Statement from Dr. Ballard, Superintendent, re: decision not to close school on Monday, March 30, for Education Rally
“In response to last night’s severe storms and the closing of school today, we have decided to change course and not close school on Monday, March 30, as originally planned. Earlier this week, the TPS Board had voted to authorize me to close school on Monday to enable teachers to attend the Education Rally at the State Capitol in Oklahoma City. Unfortunately, we had not anticipated the severity of last night’s storms and the unexpected impact on 12 of our properties that necessitated the need to close schools today. As a result, I have made the decision not to close schools on Monday for the rally.
“I strongly believe TPS students cannot afford to lose another day of instructional time, especially given today’s unexpected closure. We’ve come up with a plan that will allow a delegation of TPS teachers from each school to attend Monday’s rally, while keeping schools open on Monday. Principals will work diligently to minimize the impact.
”We remain committed to the goals of the Education Rally and the pressing need to get the attention of legislators. Teacher pay and the statewide teacher shortage remain a huge concern. I share parent and teacher anxiety about over-testing and the need to reduce state-mandated testing. In fact, I am taking the day off Monday to join our delegation of teachers, and will address attendees from the stage. I have talked with representatives of our local PTA, who called for the rally, and Tulsa Classroom Teachers Association, and they understand the need for us to keep school open on Monday. Thank you.”
From Dr. Lana Turner-Addison, TPS Board President:
“I support the decision for TPS schools to remain open on Monday, and I’m glad we have revisited this issue. Our students really cannot afford to lose the instructional time, as this is so critical to their success. I’m confident we have the support of my fellow board members.”
From Etta Taylor, President of the Council of PTAs:
“We understand and appreciate the need for Tulsa Public Schools to remain open on Monday. I am pleased they are finding a way to send a delegation of teachers from each school so they can have a presence at this important event at the State Capitol. It’s important that we get the attention of legislators on these critical education issues for the children of our state.”
From Shawna Mott-Wright, Vice President, Tulsa Classroom Teachers Association:
“We appreciate the district allowing as many teachers to take personal days as needed in order to attend the rally. We feel it is important to support our parents when they are supporting us. We understand that no one could have foreseen the events that have taken place.”