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All Roads Lead to OKC; Teacher Walkout Underway

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Thousands of Oklahoma teachers are descending on the state Capitol to demand lawmakers approve more funding for education just days after the Legislature did just that.

Gov. Mary Fallin signed legislation last week increasing taxes on cigarettes, fuel and oil and gas production to provide teachers with raises of about $6,100, or 15 to 18 percent.

The Oklahoma walkout Monday was inspired by West Virginia teachers who won a 5 percent raise after going on strike. Arizona teachers are now considering a strike over their demands for a 20 percent salary increase.

Many Oklahoma schools, including the three largest districts of Oklahoma City, Tulsa and Edmond, are closed Monday. Rally organizers say it isn't clear how long the walkout will last.