Sand Springs Schools return to session after eight-day strike

After eight days of school closure, Sand Springs Public Schools will return to session Thursday, April 12th. 

Teachers from the district have been participating in a statewide walkout to protest low wages and inadequate school funding.

Tens of thousands of protesters have visited the State Capitol in the past two weeks to lobby for increased school funding, and supporters could be seen on street corners in towns across the state waving posters and banners even through rain, sleet, and bitter cold. 

The State Legislature has thus far failed to meet the full demands of the Oklahoma Educators Association, but has passed revenue-raising measures including teacher pay raises averaging $6,100, as well as some general education funding. 

Sand Springs Superintendent Sherry Durkee issued the following press release Tuesday evening after a district meeting with teachers and administrators. 

"Thank you for your continued support of our district and teachers during the last few weeks. We understand that it has been a difficult and emotional time for everyone. Our teachers and administration have been in constant communication during this time. We pride ourselves on our ability to constructively collaborate together ensuring we make positive decisions for students. Our community’s support has been extraordinary and we are thankful to be Sandites.

"After a meeting late this afternoon with teachers and administrators, our Sandite family decided to resume school on Thursday, April 12. Also today, Governor Fallin signed the Ball and Dice bill (HB 1013xx) and the Internet Sales bill (HB 1019xx) raising an additional $44 million dollars in state revenue. We are extremely proud of the courageousness of our Sandites to advocate for the future of public education in Oklahoma and for the thousands of students their advocacy will benefit. Teachers, parents, community members, business leaders, and our faith community united fiercely together for a noble, common purpose. We are extremely thankful for legislators who choose to boldly make the decisions to vote in support of public education. Our job is not finished. Advocacy must continue. We will be sending additional information to our parents and patrons to keep people informed of our next steps. Stay tuned and stay with us.

"Beginning Monday, April 16, an additional 15 minutes will be added to each day to make up for lost instructional time. Our students’ last day of class remains the same, May 25th.

"Those of you in the community who spent countless hours serving our students with the provision of food and childcare are heroes in our hearts. We truly are blessed to reside in an amazing city full of people who are willing to serve in such a powerful way. Thank you to all who served in this way.

"Thank you for your support of Sand Springs Schools, the investment in the future of public education in Oklahoma and for continuing to keep an open dialog during this time. We remain committed to providing the best possible education to our students.

Lastly, take the time to thank our teachers. They are resilient, tireless, and extraordinary people. I am in awe."