Franklin Opposes Ben Gamla Jewish Charter Application
Oklahoma's superintendent-elect has stated opposition to a proposed taxpayer-funded Jewish online charter school as the state board pursues an appeal.
Updated on Nov. 6, 2026 in Administration
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Superintendent-elect Robert Franklin has stated his opposition to the Ben Gamla Jewish Charter School application, a proposed taxpayer-funded Jewish online charter school. The Statewide Charter School Board voted in executive session to continue pursuing an appeal to the Tenth Circuit regarding a preliminary injunction.
Why it matters
The dispute tests how Oklahoma's constitution separates religion from public education when a faith-based school seeks state funding. The board says it wants clarity from federal and state courts on the matter.
The Statewide Charter School Board voted to pursue an appeal to the Tenth Circuit over the preliminary injunction against the school. Franklin did not attend the Thursday board meeting, and the next meeting is scheduled for Dec. 14.
The players
Robert Franklin
Robert Franklin is Oklahoma's superintendent-elect, who has stated his opposition to the proposed Jewish charter school and previously voted against the archdiocese's virtual charter application.
Statewide Charter School Board
The Statewide Charter School Board is the Oklahoma body that approves and oversees state charter schools and voted to continue its appeal over the injunction.
The details
Franklin, who will take office as superintendent, said he opposes the Ben Gamla application and cited the importance of separating faith and public education as outlined in the state constitution. The board discussed the case in executive session on Thursday before voting to continue its appeal.
Timeline
Thursday: Statewide Charter School Board meets, discusses the case in executive session and votes to pursue appeal.
Dec. 14: Next Statewide Charter School Board meeting.
Legal Context
Oklahoma's constitution bars public funds from supporting religious schools, the principle now being tested by the Ben Gamla proposal. The state's dispute over whether a faith-based online charter can operate with public money continues to play out through the courts.
Oklahoma families weighing public charter options may see whether a Jewish online school becomes available depending on the appeal outcome. The ruling could also shape which faith-affiliated programs qualify for state funding.
The takeaway
Readers should watch the December board agenda and any Tenth Circuit filings, since the outcome will determine whether faith-based charter applications can proceed with public funding in Oklahoma.
What happens next
The Statewide Charter School Board will meet again on Dec. 14, when further action on the appeal could be discussed.
Further reading
For related coverage of school leadership decisions, explore Administration in Oklahoma education news.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KOCO.
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