The statewide teacher walkout in Oklahoma is not showing any signs of slowing down as the seventh day of classes has been canceled for students.
News9 Oklahoma City reports that 50,000 teachers and supporters filled the Capitol grounds Monday to pressure lawmakers for more education funding.
Troopers say the crowd is drastically smaller Tuesday. Despite the reduced numbers, Oklahoma Education Association president Alicia Priest says the momentum in support of teachers is increasing.
So far, the Legislature has approved $456 million for increased pay for certified teachers, support professionals and student education. Priest says that is close to teachers union's original request of $506 million.
Teachers continue to demand a substantial increase in public school funding so schools can buy new textbooks and technology and increase pay for support staff positions.
With the teacher walkout showing no signs of slowing down, the Capitol said it will make special arrangements Wednesday – the first day filing for office beings - so people do so can get into the building.
