TULSA, Okla. — Monday is the state deadline for lawmakers to pass along an education budget to the governor.
Without that funding in sight, teachers are now launching Red for Ed Week. This will include everything from marching on street corners with signs, to inviting legislators into classrooms.
"They really do have the kids' best interests in mind and we just need support. We'll do the right thing if you just give us support. Your kids are in good hands, you just need to help us out," Union 6th/7th Grade Center teacher Brendan Jarvis said.
Educators said as they become more vocal, they're starting to see change.
"We had a huge turnout in the elections. We had really, really good pro-public education candidates not only put themseles forward but also take some of those really important seats," Union 8th Grade Center teacher Betty Collins said.
Dozens of teachers are at the capitol every week this year, and they're joined by families in the expansion of parent legislative action committees statewide.
"As teachers we've killed a few pretty negative bills this year and the only reason that it has happened has been because teachers have ramped up the activity. More teachers are calling, more teachers are emailing, more teachers are going up to the capitol," Collins said.
For many schools, this is testing week, so not everyone will participate. But teachers expect additional rallies and events in the weeks ahead.
Stay in touch with us anytime, anywhere.
Download our free app for Apple and Android and Kindle devices.
Sign up for newsletters emailed to your inbox. Select from these options: Breaking News, Severe Weather, School Closings, Daily Headlines and Daily Forecasts.
