More schools have announced plans to cancel classes March 31 so students and staff can attend a rally at the state Capitol in favor of more education funding.
The Tulsa World reports that school boards in Bixby, Broken Arrow and Sapulpa all voted Monday to cancel classes for the March for Education rally. Leaders in Claremore and Owasso have tabled discussions on the issue until next month.
"March 31st is about kids needing additional funding, less high-stakes testing, and more local control," said Sand Springs Superintendent Lloyd Snow, whose school board voted last month to cancel school March 31 and make up the day either Feb. 17 or March 14. "Being funded at 2008 levels with more kids and higher fixed costs like fuel, electricity and water is simple math," he said. "When you add the additional reform expectations and accountability, it seems unimaginable anyone would make the case we are even close to adequately funded."
The Tulsa school board has also canceled classes for the rally. The cancellation has drawn the criticism of two state lawmakers, who say the schools are using public resources to make a political statement.
The Cooperative Council for Oklahoma School Administration says no public funds are being used to pay for transportation and other associated costs with the rally.
-------------------------
KGOU is a community-supported news organization and relies on contributions from readers and listeners to fulfill its mission of public service to Oklahoma and beyond. Donate online, or by contacting our Membership department.
