Home / Education / Oklahoma Teachers: State Funds Boost Educator Pipeline
Oklahoma Teachers: State Funds Boost Educator Pipeline
24 Dec
Summary
- Oklahoma law provides $5 million in state funds for teacher programs.
- New law offers 50% matching funds for aspiring teachers.
- Initiatives aim to convert support staff into certified teachers.
A new Oklahoma law, Senate Bill 235, has allocated $5 million to support aspiring teachers by offering 50% matching funds for "Grow Your Own Educator" programs. These initiatives provide tuition or loan repayment assistance for school district employees pursuing undergraduate teaching degrees. The goal is to transform current support staff into certified classroom teachers.
The Oklahoma State Department of Education began accepting applications for these funds in late November. Senator Adam Pugh, the bill's author, expressed urgency, noting that progress accelerated after the new state superintendent took over the agency in October. While seven districts have applied, none have yet met the required criteria.
The Teacher Pipeline Program at the Oklahoma City Public Schools Foundation is expected to benefit significantly, potentially receiving $80,000 to $90,000 annually. This program, now in its 10th year, has successfully helped 50 paraprofessionals graduate with teaching degrees, committing to teach in the district for three years post-graduation.
