Friday, November 14, 2008

Urban League's Awards Luncheon

OEA members and staff attended the Urban League's 2008 Equal Opportunity Summit Awards Luncheon where State Superintendent Sandy Garrett and INTEGRIS Health were honored for their leadership and contributions in improving urban education.

Oklahoma City Public Schools Superintendent Karl Springer and Tulsa Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Keith Ballard shared their thoughts and ideas about turning their districts into the best urban education districts in the country.

Dr. Ballard addressed a number of issues including funding. He told about a recent experience with the father of a teacher who was disappointed his daughter went to teach in Kansas. The district there was paying her $10,000 more a year. The father wanted his daughter to move back but she couldn't take the pay cut.

Dr. Ballard said raising Oklahoma's per pupil expenditure to the regional average would bring that man's daughter back to Oklahoma and keep quality teachers in state. He also said raising the per pupil expenditure is important because our kids deserve the best.

His concerns can be addressed by HOPE-SQ 744. Oklahoma can get to the regional average by its passage. Help us make a difference by supporting HOPE.

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