Funding Schools Will Lift Children out of Poverty

Oklahoma stands as a testament to resilience, innovation, and growth. As a state, we are creative in our endeavors to attract new businesses and partnerships in hopes to make Oklahoma a top tier state.To achieve this aspiration, one thing deserves our unwavering attention: public education. Education is defined as a basic human right. Education helps break down barriers and end generational cycles. Without education, the opportunities are limited – for it is the foundation for future generations' knowledge, skills, and aspirations. Our children, our students, our communities – they are looking at us to protect and safeguard the importance of education by ensuring that we adequately prepare for future generations by allocating resources and prioritizing funding.

In the 2023 Oklahoma legislative session, an important emphasis was placed on educational funding, and in turn, Oklahoma education saw a drastic increase in funding from the previous fiscal year. However, the state is not aligned to compete with other surrounding states based on the rankings of the Oklahoma education system. The Tulsa World ranked Oklahoma as the 45th state in the nation for education, and US Newsranked Oklahoma as the 48th where as Colorado ranks 8, Missouri 26th, Kansas 28th, Arkansas 32nd, and Texas 38th. Plus, some of the previously mentioned surrounding states also have higher education requirements, higher average teacher salary, and a smaller teacher to student ratio. These varied elements impact the ability to recruit individuals into the field of education, and to retain them.

During the pandemic, school districts received COVID relief funds (ESSER and ARP) to support learning loss and student academic outcomes. However, these one time funds end next school year. Districts have been innovative and solution-focused to help students, staff, and families during the pandemic. However, as these funds come to an end, districts are forced back to the reality of making-do with a lot less – trying to sustain the programs and initiatives with state education earmarked monies, and much less in federal dollars.

The Long-Term Economic Impact

Funding public education isn't just about buying textbooks and paying teacher salaries. It is an investment in the future of Oklahoma's economy. Studies have shown that states with well-funded education systems generally have stronger economies, lower unemployment rates, and higher incomes. When students receive a quality education, they're more likely to attend college or vocational training, leading to better job opportunities and contributing more significantly to the state's economy. Without prioritizing resources and securing appropriate funding, students are limited for their own future, and are more likely to repeat cycles of poverty, leaving them without the hope of achieving their own American dream.

Closing the Achievement Gap

Oklahoma struggles with an achievement gap between students living in poverty and students in all other socioeconomic backgrounds. Prioritizing adequate funding means more resources – such as specialized teachers, smaller class sizes, more counselors, professional development, extended learning opportunities, and even materials – that can help bridge this gap.

Reducing Teacher Turnover

Oklahoma has historically faced challenges in retaining skilled teachers due to below-average pay and insufficient classroom resources. Adequate funding allows for competitive salaries, but it also allows for better support. Research says that teachers want to be paid a liveable, respectful wage, but they also want to be trusted, empowered, and respected. When there is an intentional focus on these key elements, we ensure that experienced educators stay in the state and new teachers are attracted to the profession. By focusing on teacher retention, the entire educational system improves, specifically student achievement.[1]

Enhancing Curriculum and Extracurriculars

With proper funding, schools can offer a broader curriculum, including arts, physical education, and advanced placement courses. Extracurricular activities such as clubs, sports, and music programs can be maintained and expanded. These opportunities not only enrich a student's academic experience but also foster post-secondary opportunities, and improve personal growth, leadership, and teamwork. When we fund extracurriculars we prepare students for the future, but also foster a sense of belonging.

Building Community and State Pride

A strong public education system serves as a point of pride for communities and the state as a whole. When schools thrive, they become centers for community engagement and collaboration, leading to a more connected and cohesive society. There is a direct correlation between strong, connected communities and increased student achievement outcomes and educational opportunities.

Preparing for the Future

As the world rapidly changes with advancements in technology, it's crucial that our students are prepared. Adequate funding ensures that schools can integrate modern technology, offer STEM programs, and teach skills that are vital for the jobs of tomorrow. When we prioritize adequate funding, schools are able to create internships, job-shadowing opportunities, and even create pipelines to employment opportunities. This aids students to gain professional skills that would benefit them during school and after graduation. This intentional focus helps improve students’ long-term success, and increases PK-12 student achievement. If we prioritize funding public schools, we are able to leverage resources to provide more support for students, and families. This yields increased participation in technology centers, concurrent enrollment, and other opportunities outside of the traditional school classroom.

Ensuring Safety and Well-being

Adequate funding also extends to ensuring schools are safe environments. This includes physical infrastructure improvements, hiring school counselors, increasing safety and security measures, and implementing programsthat focus on mental health, anti-bullying, and inclusivity. A 2022 report shows students have a higher rate of mental health needs, post-pandemic, requiring more training, staff, and support. Research has found that improved school safety is linked to improved student and school outcomes. If we adequately fund public schools, they can do more to help students and families.

Conclusion: An Investment in Our Future

Yeats once said, “Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire.” Let's ignite that fire in every single school in our great state. Let’s prioritize and focus on ensuring adequate funding for every student, teacher, and community in Oklahoma. Our students, our communities, and our future are watching us – we must protect and safeguard the quality and sanctity of our public schools.

Written by Chris Culver, Ed.D.