Marlow Public Schools Welcomes New Board of Education Member

Marlow Public Schools welcomed a new member to its Board of Education Monday evening as John Graham was sworn in to serve on Board Seat #2. Graham will complete the remainder of the term following the recent resignation of longtime board member Mark O’Neal, who stepped down after 25 years of service to Marlow Public Schools and the Marlow community.

A Marlow High School graduate and longtime community member, Graham said serving on the school board is both an honor and an opportunity to give back to the community that helped shape him.

“Marlow has always been home to me and the schools played a significant role in shaping who I am today.” Graham said. “This position gives me an opportunity to give back to a community that has invested so much in my family and me.”

Graham returned to Marlow as a high school sophomore after spending part of his childhood living in several locations around the world and in Texas due to his parents’ careers with Halliburton. He graduated from Marlow High School in 1992 and has spent the past 28 years working for Halliburton in a variety of roles.

His connection to the Marlow community has continued well beyond his time as a student. For more than 10 years, Graham has served in youth ministry at his church, working with young people and families throughout the community, including many Marlow students. He and his wife, Denise Graham, currently have a senior, Kenleigh Graham, and a freshman, Jantz Graham, attending Marlow Public Schools.

In his new role, Graham said he hopes to be a board member who listens, learns and works collaboratively with others to keep students at the center of district decisions.

“My goal is to support decisions that strengthen educational opportunities, ensure responsible stewardship of district resources, and help prepare our students not only for college, but for careers and life after graduation,” he said.

Graham takes on the role following the departure of O’Neal, who was recently recognized by the district for his 25 years of service on the Board of Education. During his tenure, O’Neal helped guide the district through numerous leadership transitions, bond projects, the COVID-19 pandemic and countless decisions affecting generations of Marlow students.

“Mark O’Neal’s 25 years of service represent an incredible commitment to Marlow Public Schools and our community,” Superintendent Corey Holland said. “We are grateful for the time, leadership and perspective Mark brought to the board over the years. As we welcome John, we look forward to the experience, perspective and commitment he will bring to this role.”

Graham said he is grateful for the opportunity to serve and looks forward to working alongside fellow board members, district administrators, teachers, parents and community members.

“Marlow has a strong tradition of supporting its schools, and that partnership between families, educators, and the community is one of our greatest strengths,” he said. “I look forward to listening to the community, working collaboratively, and always keeping students at the center of every decision we make.”

Marlow Public Schools is committed to providing the best possible opportunities for every student, and we are proud to have Graham join the Board of Education as we continue building on the strong tradition of excellence that makes MPS special.