TULSA, Okla. -- After gathering at the capital, teachers are turning an eye to the future.
But the Tulsa Classroom Teachers Association is concerned that one day after the Step Up failure, 11 educators across the city announced their resignations.
With budget negotiations looming for lawmakers, it's not just salaries concerning school staff.
"Medical, anything like that... that affects our classroom. So if I have a kid and their parent isn't getting snap and they didn't eat... that affects our classroom. If I have a kid whose sick but their parent can't afford to take them to the doctor... that affects our classroom," Monroe teacher Deitrya Anderson said.
Teachers who are staying say they'll continue to rally, even after watching multiple bills like this fail over the last few years.
"You know, 779 didn't pass. They said "hey we'll have a better plan for you." Then there was nothing. 1054 came which was basically what 1033 was and you know, okay that just barely didn't make it," Anderson said.
The TCTA is working with the Oklahoma Education Association on a plan called Together We're Stronger, which asks for a $10,000 pay raise.
"This is February. Session goes until May. This does not have to be the only thing. You just need to have some courage. I don't care how popular it is. Because sometimes what's right is not always popular," TCTA vice president Shawna Mott-Wright said.
Teachers said this won't be possible without revenue-raising measures. The Step Up plan would have raised oil well taxes. Educators are hopeful other bills can still make that happen.
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.
