The K20 Center’s partnership with the University of Oklahoma began in 1995 with the Oklahoma Networks for Excellence (O.N.E.), a joint venture to promote democratic education by facilitating conversations and professional development among Oklahoma schools. In April of 2001, Dr. Mary John O’Hair, O.N.E.’s Executive Director, drafted an ambitious proposal aimed to bring together teachers, administrators, students, parents, and community members of all backgrounds to share ideas, analyze problems, and develop strategies for improved teaching, learning, and community life.

The proposal outlined both local and international goals, including a detailed plan for building better-educated citizens and a more equitable society. Dr. O’Hair envisioned broad educational and social outcomes, but with specific standards and well-defined goals. The plan formed a framework for K20’s organizational structure, cited research supporting local school networks, and presented the IDEALS, a foundation on which the K20 Center still stands. For the past 19 years, the K20 Center has strived to maintain and build on the founding principles that Dr. O’Hair put forward and the vision she charted.