TULSA, Okla. — As some celebrate the $10 million Governor Kevin Stitt pledged to Oklahoma schools, some teachers are worried funding for personal protective equipment may not be enough.
One of the people who is concerned the funds are not enough is Edison Preparatory School teacher, John Pirok. He's always had a passion for teaching and helping develop young people into young adults. This year will present a different challenges.
"It'll be a challenge this year because a really big part of teaching is building rapport with your students," Pirok said. "That's going to be tough to do not seeing them the first chunk of the year or if I don't see them the first chunk of the year."
While he appreciates the state giving schools $10 million for PPE, he is worry it might not be enough for him and his colleagues when the school year begins.
"A lot of people already have a mask they are already comfortable wearing. So, I don't think PPE should be the main concern," Pirok said. "I have a small stockpile of supplies that I can use in my room, but I'm going to go through that in a week or two."
It's just one more challenge for teachers like Pirok that he says they could use more legislative help with.
"Some of it is going to come down to the teachers being careful with their own rooms, but I don't feel that should entirely be our responsibility," Pirok said.
The Tulsa Public School District said they will announce their decision to start in classrooms, online, or a combination of the two this coming Monday.
READ MORE: Tulsa Public Schools recommends distance learning to start 2020-21 school year
The start of school has been pushed back to Aug. 31.
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.
