College remediation rates down, Hofmeister says

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OKLAHOMA CITY (May 13, 2020) – Fewer Oklahoma students took remedial college courses in the most recent data released by the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education. Cutting college remediation in half is one of the six goals in the Oklahoma State Department of Education’s 8-year strategic plan, Oklahoma Edge. 

Among fall 2018 first-time freshmen, 34.6% enrolled in one or more developmental or remedial courses, down 2.5 points from 2017 and 7.9 points from its high point in 2011-12.  

“It is encouraging to learn we are positively impacting Oklahoma’s remediation rate,” said Joy Hofmeister, State Superintendent of Public Instruction. “We must capitalize on every day our students are in school, from pre-kindergarten all the way through their senior year, to build a foundation for success after high school. These results show the difference we can make when we work together to create new solutions and opportunities for kids.” 

Oklahoma families spend an estimated $22 million a year for remedial courses. These are classes taken in college to help students build their skills before taking college-level courses. Students receive no college credit despite paying for the class. 

“Through our ongoing partnership, the State Regents and the State Department of Education continue working collaboratively to strengthen college preparation and best position students for academic success,” said Chancellor Glen D. Johnson. “This latest data is reflective of our joint commitment and our progress.” 

Remediation rates in all individual subject areas have improved since 2015, with a 2.7% drop in English, 21.43% drop in math, 27.47% drop in reading and a 71.43% drop in science. This shows a reverse in an alarming trend requiring remedial classes in college,  revealing significant improvement in students' college and career readiness.

One of the main efforts between OSDE and the State Regents to reduce math remediation rates is a high school class, College Career Math Ready. The course, a fourth-year elective, is raising ACT scores for students. Right now, College Career Math Ready is offered at more than 50 schools around the state, and 148 teachers are trained to teach the course. The class has been available for three years. 

“Much of the success of this news comes from the hard work of teachers and students. Reducing the number of college students who need developmental courses is an indication that our efforts are working.” Hofmeister said. “We are excited to forge ahead as we continue to align Oklahoma’s academic standards and instruction to yield strong and positive outcomes.”

Oklahoma COVID-19 cases rise to 4,424 with 3,064 recoveries

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The number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Oklahoma has risen to 4,424 with 266 deaths and 228 current hospitalizations. 3,064 Oklahomans have recovered, leaving 1,360 active cases. Tulsa County has totaled 684 cases, 493 recoveries, and 36 deaths. Sand Springs has totaled 34 cases with two deaths and 30 recoveries.

Six additional deaths have been linked to COVID-19 in Oklahoma. Two of them occurred in the past 24 hours and the others died between May 2nd and May 6th.

  • One in Oklahoma County, a female in the 65 and older age group.

  • One in Caddo County, a male in the 50-64 age group. 

  • One in Cotton County, a male in the 65 and older age group.

  • One in Le Flore County, a male in the 65 and older age group.

  • One in Rogers County, a female in the 50-64 age group. 

  • One in Washington County, a male in the 65 and older age group.

The Oklahoma State Department of Health has partnered with Blue Cross and Blue Shield to bring Caring Vans to under-served areas for COVID-19 testing. The tests will be available to everyone, regardless of if they are showing symptoms for the virus. OSDH Commissioner Gary Cox has set a goal of testing 90,000 people during the month of May.

Caring Vans will be at the following locations on Friday, May 8, and on Saturday, May 9, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

  • Guiding Right, 1420 NE 23rd St., Okla. City

  • Supermercados Morelos, 1 SE 59th St., Okla. City

  • Little Flower Catholic Church (across the street from Latino Community Development Agency), 1125 S. Walker Ave., Okla. City

  • La 29 Business Association, SW 29th St., Okla. City

“As the state enters the first phase of a measured reopening, testing becomes even more vital to health officials and Oklahomans who use data to make informed decisions to protect health,” said Cox. “We want everyone to get tested, regardless of whether or not they are currently showing symptoms, so we can improve early detection of new clusters and hot spots as they arise and aggressively mitigate spread.”

A full list of COVID-19 testing sites can be found at this link. There have been 84,869 negative tests so far in Oklahoma.

“We are pleased to spotlight the data reflecting Oklahoma’s continued success in flattening the curve,” said Interim State Epidemiologist Aaron Wendelboe. “The more testing we do, the more confidence we have in our data. We are relying on Oklahomans to get tested for COVID-19 now that we have plenty of testing capability.”

There have been 712 confirmed cases in the past week, an increase of 43.3% from the prior week, and 46 deaths, a 4.5% increase. 71 of Oklahoma’s 77 counties have at least one confirmed case.

The Centers for Disease Control are reporting 1,219,066 cases nationwide with 73,297 deaths. Oklahoma is 38th in total cases (45th per capita) and 31st in deaths.

The World Health Organization is reporting 3,767,744 cases worldwide with 259,593 deaths. The United States lead the world, followed by Spain (221,447), Italy (215,858), The United Kingdom (206,719, and Russia (187,859).

COVID-19 claims second Sand Springs victim, total Oklahoma cases up to 4,201

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The number of cumulative diagnosed COVID-19 cases in Oklahoma has risen to 4,201 with 2,909 recoveries, leaving 1,292 known active cases in the state. Sand Springs has totaled 34 cases with 30 recoveries and two deaths.

There are currently 230 hospitalized Oklahomans, bringing the cumulative total to 784 since the pandemic began. Hospitals currently have more than 4,300 beds available, with 343 available in Adult ICU. There are 872 ventilators available.

There have been an additional six deaths linked to COVID-19, with one occurring in the past 24 hours and five occurring between May 2nd and May 4th. A second Sand Springs resident has died.

The City of Sand Springs has allowed personal care businesses, restaurants, gyms, tattoo parlors, sporting venues, and churches to reopen with some restrictions and increased sanitation protocols. The City is eyeing May 15th as a tentative date for allowing organized sports, weddings, and funerals to resume. The City Parks Department plans to reopen splash pads, playgrounds, public restrooms, outdoor sports courts, as well as the Case Community Center, Keystone Ancient Forest, and Cultural and Historical Museum on June 1st.

The Oklahoma State Department of Health has issued a statement recognizing National Nurses Day.

“We greatly appreciate all that you, as critically important health professionals, do to keep Oklahomans healthy,” said Health Commissioner Gary Cox. “Especially during this pandemic, you provide unwavering care for us at all hours and often behind the scenes. National Nurses Day is a great opportunity to raise awareness of your important role.”

National Nurses Day was established in 1954 to mark the 100th anniversary of Florence Nightingale’s contribution to the field of medicine. Nightingale is often credited as the founder of modern nursing, as she is responsible for many of the standards that are required of present-day nurses, including strict handwashing and hygiene practices.

Today, nursing remains one of the most popular careers in the United States. According to a 2014 study conducted by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, registered nurses made up the largest portion of the healthcare workforce in the United States. In Oklahoma, there are over 56,000 Registered Nurses (RNs), 18,000 Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) and 3,572 Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs).

The OSDH would like to encourage everyone to show appreciation for the nurses in their lives today, and through the rest of National Nursing Week, which concludes on May 12.

The State has processed 83,401 negative tests to-date and has 52,217 collection kits available. Governor Kevin Stitt has requested all testing sites to begin testing everyone, regardless of symptoms. A list of testing stations can be found at this link.

The Centers for Disease Control are reporting 1,171,510 cases nationwide with 68,279 deaths. Oklahoma is 37th in total cases (44th per capita) and 30th in deaths.

The World Health Organization is reporting 3,595,662 cases worldwide with 247,652 deaths. The United States lead the world in total cases, followed by Spain (219,329), Italy (213,013), The United Kingdom (194,994) and Russia (165,929).

Oklahoma COVID-19 cases surpass 4,000

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The number of total COVID-19 cases in Oklahoma has reached 4,044 as of Monday, with 2,682 recoveries, leaving 1,362 active cases. 238 Oklahomans have died from the virus, 753 have been hospitalized, and 236 are currently hospitalized. Sand Springs has totaled 34 cases with one death and 28 recoveries.

The state has processed 70,368 negative tests and has 45,806 collection kits still available. Governor Kevin Stitt has requested that testing sites begin making tests available to individuals regardless of if they are showing symptoms.

The Centers for Disease Control are reporting 1,152,372 cases nationwide with 67,456 deaths. Oklahoma is 36th in total cases (44th per capita) and 30th in deaths.

The World Health Organization is reporting 3,442,234 cases worldwide with 239,740 deaths. The United States lead the world in total cases, followed by Spain (217,446), Italy (210,717), The United Kingdom (186,603), Germany (163,175), and Russia (145,268).

Oklahoma rises to top 3 for Pre-K access

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OKLAHOMA CITY (April 29, 2020) – Oklahoma climbs to third in the country for Pre-K access for 4-year-olds, according to a new report from the National Institute for Early Education Research (NIEER). In the same report last year, Oklahoma scored among the top eight states in the nation.

Oklahoma serves 86.5% of eligible 4-year-old children when public pre-kindergarten enrollment (76.3%) is combined with Head Start enrollment, the annual report states. Only the District of Columbia (87.3%) and Vermont (86.8%) serve more students.  

In addition, Oklahoma was named a leader in policies to support standards for high-quality Pre-K education for the second year in a row. Only nine states met at least nine of the 10 benchmark categories, which include academic standards, staff professional development and caps on class sizes.  

“Oklahoma has a long tradition of excellence in early childhood education and stands out in the level of professionalism and expertise of Oklahoma’s Pre-K teachers. Preparing our children to be ready to read by kindergarten remains a key priority here as we value the health and development of our youngest learners,” said State Superintendent of Public Instruction Joy Hofmeister.   

Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, NIEER introduced a policy recommendation advising Pre-K programs to quickly develop guidelines to provide emergency services and educate young children remotely for the remainder of this school year and for the coming summer and fall. On March 25, Hofmeister and the State Board of Education unanimously approved an order that implemented distance learning for all grades, including a unique partnership with the Oklahoma Educational Television Authority to broadcast programming tailored to the Oklahoma Academic Standards.  

“Oklahoma education acted quickly and effectively to ensure that families with children in Pre-K programs had the resources and supports needed to foster learning in home environments,” said Debra Andersen, the executive director for the Oklahoma Partnership for School Readiness. “Once again, the Oklahoma Standard shines bright for our Pre-K students.”  

NIEER recognized Oklahoma for its fully aligned academic standards for Pre-K to 12th grade in 2016 and for the Professional Learning Focus in 2018. Oklahoma is one of the few states requiring Pre-K teachers to hold a bachelor’s degree with teaching certification, and it ensures them equal pay with other grade-level teachers. Pre-K teachers in Oklahoma also have the same individualized professional development opportunities as other teachers at the state level.  

Oklahoma launched its Early Childhood Four-Year-Old Program in 1980, years ahead of the rest of the country. In 1998, Oklahoma became only the second state to offer Pre-K for all 4-year-olds, with 99% of school districts participating.  

Oklahoma’s commitment to early education is evident in the state’s eight-year strategic plan, Oklahoma Edge. The comprehensive education plan, required by the federal Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), lists one of the state’s six primary goals as aligning early childhood education and learning foundations to ensure at least 75% of students are “ready to read” upon kindergarten entry.  

The NIEER report is based on data from the 2018-19 school year. 

Sand Springs reaches 30 total cases of COVID-19, Oklahoma at 3280

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The number of COVID-19 cases in Oklahoma has risen to 3280 with 2167 recoveries, leaving 1113 active cases. The virus has claimed 197 lives statewide, but nobody has died in the past 24 hours. 306 individuals are currently hospitalized. Sand Springs has totaled 30 cases, with one death and 21 recoveries.

The state has currently processed 53,338 negative tests and has more than 48,000 collection kits available. A complete list of drive-through testing sites can be found at this link.

The Centers for Disease Control are reporting 957,875 cases nationwide with 53,922 deaths. Oklahoma is 34th in total cases (42nd per capita) and 29th in total deaths.

The World Health Organization is reporting 2,858,635 cases worldwide with 196,295 deaths. The United States lead the world in total cases, followed by Spain with 219,764, Italy with 195,351, and Germany with 154,175.

Personal care businesses such as hair salons, barbershops, spas, nail salons, and pet groomers have been allowed to reopen in Sand Springs, with restrictions. They can take appointments only, with no walk-ins.

Beginning Friday, May 1st, dining, entertainment, sporting venues, gyms, churches, and tattoo parlors will be allowed to reopen citywide, all with restrictions. Bars will be required to remain closed for the foreseeable future.

State and Federal Candidate Filings, Nollan and Ikley-Freeman draw challengers

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State Representative Jadine Nollan.

Oklahoma held its statewide filing period recently for state and federal legislative offices.

United States Senator Jim Inhofe, has filed for reelection and drawn ten opponents. In the Republican Primary he will face JJ Stitt, John Tompkins, and Neil Mavis. Sheila Bilyeau, Abby Broyles, Elysabeth Britt, and R.O. Joe Cassity, Jr. are running for the Democratic nomination. Joan Farr and A.D. Nesbit have filed as independents, and Robert Murphy has filed unopposed for the Libertarian nomination.

Kevin Hern, the U.S. Representative from Congressional District 1, filed unopposed in the Republican Party. Kojo Asamoa-Caesar and Mark A. Keeter have filed for the Democratic nomination and Evelyn L. Rogers filed as an independent.

Incumbent Republican Corporation Commissioner Todd Hiett has drawn a primary challenger in Harold D. Spradling. The winner of that nomination will take on Libertarian Todd Hagopian.

Incumbent District 37 State Senator Allison Ikley-Freeman did not draw a Democratic primary challenger, but will face off against a Republican in November. Cody Rogers and Chris Emerson filed for the Republican election.

Incumbent District 66 State Representative Jadine Nollan drew a challenge from Emily DeLozier in the Republican Primary. The winner will face off against the lone Democrat, Greg Laird.

Sand Springs with 23 cases of COVID-19 and 16 recoveries, Oklahoma reaches 2,599 cases

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The Oklahoma State Department of Health has launched a new city-level data tracker for the COVID-19 pandemic. Sand Springs has totaled 23 total cases with 16 recoveries and 1 death.

The cumulative number of cases in Oklahoma has risen to 2,599. There have been 140 deaths and 1,441 recoveries, leaving 1,018 active cases. There has been one additional death in the past 24 hours, a Delaware County woman in the 65+ age group. 555 people have been hospitalized since the pandemic began, and 145 are currently hospitalized with 89 in ICU. There have been 35,561 negative tests.

Oklahoma City leads the state with 405 cases and 16 deaths, followed by Tulsa with 260 cases and 13 deaths, Norman with 182 cases and 15 deaths, Bartlesville with 120 cases and 5 deaths, and Edmond with 118 cases and 5 deaths.

The Centers for Disease Control are reporting 690,714 cases nationwide with 35,443 deaths. Oklahoma is 32nd in total cases (37th per capita) and 29th in deaths. New York leads the state in cases (242,817) and deaths (13,869).

The World Health Organization is reporting 2,245,872 cases worldwide with 152,707 deaths. The United States lead the world in total cases, followed by Spain with 191,726, Italy with 175,925, Germany with 139,897, The United Kingdom with 114,221, and France with 110,721.

Oklahoma COVID-19 cases rise to 2,263 with 123 deaths and 1,155 recoveries

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Counties in red have documented cases. Counties highlighted in yellow have suffered fatalities.

The cumulative number of COVID-19 cases in Oklahoma has risen to 2,263 with 1,155 recoveries, leaving 1,108 active cases. There have been 123 total death and 510 hospitalizations. 179 Oklahomans are currently hospitalized and 107 are in ICU.

An additional fifteen deaths have been linked to the virus, but only four occurred in the past 24 hours. The others died between April 3rd and April 13th.

  • Three Oklahoma County men in the 65+ age group,

  • Two in Tulsa County: a male and female in the 65+ age group,

  • Two in Washington County: a woman in the 18-35 age group and a woman in the 65+ age group,

  • Two Wagoner County men in the 65+ age group,

  • An Adair County woman in the 50-64 age group,

  • A Cleveland County man in the 65+ age group,

  • A Texas County man in the 18-35 age group,

  • A Rogers County woman in the 65_ age group,

  • A Grady County man in the 65+ age group,

  • A Caddo County woman in the 65+ age group.

The Oklahoma State Department of Health has announced a partnership with the Chickasaw Nation to open drive-through testing sites at their clinic locations in Purcell, Ada, and Ardmore. Testing is available to the public. A full list of testing sites can be found at this link. A valid photo ID is required and minors must be accompanied by an adult. A medical referral is preferred but not required. There have been 29,098 negative tests in the state.

Oklahoma County leads the state with 483 cases and 22 deaths, followed by Tulsa County with 362 cases and 21 deaths, and Cleveland County with 294 cases and 18 deaths. Wagoner and Washington counties have both surpassed 100 cases apiece.

The Centers for Disease Control are reporting 605,390 cases nationwide with 24,582 deaths. Oklahoma is 31st in total cases (34th per capita) and 28th in deaths.

The World Health Organization is reporting 1,918,138 cases worldwide with 123,126 deaths. The United States lead the world in total cases, followed by Spain with 172,541, Italy with 162,488, Germany with 127,584, and France with 102,533.

Oklahoma COVID-19 cases up to 2,184 with 108 deaths and 1,060 recoveries

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Counties in red have confirmed cases, counties in yellow have suffered fatalities.

The total number of COVID-19 cases in Oklahoma has risen to 2,184 with 488 hospitalizations, 108 deaths, and 1,060 recoveries. 28,225 tests have come back negative. There are 1,124 active cases in the state, with 194 individuals currently hospitalized and 107 in ICU.

Nine deaths have been linked to COVID-19 since Monday’s report, including a 65+ Tulsa County woman, an 18-35 Major County woman, a 65+ Mayes County man, a 65+ Pittsburg County man, a 65+ Pontotoc County man, a 65+ Rogers County man, a 65+ Wagoner County man, a 65+ Washington County woman, and a 65+ Osage County woman.

Oklahoma County leads the state in total cases with 474 and nineteen deaths, followed by Tulsa County with 358 cases and nineteen deaths, Cleveland County with 277 cases and seventeen deaths, and Washington County with 118 cases and three deaths.

The Centers for Disease Control are reporting 579,005 cases nationwide with 22,252 deaths. Oklahoma is 30th in total cases (33rd per capita) and 26th in deaths.

The World Health Organization is reporting 1,848,439 cases worldwide with 117,217 deaths. The United States lead the world in total cases, followed by Spain with 169,496, Italy with 159,516, and Germany with 125,098.

Oklahoma COVID-19 cases up to 1,970 with 96 deaths and 865 recoveries

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Counties in red have confirmed cases. Counties highlighted in yellow have suffered fatalities.

The cumulative number of COVID-19 cases in Oklahoma has risen to 1,970 with 453 hospitalizations and 96 total deaths. Two Tulsa County men in the 50-64 age group have passed away since Friday. There have been 22,511 negative tests and 865 recoveries.

Oklahoma County leads the state in total cases with 435 and nineteen deaths, followed by Tulsa County with 332 cases and eighteen deaths, and Cleveland County with 264 cases and seventeen deaths. Washington County has surpassed 100 cases and Canadian, Creek, Delaware, Osage, and Wagoner County are above 50 cases apiece.

The State of Oklahoma currently has more than 33,000 COVID-19 collection kits available.

As of Friday there are 158 current hospitalizations with 113 individuals in ICU. The average age of the infected is 56. The average age of the hospitalized is 65.8 and the average age of the deceased is 73.3. 69.3% of deceased had at least one comorbidity.

The Centers for Disease Control are reporting 525,704 cases nationwide with 20,486 deaths. Oklahoma is 30th in total cases (34th per capita) and 24th in deaths (19th per capita).

The World Health Organization is reporting 1,699,595 cases worldwide with 106,138 deaths. The United States lead the world, followed by Spain with 161,852 cases, Italy with 152,271, Germany with 120,479, France with 92,787 and China with 83,485.

Oklahoma COVID-19 cases up to 1,794 with 88 deaths and 790 recoveries

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Counties in red have cases. Counties in yellow have suffered fatalities.

The number of cumulative COVID-19 cases in Oklahoma has risen to 1,794 with 88 total deaths and 428 hospitalizations. 790 individuals have recovered, leaving 1,004 active cases. There have been eight deaths linked to the virus since Thursday.

The state has finished processing a large backlog of private lab tests, bringing the number of confirmed negatives to 22,246.

Oklahoma County has suffered two new losses: a female in the 50-64 age group and a male over 65 years of age. Two 65+ males have died in Osage County. A 65+ male in Creek County, a 65+ female in Garfield County, a 65+ male in Pawnee County, and a 65+ female in Pottawatomie County has also passed.

Oklahoma County leads the state in cumulative cases with 413 and seventeen deaths, followed by Tulsa County with 314 cases and sixteen deaths, and Cleveland County with 236 cases and fourteen deaths. Canadian, Creek, Wagoner, and Washington counties have all surpassed 50 cases apiece.

As of Thursday, there are 186 COVID-19 patients currently hospitalized in Oklahoma. The average fatality age is 73.1 and the average hospitalization age is 65.8. 67.5% of deceased had at least one comorbidity (diabetes, heart disease or circulatory disease, chronic lung disease, liver disease, or renal failure).

There are more than 30,000 COVID-19 tests remaining. Governor Kevin Stitt announced Friday that the state is expecting peak hospital demand to be well within the state’s capabilities.

Modeling authored by Aaron M. Wendelboe, PhD, Justin Dorak, PhD, and Michael P. Anderson, PhD, has identified a peak date of April 21st for the statewide pandemic. They estimate 436 new cases, 22 deaths, 131 new hospitalizations, 915 people hospitalized, and 458 people in ICU on that date. By May 1st they estimate a total of 9,300 cases statewide with 469 deaths.

“Over the past week, Oklahoma has significantly increased COVID-19 testing data due to expanded capacity at labs and more than 80 mobile testing locations across the state,” said Dr. Aaron Wendelboe, interim state epidemiologist. “This new data gave our team of epidemiologists stronger insight to forecast a COVID-19 model for the State of Oklahoma. At this point, we are estimating that Oklahoma will hit peak demand on hospitals, ICU beds, and other critical medical supplies around April 21.”

The Centers for Disease Control are reporting 427,460 cases nationwide with 14,696 deaths, an increase of 33,000 cases since Thursday’s report. Oklahoma is 29th in total cases (33rd per capita) and 23rd in total deaths.

The World Health Organization is showing 1,521,252 cases worldwide with 92,798 deaths. The United States lead the world in cases, followed by Spain with 152,446, Italy with 143,626, Germany with 113,525, and France with 85,351.

Oklahoma COVID-19 cases rise to 1,684 with 80 deaths

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Counties in red have active cases. Counties highlighted in yellow have fatalities.

The number of COVID-19 cases in Oklahoma has risen to 1,684 with one additional fatality, bringing the statewide death toll to 80. A Sequoyah County man in the 65+ age bracket is the latest victim. There have been 415 cumulative hospitalizations.

The State Public Health Laboratory has returned 1,519 negative tests, but is still processing more than 12,000 negative results submitted by private labs.

Oklahoma County leads the state with 385 cases and fifteen deaths, followed by Tulsa County with 308 cases and sixteen deaths, and Cleveland County with 231 cases and fourteen deaths. Wagoner and Washington counties have surpassed 50 cases apiece.

The Centers for Disease Control are reporting 427,460 cases nationwide with 14,696 deaths. Oklahoma is 29th in total cases (33rd per capita) and 23rd in fatalities (18th per capita).

The World Health Organization reports 1,439,516 confirmed cases worldwide with 85,711 deaths. The United States have the highest number of cases in the world, followed by Spain with 146,690, Italy with 139,422, Germany with 108,202 and China with 83,249.

Oklahoma up to 1,524 COVID-19 cases with twelve new fatalities

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Counties in red have active cases. Counties highlighted in yellow have suffered fatalities.

The number of COVID-19 cases in Oklahoma has risen to 1,524 with 390 hospitalizations and 79 deaths, including twelve on Tuesday. The OSDH has processed 1,479 negative tests but is still working through more than 12,000 negative tests submitted by private labs.

The twelve new fatalities include:

  • Four in Oklahoma County: two males and two females, older than 65.

  • Two in Cleveland County, a male in the 36-49 age group and a male older than 65.

  • Two in Tulsa County, both males older than 65.

  • One in Adair County, a female older than 65.

  • One in Greer County, a female older than 65.

  • One in Kay County, a male older than 65.

  • One in Wagoner County, a male older than 65.

Oklahoma County leads the state with 317 cases and fifteen fatalities, followed by Tulsa County with 293 cases and sixteen deaths, and Cleveland County with 212 cases and fourteen deaths.


The Centers for Disease Control are reporting 395,011 cases nationwide with 12,754 deaths, an increase of 20,000 cases in the last 24 hours. Oklahoma is 29th in total cases (34th per capita), and 23rd in deaths (18th per capita).

The World Health Organization’s Wednesday situation report shows 1,353,361 cases worldwide with 79,235 deaths. The United States lead the world, followed by Spain with 140,510 cases, Italy with 135,586, Germany with 103,228, and China with 83,157.

Oklahoma reports 16 new deaths from COVID-19, total cases up to 1,472

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Counties in red have active cases. Counties with yellow outlines have had deaths.

Monday marked the single deadliest day of the COVID-19 pandemic in Oklahoma so far, with 16 deaths, bringing the state total to 67. There are now 1,472 confirmed cases with 376 cumulative hospitalizations.

The State Public Health Laboratory has currently processed 1,436 negative test results but is also working through 11,000 negative tests received from private labs dating back to February.

Six Tulsa County residents passed away Monday: a male in the 18-35 age group, a female in the 50-64 group, three females in the 65+ group and one man in the 65+ group. A 50-64 female and a 65+ male in Osage County have passed, as have a 65+ female in Adair County, a 65+ female in Cherokee County, a 65+ female in Cleveland County, a 65+ male in Creek County, a 65+ female in Kay County, a 65+ male in Mayes County, a 65+ female in Wagoner County, and a 65+ male in Washington County.

Oklahoma County continues to lead the state in cases with 303 and eleven deaths, followed by Tulsa County with 273 cases and fourteen deaths, and Cleveland County with 203 cases and twelve deaths. Wagoner County has surpassed 50 cases.

The Centers for Disease Control are reporting 374,329 cases nationwide with 12,064 deaths, an increase of over 40,000 cases since Monday’s report. Oklahoma is currently 29th in total cases and 34th per capita. The state is 27th in deaths and 21st per capita.

The World Health Organization’s Tuesday situation report shows 1,279,722 cases worldwide with 72,614 deaths. The United States lead the world, followed by Spain with 135,032 cases, Italy with 132,547, Germany with 99,225, and China with 83,071.

Oklahoma's Statewide Candidate Filing Begins April 8

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(Oklahoma City) – Oklahoma’s 2020 candidate filing period for federal, state, and legislative offices will occur as scheduled, Oklahoma State Election Board Secretary Paul Ziriax announced today. The three-day filing period runs 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on April 8, 9, and 10.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Secretary is encouraging candidates for federal, state, and legislative offices to file their paperwork, along with the required filing fee or petition, by mail or delivery service.

Candidates who file in-person will do so using a “drive-through” in the State Capitol parking lot. The “drive-through” will help maintain social distancing protocols in an effort to minimize risks to Election Board personnel and candidates.

Secretary Ziriax said State Election Board personnel can review declarations of candidacy and cashier’s checks or certified checks ahead of time to ensure they are in good order. Candidates who would like their information reviewed prior to filing can email documents to info@elections.ok.gov.

Candidates should visit the State Election Board’s website at elections.ok.gov for specific details about candidate filing, such as delivery instructions or information about the “drive-through” filing procedures. Candidates can also contact the State Election Board for details at (405) 521-2391 or info@elections.ok.gov.

“This is not an ideal situation for either election officials or candidates. But, with a little patience and a lot of precautions, we will get through the candidate filing period together,” Ziriax said.

Candidate filing for county offices will also be held April 8, 9, and 10 between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Candidates should contact their County Election Board for specific filing instructions.

Oklahoma COVID-19 cases up to 1,327 with 51 deaths and 340 hospitalizations

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Red counties have active cases, yellow counties have had deaths.

The number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Oklahoma has risen to 1,327 with five additional deaths since Sunday, bringing the statewide death total to 51 with 340 hospitalizations.

An Oklahoma County man in the 18-35 age range has died, marking the first victim in the state in that demographic. Also falling victim to the virus are two in Greer County, one male and one female, both over 65 years old, a 65+ female in Osage County and a 65+ male in Pottawatomie County.

Oklahoma County continues to lead the state in cases with 279 and eleven deaths, followed by Tulsa County with 249 cases and eight deaths, and Cleveland County with 180 cases and eleven deaths. Creek and Wagoner counties have both surpassed 40 cases apiece.

The Centers for Disease Control are reporting 330,891 cases nationwide with 8,910 deaths. Oklahoma is 29th in total cases and 19th per capita. There are 1,210,956 cases worldwide according to the World Health Organization with 67,594 deaths.

In an effort to prepare for medical surge and prolonged response to COVID-19 in the state, the Oklahoma Medical Reserve Corps (OKMRC) is recruiting volunteers to serve in medical and non-medical positions.

Lezlie Carter, OKMRC state coordinator, said volunteers are needed to serve in multiple capacities, but there is an increased need for those with medical training. Licensed medical professionals may be needed to assist with triage, supplementing hospital personnel, monitoring critical patients, assisting with transporting patients and providing critical care in the field.

“We are preparing for a surge to our state’s medical system,” said Carter. “It is important for us to begin processing new volunteers now so they are properly registered and trained for their role within the OKMRC.”

Other functions include specialty services such as the Stress Response Team where licensed mental health professionals provide behavioral and emotional support at hospitals, shelters, phone banks, community outreach teams, first responders and more.

Volunteers without medical training are needed for warehouse support, record keeping and administrative duties. All volunteers must be at least 18 years of age, live or work in Oklahoma, agree to a comprehensive background check and complete the OKMRC training.

Coordinated through the Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH), the OKMRC is the state’s only medical and public health volunteer program comprised of specialty teams and county units operating under the authority of local county health departments. The program has an established system to identify, train and organize medical and public health professionals, as well as volunteers from the public to supplement and support ongoing response operations and personnel.

The concept of the Medical Reserve Corps was created in 2002 after many Americans wanted to know how to help with the recovery efforts from Sept. 11, 2001. It has since evolved into a nationwide program.

To volunteer or to learn more about OKMRC functions, visit okmrc.org.

Number of COVID-19 cases in Oklahoma up to 719 with 30 deaths

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The number of COVID-19 cases in Oklahoma has increased to 719 as of Tuesday. The coronavirus has caused an additional seven deaths, bringing the total to 30. Greer County has reported its first case and will now be required to come into compliance with Governor Stitt’s “Safer at Home” executive order. There have been 219 hospitalizations in the state.

Counties in red have active cases, counties in yellow have had fatalities.

Oklahoma County leads the state in diagnoses with 192 and ten deaths, followed by Tulsa County with 115 cases and three deaths. Cleveland County is third with 87 cases and six deaths. Canadian, Comanche, Creek, Kay, and Washington counties all have 20+ cases.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are reporting 186,101 cases nationwide with 3,603 deaths. Oklahoma ranks 32nd in the nation in cases.

The World Health Organization is reporting 827,419 cases worldwide and 40,777 confirmed deaths. The United States lead the world in confirmed cases, followed by Italy with 105,792, Spain with 94,417, and China with 82,638. Italy leads the world in fatalities with 12,430.

Oklahoma COVID-19 cases rise to 481 with new death in Cleveland County

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The number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Oklahoma rose to 481 Sunday with the virus making its debut in Beckham, Cotton, and Love counties. A Cleveland County man in the 50-64 age group has passed away, bringing the number of statewide fatalities to seventeen. There have been 153 hospitalizations due to the virus.

Oklahoma County leads the state in active cases with 134 infections and four deaths. Tulsa County has 65 cases and three fatalities and Cleveland County has 60 cases and six fatalities. Canadian, Comanche, Creek, Kay, Osage, Pawnee, Payne, and Washington Counties are in the 10-20 range.

Counties in red have active cases. Counties in yellow have had fatalities.

There are 140,904 confirmed cases in the United States with 2,405 deaths according to the Center for Disease Control. Oklahoma ranks approximately 33rd in active cases as a state and 18th in total deaths, according to a database compiled by The Guardian.

The World Health Organization is reporting 693,224 total cases worldwide with 33,106 death. The United States continues to lead the world, followed by Italy with 97,689 and Chine with 82,447. Italy leads the world in deaths with 10,781.

Oklahoma schools to remain closed for duration of school year, distance learning to be implemented

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OKLAHOMA CITY (Date) – The State Board of Education unanimously approved an order that implements a Distance Learning Plan to complete the 2019-20 school year for Oklahoma students without reopening school buildings. The approval comes as numbers grow for positive COVID-19 cases in the state. 

“Oklahoma has tremendous educators – strong, dedicated, tenacious and smart. We have faith and confidence that our districts and teachers are committed to creative and innovative ways to continue learning for their students, and they will rise to this challenge,” said State Superintendent Joy Hofmeister. “Distance Learning Plans will look different from district to district. Many districts have used online tools for some time and will be able to hit the ground running. Others have little connectivity and communities with little or no access to computer technology. I know the hard-working educators in our districts will pull together to make this adjustment to benefit all learners.”

Beginning April 6, districts will be expected to provide distance learning for the rest of the school year. District leaders will also provide assurances to the Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE) of a Distance Learning Plan and ensure services continue for English learners and special education students.

“Our education communities are tough, resilient and committed. They know, as we all do, that we are all in this together. If this pandemic underscores anything, it is that we must help one another,” Hofmeister said. “We understand the challenges all Oklahomans are facing, and we know we can count on our schools to provide the best education possible in a way that ensures the safety and health of students and everyone in the school and community.” 

OSDE will provide distance learning frameworks and resources on its website in the coming days. In addition, the agency is exploring how federal assistance could help digital connectivity for some districts. OETA, Oklahoma’s educational public TV network, will also provide help. In partnership with OSDE, OETA will broadcast instructional daytime programming for the state’s PreK-12 students. 

While education will resume on April 6 with distance learning, there will not be traditional, in-person instruction or extracurricular activities. Districts will be expected to following critical safety guidance from the Centers for Disease Control with regard to social distancing for students, staff and school families. 

For the graduating class of 2020, each district will adopt a plan that establishes the assessment or assessments those students are required to take in order to graduate.  

The State Board took action on multiple waivers – ranging from school calendars to loosening current restrictions on funds – aimed at giving districts greater flexibility to respond to the needs of their students and communities.