Communications Division
State Capitol
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73105

For Immediate Release: April 17, 2003

Audio Clip

Sen. Cliff Aldridge


Senator Starts Teacher Appreciation Program

State Senator Cliff Aldridge is kicking off a new program to reward the everyday efforts of classroom teachers in his district. On the third Thursday of each month, teachers from the Mid-Del and Choctaw-Nicoma Park School Districts will be able to get a 10 percent discount at a local restaurant for lunch or dinner. Educators need to present their teacher ID to receive the discount.

"As part of a campaign promise I made last fall, I meet with teachers from my district once a month to discuss issues that directly impact Oklahoma educators. One of the things they've talked about is a feeling of a lack of appreciation for what they do and the need for positive attention for teachers. That's why I'm starting this teacher appreciation program," explained Aldridge, R-Midwest City.

Senator Aldridge said he began contacting area restaurants to see if they would like to participate in the program. The first restaurant to participate is The Santa Fe Cattle Company at 7101 Southeast 29th in Midwest City on Thursday, April 17th. Senator Aldridge will be there to visit with teachers. He said he's also been contacting area retailers to add a drawing for gift certificates to the event.

"Our teachers do a tremendous job with limited resources. I know the time they spend in the classroom doesn't represent the many hours they put in outside of the classroom trying to do the best job possible educating our kids. This is just a small way of letting them know we appreciate all they do," said Senator Aldridge.

For more information, contact:
Senator Cliff Aldridge
(405) 521-5584