OK SB1718

Establishes the Oklahoma Principal Leadership Development Program through the State Department of Education, Office of Educational Quality and Accountability, and Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education to increase principal effectiveness

Implements in three phases: professional development plan with 5 days of training beginning 2026-2027; two-year mentorship program for new principals beginning 2027-2028; year-long principal leadership academy beginning 2028-2029

Requires professional development plans to include at least one goal for student academic growth/achievement and one goal for school climate, with elementary principals receiving additional training in early literacy and numeracy

Provides $5,000 stipends (subject to available funding) to new principals beginning 2029-2030 who complete required professional development, mentorship, and remain employed in Oklahoma public schools

Effective date of July 1, 2026, with emergency clause for immediate implementation upon passage