The districts’ closure will displace more than 234,000 students, not to mention thousands more in smaller districts.
A day after about 20,000 teachers, students and supporters rallied at the Oklahoma State Capitol, teacher walkouts will close all 10 of Oklahoma’s largest school districts again Tuesday.
Closure of the districts, as ranked by the Oklahoma State Department of Education, will displace more than 234,000 students, not to mention thousands more in smaller districts.
The districts posted online Monday afternoon that they will remain closed Tuesday, giving parents half a day to secure childcare.
Beyond childcare, many districts are working to make up for the other roles schools play in children’s lives. The state’s largest district, Oklahoma City Public Schools, is providing free meals at more than 100 locations for anyone 18 and younger.
In the absence of both school and after-school programs, numerous churches and kid-oriented organizations such as the Boys and Girls Club and Girl Scouts are offering daycare or camp-style accommodations.
Putnam City Schools announced that the ACT will be given on April 24 instead of Tuesday, as was planned.
It is unclear how long the walkouts will last. As teachers wait for legislators to act, districts are making decisions and announcements day by day.
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