Senate Republicans Urge Education Funding First
--Dunlap calls for first draw on state’s resources to go to meet Oklahoma’s educational needs--

(Oklahoma City) – Senate Minority Leader Jim Dunlap and colleagues today urged House Speaker Larry Adair and Senate Pro-Tem Stratton Taylor to fund education first.

“The first draw on the state’s resources should be to make certain that the educational needs of our children are met.” Dunlap said.

Currently school districts across the state are planning for the next school year. From Guymon to Idabel school administrators are wondering what resources they will have at their disposal next year and how that will impact the decisions regarding staffing needs and classroom size.

“As public school teachers we know that the next 60 days are critical for school districts in planning for the coming academic year.” Senator Kathleen Wilcoxson (R-Oklahoma City) said. “Contracts must be signed by April 10, 2002 and orders for textbooks placed. These decisions will affect the quality of our children’s education in the fall.” Senator Nancy Riley (R-Tulsa) added.

“At a time of a budgetary shortfall, we must remember that our investment in our children’s education is an investment in our state’s future.” Senator James Williamson (R-Tulsa) said.

For more information contact:
Senator Jim Dunlap - (405) 521-5757