaders, while also serving as a mentor to dozens of doctoral students.

 

Beach’s research has been widely published in leading journals and has contributed to advancing early and adolescent literacy practices, particularly by bridging research and classroom application. Dr. Beach has secured and led major research grants, contributed to statewide literacy initiatives, and developed programs that support teacher training and student learning. Her work has also extended internationally through literacy and service-learning initiatives, and she has played a key role in strengthening connections between the university and schools through community-based programs.

 

“Across 47 years in the education profession, Dr. Beach has exemplified the highest standards of an educator through her leadership, scholarship, service and statewide impact,” said Stacy Reeder, dean of OU’s Jeannine Rainbolt College of Education. “Her work has reached classrooms statewide, prepared and mentored hundreds of teachers, and ensured that research translates into meaningful learning for students.”

 

Dr. Jim McCharen, former superintendent of Choctaw-Nicoma Park Schools, is honored for his nearly 50-year career in education, including over three decades in administration and nearly two decades as superintendent. A visionary leader, Dr. McCharen expanded educational opportunities for students through innovative vocational and alternative education programs, including initiatives that improved outcomes for at-risk students and increased access to higher education through partnerships such as the “Ticket to Rose” program.

 

During McCharen’s tenure, the district successfully passed major bond issues with strong community support, allowing for improvements in facilities, technology and student resources. He also contributed to education at the state and national levels through leadership roles in professional organizations and policy efforts, helping shape initiatives focused on school improvement, dropout prevention and career education. His work has left a meaningful mark on both his district and the broader educational landscape in Oklahoma.

 

“Dr. McCharen’s career spans decades of transformative leadership, and his impact on Oklahoma education is both profound and far-reaching,” said David Reid, superintendent of Choctaw-Nicoma Park Schools. “His dedication to student success, innovative programming and community engagement has created opportunities for thousands of students and set a standard of excellence for educators across the state.”

 

The Oklahoma Educators Hall of Fame recognizes individuals who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, service and dedication to improving education in Oklahoma. Inductees represent the highest standards of the profession and have made significant, lasting contributions to the success of students and schools.

 

The 2026 induction ceremony will be held Oct. 30 at Oklahoma City Golf and Country Club, where these educators will be formally honored for their achievements and enduring impact on public education.

 

For more information and ticket information, contact Lease at 405.692.3190 or sharon.lease@macu.edu.