TULSA, Okla. — State education leaders drafted a rule that could drastically change what Tulsa Public Schools looks like come May.
State Superintendent Ryan Walters wants test scores to improve by 5%, and said at the State Board of Education meeting Thursday that failure for TPS is not an option.
"What we want, is we want Tulsa to succeed," said Walters. "We want to see Tulsa Public Schools chart this plan out to success, and we want to see that success happen. If they fall short of it, all options will be on the table."
This is the latest step Walters implemented regarding TPS accreditation and test scores, previous discussion led to the resignation of the previous Tulsa Public School superintendent and the continued possibility of stripping the district of accreditation.
WATCH: Walters threatens TPS accreditation
Tulsa Interim Superintendent Ebony Johnson said one proposed option to increase test scores in a sped up manner could be consolidation.
"We are also having conversations ensuring we provide the best quality learning experience for our students, and in that conversation, that could lend itself to some school closures," said Johnson.
School closures poses problems for many, including Larrisha Wilson. Wilson, a single mother of six children, said having schools nearby simplifies her life.
"I know that if my car broke down, I know I can walk my kids to school, you know, so they don't have to miss out on school," said Wilson. "So I appreciate it that, you know, where you stay at be the area that you belonging to and I think that's how it should be."
If TPS does not meet the benchmark proposed by Walters, having schools within walking distance may not be a reality in the near future.
Mayor GT Bynum posted this statement on Facebook about the work TPS is doing:
Ashley Daly, a TPS parent and a member of the local group 'Protect TPS,' said these goals are out of reach and out of touch. She said the numbers Walters is requesting are very hard to reach regardless, but when you throw in outside issues, it becomes impossible.
"We have some of the highest ACE scores in the country – which is adverse childhood effects – and that includes abuse, homelessness, food insecurity, incarcerated parents," said Daly. "All of these things are proven to have a big impact on outcomes."
Daly said those issues must be addressed first before more is asked of Tulsa schools.
Walters said he hopes to get the rule put out by next week and is currently consulting with legislators and other education leaders to firm up the language. Once it is finalized, a 60-day public comment period would begin.
Stay in touch with us anytime, anywhere --
- Download our free app for Apple, Android and Kindle devices.
- Sign up for daily newsletters emailed to you
- Like us on Facebook
- Follow us on Instagram
- SUBSCRIBE on YouTube
