NewsOK
BY PHIL G. BUSEY
Published: September 17, 2010
Supporters and opponents of State Question 744 are lining up for a bitter fight. The issue brings into question the real challenges we face for public education reform versus shortfalls in our state budget. While public education reform is essential, the timing on forcing a funding issue through referendum is not in the best interest of solving either our public education systemic needs or developing a viable plan for addressing an ongoing budget crisis.
When SQ 744 first emerged, I was hopeful the Legislature and leaders of state government would take a cue and realize the dire need for education overhaul. With support for this type of initiative, the message should have been loud and clear action is needed bringing Oklahoma's public educational system into the 21st century. The alarm went unheeded.
Movement by the Legislature and governor to bring educational change as a priority could possibly have headed off the divisive arguments that will split those who support education into two camps over this question. Bold leadership and bipartisan actions could have possibly averted this situation... FULL ARTICLE
Posted on
Fri, September 17, 2010
by Crystal Drwenski